New Jersey Destinations Worth Driving To This Spring

The birds are chirping, the air is crisp, and the flowers are starting to bloom, it is finally springtime! After a long and cold winter season, it is now time to hop in your very own Kia and explore some of the beautiful destinations New Jersey has to offer.

There are plenty of outdoor activities, nature parks, and lovely gardens to visit this spring time in the New Jersey area. We wanted to highlight a few of our favorite spots to check out! 

Branch Brook Park – Newark, New Jersey

The Branch Brook Park in Newark is home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the United States. The 360-acre park has more than 5,200 trees that create a mesmerizing pink and white canopy when fully bloomed. After a two-year hiatus, the park just celebrated the 46th Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival this past Sunday, April 10th. This year’s bloom is expected from April 8-15. So that means there is no better time to visit the Branch Brook Park than right now!  

Palisades Interstate Park – Alpine, New Jersey 

Heading up to Northern New Jersey, you’ll find the beautiful Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine. This 2,500 acre park stretches along the Hudson River for 12 miles, giving people an abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventures. If you are a hiker, there are 30 miles worth of trails to explore. If you are a biker, there is a gorgeous tree-covered biking trail along the Hudson River ready to be conquered. If water activities are your thing there are spots where you can take paddleboards, canoes, and small boats onto the Hudson River. Or just relax in one of the riverfront picnic areas with a breathtaking view of the Hudson Bridge. Whatever outdoor activity you love to do, the Palisades Interstate Park is ready for your next adventure!

Holland Ridge Farms – Cream Ridge, New Jersey 

Further south in the middle of the state is Holland Ridge Farms, located in Cream Ridge, New Jersey. Holland Ridge Farms is a 300 acre piece of land and home to over 8 millions tulips. It is home to the annual Tulip Festival and features the largest U-Pick Flower Farm in the country. The U-Pick Tulip Farm opens April 15th, be sure to secure your tickets as soon as possible. You don’t want to miss out on the all vibrant tulips that ignite the farm with shades of pink, red, and yellow. 

Eagle Rock Reservation – West Orange, New Jersey

Due a tad west of Nutley is the Eagle Rock Reservation located in West Orange, New Jersey. This 400+ mile reservation park is a main attraction every spring time for the people of Essex County. There is the 40 mile Lenape Trail that loops the eastern side of the park, perfect for any avid hikers. The park is also home to the Essex County 9/11 Memorial, which is uniquely placed with extraordinary views of the New York City Skyline. If you aren’t up for a hike, but know how to ride a horse, there are even some horseback riding paths at the park. Next time the weather is nice, the Eagle Rock Reservation will provide a great spot for an outdoor adventure. 

Presby Memorial Iris Gardens – Upper Montclair, New Jersey 

Staying in Essex County, the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens in Upper Montclair, New Jersey is a must visit destination every springtime. The Gardens have been a mainstay in the Garden state since 1927. It is home to over 10,000 irises that will showcase over 100,000 blooms throughout the spring season. Blooming time for this garden is usually mid May into June, with opening day this year is Thursday May 12th. Start planning your trip to Presby Memorial Iris Gardens now and don’t miss out on the rainbow of colors this gorgeous park provides the area.  

Wherever you go this spring, it will be a great one. Pick out the vehicle that will take you to all these adventures today by visiting Nutley Kia! Come check out your new car at Nutley Auto Kia, a specialized, family-owned Kia dealer for 16 years. Go to Nutleykia.net, or call 973-241-3222, or visit us at 66 Washington Avenue in Nutley, New Jersey.

References and websites for more info:

https://www.essexcountyparks.org/parks/eagle-rock-reservation

https://www.njpalisades.org/

https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/newark-new-jersey-cherry-blossoms-right-outside-nyc

https://www.presbyirisgardens.org/

https://www.hollandridgefarms.com/u-pick-tulips/

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