5 Great Fall Day Trips in and Around North Jersey

Fall is just about here, and if you are thinking of taking a day off anytime soon, you may want to get out of town and see something different! Autumn offers loads of opportunities for fun day trips to enjoy the cooler weather and colorful leaves. At Autoland, your Springfield, New Jersey auto sales dealer, we want to help you find and get to these destinations, so here are our picks for great day trips in and around north Jersey:

1.  The Delaware Water Gap – If you're into leaf viewing, then the Delaware Water Gap should be your premiere destination. Located in the northwest corner of New Jersey where it borders the Delaware River and Pennsylvania, this recreation area offers some of the best natural views in the state. And one of the best things about it is that you can experience this area in a number of ways and from different perspectives. You can stop at one of the many scenic overlook spots for great pictures and a full-scale view of the thousand-foot-deep water gap; if you are the active sort, take a kayak or raft down the river, or hike the mountain trails of the area.

2.  Carton Brewing – Located in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, Carton Brewing has made a name for itself in the ever-expanding craft beer market with imaginative brews and flavors. Try one of their favorites like the 077XX, an east coast double IPA with standout flavors of hops, yeast, malt, and tropical fruits or one of their specials, like the Pumpkin Cream ale, with flavors of pumpkin, cream, orange, ginger, and peppercorns. Their hours are relatively limited on weeknights (Thursday and Friday, from 5 to 7:30 P.M.), but they are open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 5 P.M. Eat a good meal before going, as they don't serve food, and stay at the local Blue Bay Inn (a five minute walk), so that you won't have to worry about driving afterwards. Remember, always drink responsibly!

3.  The Cloisters – If you are interested in history – especially European – the Cloisters are a must-see! A branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that is located in northern Manhattan overlooking the Hudson, this museum houses some fascinating historical artifacts, none more impressive than the building itself. The Cloisters were designed and constructed based on historical records (the building was completed in 1938), with bits and pieces of actual cloisters built into the fabric of the structure. Rather than mimicking a specific building, the Cloisters actually represent the progression of architectural styles through the centuries in chronological order – meaning that seeing them is almost like taking a fast-forwarded journey through time.

4.  New Hope, PA – This is one of those quaint little towns that is just so easy to love! Brimming with arts and culture, and boasting beautiful river views and historical buildings, New Hope has something for everyone.

• Walk part of the Delaware Canal Towpath, a 60-mile stretch of track that was used to tow coal and other cargo in the 19^th century.
• Head into town to get dinner at one of the many restaurants. You'll find many different types of cuisine, from French and Mediterranean to Indian, new American, and even some vegan and vegetarian options.
• If you're looking to sample some good adult beverages and have a great meal, try out Nektar Wine Bar or Triumph Brewing Company.
• When you're done with dinner, head to the Bucks County Playhouse to catch a show.
• And don't forget to squeeze in some shopping while you are here. New Hope has tons of little specialty boutiques that just exude eclectic charm.
• And if you haven't gotten enough out of New Hope, walk across the bridge to New Jersey (it's literally just across the river!) to visit Lambertville, which offers more restaurants and shops, and the same rustic, small-town atmosphere. 

5.  Barnegat Lighthouse State Park – If you are looking for a beach trip without the crowds, fall is a great time to plan one. And visiting Barnegat Lighthouse State Park on Long Beach Island is sure to please! The lighthouse is open to the public, and you can climb to the very top to get amazing views of the island, Island Beach State Park across the inlet, and the ocean. Take note – with 217 steps, the climb to the top is relatively strenuous, so anyone with heart problems should use caution. When you have descended, head down to the beach, put your feet in the water, and do some seashell collecting. Beautifully-hued scallop shells can be found in abundance here!

Remember to always ensure that your vehicle is up to date on maintenance and inspections before you travel to any of these places. This will help you to avoid any breakdowns in unfamiliar areas, as well as any trouble with John Q. Law. Click here to schedule a service appointment online!