New Jersey is a majestic state filled with over 130 miles of Atlantic coastline, beautiful beaches, historic towns, and breathtaking natural beauty.  

There’s a little something for everyone in the Garden State, whether you’ve lived there since birth or are visiting for a short time.  

Searching for places to visit in or near New Jersey? We’ve done the legwork for you and rounded up seven-weekend road trips from New Jersey that anyone can enjoy for people of all ages, covering some of the most sought-after family vacation spots on the east coast.  

So buckle up, grab some snacks, and head out on your next New Jersey road trip adventure!  

Note: We’ve chosen Jersey City as a reference point for drive times, so don’t forget to plug in your own starting point for accuracy.  

7 Day Trips From New Jersey 

Asbury Park, NJ  

Distance from Jersey City: 53.4 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (1 hour)  

Asbury Park is one of Jersey’s most beloved beach towns, offering some of the best shorelines in the state. Plenty of events and activities year-round make it a popular destination for families. You can easily spend the day or choose to make it a weekend stay just an hour away.  

In addition to its surf and sand, Asbury Park also features a Boardwalk full of mouthwatering food, unique shopping experiences, and the historic Paramount Theater and Convention Hall. Downtown Asbury Park also hosts events ranging from parades and fireworks to the annual world-famous NJ Zombie Walk. 

If you’re spending the night, consider checking into The Asbury Hotel, a restored Victorian-age hotel with tons of one-of-a-kind charm. There are many other great choices as well, including the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel and Mikell’s Big House. To round out your trip, grab a bite at Jimmy’s Italian Restaurant before taking in a classic broadway show by The Premier Theater Company.  

Asbury Park Beach Fees: $6 per person Monday through Friday, $9 per person on Weekends and Holidays (Kids 12 and under are FREE)  

Delaware Water Gap, PA   

Distance from Jersey City: 71.3 miles ~ via I-80 W (1 hour/18 minutes) 

If you’re interested in spending the day out in nature, the Delaware Water Gap in the Pocono Mountains is one of the best places to visit near New Jersey. A paradise for nature lovers and tourists alike, The Gap offers picturesque camping spots, miles of hiking trails, and more.  

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area offers sweeping views of the mountain ridges and endless birding and wildlife-watching opportunities for hikers. You can also bike along McDade Recreational Trail, which is particularly beautiful each autumn. During the colder months, be sure to explore the many winter activities available at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area.  

Did you know that you can see two separate waterfalls during your visit? The Delaware Water Gap Natural Recreation Area is home to both the tallest and second-tallest waterfalls in Pennsylvania! Capture the breathtaking views of Raymondskill and Dingmans Falls, sights you’ll remember for years to come.  

Pro Tip: Take the boardwalk trail that leads to the base of Dingmans Falls for a perfect photo opportunity.  

Long Beach Island, NJ 

Distance from Jersey City: 96.5 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (1 hour/36 minutes) 

The beautiful thing about Long Beach Island – aside from its pristine white beaches – is the easy travel distance. You can easily access the island by boat or car from Atlantic City, New York, or Philadelphia. The island itself is a treasure trove of diverse cultural events, historic landmarks, fabulous food, and more.  

Families with children will enjoy visiting “Old Barney” at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, located on the island’s northernmost point. Sunset Park also offers many family-friendly activities throughout the year, and everyone will love some fun in the sun at Fantasy Island Amusement Park.  

The island’s southern end has attractions for every interest, including Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf in Beach Haven. Ship Bottom acts as the Gateway to the island and offers a famous beach, many restaurants, and seasonal recreational activities.  

The Wildwoods, NJ  

Distance from Jersey City: 152 miles ~ via Garden State Parkway (2 hours/26 minutes) 

If you’re looking for ideas for summer New Jersey road trips, The Wildwoods is a must. The Wildwoods offers family-friendly beaches, an action-packed Boardwalk, diverse entertainment, and countless historical and cultural opportunities.  

The Wildwoods’ five miles of beaches feature powder-fine sand and endless summertime fun with plenty of activities for people of all ages. Dogs are also allowed, and there are even dog beaches for your best friend to splash around in! There are also three amazing beachfront waterparks where the whole family can cool down.  

The Wildwood’s 38 blocks of Boardwalk is also a sight to behold, with countless shopping opportunities, eateries, entertainment, amusement rides, and attractions. So whether you’re visiting during daytime or evening hours, the Boardwalk is always “on.”  

Pro Tip: Did you know that The Wildwoods has been named The Event Capital of the East Coast? Many events are free to the public, so be sure to check the calendar and plan accordingly!  

Greenwich, CT 

Distance from Jersey City ~ via I-95 N  (1 hour/1 minute) 

Greenwich has long been named one of the best weekend getaways from New Jersey, and for a good reason. Just an hour away from Jersey City and a short train ride from NYC, it’s an ideal escape from life’s everyday hustle and bustle.  

You can find the charming coastal town of Greenwich on Long Island Sound. It’s filled with many exciting things to see and do, like shopping at the many stories or visiting the art galleries in Downtown Greenwich. Science and art enthusiasts will love touring The Bruce Museum, and history lovers will love seeing the Greenwich Mansion and Putnam Cottage.  

There are also many opportunities to explore the outdoors in Greenwich. Walk the peaceful trails in Greenwich Point Park, where you can also admire the gorgeous NYC skyline. Take in a game of polo at the Greenwich Polo Club during the summer, or spend a day at the fascinating Montgomery Pinetum and Pomerance Park, the birthplace of the Boy Scouts!  

Pro Tip: If you love art, schedule your weekend road trip from NJ to Greenwich in May. This is when the annual Art-to-the-Avenue Festival takes place, and it’s quite a sight to behold!  

Baltimore, MD  

Distance from Jersey City: 184 miles ~ via NJ Tpke S and I-95 S (3 hours/3 minutes) 

Baltimore is also another excellent option to add to your list of New Jersey road trips. It’s full of family-friendly destinations and activities, and you can easily spend a few days or a long weekend exploring all these fascinating city offers.  

Families with younger children will love visiting the Maryland Science Center in Downtown Baltimore. The center’s three floors feature many kid-friendly displays and exhibits, and it also has a planetarium, observatory, and IMAX theater! The Port Discovery Children’s Museum is also a fun-filled adventure and is ranked as one of America’s top five children’s museums.  

One can only find many one-of-a-kind destinations in Baltimore, such as the National Aquarium, the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum, and more. If you can stay the night, check out the 1840s Carrollton In, which is conveniently located near Little Italy and Inner Harbor.  

Philadelphia, PA 

Distance from Jersey City ~ via I-95 S  (1 hour/29 minutes) 

Philadelphia is one of the most richly historic cities in the United States, with countless fascinating attractions for all ages and interests. One of the best things about visiting Philadelphia is that there is no “wrong time” to do it. So whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from NJ in September or January, there are many things to see and do. 

Must-see Philadelphia sights include visiting the famous Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center, touring the historical Independence Hall where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, and running up the 72 “Rocky Steps” at the eastern entrance of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to take a selfie with Rocky’s statue at the base of the steps!  

History buffs of all ages need to schedule a half day to explore the museums along Philadelphia’s Museum Mile before digging into an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak at one of the city’s finest eateries. Try Pat’s King of Steaks, Jim’s on South Street, or visit a local favorite like Dalessandro’s. You can easily spend weeks exploring Philadelphia, and it’s worth visiting more than once.  

Final Tips on Visiting Places In and Near New Jersey  

• Let the attendant fuel up if you’re traveling in New Jersey and need to gas up. It’s actually illegal to pump your own gas in The Garden State.  
• As of December 11, 2022, New Jersey is moving to cashless tolls. The New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway are two of the busiest toll roads in the United States, so expect to pay if you’re traveling those routes.  
• Although many of the attractions listed in our chosen locations are free to the public, we suggest budgeting for museum and park entry fees and any other specific events you’d like to attend while visiting your destination.  
• The beaches at popular tourist destinations in New Jersey and surrounding states can often get crowded during the summer. Plan on arriving early if you’re headed to a beach with a boardwalk.  
• Pack the proper footwear for the weather. Bring a warm and sturdy pair of snow boots if you’re traveling during winter. Comfortable sneakers are also a must during summer, especially if you plan on hiking or walking most of the day.  
• Never forget a road trip essential again with our downloadable family road trip checklist. 

© Family Road Trip 2026

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Despite its small size, New Jersey is filled with some of the best scenery. New Jersey scenic drives are filled with winding roads, miles of diverse landscapes, and picturesque towns. You can explore all of them and more in just a few short hours or spend a day or two enjoying everything they offer.  

New Jersey has many designated scenic byways, but there are also countless country roads that offer just as many breathtaking views. Whilst there are many more than we can list here, we’ve selected the top scenic drives in New Jersey that are an excellent addition to any NJ road trip or are just a fun way to spend a weekend afternoon.  

5 Scenic Drives in New Jersey 

Warren Heritage Scenic Byway – Route 57 

• Distance: 19 miles 
• Time needed: 38 minutes/1 day 

The Warren Heritage Scenic Byway offers something for everyone along its historic route. It has breathtaking views of the mountains and rivers, thrilling activities, and historical and cultural treasures. You can travel the road in just under 40 minutes, but we recommend spending a whole day appreciating all there is to see.  

This scenic New Jersey drive begins in Hackettstown, where you can take a relaxing stroll through Hackkettstown Riverfront Park before continuing on. Allamuchy Mountain State Park is also just 3 miles north and gives you a beautiful view of Saxton Falls (off Willow Grove Road). From there, travel on to such high-interest points as Edison Concrete Mile. Thomas Edison started this famous cement plant, which ended up supplying all of the concrete for the original Yankee Stadium!  

There are also plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities along this byway. You can paddle on the peaceful waters of the Morris Canal or stroll along its banks. You can also access the Wild and Scenic Musconetcong River, a popular local fishing spot, from the byway.

Famous mountain ranges along your route include Scotts Mountain, Pohotcong Mountain, and Point Mountain. There are also plenty of chances to go hiking, bird-watching, canoeing, biking, and more.  

Pro Tip: Farm stands and markets abound along your route. Stop and savor the fresh-picked goodies and snacks! 

When to go: Late spring, summer, and early fall are the best times to travel along the Warren Heritage Scenic Byway.  

Delaware River Scenic Byway– Route 29 

• Distance: 32.8 miles 
• Time needed: 1 hour/1 day 

The Delaware River Scenic Byway features some of the most beautiful scenic places in New Jersey, and it has also played a significant role in the shaping of America as well. This 32-mile stretch of roadway begins at the Route 29 tunnel in Trenton and ends at the Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge in Frenchtown. Spend a few hours or the whole day exploring historic riverside towns, scenic landscapes, forests, and cliffs.  

Perhaps the most interesting stop along this historic New Jersey drive is Washington’s Crossing, where George Washington and his soldiers famously crossed the freezing waters of New Jersey’s West Coast. Tranquil riverside towns like Titusville, Byram, Frenchtown, and Milford reflect the area’s rich history through 17th, 18th, and 19th-century architecture. Each charming hamlet offers unique shopping experiences, museums, and other sightseeing opportunities.  

Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the lower Delaware River portion of the byway, designated as a National Wild and Scenic River in 2000. If you travel north of Trenton, you can see several impressive views of the Delaware River, and there are also three state parks where you can take in some of the best sights in New Jersey.  

When to go: Enjoy traveling along the Delaware River Scenic Byway year-round. In addition, there are many fun and entertaining festivals during different seasons for all to enjoy.  

Route 15 – NJ Route 15, US 206 

• Distance: 19.2 miles 
• Time needed: 1 hour/1 day 

Route 15 gets our pick as one of the most fun roads to drive on in NJ for several reasons: the relaxing views along the way. Spend an hour admiring the tranquil scenery filled with sustainable farmlands, wineries, and streams.  

Route 15 might be short, but it’s a beautiful drive to take during the fall. You can admire the foliage as you travel through the countryside. Your drive begins in Dover and ends in Frankford Township. Stop along the way for wine tasting, stroll along the shores of Lake Hopatcong, or savor a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants.  

When to go: We recommend going on this road trip in the fall when the leaves are at their most vibrant.  

Upper Freehold Historic Farmland Byway 

• Distance: 28 miles 
• Time needed: 49 minutes/1 day 

The Upper Freehold Historic Farmland Byway offers some of the best views in New Jersey, with beautifully preserved historic homes, farms, and other colonial architecture along your route. Wind your way down peaceful country lanes and enjoy the lovely natural surroundings that rise to meet you. You can easily make this drive in a few hours, making it the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon.  

This byway’s charming towns are full of character and hold many events and festivals throughout the year. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Allentown and Imlaystown historic districts. Allentown offers a truly authentic experience with one-of-a-kind shops, tours, and restaurants.

Pro Tip: It’s also a convenient halfway point if you’re on a trip to Atlantic City. Stop for a bite to eat, shop, or for a quick stroll.  

There are also plenty of opportunities for you to experience nature along the byway. Open landscapes and wildlife areas are ideal for hiking, birdwatching, horseback riding, fishing, and sightseeing. Conines Mill Pond is a popular local fishing hole where you can catch largemouth bass, yellow bullhead, and other species.  

When to go: There are many fun things to do along this scenic byway all year long, including the Halloween parade, Memorial Day parade, Fall festival, and carriage rides in winter in Allentown.  

Palisades Scenic Byway  

• Distance: 19.1 miles 
• Time needed:  30 minutes/1 day 

If you’re on the lookout for breathtaking scenery you can experience in less than a half hour, the Palisades Scenic Byway is for you. It offers impressive views of the Palisades Cliffs and the New York City Skyline, and there are also many recreational activities for families along the way.  

Begin your drive at the State Line Lookout, which offers one of the most stunning scenic overlooks in New Jersey. You can pull off the road to experience the highest point on the Palisades Cliffs. Many believe this is the best place to view the New York City skyline, and it’s also great for birdwatching, sightseeing, hiking, and skiing in the winter. Grab a souvenir at the gift shop along your route before continuing on.  

The Alpine area is another pretty spot to get out and explore. Pack a picnic lunch, go crabbing along the riverfront, and visit the historic Kearney House. The Alpine Lookout is another sightseeing opportunity as well.

The Rockefeller Lookout in Englewood Cliffs is another area of breathtaking scenery where you can look over the Hudson River to Manhattan. Finish your drive by visiting Fort Lee Historic Park, which is full of Revolutionary War-era artifacts and more.  

When to go: Because the Palisades Scenic Byway emphasizes outdoor activities, we suggest traveling along it during late spring, summer, and early fall.  

Extend Your Driving Adventures on the East Coast

If you’re looking for more adventures behind the wheel, you may want to check out next:

5 Spectacular Pennsylvania Scenic Drives
Incredible Delaware Scenic Drives
Utterly Unmissable New York Scenic Drives
Where to Catch the Best Sunflower Farms in New Jersey
The Most Popular Family Vacation Spots on the East Coast

© Family Road Trip 2026

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You probably thinking of the midwest as soon as we mention sunflower fields, but did you know New Jersey is also home to dozens of incredible and picturesque sunflower farms?

Forget berry picking and corn mazes, in summer and early fall it’s sunflower mazes that rule supreme in NJ!

Most sunflower blooms in New Jersey can be found in the latter part of summer and even through to early fall, providing the perfect segway to apple picking and pumpkin season!

Many of New Jersey’s sunflower farms are within easy reach of NYC on a day trip, so join us as we journey around the state, picking out our favorite NJ sunflower farms for summer 2022.

But before we hit the road…

• Don’t miss the best sunflower fields in New York
• You can even find sunflower fields near Miami
• And magical Minnesota sunflower farms are among the country’s best

Best Time To See Sunflowers in New Jersey

To have the best opportunity of seeing sunflower fields, plan your New Jersey sunflower road trip in August through to early September.

Each field will be planted at a slightly different time so there will always be something in bloom if you plan for these dates.

The blooms only last for about 10 days in each field before they need to be harvested, so you do need to plan your New Jersey sunflower road trip with care to avoid disappointment.

And remember, Mother Nature plays her hand too; summer storms can happen, ruining crops or delaying blooms, so we’d highly recommend checking with your chosen sunflower farm a few days out that fields will be in bloom and activities on as scheduled.

What to Know Before Visiting New Jersey Sunflower Fields with Kids

There are a few things you should bear in mind when planning a sunflower farm NJ road trip with your kids:

• You are still on someone’s working farm and private property; Never trample on the flowers or pick any you are not supposed to
• Instruct your kids to carefully follow any farm or field rules, this can include sticking to designated paths and not climbing on any machinery
• Come properly dressed for the occasion, working farms are muddy even in summer so do expect whatever they wear to come home dirty
• If you want great sunflower photos with kids, aim for contrasting colors without prints

• Amenities on hand will vary by farm and field; some are still quite rustic (i.e., they may not have restrooms), while others come complete with dining facilities, bathrooms, playgrounds, and other farm activities
• Avoid wearing perfumes or any strong fragrances – you want the bees focused on the flowers, not you!
• Don’t swat at the bees! They will be hanging around, but as long as you leave them alone, they’re there doing an important job
• Opening hours can be weather dependent; call in advance if unsure and to avoid disappointment
• Avoid the crowds by going on weekdays if you can (but note that not all New Jersey Sunflower Farms are opened daily)
• Some events and festivals are ticketed so make sure you book online in advance (we’ve tried to annotate these once for you below)
• Some NJ sunflower farms will want cash at the gate

What to Pack for a Sunflower Road Trip

In addition to our road trip essentials, for a sunflower day trip or longer road trip, make sure you pack for all the family

• A camera!
• Sunhats
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Bug Spray
• Boots or at least closed-toe shoes are recommended
• Snacks (bearing in mind any farm rules about bringing your own food)
• Shears for cutting flowers (also recommended some wet paper towels to wet your stems on the way home will help their longevity)

Best Sunflower Fields in New Jersey

Whether you’re seeking an easy day trip from the big smoke or want to incorporate a farm stop on one of New Jersey’s incredible scenic drives, here’s the best of the bunch you’ll want on a New Jersey sunflower bucket list!

1. Holland Ridge Farm – Cream Ridge

Home to 5 million sunflowers, 300-acre Holland Ridge Farm is the largest U-Pick Flower Farm in the USA! At just over an hour away from Manhattan it makes an ideal weekend escape with the kids.

They run both a tulip U-Pick season earlier in the summer and a late sunflower season running through September and into October.

On-site they have up 15 food tucks daily, picnic tables, pony rides and farm animals so you can have a full family outting – but please make sure you pre-book a time slot online.

Cost: $12.80 for 3 and up (TBC for 2022), U-Pick $1 a stem – they provide the buckets and clippers

Location: 86 Rues Road, Cream Ridge, NJ 08514

2. Happy Day Farm – Manalapan

Sitting less than 90 minutes from Manhattan, Happy Day Farm is a popular NJ day trip destination for sunflower viewing and picking.

The season here starts in early July and can run through until mid-August

In addition to the sunflower fields, there’s lavender viewing, raspberry and blueberry picking. Props are available for some extra photography fun and there’s plenty of farm yard activities from tractor rides to fair ground games and rides.

Note, no furry friends allowed here and and no outside food. You’ll need to BYO your own shears for collecting flowers or pay a deposit for theirs.

Note they have further property only a mile away Arrowhead Farmstead with props and plenty of photo op areas in their 10 acre field.

Cost: $17 Cash Only – open Wednesday to Sunday. U-pick Sunflowers are $2.50 and family photo slots can be booked after hours for $150/hr

Location: 106 Iron Ore Road, Manalapan, NJ 07726

3. Sussex County Sunflower Maze – Sandyston

Found in Sandyston, around 2 hours drive from Manhattan, you’ll find beautiful sunflowers blooming at Sussex County Sunflower Maze from mid August to Mid September.

There are several different sunflower mazes here to enjoy amongst the 1.5 million sunflowers, making it the largest sunflower maze on the east coast.

Well-behaved furry friends are allowed here on a leash, plus kids can join in a bug safari tour and kids scavenger hunt.

Cost: (cash only on entry) $10 adults, children $6 under 3 free

Location: 101 Route 645, Sandyston, NJ 07826

4. Alstede Farms – Chester

With a long sunflower season running from mid-July to mid-September, Alstede Farms have fun family farm activities on offer year-round, from fall pumpkin patches to berry picking and wine tasting.

Take a hayride out to the sunflower fields and plenty of PYO opportunities, as well as photo ops – they have a special point you can climb to for overlooking the fields.

During harvest season they have evening entertainment overlooking the fields of sunflowers.

Cost: $2 stems. Purchase tickets at the gate, $5 conveinece fee included

Location: 1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester, NJ 07930

5. Stony Hill Farm Market – Chester

With 2.5 acres and 8 varietals, Stony Hall Farms isn’t the largest sunflower farm in northern New Jersey but still picture perfect. There’s one field available for walks and photos and another available for guests to pick their own sunflowers.

During the Sunflower Festival you can get a wagon ride, live music and access to vendors. Last year the season ran from early September to early November.

Cost: $19.99 festival tickets. Admission to the cutting fields only is $10 and includes one stem

Location: 15 North Road, Chester, NJ 07930

6. Three Silos Farm – Newton

Think spectacular countryside views in this 6 acre sunflower and zinnia field. Three Silos Farm have a half mile walk through the fields.

Expect the season to run from end of July to end of August. You can pack your own cooler and picnic blanket and enjoy barnyard tunes and one of New Jersey’s most beautiful farms.

Cost: $10 General Admission, $5 kids 3 to 12 years.

Location: 150 Hampton House Road, Newton, NJ 07860

7. Johnson’s Locust Hall Farm – Jobstown

Offering Park N’ Pick to access all their flower fields from Friday through Sunday. This historic property Locust Hall sprawls over 315 acres (not all sunflowers!) and offers a huge variety of Farm to Table events, workshops, and live music events.

You’ll need to check in with them when the sunflower season has started, and flowers are ripe for picking! Generally, it will start in early September, followed by the fall apple and pumpkin season.

This is known as one of New Jersey’s most picture-perfect farms for sunflower photography, also a great spot for weddings and special events.

Cost: $4.95 entry TBC 2022 (+ picked items)

Location: 2691 Monmouth Road, Jobstown, NJ 08041

8. Johnson’s Corner Farm – Medford

Famous for their annual Sunflower Celebration, Johnson’s Corner Farm is a delightful spot to enjoy a sunflower maze and sunflower picking in New Jersey. You can also nab yourself PYO sweet corn, blueberries, and tomatoes here.

Expect the Sunflower Celebration to take place in mid-September. A ticket here for the sunflower maze also gets you access the discovery barn, kids activities and splash pad.

After you’ve snapped some fun family pictures, enjoy their marker, ice cream parlor or FarmHouse Kitchen.

Cost: $5-6 to take the Hayride out to the fields. Sunflowers are $1 a stem. Make your bookings online in advance

Location: 133 Church Road, Medford, NJ 08055

9. Sunset Flower Farm – Bellepain

Running a 17 acre property, this working flower farm grows many colorful varietals year round but sunflowers will be found ready for purchase in August.

A popular day trip in Cape May County, Sunset Flower Farm “Beauty by the Bunch” will pick a bundle of flowers for you.

Cost: Varies by bunch

Location: 550 Hands Mill Rd, Bellepain, NJ 08270

10. Von Thun Farms – Washington

Von Thun Farms is home to the New Jersey Sunflower Trail. Open through the summer season until September, this is a glorious U-Pick destination in Warren County, New Jersey.

Enjoy not just sunflowers but zinnias, marigolds, and many more – it’s a real flower-lovers delight; fill a bucket with your treasured finds. They also have raspberries and peaches available for U-pick at their Brunswick fields.

No pets allowed here, but you can visit their farm animals and farm market. They trail includes several cute farm yard props to really make your photos pop!

Cost: $12.99 weekdays, 14.99 weekends; $6 for 3 stems – online booking in advance strongly encouraged. Exclsuive photographer hours can also be booked.

Location: 438 Route 57 West, Washington, NJ 07882

A Few More New Jersey Sunflower Fields to Consider in 2022

We can’t be certain yet that all of these will be planted and go ahead this year or open to the public, so keep an eye on their Facebook pages or contact them directly if you’d like property access without trespassing:

• Andersen Farms – have previously run a Sunflower Maze in Sparta. They were closed in 2020 and 2021 but we await news in 2022 (otherwise still stop in for their amazing ice cream!).
• Alan’s Flower Farm – offering a variety beyond just sunflowers including dahlias, peonies, and hydrangeas in Chesterfield. Sunflowers bloom through summer and into fall and are available to purchase.
• Brodhecker Farm – another option in Sparta though expect just a roadside stop here from late August, you’ll find these fields along Route 25.
• Bullock Farms – check their Facebook page if they’ll be running a fall season U-pick on the weekends
• Dalton Farms – in Swedesboro, south New Jersey grow sunflowers and are open from Labor Day throigh September
• Donaldsons Farm – better known for their PYO fruits and fresh produce, they do have sunflowers in bloom too during early fall, Hackettstown
• Melick’s Town Farm: Oldwick Farm Market – operate a pick your own without an appointment, just bring your clippers, found in Oldwick July to September
• Silverton Farms – found in Roms River off the Garden State parkway you’ll find their harvest mid-August
• Terhune Orchards – offering everything from farm animals to fresh backed pies – even wine – and yes, Sunflowers! Found in Princeton
• Wards Farm – not always open to the public but they do run events during the year, check for upcoming festivals in Salem County.

We bet there are a few more up-and-coming destinations in New Jersey we can add to this list! If there are more you think we need to add for 2023 do drop us a note at familyroadtripblog@gmail.com so we can include them next year.  

Taking Home Some U-Pick Sunflowers?

Here are some top pointers to get the most out of your U-Pick Sunflowers

• Do all your fun farm activities first and leave U-Pick until just before you leave

• Don’t break the sunflower stems off, always use clippers – check if you need to BYO or can borrow some from the sunflower farm

• Bring a container to put them in with a little water as soon as they’re picked (a tall water bottle can work well), the quicker you can get them in water, the less likely they’ll wilt

• Alternative, some damp paper towel wrapped around the stems can help

• When you get home, cut off 1-2″ from the stem, remove the leaves and put it in cold water with sugar or a teaspoon of lemon-lime soda – your blooms will last that little bit longer

• Taking some pictures of your magnificent blooms to get you through the winter? Don’t miss our favorite sunflower captions!

What are you waiting for? grab your boots and clippers and jump in the car for an unforgettable and utterly instagrammable sunflower road trip adventure this summer.

© Family Road Trip 2026

The post Sensational Sunflower Farms In New Jersey appeared first on Family Road Trip.