Most people hear “New Jersey” and immediately think beaches, casinos, or boardwalks. Take time to actually drive around the state, though, and you’ll discover spots that completely contradict what everyone assumes about the place.
Here are ten unusual New Jersey attractions that deserve a spot on your weekend plans.
1. Play park golf at 1Club
Tucked into Vernon Valley, 1Club brings a Japanese-inspired game called park golf to New Jersey. It’s golf made simple: one club, one ball, and a beautifully landscaped 5-acre course designed to be fun for anyone. You don’t need prior experience or even your own gear, just show up ready to play.
The location itself draws people in. Nestled in a natural setting where you can focus on the game, enjoy the changing seasons, and unwind with a round of park golf and a drink at Hef’s Hideaway, leaving the stress of daily life far behind.
Once you finish playing, you can head over to Hef’s Hut for some delicious comfort food with local flavor mixed in. The whole 1Club setup works because you get outdoor time, a little friendly competition, and a chance to unwind, all in one place.
2. Explore the Sterling Hill Mining Museum
Ogdensburg’s Sterling Hill Mining Museum takes you into a former zinc mine that’s been turned into a unique attraction. The magic happens when they turn on the UV lights – ordinary-looking rocks suddenly light up in electric blues, greens, and reds that look unreal.
Tours guide you through old mining tunnels where you’ll see vintage equipment and learn about the geology that made this area special for mining. It’s part science lesson, part history tour, and the fluorescent mineral display never fails to impress visitors of all ages.
3. Step into the future at Bell Works
In Holmdel, an old research center where Bell Labs once made groundbreaking discoveries has been transformed into something entirely new. Bell Works is now a “metroburb”, a mix of shops, restaurants, offices, and event spaces all under one enormous glass roof. The building itself is striking, and walking through it feels a little futuristic. Whether you’re grabbing coffee, attending a market, or just curious to see the space, it’s a destination worth a detour.
4. Walk through the tunnels at Adventure Aquarium
Head to Camden for an underwater adventure. Adventure Aquarium’s shark tunnel is the main attraction – you walk through while sharks and rays swim overhead and all around you. The hippo display gets plenty of attention too, plus there are touch tanks where kids can handle starfish and stingrays. Sure, it’s mainly designed for families, but the size and scope of everything there can keep all ages entertained.
5. Discover Princeton’s legacy of genius
Princeton crams more brainy history into one place than you’d think possible. Einstein’s house gets the attention, but this town has churned out presidents, Nobel winners, and researchers who basically rewrote textbooks. The university campus is open for wandering around, the art museum doesn’t charge admission, and Nassau Street has bookshops and cafes where you might overhear actual professors arguing about quantum physics over coffee. Throw in Princeton Battlefield State Park for some Revolutionary War context, and you’ve got a place where every corner has some connection to big ideas or important events.
6. Visit the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton
History buffs shouldn’t miss Trenton’s Old Barracks Museum. These buildings from the 1700s sheltered British troops before becoming key sites during Revolutionary War battles. The museum uses basement exhibits and live demonstrations to show visitors just how important New Jersey was when America was fighting to break free from Britain.
7. Wander through Grounds for Sculpture
Art fans who prefer being outdoors will love Hamilton’s “Grounds for Sculpture”, which spreads creativity across 42 acres. Modern sculptures are scattered throughout landscaped gardens and curving trails – some pieces dominate the landscape while others wait to be discovered in quiet corners. The entire space functions like an outdoor gallery where visitors can wander and discover at their own pace.
8. Stroll Cape May’s historic district
Cape May, at New Jersey’s southern edge, offers something entirely different. Victorian houses painted in bold colors line streets filled with unique shops and intimate restaurants. Being only steps away from the ocean means you can blend historical sightseeing with some quality beach time. Cape May manages to feel both nostalgic and timeless, whether you’re there for a few hours or several days.
9. Ride the coasters at Six Flags Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson delivers serious thrills. Kingda Ka shoots you 456 feet up at 128 mph – currently one of the tallest, fastest coasters you’ll find anywhere on the East Coast. The safari park lets you drive through and see lions, giraffes, and rhinos up close from your car. Hurricane Harbor adds water rides when the weather’s hot. Between the roller coasters, water slides, and classic carnival food, there’s enough here to fill a whole day whether you’re eight or eighty.
10. Tap your toes at Albert Music Hall
Albert Music Hall in Waretown offers something you won’t expect in New Jersey – authentic bluegrass and country music in a no-frills setting. Musicians from around the Pine Barrens show up Saturday nights to play in this venue – folding chairs, snacks made by volunteers, and everything acoustic. It’s genuine Americana tucked away in South Jersey, which makes it worth seeking out if you want something different from the usual entertainment options.
Wrapping it up: unique things to do in New Jersey
New Jersey has plenty of mainstream activities, but if you’re looking for something a little different, these ten spots are a great start. From swinging a club at 1Club Vernon to glowing rocks underground, futuristic buildings, and Victorian charm by the sea, each one shows a different side of the state.
Want more local tips? Check out the press section for recent mentions of 1Club and other NJ highlights.
Ready to try it one of the newest and most exciting NJ activities? Book a tee time and get out there.