Summer is winding down, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plan one more weekend getaway near your Middlesex County apartment. There are lots of nearby places where you can get away, but not too far away, from home and enjoy the last bits of summer. From the shore to the mountains and everything in between, there’s no shortage of places to explore near home. Here are some of the best places to plan a little escape with one of the summer weekends you have left.

The Shore

One advantage you have to living in New Jersey is the wonderful and whimsical Jersey Shore. Whether you’re in the north or head all the way to Cape May, there are tons of beautiful beach towns where you can spend an idyllic weekend. While points north like Seaside Heights and Asbury Park offer their own unique experiences, you can afford to head a little farther south and possibly beat some of the crowds. Just over an hour from your Middlesex County apartment you’ll find Long Beach Island. LBI features several towns including Beach Haven which comes complete with an amusement park. You’ll love exploring the 18 miles of this barrier island and living out your beach dreams with enough time to get back to your regular schedule by the time Sunday evening rolls around.

The Mountains

If the mountains are calling, you’re in luck! There are lots of great spots within just two hours of your Middlesex County apartment where you can get back to nature and enjoy mountain living – just for the weekend, of course! Two hours north will bring you to the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Commonly referred to as The Poconos, this Northeastern Pennsylvania region features a plethora of gated communities, lake houses, and adventure parks that will keep your weekend packed with activity. Whether you find a cute lake-front AirBnb to relax in, or you’re hitting the zip lines for a thrill-seekers paradise, there’s a lot to enjoy!

So, pack up the car and hit the road to explore one of the many places within an easy drive of your Middlesex County apartment. The summer is almost gone!