October's Best: Top 10 Exciting Things to Do
in New Jersey: 2025 Edition
New Jersey's Best October 2025 Things to Do: Features popular seasonal attractions and hidden gems
The air turns crisp, the leaves explode with color, and a golden glow envelops NJ each fall. Whether you're outdoorsy, a foodie, or love a great fall event, the Garden State serves up unforgettable things to do in New Jersey in October for every age and interest. And with 2025 promising new events and returning favorites, now's the time to plan fresh adventures.
Why is 2025 a year to remember? Venues are offering more immersive experiences, farms are unveiling creative harvest activities, and local towns in NJ have extended their festival lineups. So dust off your boots or pack your sneakers— for the Top 10 nj october things to do near me— invites you to make the most of the fall.
Below, you'll find the must-see fall highlights, including hike-worthy trails, cozy farm fun, lively food events, and art-filled city nights. Always check official event pages before heading out, as schedules can change.
Outdoor Adventures and Fall Festivals
With forests dressed in fiery reds and golds, and farms bursting with harvest joy, October brings endless outdoor thrills in the fall. Active families, scenic seekers, and everyone in between will find plenty to love during this vibrant fall season.
1. Leaf Peeping in the Delaware Water Gap
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a masterpiece of natural color each fall. Around mid-October, the hills take on every shade of orange, yellow, and red amid stunning fall foliage. Scenic drives like Old Mine Road and easy family trails—like the short walk to Raymondskill Falls—make sightseeing a breeze. Picnic areas near the river are ideal for leaf lovers of all ages.
Find trail maps, tips, and live foliage updates on the Delaware Water Gap official site.
2. Pumpkin Picking at Alstede Farms
Nothing says fall like pumpkin picking at the farm. Alstede Farms in Chester rolls out the hayrides, family activities, and a petting zoo every weekend in October. General admission is budget-friendly and includes entry to the pumpkin patch, corn maze, and scenic wagon hayrides. Kids will love the petting zoo and savoring homemade cider donuts after some apple picking fun.
Full event details and picking schedules are available on the Alstede Farms event page.
3. Brick Township Fall Fest
On October 18th in Windward Beach Park in Brick, join in on this popular autumn celebration with food trucks and vendors, a corn hole tournament, games, inflatables, fire pits, Fireworks, and much more. For Details.
4. Hamilton Oktoberfest and Corn Maze
Hamilton Township’s Oktoberfest at Veterans Park gears up for October 19, 2025. Expect a sprawling pumpkin patch, creative crafts, costumed characters, hayrides, and a festive corn maze for all ages. The evening closes with fireworks. Parking and admission are free, making it easy for everyone to join.
Updates and tips can be found at Hamilton's Oktoberfest page.
5. Fall Harvest Festivals and Halloween Light Shows
October rounds out the month with local harvest and Halloween-themed festivals across New Jersey. Princeton’s Terhune Orchards live music, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, a corn maze, and Hillsdale's Demarest Farms spooktacular Halloween Light Show. Gather the family for one last autumn adventure—these events span north to south, so there’s one nearby no matter where you live.
Tips for Fall Foliage Fun
- Visit in mid-to-late October for the best colors.
- Bring layers, as temperatures can swing from sunny afternoons to chilly evenings.
- Check park and farm websites for real-time updates on foliage and event changes.
Cultural Events and Food Experiences
Looking for art, music, great food, a lively fall market, a classic car show, or a scenic train ride? October in New Jersey serves up fall fun for every taste and curiosity, including car shows and train rides as other seasonal opportunities to explore.
6. Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off
Taste your way through steaming cups of seafood and creative soups at the Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off festival on Long Beach Island, happening October 4-5, 2025. Local bands, artisan markets, and the ocean breeze add to the appeal. Tickets are required but the experience is unforgettable for food lovers.
7. Newark Arts Festival
From October 8–12, Newark transforms into an art lover’s paradise with the Newark Arts Festival 2025: JOY. Wander through downtown pop-up galleries, mural tours, live music performances, and other music events. Admission is free, and most venues are wheelchair accessible.
See the full program and location info at Newark Arts Festival 2025.
8. Sussex County Harvest Festival, Honey & Garlic Festival
On October 18th, this free harvest festival gives everyone a taste of life on the farm. Enjoy hayrides, pumpkin painting, crafts, food, artisan booths, local vendors, and local farm displays.
Updates and tips can be found at Harvest Festival event page
9. Annual Cranberry Fest in Bordentown
Bordentown’s Cranberry Fest festival runs October 5–6 and boasts over 100 vendors, including makers and artisans offering unique crafts, plus food vendors and live music from bands. It’s affordable (small entry fee) and ideal for finding unique gifts before the holidays. Family-friendly events include kids’ crafts and a dedicated play area.
10. Fall Harvest Festivals Across the State
Late October options like ghost tours lead into harvest festivals, rounding out the month with local harvest and Halloween-themed festivals across NJ. Princeton’s Terhune Orchards and the Monster Bash at Historic Smithville, feature Halloween activities, farm events, hayrides, and kids activities. As alternatives, gather the family for a visit to a nearby winery or join a wine festival for one last autumn adventure—these events span north to south, so there’s one of the top ten nj october things to do near me, no matter where you live, perhaps even at another winery spot.
Key Takeways
- Top NJ October things to do picks:
- Leaf peeping, Delaware Water Gap
- Pumpkin picking, Alstede Farms
- Brick Township Fall Fest; Hamilton Oktoberfest with corn maze; Sussex County Harvest Festival, Honey & Garlic Festival
- Terhune Orchards; Monster Bash at Historic Smithville ; Beach Haven Chowder Cook-Off
- Newark Arts Festival; Demarest Farms spooktacular Halloween Light Show; Bordentown Cranberry Fest
October In New Jersey: FAQ For Things To Do
When does fall foliage peak in New Jersey?
Peak color typically hits North Jersey in mid October, then central and southern areas in late October. Aim for weekdays to avoid crowds on popular trails.
Where are the best leaf-peeping hikes?
Try Stairway to Heaven in Vernon, Ramapo Valley County Reservation in Mahwah, the Pine Barrens River Trails, and Palisades Interstate Park along the Hudson. For longer routes, hike the Appalachian Trail segments in Wawayanda and High Point.
What farm activities should I plan for weekends?
Go for apple and pumpkin picking, hayrides, corn mazes, and cider doughnuts at farms across the state. Many host harvest festivals with live music and food trucks. Book early for prime time slots.
Are there standout October events worth a drive?
Yes. The Skylands Stadium Jack O’ Lantern Experience features thousands of carved pumpkins through early November. The Pumpkin Patch Train in Whippany runs select dates with pumpkin picking on site. Check current schedules before you go.
What Halloween experiences are popular but not too scary?
Scarecrow Alley at the Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May is festive and family friendly. Many towns host lighted pumpkin walks, outdoor movies, and trunk or treat nights. Daytime corn mazes are great for kids.
Where can I find haunted or ghost tours?
Look for Cape May ghost walks, Jersey Shore ghost tours, and town-led lantern tours in October. Tickets often sell out for weekend nights, so reserve in advance.
Any good coastal activities in October?
Yes. Cape May is prime for fall bird migration and lighthouse climbs. Beach walks, surf fishing, and boardwalk biking are pleasant with cooler temps. Whale and dolphin tours still run on select days.
Which fall festivals should I watch for?
Expect Oktoberfest events, harvest fairs, artisan markets, and farm festivals statewide. Newark, Rahway, and shore towns host markets with local food and crafts. Scan town calendars for dates.
What makes New Jersey special in October?
You get mountain views, pine barrens, and shoreline in one state, all in peak color. Farms go big with activities, historic towns lean into spooky fun, and the weather suits hiking, biking, and paddling.
What are the best cycling routes for foliage?
Ride the D&R Canal Towpath from Princeton north, the Henry Hudson Trail in Monmouth County, and Columbia Trail from High Bridge to Long Valley. Start early and use lights for shaded stretches.
Can I kayak or paddle in October?
Yes, with proper layers and a PFD. Calm sections of the Delaware River, Lake Hopatcong coves, and Pine Barrens rivers like the Wading and Batsto are solid picks. Watch water temps and daylight.
Any quick day trips that mix activity and food?
Hike at Sourland Mountain, then stop in Hopewell for cider and bites. Walk the Grounds For Sculpture, then dine in Hamilton or Princeton. Explore Allaire State Park, then hit brewery patios nearby.
How do I avoid crowds at popular spots?
Go early, aim for weekdays, and choose trailheads with larger lots. Use less-known access points and loop trails. Pack out trash to keep sites pristine.
What should I wear for variable October weather?
Dress in light layers. Bring a windproof shell, warm hat, and waterproof shoes for muddy farm fields or leaf-covered trails. Pack a headlamp for late afternoon finishes.
Are there kid-friendly musts for the month?
Pick pumpkins, ride a hay wagon, and try small corn mazes. Hop on the Pumpkin Patch Train in Whippany. Visit zoo light displays and pumpkin walks that start at dusk.
Any budget-friendly ideas?
Picnic at state parks, walk historic main streets, and visit farmers markets late day for deals. Many towns host free fall festivals and outdoor concerts.
How should I plan for popular October weekends?
Reserve tickets for special events, trains, and tours. Buy farm wristbands online when offered. Build a backup plan for weather or crowds, then stay flexible.
