New Jersey is set to shine in 2025 with a bright new lineup of must-visit destinations, exciting events and awe-inspiring experiences that promise to impress every type of traveler, year-round. From its scenic shoreline and mountain towns to its vibrant city centers and wide-open spaces, the Garden State captivates with reasons to explore. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences or family-friendly fun, the little state of New Jersey promises 25 big reasons to wow you this year.
Countdown to America’s 250th Birthday
- New Jersey Celebrates 238 Years in 2025
Countdown to America’s 250th birthday in 2026 by visiting New Jersey this December for its 238th birthday. As one of the original thirteen colonies, New Jersey played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history, and this is a special time to honor its rich heritage. From historical tours and exhibits to lively events and performances, each corner of the state is covered with American history, such as a reconstructed American Revolutionary War encampment in Fort Lee Historic Park.
New & Noteworthy Hotel and Tourism Openings
- Pendry Natirar – New Luxury Wellness Resort in the Heart of the Countryside
Opened in October 2024, Pendry Natirar is a historic estate located in the scenic hills of Somerset County. Only an hour away from the busy city of New York, guests can indulge in the ultimate country escape through its original 1912 Tudor-style mansion, thoughtfully restored to offer 66 guest rooms including 20 suites, a full-service spa, a tavern-inspired culinary outlet, and 13,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space. Guests can also indulge in garden-to-table dining at the refreshed Ninety Acres with ingredients sourced from its working farm and enjoy a range of outdoor activities across the property. - Edelman Fossil Park Museum Opens in March
Rising from a former marl quarry in Mantua Township, Rowan University’s Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University will be a world-class destination inspired by the deep-time perspective that the fossil record offers. Great for families or science enthusiasts, the museum will allow visitors to learn more about the area’s history over the past 66 million years through exhibits and activities, such as digging for dinosaur fossils, observing paleontologists in active research, interactive fossil scavenger hunts, and live animal exhibits. - Meet the New & Refreshed Wildwood
Wildwood will transform the seaside experience by welcoming an array of exciting new and renovated hotels in 2025. The Wild Resort is expected to open later this year at Glenwood Avenue on the Boardwalk and will feature a sleek oceanfront hotel with luxury suites, a pool, restaurant and cafe. Mahalo Resorts is bringing a Hawaiian-inspired beachfront retreat to Wildwood Crest, offering upscale beachfront accommodations and resort-style experiences. Meanwhile, the Madison Resort is expanding with 200 rooms, multiple pools, restaurants, and rooftop event spaces, making it the largest resort in Cape May County. Vinyl by Madison Restaurant, now open at the Madison Resort, offers a relaxed atmosphere and coastal charm just steps from the ocean. - Welcome to Atlantic City’s New Properties
The iconic Atlantic City skyline is set to receive two impressive additions in 2025 and beyond with The Seahaus Hotel, which is expected to open in the first quarter of this year. Located just steps away from the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk and its world-class entertainment, The Seahaus Hotel will feature 105 elegantly designed guest rooms with a pool and three restaurants. A Monopoly-themed hotel is also expected to break ground later this year for an exciting addition to Atlantic City offerings.
Culinary
- Perk Up at the Inaugural New Jersey Coffee Festival
Caffeine lovers won’t want to miss New Jersey’s first ever Coffee Festival in Holmdel on Saturday, March 22. Nearly 40 coffee, tea and food vendors will provide everything from classic brews to artisan teas, pastries and coffee-inspired cocktails. Expert-led workshops and live acoustic performances will offer a one-of-a-kind experience to discover New Jersey’s vibrant coffee scene. - Celebrity Chef Masaharu Morimoto Brings New Restaurant to Montclair
World-renowned Iron Chef and culinary innovator, Masaharu Morimoto, is set to open a brand-new restaurant and luxury sushi concept in the heart of Montclair in spring 2025. Known for his seamless integration of Western and Japanese ingredients, Morimoto’s new establishment promises to elevate the dining experience with a cutting-edge menu, sleek design, and unparalleled attention to detail. - The Icon Lucille’s Country Cooking Turns 50
For long-time fans and first-time visitors, Lucille’s Country Cooking, featured on CNN’s Emmy Award-winning TV Show, “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown”, celebrates 50 years in 2025. Lucille’s offers an unforgettable taste of home-cooked goodness, serving mouthwatering, home-style meals specializing in classic dishes made with love and tradition. - Relish in the Fun of Garden State Food Festivals
New Jersey is home to a diverse array of cultures and cuisines, which are celebrated at food festivals throughout the state. Consume all things Italian at La Festa Italiana in Jersey City August 13-15, which will immerse visitors in the vibrant traditions of Italy with authentic food, music, art and family-friendly activities. In October, The Annual Taste of Elizabeth invites food lovers to explore a global culinary journey, showcasing over 50 countries and diverse international flavors. From authentic international dishes to unique fusion creations, these events celebrate New Jersey’s multicultural spirit and rich culinary heritage. - Savor Excellence with New Jersey’s James Beard Semifinalists
Reflective of the diverse communities and cultures that reside in the Garden State, New Jersey is home to some of the nation’s most innovative culinary talents. Take taste buds across the world at one of the state’s 2024 James Beard Semifinalists restaurants, from Bangladeshi cuisine at Korai Kitchen in Jersey City to Portuguese at Lita in Aberdeen Township. For culinary enthusiasts seeking bold, contemporary cuisine or a fresh twist on classic dishes, New Jersey’s semifinalist restaurants showcase the perfect blend of creativity, technique and flavor.
Arts & Culture
- The Princeton University Art Museum Opens this Fall
The highly anticipated opening of The Princeton University Art Museum is set to bring a wave of excitement to the state in fall 2025. This stunning new cultural landmark promises to be a vibrant hub for art lovers, offering a dynamic mix of live programming and cutting-edge digital experiences. From immersive online exhibitions and interactive art-making classes to on-demand videos and family-friendly art activities, the museum is designed to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds. - Celebrate the Legacy of Princeton’s Paul Robeson in April
The opening of the Paul Robeson House in April 2025 will honor the legacy of the Princeton native who rose to prominence in the Civil Rights Era. Step into an immersive experience with Robeson’s powerful story, from his early years to his global impact through his groundbreaking achievements as an artist, activist and scholar. Explore exhibits that showcase his music, theater, activism and enduring influence. - Be Inspired at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple
A destination dupe lies in the heart of New Jersey at BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple in America and the second largest in the world. This new architectural masterpiece and a milestone in South Asian representation in the U.S., spans over 183 acres and beautifully blends ancient Hindu design with modern craftsmanship with the dedication of its 12,500 volunteers. The Temple also features a traditional Indian stepwell, filled with water from 300 bodies of water from India and all 50 states—symbolizing the connection of cultures across continents. Popular Hindu holidays and festivals such as Holi in March and Diwali in October are bound to be can’t-miss experiences at the Temple in 2025. - Connect with International Art – The Return of Jersey City’s “Art Fair 14C”
New Jersey’s only international art festival,“Art Fair 14C”, is returning to Jersey City from May 8-11, offering an exciting showcase of contemporary art from emerging and established artists. This renowned event brings together galleries, collectors and art lovers to experience a dynamic range of works across all mediums—from painting and sculpture to photography and digital art. With its vibrant atmosphere and curated exhibits, Art Fair 14C is the perfect place to discover new talent and connect with the art community. - Discover the Elegance of “Mansion in May”
Step into a world of timeless beauty and sophisticated charm at “Mansion in May,” a celebrated month-long annual event held at one of New Jersey’s most exquisite estates that draws over 22,000 visitors during its season, which takes place every two to three years. Experience the beauty and charm of the historic Wildfair mansion in Chester Township (Morris County) and its rich history dating back more than 220 years with stunning gardens, meticulously designed interiors and captivating art installations. Explore each room and garden as renowned designers transform this magnificent space into an immersive showcase of creativity and elegance. - View New Exhibits at Grounds for Sculpture
Step into a world where art comes alive at Grounds for Sculpture, New Jersey’s outdoor museum, sculpture garden, and arboretum with nearly 300 contemporary sculptures across 42 landscaped acres. 2025 exhibits include Clifford Ward: I’ll Make Me A World, beginning May 18, highlighting diverse cultures of Native America, African Diaspora and Australian Aboriginal people. - Unlock Revolutionary History in Union County this October
Union County is a vibrant hub of cultural events, festivals and athletic excitement, offering endless opportunities for interactive experiences. Visitors won’t want to miss “Four Centuries in a Weekend” this October 2025, where you can step back in time and explore over 30 historic sites across the county through guided tours, special exhibits and live demonstrations. Locations such as Elizabeth will transport visitors back to the Revolutionary War Era with sites like the First Presbyterian Church and Cemetery, The Minuteman Statue, Boxwood Hall (Boudinot Mansion) and more. - Explore New Jersey’s Black Heritage Trail
Discover the rich history and contributions of Black Americans through New Jersey’s Black Heritage Trail, a self-guided trail that takes visitors to museums, historic homes, exhibits, and Black-owned businesses, showcasing the enduring impact of Black culture and history. This Spring, the trail will welcome the installation of its first round of historic markers including sites like the Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey in Cape May where visitors will learn about the social activists’ life and legacy as well as Chicken Bone Beach, a popular vacation destination for Black families during the segregation era. Visitors in Atlantic City can explore the Mississippi Freedom Trail Marker at Kennedy Plaza—the first of its kind outside Mississippi.
Family Fun
- Experience the Garden State’s Great Outdoors
Discover New Jersey like never before with the New Jersey Parks Passport program. This exciting initiative invites visitors to explore the state’s natural beauty, from its scenic beaches and lush forests to historic landmarks and vibrant wildlife. By collecting stamps at participating parks, visitors will unlock exclusive rewards and experiences while supporting conservation efforts. 2025 will bring exciting programming to New Jersey State Parks visitors such as the First Sunday Walks at Monmouth Battlefield State Park. An exciting reenactment of the 247th anniversary of the Battle of Monmouth is scheduled for June 28-29. - Atlantic City Aquarium Reopens in Early 2025
Dive into adventure at the Atlantic City Aquarium, reopening early this year after a five-years renovation. Located along the beautiful Jersey Shore, this newly updated aquatic haven will offer a mesmerizing journey through the wonders of marine life. Explore vibrant exhibits featuring local sea creatures, exotic species and interactive displays that engage visitors of all ages. Perfect for families seeking fun and education or ocean enthusiasts looking to connect with the underwater world, the Atlantic City Aquarium promises an unforgettable experience. - New Attraction Journeys from Italy to Seaside Heights this Spring
Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach in Seaside Heights will unveil its new “Fun House” attraction, named the Fun Factory, in the spring of 2025. This exciting new addition will be a three-level structure, standing 32 feet tall and designed by the Italian company Gosetto, based in Moriago della Battaglia, Treviso. The Fun Factory will feature between 16 and 25 interactive “tricks” for guests to experience, as they navigate through the attraction. A key feature of the design is its ability to keep guests in constant motion, reducing wait times and ensuring a smooth flow of visitors. With its unique layout and thrilling surprises, the Fun Factory promises to be a major draw for visitors to the pier. - Stroll Down the Sesame Street Experience at American Dream
Bring the whole family to American Dream for the ultimate adventure at the new Sesame Street Learn & Play Experience, opened in late 2024. This interactive, fun-filled attraction invites children to engage with their favorite Sesame Street characters while learning through play. Packed with exciting activities, games and hands-on exhibits, it’s the perfect way to spark creativity, inspire learning and create unforgettable memories. From counting with Cookie Monster to discovering new colors with Elmo, the Sesame Street experience offers a world of fun for kids and families alike. - Ring in the New Year at First Night Morris 2026
Ring in 2026 at First Night Morris County, New Jersey’s premier family-friendly and substance and alcohol-free celebration, attracting nearly 10,000 participants every year. This vibrant event offers a unique shared cultural community experience while ringing in the New Year—from exciting performances and art exhibits to live music, films and a dazzling fireworks display. Gather with friends, neighbors and community for the 34th year of the state’s biggest and brightest New Year celebration.
Entertainment
- Barefoot Country Music Festival Celebrates Five Years in June
Down on the Shore in Wildwoods, country music fans won’t want to miss the Barefoot Country Music Fest, which will be celebrating five years from June 19 – 22. The four-day weekend will host the industry’s biggest stars with more than 40 artists from top country headliners and up-and-coming artists to local favorites, all performing across five stages on Wildwood’s beach. - Enjoy an Unforgettable Summer 2025 at MetLife Stadium
Spend an epic summer at MetLife Stadium with its stacked lineup of the music and entertainment industry’s top names. From the joint tour between the Grammy Award winning artists Kendrick Lamar and SZA in May to the action-packed WWE Summer Slam in August, the stadium’s summer lineup promises something for everyone.
For more information on New Jersey’s upcoming events, please visit www.visitnj.org. To read more about travel experiences across New Jersey in 2025, the “New Jersey 2025 Official Travel Guide” is available for free, here.
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