10 Best Things to Do in New Jersey This November

Login or Register to save this to your Favorites.

1. Experience art and awe
   
   If the weather outside is chilly, head indoors for a day of art and culture. Visit Rutgers University’s New Brunswick campus to explore the Zimmerli Art Museum and view thousands of global works. Or unravel art and history across the centuries at the Newark Museum of Art. Know Before You Go: Advance reservations are required for the Newark Museum of Art – plan your visit and secure your tickets online.


2. Find your flavor
   
   New Jersey is filled with ways to sip and sample your way through the state. Fresh taste is on the menu during Jersey Shore Restaurant Week, November 3 – 12, 2023. Savor a three-course prix fixe meal at any participating eatery. And, whether you’re a full-time plant-based foodie or a Meatless Monday devotee, the November 11 – 12, 2023 New Jersey Vegan Food Festival at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus is the ideal spot to find vegan specialties from local sources and national brands.


3. Wrap up your holiday shopping
   
   No matter who’s on your gift list, holiday shopping in New Jersey is a surefire way to make everyone happy. You’ll find brand-name gifts at massive malls like American Dream in East Rutherford or Cherry Hill Mall in Cherry Hill. Score deals at The Mills at Jersey Gardens, an outlet shopping destination in Elizabeth. And stroll local boutiques in quaint small towns like Cape May or Historic Smithville.


4. Sip & sample wines
   
   New Jersey is home to more than 50 wineries, from Columbia’s Brook Hollow Winery up north to Cape May Winery & Vineyard down south. Stop by the winery nearest you, or explore our New Jersey Beverage Trails to sample a variety of wines across the state and get into the spirit of the upcoming festive season with the holiday varietals offered by many local vineyards.


5. Listen to live music
   
   There are so many places to experience performing arts in New Jersey. Music lovers of every genre will be thrilled to find plenty of live music events happening in New Jersey during November. Check here for a current listing and find the events happening near you.


6. Visit a nearby farm
   
   Go straight to the source to make your Thanksgiving dinner this year by stopping by one of the many farms in New Jersey. Stock up on pumpkins for pie, grab a jug of fresh apple cider, pick out a farm-raised turkey for a current listing and find the events happening near you.


7. Eat your way through a food hall
   
   As home to plenty of the hottest trends, you can visit one of New Jersey’s food halls for a chance to experience a wide variety of cutting-edge culinary experiences, all while staying cozy under one roof. At District Kitchen in Jersey City, fill up on everything from ramen to poke bowls at individually-owned eateries. Or stop by Bell Market Social House + Eatery in Holmdel to take your pick from Japanese street food, specialty salads, innovative pizzas and more.


8. Explore a scenic state park
   
   There are so many ways to enjoy New Jersey’s national and state parks in every season – and fall is no exception. Admire vibrant fall foliage at Palisades Interstate Park, a stunning 2,400-acre National Historic Landmark and National Natural Landmark. While you’re there, visit Fort Lee Historic Park Battle site, home to a significant November historic reenactment that recalls the 1776 Defense of the Hudson and Washington’s Retreat to Victory across NJ. Another must-visit Bergen County Revolutionary War site with ties to this historic retreat is New Bridge Landing State Park, located in River Edge. Hike, bike or ride horseback at High Point State Park in Sussex. Explore the natural area at Swartswood State Park in Swartswood. Or go fishing at Monksville Reservoir in Long Pond Ironworks State Park in Hewitt.


9. See holiday lights and décor
   
   This is the start of the holiday season! In November, the charming seaside town of Cape May transforms into a Victorian holiday wonderland with twinkling gas lamps, string lights, garlands, trolley rides, candlelight house tours and more. Be sure to stop by Cape May’s Congress Hall, the country’s oldest seaside resort, where the festive décor is certain to get you into the spirit of the season. In Mullica Hill, visit Harbaugh Village, where you can discover artisan crafts, family attractions and holiday events with food and drink in a festive outdoor venue that makes the season merry and bright.

To help plan your November outing – or getaway any month of the year – download our Official Official Travel Guide (it’s free!). Top Tip: Before you arrive at your chosen attraction or event, please be sure to check out their official website or social media channels for up-to-the-moment details on hours of operation and visitation.