How to Spend a Leisurely Weekend in New Jersey

In the past, I would have considered New Jersey a mere pit-stop on the way to NYC. But after an autumnal weekend in Morristown, I’d been enlightened - and after one visit, you will too. Here’s how to enjoy your weekend in the most underrated state. 

View from Sunrise Mountain in late October.

Visit Sunrise Mountain. Along the Appalachian Trail in Sussex Country, Sunrise Mountain is a peak located in Stokes State Forest. You can drive or hike, and once you reach the top, you’ll be exposed to a beautiful view overlooking Beemerville.

I’m sure this spot is beautiful at all times of year, but I’d highly recommend visiting in the fall while all the leaves are changing. 

Try an everything bagel with Taylor Ham. Prior to my visit, I stood strong in my stance that bagels weren’t worth eating. I was naive then. Poppy and sesame seeds, along with onion, garlic and pretzel salt atop a bagel stuffed with egg, cheese and - New Jersey’s most heated debate* - Taylor Ham, is absolutely worth eating. So much so, that it’s probably good I don’t live in New Jersey, or I’d spend many mornings (and money) eating them. 

*New Jersey’s most heated debate is over what to call - what is essentially known by the general population as - a slice of canadian bacon. In New Jersey, the debate is whether it’s called Taylor Ham or, as I’m told others wrongfully call it, a Pork Roll.  

Take a scenic drive through Northern New Jersey. New Jersey is a smaller state, so one can get through it in three hours or less. There are tons of little charming towns and lakes that fill the state. One of my favorites is Sparta. Sparta is a quaint residential town that sits on Lake Mohawk - a large lake, lushly lined with trees and beautiful homes, with an island in the center (and it’s been said that Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston had a home here at one point). Another town worth visiting in Morristown. 

Explore Morristown. Morristown is historical, with a small town feel, yet it’s lively and full of culture. The town is very walkable, and they’ve got tons of great places to eat and drink, along with beautiful churches, buildings and unique neighborhoods. You can read more about how to spend your time in Morristown here.