Summer may be over but that doesn’t mean vacations have to end. Temperatures remain comfortable in our area into October and even November, making the fall an excellent time to plan a getaway. These getaway locations, located just a short distance from your Frenchtown, NJ, home, offer plenty to do and see.

Montclair, New Jersey

You won’t have to worry about boredom when you plan a Montclair getaway. The Essex County town offers six business districts full of shops, restaurants, art galleries, antique stores, and entertainment venues. Spend the morning shopping, then enjoy the Native and American art exhibits at the Montclair Art Museum. After a busy day on the town, you’re bound to feel a little achy. A soothing massage at the Woodhouse Day Spa will relax your tired muscles and give you the energy to spend the night listening to jazz or taking in a movie.

If you’ll be in town in late October, you’ll want to add a visit to the annual Montclair Film Festival, held October 21^st – 30^th, to your itinerary. The festival features independent films and documentaries from filmmakers in New Jersey and around the world.

Looking for a place to stay that’s close to the action? The MC Hotel on Bloomfield St. is an excellent choice. The hotel offers rooms with upholstered beds, flatscreen TVs, WiFi, and artwork from local artists.

Sea Isle City, New Jersey

Is the beach the first thing that pops into your mind when you think about a getaway? Sea Isle City in South Jersey City may be an excellent spot for your vacation. While you’re in town, enjoy the view from the beach, fish, shop, or rent a bike or boat and explore the area.

The 30^th annual Italian Festival and Parade on October 2 offers Italian-themed food and merchandise, in addition to a popular parade, live entertainment, and activities for the entire family.

No matter what activity you choose to fill your days, you’re sure to work up an appetite. Stop by Quincy’s Original Lobster Roll for an original lobster roll or lobster grilled cheese or visit LaFontana Coast for classic Italian cuisine, then work off your dinner with a walk on the Promenade.

The Colonnade Inn, located one block from the beach and boardwalk, offers a variety of comfortable rooms and suites. The wraparound porch is the perfect place to take in the scenery or relax at the end of the day.

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

Ideal for a romantic trip or family vacation, Jim Thorpe is just 1 ½ hours from Frenchtown in the Pocono Mountains. Start your holiday shopping a little early with a little retail therapy in the many boutiques, gift shops, and galleries in town. Interested in history? You’ll want to make time to visit the Mauch Chunk Museum, No. 9 Coal & Mine Museum, Asa Packer Museum, or Old Jail Museum.

Although the water will be a little too chilly for whitewater rafting, you’ll still find plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Saddle up and take a horseback ride through scenic forests and fields, hike, or fish in a crystal-clear stream or lake. Jim Thorpe Sidecar Tourz offers a fun way to see the area. You’ll ride in a vintage BMW motorcycle sidecar as you and your guide/driver explore the town and the foothills of the Poconos.

It wouldn’t be a memorable getaway without a great place to stay. Harry Packer Mansion, on top of Packer Hill, offers Victorian elegance with all the modern conveniences. The mansion may look a little familiar to you, particularly if you’ve visited Walt Disney World (WDW). WDW Imagineers modeled the park’s Haunted Mansion attraction on the mansion.

Explore Locally

For the dedicated Frenchtown locals who believe there's no place they'd rather spend their time than right here – we don't blame you! There's plenty to do right here at home that will get you outside and taking in the beautiful autumn weather before winter rolls in.

Our suggestion? Take a drive down the Delaware River Scenic Byway! This 32.8-mile drive will take you from Frenchtown, south to Trenton, with historical sites, the East Coast's largest flea market, and optimal leaf-peeping opportunities along the way. Along the drive, you can walk across the Delaware River via the walking bridge at Bull's Island Recreation Area and breathe in the crisp, cool air.

The best thing to do after a nice weekend drive? Settle in at your favorite Frenchtown restaurants to refuel your body for some shopping! We all know Frenchtown has an abundance of local shops and boutiques – so what better time to get a head start on some holiday shopping?

Are you looking for a home that’s close to these getaway locations? Country Classics at Frenchtown will soon offer single-family attached homes with plenty of features and amenities. If you’d like to receive updates on our new community, be sure to sign up for the VIP list!