Image Commercially Licensed from: DepositPhotos

By: PR Kings 

Whether you’re a lifelong city slicker or just purchased your first condo or apartment, even the most hardcore city dwellers need time away from the hustle and bustle of the city every now and then, and luckily for New Yorkers, there are plenty of nearby destinations to choose from for a relaxing weekend getaway. In fact, if you’re not interested in venturing too far from the Big Apple, New Jersey has more than a few accessible options we recommend, regardless of whether you’re planning a road trip or need the train for your temporary escape. 

Red Bank, NJ 

With over 20 art galleries, a thriving restaurant scene, and more than its fair share of funky cafes and boutiques, Red Bank has evolved into one of Jersey’s most eclectic small towns. A drive to Red Bank is only about an hour and a half via the Garden State Parkway, or you can get there by train in under two hours. While in town, we recommend a show at the Two River Theatre and dinner at 26 West on The Navesink, which serves up traditional meat and seafood dishes paired with some wonderful views of the river 

Toms River, NJ

Toms River is one of the most expensive towns in New Jersey, and for good reason. Its downtown is small but charming, and you’ll easily find enough bars, restaurants, and ice cream shacks in or around Main Street to keep you satisfied for a couple of days. There are also riverfront parks and miles of hiking trails throughout Toms River, making it the perfect summertime destination for anyone who loves to stay outside and be active. 

Beach Haven, NJ 

Simply put, Beach Haven is the quintessential Jersey Shore beach town. There’s a boardwalk, an amusement park, public beaches, and no shortage of carnival games and food vendors to help keep you entertained and energized. In other words, if you don’t mind crowds and want something a little more upbeat than a quaint and charming small-town setting, Beach Haven is one of the Garden State’s best destinations not too far from NYC. And if you end up venturing away from the boardwalk for dinner, give Black Whale Bar & Fish House a try. It’s casual yet cozy, and from lobsters to the day’s catch, it’s among the best seafood you’ll find in town. 

Lambertville, NJ 

Positioned right alongside the Delaware River and only about a 2-hour drive from Manhattan, a trip to Lambertville is truly like taking a step back in time. The town’s residential streets are lined with meticulously maintained and well-preserved 18th and 19th-century homes, and the area is also densely packed with locally owned antique shops and vintage boutiques as well. In the summertime, farmers markets and open-air flea markets take place every week, and just several of our favorite stops in town include Lambertville Trading Company, A Touch of the Past Antiques, and Chez Alice Patisserie.