9 Things to Do in South Jersey This Summer
Finally! The sun is out and the temperatures are rising. It won’t be long until we can officially kick off summer. If you’re from Jersey you know what summer entails: going down the shore with friends, indulging in water ice (no – it’s not Italian ice, either), enjoying backyard BBQs with family, and so much more. With the endless number of things to do in Jersey, I decided to create a list of local events and activities for everyone to take advantage of this summer.
1. A Day Down the Shore
How can you be a Jersey person and not go down the shore this summer? Ocean City is my favorite beach since it’s where my family always went, but there’s also Long Beach Island, Wildwood, Seaside, Atlantic City and Cape May to name a few. Make a day of it enjoying the sun and the sand.
2. Fishing
Spend a day out on a charter boat or visit a nearby lake and spend the day fishing. Whether you’re interested in salt water or fresh water, there is an array of places and boats to go fishing in Jersey.
3. Water Activities
I had my first kayaking experience two summers ago in San Diego and I absolutely loved it. I had the opportunity to see sea lions just a short distance from me and watch sharks pass right under my kayak (awesome but also kind of scary!) You can also spend a day canoeing, whitewater rafting or tubing. In any instance, head out to explore the open waters of Jersey.
4. Local Sports Teams
Despite their terrible record, I still enjoy a game at the ballpark. Citizen’s Bank Park is having different promotions and giveaways to make the game even more enjoyable, not to mention you can enjoy a drink there.
You can also enjoy a minor league team. Watch the Lakewood BlueClaws, New Jersey Jackals, Trenton Thunder or Camden Riversharks. Missing football? Catch all the action at a Trenton Freedom indoor football game.
5. Beer & Wine Tasting
You can really take a load off this summer and enjoy great wines and craft beers at a tasting event. You can see a full list of beer and wine festivals and events throughout New Jersey and Philadelphia.
6. Concerts
Last summer Atlantic City attracted a myriad of people with their free concerts including Blake Shelton and Lady Antebellum. News sources have indicated that in an effort to bring in more visitors, Atlantic City will be holding more free summer concerts, but it hasn’t been confirmed.
XFINITY Live! in Philadelphia is always hosting a whirl of music and entertainment events. On Saturday August 22 is the 95.7 Summer BENder – Under the Sun Tour.
If you’re a country music fan like me, September 18-19 Wildwood is hosting the Boots at the Beach Country Fest. (Anyone interested in going please let me know!)
7. Museums
While visiting museums is a year-round event, on the Fourth of July Philadelphia has an astounding number of museums, monuments and historical attractions for the public to enjoy. After all, Philadelphia is where our great nation was founded. Start off your day in the city watching the popular Fourth of July Parade and end the day watching fireworks.
8. Flea Markets
I’m a sucker for flea markets and thrift stores. A few ideas for my fellow thrift store friends: Columbus Farmer’s Market, Berlin Farmer’s Market and Cowtown Farmer’s Market. All are indoor and outdoor markets.
9. Amusement Parks
For a family fun activity, spend a day at one of the many amusement parks and attractions in Jersey. Enjoy the many rides and games at Six Flags Great Adventure, make a splash at Sahara Sam’s Oasis or see what’s happening at Storybook Land.
What activities do you have planned this summer in South Jersey?