Abhi and I have flown in and out of Newark Airport countless times during our India visits. But this time, we decided to step out and explore everything the Garden State has to offer. We were staying with our friends in Princeton, New Jersey that gave us the perfect base for an exciting adventure across the state.
Our friends played an important role in shaping our itinerary, introducing us to cool, lesser-known spots that added a personal touch to our trip. Their recommendations not only helped us streamline our planning but also gave us a true local’s perspective.
In this blog post, I’ll share our detailed day-wise itinerary from our base in Princeton. Moreover, we traveled during the holiday season right after Christmas, so I’ll also highlight some festive events in and around town that added a touch of seasonal magic. Although we primarily traveled by car, I’ll also include tips for using public transit.
And don’t forget to stay tuned for more! I’ll be sharing itineraries for New York, Philadelphia, and Delaware in upcoming posts.
So, let’s dive into the itinerary, where I share some must-visit spots, top-notch dining, and a sprinkle of entertainment!
Day 1: Wandering Around Princeton University Campus & Downtown
After taking a red-eye flight (painful but efficient) from Seattle, we landed at Newark International Airport early in the morning. Given the long journey, we decided to ease into our trip with a relaxing day exploring the local neighborhood of Princeton.
Exploring the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail
Our day began with a leisurely stroll along the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. This serene park is one of New Jersey’s longest trails, with multiple access points. Luckily, one of these entrances was just a few minutes’ walk from our friend’s place.
The trail offered a tranquil escape into nature, complete with birdwatching opportunities. If you love birds, you’ll be thrilled by the variety of species you can spot during even a short walk—ranging from the vibrant Flame-backed Woodpecker to the majestic Great Blue Heron, along with other native species like nuthatch, grackles and cardinals etc. As a birding enthusiast, this was one of my favorite moments of the day!
Princeton University
In the evening, we ventured to Princeton University to explore its sprawling campus. It’s one of the colonial colleges that were built before the American revolution. Therefore, the architecture is a harmonious blend of Gothic-style architecture and manicured gardens, truly a sight to behold. Walking through the iconic archways and visiting the Princeton University Art Museum and Library were the favorite highlights of our visit.
Princeton Downtown
We wrapped up the day with a visit to downtown Princeton, a charming area filled with quaint shops, inviting cafes, and cozy bookstores. Since it was the holiday season, the streets were adorned in festive hues of red, green, and gold.
The massive Christmas tree in the square made for the perfect holiday postcard backdrop. (Pro tip: Keep an eye out for my upcoming article featuring must-try cafes and eateries in downtown Princeton!).
Day 2: Pocono Mountains
Day two was all about immersing ourselves in nature. We headed to the forested peaks of the Pocono Mountains, a stunning destination known for its tranquil lakes and lush forests. While the Poconos fall majorly within Pennsylvania (and only a tiny part in NJ), its proximity to the New Jersey border makes them an ideal day-trip destination.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting during winter and love skiing or snowboarding, consider turning your trip into a weekend getaway. The Poconos are home to many ski resorts that combine comfort and thrill, making it the perfect spot for a cozy and adventurous escape.
Once dubbed the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” during the mid-20th century, the Poconos were famous for their romantic getaways. But for us, the draw was different—we were on a mission to reconnect with nature and spot some winter wildlife.
Finding Eagles at Pocono Mountain
You read that right! Poconos is also a favorite destination among birders, especially during winters to see Bald Eagles up and close. Every year, the Bald Eagles migrate from Maine and Canada to the south in search of food and shelter. Pocono mountains offer both, from the clean waters of Lackawaxen and Delaware River with ample fishes and tall trees for nesting.
We started early in the morning from Princeton and drove to the Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center in the north end of Lake Wallenpaupack. It was a short stop on our way to the Eagle Observation point as we wanted to learn about the habitat and get tips to spot the mighty eagles. It was not the best day to go birding as it was raining, but we still took our chances
On reaching the visitor center, we also went on a short walk to check out the second largest lake in Pennsylvania known for its pristine beauty. It was a foggy day with low visibility, so we decided to head to the observation spot.
Pocono Mountains, a stunning destination known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. We hiked along some of the beautiful trails, capturing breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. The crisp, fresh air and the tranquil environment made it a perfect day to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Day 3: Visit to Akshardham and Edison Indian Street
On day 3, we decided to explore the Indian side of New Jersey, one known for its amazing Indian restaurants and the other being the largest Hindu temple in the United States.
Eating and shopping our hearts out at Indian Street
It was a cold, rainy day, which meant outdoor plans were off the table. But the weather didn’t stop us from heading to Edison’s Oak Tree Road, famously known as “Indian Street”. This bustling hub of Indian culture, food, and shopping feels like stepping straight into a vibrant Indian bazaar—aromatic spices lingering in the air, colorful sarees brightening up shop windows, and Bollywood tunes playing softly in the background.
We kicked off our day with brunch at Mithas, a popular Indian street food restaurant that serves up all kinds of delightful snacks. We treated ourselves to a Bombay Veg Grilled Sandwich, flavorful Veg Biryani with Raita, and a delicious combo of Sev Puri and Dahi Puri. Each bite felt like a nostalgic trip back to the street food stalls of India.
By the time we wrapped up our meal, the rain had finally stopped. We seized the moment, hopping from one shop to another, picking up traditional sweets, fragrant spices, and adorable festive decor.
Pro Tip: If you’re on the hunt for Indian attire or jewelry, this is the place to shop. The stores here offer stunning lehengas, sarees, and accessories at prices that are far more reasonable than most other places in the U.S.
Our day of eating and shopping left us feeling content and nostalgic—Edison’s Indian Street truly felt like a little slice of home away from home.
Spiritual awakening at Akshardham
On our way back to Princeton, we took a detour to Robbinsville to visit the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham, the world’s second-largest Hindu temple and the largest in the U.S. This magnificent temple never fails to leave us in awe with its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and peaceful ambiance. We spent hours inside, taking our time to soak in the serenity while paying our respects at the two temples.
The darshan experience was smooth and well-organized, thanks to clear instructions and the helpful staff who guided us through the process. While photography wasn’t allowed inside the main shrine, we were welcome to stay as long as we liked. At the end of our darshan, we had the chance to take photos just outside the shrine—and I couldn’t have been happier. The intricate carvings, every detail a testament to impeccable craftsmanship, were a true feast for the eyes.
📹 Check out my video on YouTube, where I take you along on a virtual tour of the temple.
Before heading back, we stopped by Shayona Cafe for a quick snack. We relished a plate of freshly made Uthappam and a hearty Sub. It was the perfect way to wrap up our visit. We also couldn’t resist browsing the temple store for souvenirs, where we picked up a beautiful sandalwood incense stick holder and a miniature replica of Akshardham—two small keepsakes to bring a piece of this serene experience home with us.
Timings:
Maha mandir Darshan: 9 AM to 7:30 PM
Shayona Café: 11 AM to 8 PM
Akshardham Store: 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Day 4: Hitting the Jersey Shores in Atlantic City
For our fourth day, we had already planned a trip to the vibrant Atlantic City, also known as the “Vegas of the East.” The weather, however, had other plans—it was a cold, rainy day. But that didn’t dampen our spirits! With umbrellas in hand and excitement in our hearts, we hit the road.
The 1.5-hour scenic drive from Princeton took us through lush forests and sleepy towns, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Upon arrival, we noticed that Atlantic City was unusually quiet, thanks to the off-season and gloomy weather. But we saw this as an opportunity to explore at our own pace, without the typical summer crowds.
We kicked off our day by visiting a few casinos, particularly those closer to the beach. We tried our luck at the slot machines, explored quirky shops within the casino resorts, and enjoyed the lively interiors that felt like a slice of Vegas magic.
Next, we made our way to the beach. Though the tides were high, and the water was far too cold for a dip, standing there and gazing at the roaring waves had its own charm. The highlight? Spotting a flock of sandpipers darting along the shoreline, foraging for food. It was a special moment that brought a big smile to the tiny birder in me!
We wrapped up the day with a leisurely stroll along the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk—a classic experience. Most shops were open, and one spot I highly recommend is James’ Saltwater Taffy. Known as the inventors of this iconic sticky-yet-delicious candy, they offer a mind-boggling variety of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Rain or shine, Atlantic City delivered a perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and nostalgia, making for a memorable day by the Jersey shore.
Day 5: American Dream Mall and Hoboken Waterfront
On our final day in New Jersey, we decided to spend the day indulging in some holiday shopping and soaking in scenic views. Our first stop was the iconic American Dream Mall, followed by a serene evening at the Hoboken Waterfront—a perfect way to bid farewell to the Garden State.
A dreamy afternoon at American Dream Mall
The American Dream Mall is colossal—an all-in-one shopper’s paradise filled with endless stores, attractions, and dining options. As we stepped inside this huge mall, we were greeted by a festive wonderland, complete with dazzling holiday decorations, whimsical displays, and countless photo opportunities. Naturally, we couldn’t resist clicking some picture-perfect holiday photos!
Our next few hours were spent browsing through shops, many of which were offering fantastic holiday discounts—perfect for some guilt-free shopping.
Before leaving, we made a beeline for the food court, where we tried some local favorites. From crispy, flavorful corn dogs to melt-in-your-mouth assorted chocolates and donuts, it was simply a treat for our taste buds!
Sunset at Hoboken
As the day wound down, we headed to Hoboken Waterfront, a must-visit spot for jaw-dropping views of New York City. Sitting across the Hudson River, Hoboken offers a panoramic glimpse of the Manhattan skyline, making it one of the best places to watch the city light up.
We arrived just in time for sunset. Watching the golden hues fade into twilight as the lights of the concrete jungle began to twinkle felt almost magical. It was a peaceful, reflective moment as we sat by the riverside, watching the city bustle in the distance while we relaxed in stillness.
With this dreamy view etched in our memories, we were ready to head into the next chapter of our trip: the city that never sleeps, New York City.
Other Day Trips-worthy spots from New Jersey
- Philadelphia – Known as the Birthplace of America, Philly is just an hour’s train ride away and brimming with iconic landmarks, rich history, vibrant culture, and—most importantly—mouthwatering food! From the Liberty Bell to cheesesteaks, this city offers an unforgettable mix of experiences. Check out my complete day trip itinerary to explore the very best Philadelphia has to offer.
- Wilmington, Delaware – A true underrated gem! Wilmington charms visitors with its stunning French-style mansions, serene gardens, and delicious seafood. It’s the perfect spot for a quieter escape. Don’t miss my 1-day guide that highlights all the must-visit attractions and the best local eateries.
Reaching New Jersey from Seattle
There are several direct flights from Seattle to Newark, and we chose to take a United Airlines red-eye flight. This allowed us to optimize our daytime, especially since we were losing 3 hours due to the 6-hour flight.
If you prefer other modes of travel, you can also reach New Jersey by train, such as the Northeast Regional line, or by bus, both of which are well-connected to major cities on the East Coast. For those living in nearby states or cities, driving to New Jersey is another convenient choice that helps maximize your time.
Best time to visit New Jersey
New Jersey is a year-round destination, offering something unique in every season. Summer invites you to hit the Jersey Shore, soak up the sun, and ride the Atlantic waves. Winter is all about holiday magic and indulging in winter sports. Spring transforms the state into a vibrant canvas of blooming flowers, while autumn paints it in breathtaking shades of orange, yellow, and red.
If you’re wondering about the absolute best time, I’d recommend visiting at the end of fall. This sweet spot allows you to experience the stunning fall foliage and holiday vibes without breaking the bank. Plus, the flight tickets and hotel prices are far more reasonable than during peak seasons.
Overall thoughts about New Jersey
When people think of New Jersey, they often focus on Jersey City or Hoboken. It is mainly drawn by their proximity to New York City and more affordable hotel options. However, I encourage you to look beyond the usual spots and give this diverse state a chance!
Our 5-day journey was the perfect blend of nature, history, entertainment, and relaxation. From the tranquil landscapes of the Pocono Mountains to the lively, energetic vibe of Atlantic City. Each destination offered its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences.
If you have any questions about New Jersey or need help planning your itinerary, feel free to reach out! You can DM me on Instagram or email me at meenakshi.bwml@gmail.com. And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more East Coast itineraries and travel tips!
