A Perfect Weekend Getaway Guide in the Countryside Near Sussex County, New Jersey

Welcome to Sussex County, New Jersey - a hidden gem waiting to be explored! If you're looking for a weekend escape filled with adventure, relaxation, and delicious experiences, then this blog post is tailored just for you. From sipping wine at charming wineries to exploring the great outdoors and indulging in farm-to-table dining, Sussex County offers a plethora of activities to make your weekend getaway unforgettable. Let's dive into the ultimate guide of things to do in Sussex County for a perfect weekend retreat.

Wine Tasting at a Local Winery

Start your weekend getaway by indulging in a delightful wine tasting experience at one of the local wineries:

Ventimiglia Vineyard in Wantage, NJ
Brook Hollow Winery in Columbia, NJ
M&M Vineyards in Bangor, PA
Warwick Valley Winery in Warwick, NY

Located in the picturesque countryside of the NJ/NY/PA border, these family-owned wineries offer a variety of amazing wines to sample. Enjoy the scenic views of the vineyards and nature as you sip on their signature blends and unwind in a tranquil setting.

Brewery Tours and Tastings

For beer enthusiasts, a visit to a nearby brewery is a must-do activity. Take a tour of the brewery, learn about the brewing techniques, and sample a selection of craft beers. It's the perfect way to unwind and socialize with friends during your weekend getaway. Some nearby breweries:

Angry Erik Brewing in Newton, NJ
Alias Brew Works in Vernon, NJ (coming soon!)
Skylands Craft Beer & Wine Garden in Wantage, NJ
Buck Hill Brewery & Restaurant in Blairstown, NJ
Westtown Brew Works in Westtown, NY
Czig Meister in Hackettstown, NJ
Man Skirt in Hackettstown, NJ
Jersey Girl in Hackettstown, NJ
Pennings Beer Garden & Cidery in Warwick, NY

Horseback Riding at Top View Riding Ranch

Experience the beauty of Sussex County's countryside on horseback at Top View Riding Ranch. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, the ranch offers guided trail rides through scenic trails and lush forests. Connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful ride on horseback during your weekend getaway.

Visit a Four-Season Resort

Sussex County in New Jersey hosts the state's biggest ski resort and waterpark, Mountain Creek. Additionally, it's conveniently located within a short drive of other well-known waterpark and ski destinations like Land of Make Believe and Shawnee for some family fun.

Visit the Local Distillery

As you explore the charming town of Branchville in the rural northwest corner of New Jersey, make sure to add a unique and flavorful experience to your itinerary. Sussex County's first distillery in over seven decades is making waves, offering visitors a genuine grain-to-glass adventure. Check out Milk Street Distillery.

Culinary Delights at Top Restaurants

Indulge in a culinary adventure at some of the top restaurants in Sussex County. From innovative dishes at Industry and The Circle to farm-to-table cuisine at Mohawk House and St. Moritz, your taste buds are in for a treat. Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Sussex County and savor every bite.

The Circle in Fredon, NJ
The Hyde-Away in Newton, NJ
The Farmer’s Daughter in Newton, NJ
Industry in Sparta, NJ
Mohawk House in Sparta, NJ
St. Moritz in Sparta, NJ
Krogh’s in Sparta, NJ
Andre’s Lakeside Dining in Sparta, NJ
The Chef’s Garden in Hamburg, NJ
Brick & Brew in Franklin, NJ
Irish Cottage Inn in Franklin, NJ
Mama’s in Hackettstown, NJ (great for gluten-free & vegan!)

Authentic Countryside Farm Visits

Get a taste of rural life by visiting one of the farms in Sussex County. From picking fresh produce to interacting with adorable farm animals, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. You can also try your hand at hiking through scenic trails or participating in farm-related workshops for a fun and educational experience. From pumpkin picking to strawberry picking to Christmas tree picking there is something for everyone all year round.

Some farms we love:

Tranquility Farms in Andover, NJ
Lentini Farms in Newton, NJ
Windy Brow Farms in Newton, NJ
Heaven Hill in Vernon, NJ
Tamerlaine Sanctuary & Preserve in Montague, NJ
Sussex County Sunflower Maze in Sandyston, NJ
Lakota Wolf Preserve in Columbia, NJ
List of Christmas Tree Farms in Sussex County

Embrace the Outdoors with Hiking & Biking

Renowned as the greenest county in New Jersey, there are numerous picturesque spots to relish nature, such as hiking and biking trails. These scenic routes offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, allowing you to bask in tranquility. Visit the Pochuck Boardwalk for an effortless experience or embark on the Stairway to Heaven trail for a more demanding adventure. We recommend downloading the AllTrails app for more guidance on details like trail level, warnings, and parking.

Stay at The Napa House Airbnb

Experience the comfort and charm of the spacious Napa House Airbnb during your weekend retreat in Sussex County. Relax in a cozy and stylish accommodation that offers a home away from home experience. Unwind in a serene setting and recharge with your group, with a sauna, in-ground pool, hot tub, movie room, and more.

Attend a Ballgame at Skylands Stadium

Catch a baseball game at Skylands Stadium and cheer on the local team, the Sussex County Miners! Experience the excitement of the game, indulge in classic ballpark snacks, and enjoy the lively atmosphere with fellow fans. End the night with a spectacular fireworks show that will leave you in awe.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Depending on the time of year, Sussex County hosts a variety of seasonal events and festivals that are worth checking out. From food truck festivals to the Sussex County fair, there's always something fun happening in the area. Don't miss out on unique experiences like the Jackolantern experience in the fall or the enchanting Christmas light show in the winter.

Conclusion

Sussex County, New Jersey, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by those seeking a weekend getaway filled with adventure and relaxation. From wine tasting and brewery tours to horseback riding and farm visits, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in this charming county. Whether you're looking for a culinary adventure, outdoor exploration, or a cozy retreat, Sussex County has something for everyone. Plan your perfect weekend escape to Sussex County and create unforgettable memories in this scenic destination.