For most, New Jersey is less exciting than its sister state, New York, as it is not on par, ranked as such a super-established entertainment or cultural hub. Nonetheless, the Garden State has a few spots worth visiting during the daytime and at night. Once the sun sets, Jersey transforms into a varied playground with various offered experiences that cater to every taste. Here, we cover eight options that anyone going to New Jersey should consider as the day begins winding down and night starts falling.
Walk Liberty State Park
The Liberty State Park is an area in Upper New York Bay, opposite Ellis and Liberty Island, which, along with the Manhattan skyline, presents an awe-inspiring backdrop from this New Jersey location, operated by the Division of Parks and Forestry. It is open until 10 PM, patrolled by park police, with well-lit paths that are very safe for nighttime walks. The park provides a peaceful ambiance via a tranquil setting that supplies a view of the stunning Lower Manhattan, illuminating the sky.
Visit the BarCode Entertainment Complex
Found at 429 N Broad St in Elizabeth, the BarCode has a reputation for being the hottest club in the Tri-State region. It is a combo of a lounge and restaurant, implementing a novel party twist. Those who enjoy themselves here can take in DJ shows, lively entertainment, and various talented performances from all genres through indoor and outdoor seating. The venue does not allow baseball caps, hoodies, athletic wear, and tank tops. So, those planning to spend an evening here should dress adequately, wearing not-so-casual clothing.
Stroll to the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Here, we have a spot that is a cheat, as it operates until dawn. Its standard working hours are from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, but this period can get stretched to 9 PM for specific events. Usually, in May, the lighthouse hosts a night climb that gets capped off with campfire sit-downs and concerts. Tourists and locals can find the lighthouse at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, and it has been up since 1951, quickly becoming a popular tourist destination after its construction.
Marvel at the Turtle Back Zoo’s After-Dark Safari
Animal lovers should be overjoyed that New Jersey gives them the rare prospect of going to a Zoo known for running sunset safaris. The Turtle Back Zoo, based in West Orange, likes to provide distinct visitors who come to this wildlife wonderland facility in June with a unique tour experience, ending at 8 PM. These are most often private events, so those who can get an invite to them should jump at the chance, as they present an opportunity for up-close animal encounters with the sun setting in the background and even at night. At this time of the day, the atmosphere is calm, providing a brief glimpse into the housed creatures’ nocturnal habits.
Hit a Strike at the Asbury Lanes
Bowling is a pastime that has brought together Americans for decades. It is one of the most American things one can do, and the Asbury Lanes at 209 4th Ave, Asbury Park, is an ideal New Jersey complex where those in the area can go and have loads of fun. Bowling is one of many things on the table at Asbury Lane, as this property also has a diner whose menu presents different delicious platters, shakes, greens, breakfast, and sides. Shoe rentals are $5 per person, and the lane rentals run $30 for thirty minutes. Each lane features TV sets that display player standings and engaging graphics like those in games hosted at sites devoted to iGaming in New Jersey.
Got to Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach is a coastal borough on the Jersey Shore, terrific for family-friendly beachside fun. This part of the Garden State has loads to offer to people from all walks of life. Aside from its classic boardwalk, excellent for a leisure stroll, it features arcades, cake shops, and so much more. For evening meals, the Ark Pub and Eatery is a famed go-to spot for many, including the Broadway Bar & Grill.
Explore Princeton’s Evening Scene
Virtually everyone has heard of Princeton University, one of the most renowned Ivy League schools in the US, its fourth-oldest institution of this caliber. What many individuals need to learn about Princeton is that traversing its robust campus at night can be a super fun time for those unfamiliar with it. Its collection of new and old glowing buildings is a sight to behold, as is the Murray-Dodge Courtyard.
Take in a Live Performance at the Paper Mill Playhouse
The Paper Mill Playhouse is a foundational pre-Broadway venue with a rich history that opened its doors in 1934. It is a region theater in Millburn, holding twelve hundred seats, designated as New Jersey’s State Theater. In 2016, it received the Regional Theatre Tony Award, running various music-themed shows yearly. It advertises itself as a venue that aims to inspire, entertain, and enrich lives. Hence, anyone who can attend one of its shows should not think twice and risk losing that opportunity.
