Exploring New Jersey's Hidden Gems: A 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Start Your Journey

Avenel, New Jersey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Famished Frog

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring eggs benedict and freshly brewed coffee.
Located in Avenel, it's a quick drive for a delicious meal to kick off your adventures.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Bayonne Bridge

Take a scenic drive to Bayonne and enjoy views of the city and the skyline from the iconic Bayonne Bridge.
Just a short 20-minute drive to Bayonne from Avenel.
FREE, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Exploration at Liberty State Park

Stroll through Liberty State Park, taking in great views of the Statue of Liberty and New York City.
A 15-minute drive from Bayonne to Liberty State Park.
FREE, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at The Clam Broth House

Enjoy a bowl of clam chowder and a seafood platter at this historic restaurant in Bayonne.
Head back towards Bayonne for a quick 10-minute drive.
USD40, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Drive to Belle Mead

Take a scenic drive to Belle Mead, enjoying the New Jersey countryside.
Approximately 45 minutes from Bayonne to Belle Mead.
FREE, 45 minutes

1:15 PM

Explore Sourland Mountain Preserve

Hike the trails at Sourland Mountain Preserve for stunning views and nature.
A 10-minute drive to the preserve entrance.
FREE, 2 hours

3:15 PM

Visit Griggstown Quaker Meeting House

Take a photo stop at this charming historical site in Belle Mead.
Just a 5-minute drive within Belle Mead.
FREE, 30 minutes

4:00 PM

Travel to Carteret

Make your way to Carteret and enjoy the waterfront views along the way.
A 30-minute drive to Carteret.
FREE, 30 minutes

4:30 PM

Stroll at Carteret Park

Relax at Carteret Park, featuring playgrounds and scenic walking paths.
Located in Carteret, a short drive from where you're parking.
FREE, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Greek Corner

Enjoy delicious Greek food, such as souvlaki and gyros, to end your day on a high note.
A quick 10-minute drive to the restaurant.
USD35, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Drive to Edison

Make your way to Edison for your overnight stay.
A 25-minute drive from Carteret to Edison.
FREE, 25 minutes

7:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your hotel and relax after a full day of exploration.
Drive directly to your hotel for check-in.
Depends on hotel choice, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature and Shopping

Florham Park, New Jersey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Mad Hatter Cafe

Indulge in pancakes and scrumptious breakfast sandwiches to fuel your day.
Located just a short drive within Edison.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit the Florham Park Nature Center

Enjoy a peaceful morning walk in this beautiful nature preserve that offers various trails.
A 20-minute drive from Edison to Florham Park.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Explore downtown Florham Park

Visit local shops and enjoy the charming coffee spots your stroll brings you to.
Just a short walk around downtown.
FREE, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at Bagels and Company

Grab a tasty bagel sandwich with cream cheese for an easy and delicious meal.
Located centrally in Florham Park.
USD10, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Drive to Iselin

Enjoy a scenic drive through New Jersey to reach Iselin.
About a 30-minute drive.
FREE, 30 minutes

1:00 PM

Shopping at Menlo Park Mall

Spend your afternoon shopping at this large mall with various popular stores.
Located in Iselin, easy to navigate once you arrive.
FREE, 2.5 hours

3:30 PM

Short Visit at Kehler's Fine Arts

Stop by this local art gallery and admire stunning artworks and local exhibitions.
Just a short drive from the mall.
FREE, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Travel to Keasbey

Head to Keasbey for a different scenic experience in your day's itinerary.
About a 30-minute drive from Iselin.
FREE, 30 minutes

5:00 PM

Visit the Cheesequake State Park

Enjoy the beauty of nature trails before ending the day's activities.
Located within Keasbey, very easy to find.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Southside Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious steak dinner to cap off a beautiful day in New Jersey.
Make your way over to the steakhouse, just a 20-minute drive.
USD50, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Drive to Livingston

Prepare for your overnight stop in Livingston, an easy finish for the day.
An approximately 30-minute drive.
FREE, 30 minutes

8:00 PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax, unwind, and get ready for another exciting day ahead.
Drive directly to your chosen hotel.
Depends on hotel choice, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Red Bank, New Jersey

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Jammin’ Crepes

Kickstart your day with delicious sweet or savory crepes in a cozy atmosphere.
Located centrally in Livingston.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Red Bank

Take a scenic route to the vibrant town of Red Bank.
About a 40-minute drive.
FREE, 40 minutes

9:40 AM

Explore the Count Basie Theatre

Catch an early tour of the iconic theatre known for its stunning performances.
Located right in the heart of Red Bank.
USD20 (for guided tour), 1 hour

10:40 AM

Visit the Red Bank RiverCenter

Enjoy a leisurely walk alongside the river and explore unique local shops.
A short walking distance from the theatre.
FREE, 1 hour

11:40 AM

Lunch at The Cheese Cave

Savor artisan cheeses and sandwiches at this gourmet cafe.
Located near the river bank area.
USD25, 1 hour

12:40 PM

Travel to South Brunswick

Drive towards South Brunswick to explore the natural beauty.
Around 30 minutes from Red Bank.
FREE, 30 minutes

1:10 PM

Visit the D&R Canal State Park

Take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the beautiful canal trails.
Located in South Brunswick.
FREE, 2 hours

3:10 PM

Drive to Willingboro

Head towards Willingboro for a change of pace.
About a 45-minute drive from South Brunswick.
FREE, 45 minutes

4:00 PM

Explore Willingboro’s Parks

Enjoy time in one of Willingboro’s many parks, perfect for relaxation.
Several options depending on your preference.
FREE, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Final Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

End your trip with a spectacular meal and a signature cheesecake for dessert.
Located in Willingboro, within reach wherever you are.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Drive to your next destination

Flexible time to explore adjacent cities or drive home, ending your New Jersey adventure.
Depend on your route of choice.
FREE, Variable
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