New Jersey Leisure Guide
October 2025 Monthly Newsletter

This is also great time of the year to take in many of the warmer weather activities and things to do as schools are back in session and the crowds at the Jersey shore destinations have dwindled. With the ocean water still warm in southern NJ, popular destinations like Cape May, Wildwood, and Ocean City are excellent choices for a weekend getaway or a late-season vacation.

If you plan to get out to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage colors, especially in northwest New Jersey, the peak season runs from October 19th through 29th.

This Month's Most Trending Things to Do, Attractions, and Events

Discover what's happening in New Jersey This coming Weekend
The schedule of weekend events and things to do is loaded! Perfect for anyone hunting for the top NJ weekend events near you. Enjoy everything from outdoor festivals to tasty food events, live music, and family-friendly attractions. If you love the energy of a packed festival or prefer quieter moments like apple picking and hikes, there's something to catch your interest.

Top Ten Things To Do in October
The air turns crisp, the leaves explode with color, and a golden glow envelops New Jersey each October. Whether you're outdoorsy, a foodie, or love a great fall festival, the Garden State serves up unforgettable moments for every age and interest. And with October 2025 promising new events and returning favorites, now's the time to plan fresh adventures. Venues are offering more immersive experiences, farms are unveiling creative harvest activities, and local towns have extended their festival lineups. So dust off your boots or pack your sneakers—October's Best: Top 10 Exciting Things to Do in New Jersey invites you to make the most of the season.

Discover the Popular NJ October Festivals, Events and Celebrations
October is an awesome time for great family-oriented, outdoor activities and events. This time of the year is loaded with fall harvest-themed festivals and more. You'll find live music, themed seasonal events and harvest fairs. Whether you want ghost stories or hayrides, there's something for everyone. Charming Settings: Many festivals happen in cozy villages, on historic farmland, or by the coast. You get small-town hospitality and natural beauty, all in the same day. Active travelers will find weekends filled with community spirit, music, crafts, food, and seasonal treats.

Discover New Jersey's Top Oktoberfest Celebrations and Events
Every autumn, NJ Oktoberfest events fill New Jersey with the energy of German heritage and local flavor. From backyard beer gardens to block parties, each festival promises plenty of music, traditional food, and craft brews. Families discover games and art activities at spots like Mountain Creek and Historic Smithville, while those seeking a lively atmosphere head to gatherings such as the Jersey City bar crawl. Whether you crave top-notch bratwurst, want a family-friendly venue, or just enjoy the festival spirit, New Jersey Oktoberfest near you in 2025 has plenty in store.

Your Guide to the Top NJ Halloween shows and events.
Discover New Jersey's best scary and not-so-scary events and shows. Halloween in New Jersey is packed with new scares and family fun every year. As the leaves turn, NJ transforms into one of the top spots for spooky season. Whether you want heart-pounding haunted houses or pumpkin-filled festivals, you’ll find the best halloween attractions in new jersey for all ages. Here’s your guide to the best halloween events in new jersey for 2025, sorted by region, so you can make the most of every October night in the best halloween new jersey towns..

Unforgettable Pumpkin Picking Experiences at NJ Pumpkin Farms
Pumpkin picking in New Jersey is more than just a seasonal activity—it’s an opportunity to embrace the fall season with family, enjoy the crisp outdoor air, and create cherished memories. These farms are celebrated for their welcoming environment, classic fall activities, and picturesque landscapes that invite visitors back year after year. Nestled among scenic fields and just a short drive from the city, the pumpkin farms near you offer a perfect fall outing. Beyond selecting pumpkins, guests can enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, petting zoos, and fresh baked goods like apple cider donuts that add extra delight to the experience.

Best NJ Fall Day Trips: Top Autumn Getaways to Small Towns and Scenic Spots
The first snap of cool air and the changing colors make autumn one of the best times to get outdoors in New Jersey. Families and couples looking for adventure have endless choices for NJ fall day trips, from scenic hikes in state parks to strolls through small towns bursting with color. There's something special about heading out on a crisp morning and finding quiet trails, harvest markets, or historic main streets under a canopy of red and gold leaves.

This Months Featured Restaurant

The Highlawn
Eagle Rock Reservation
West Orange, NJ
One of Northern New Jersey's top restaurants offering diners an exceptional scenic view and outstanding food. Its striking view of the Manhattan skyline is only the beginning of an exceptional dining experience. The impressive view is complemented by Highlawn's creative, well-prepared American fare. Their turn-of-the-century Florentine-style pavilion has been beautifully restored to European grandeur.

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