The Bucket List Every South Jerseyan Needs to End Their Summer With A Bang!

Summer is winding down, and before we know it, we'll be sporting cozy sweaters, drinking cider and picking pumpkins! Even though Fall is just around the corner, there's still plenty of summer left to enjoy! Summertime in South Jersey is all about going down the shore and soaking up the sun – but we think it's time to shake it up with something new! Check out our end-of-summer bucket list for some fresh and fun ideas to end your summer with a bang:

 

Take a trip to Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ

Sculpture park and gardens at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton NJ

Stroll through the beautiful 42-acre sculpture-filled park, museum and arboretum! This trip is great for the entire family, and after you're done exploring the park, you can grab lunch at the top-rated Rat's Restaurant or one of the cafes on-site. (You can also set up your own picnic, grab a refreshment or ice cream at The Gazebo!)

 

Get nostalgic at Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, NJ

Historic buildings at Cold Spring Village living history museum in Cape May NJ

Experience what life was like in New Jersey during the 1800s at the Historic Cold Spring Village "living history museum" in Cape May. Stop in at the Cold Spring Brewery or take a class in pottery, blacksmithing or tinsmithing during your adventures at the village. Immerse yourself in history and experience the "home-spun" era up-close and personally while shopping, eating and learning new things!

 

Make furry friends at the Cape May County Zoo and Tree-To-Tree Adventure Park in Cape May Court House, NJ

Animals at the Cape May County Zoo in New Jersey

Not only is visiting the Cape May County Zoo fun for all ages, but it's also free! Spend some time outdoors while observing amazing animals like lions, otters, monkeys and more. You can even conquer their "aerial adventure," an experience filled with rope swings, zip lines and other fun obstacles at the zoo's Tree-To-Tree Adventure Park!

 

Discover everything The Amish Farmer's Market in Mullica Hill, NJ has to offer!

 

Fresh baked goods and shops at the Amish Farmers Market in Mullica Hill NJ

Make your way to Mullica Hill on any Thursday, Friday or Saturday to enjoy fresh baked treats and delicious homemade meals at the Amish Farmer's Market. Spend some time exploring unique shops, which offer everything from holiday decorations and creative gifts to handmade soaps and essential oils.

 

Enjoy a wine tour and tasting at one of South Jersey's local vineyards:
Glass of wine for a South Jersey vineyard tour and tasting

 

Get "outdoorsy" at one of New Jersey's great state parks:

Scenic trail at a New Jersey state park

  • Hacklebarney State Park in Chester, NJ: A great park for hiking, fishing and animal watching.
  • High Point State Park in Sussex, NJ: Experience part of the Appalachian Trail while camping, swimming, or even doing yoga!
  • Barnegat Lighthouse State Park in Barnegat Light, NJ: Climb your way to the top of the lighthouse to experience the amazing views of LBI. A great opportunity for photos!
  • For an in-depth comparison of the Best New Jersey State Parks, visit this article by Patrick McGurran!

 

Have some fun at the Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ

 

Medieval Times dinner show banner with knights and horses

Travel back in time for an exhilarating Medieval experience! Chow down on a delicious four-course meal while cheering on your favorite knight and their horse to win the jousting and swordsmanship competitions.

 

Get in-touch with your "wild side" at Howling Woods Farms in Jackson Township, NJ

Portrait of a wolf at Howling Woods Farms in Jackson Township NJ

Animal lovers will go crazy for the chance to see wolves and wolfdogs up close at Howling Woods Farms. The farm is open to visitors by appointment only (to make an appointment, visit their website here: Howling Woods Farms), and is a unique opportunity to learn all about wolves and see a pack in real life!

 

Explore South Jersey's pine barrens at Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford, NJ

Hiking trail and lake views at Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge in Medford NJ

Take a break from your hectic lifestyle to enjoy a peaceful day in nature. Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge offers hiking trails with stunning views of the lake. On the property, there are Bald Eagles, Great-horned Owls, raccoons, deer and other adorable animal residents that are unable to return to the wild due to injury. The Nature Center offers fun events and educational programs for all ages, as well!

 

Conquer all of the rides at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township, NJ

Roller coaster ride at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township NJ

Hop on board the world's tallest and second-fastest roller coaster, Kingda Ka, play carnival games and have a ball at Six Flags Great Adventure. You can even check out the Safari at Six Flags, featuring real, wild animals from six different continents! We promise there's something fun for everyone at Six Flags, even if you don't like rollercoasters!

Whether you decide to end the summer exploring some of these great places or relaxing at your Schaeffer Home down the shore, we hope it's filled with fun times and great memories! Soak up the sun and enjoy everything New Jersey has to offer during this beautiful summer season!

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