10 Best Weekend Getaways from Jersey City You Can Reach by Car

Living in Jersey City puts you closer to more weekend adventures than you might realize. Whether you're craving a beach day, a mountain hike, or a small-town escape, you can reach dozens of great destinations in a few hours with a rental car — no flights, no train schedules, just you, the open road, and a full tank of gas. Here are ten of the best weekend getaways from Jersey City, all within easy driving distance.

1. Asbury Park, NJ — under 1 hour

A Jersey Shore classic. Asbury Park's boardwalk, beach, and buzzing restaurant scene make it one of the easiest weekend getaways from Jersey City. Grab an early start on a Saturday and you can be on the sand before lunch.

2. Montclair, NJ — about 30 minutes

If you only have a Sunday afternoon, Montclair is a quick escape with walkable downtown shopping, art galleries, and some of the best brunch spots in North Jersey.

3. Lambertville, NJ & New Hope, PA — about 1 hour

Twin river towns straddling the Delaware River, packed with antique shops, art studios, and riverside restaurants. It's one of the most charming day trips from Jersey City.

4. Cape May, NJ — about 2.5 hours

Victorian architecture, quiet beaches, and a slower pace at the southern tip of the Jersey Shore. Cape May is a favorite weekend getaway for anyone who wants to trade the city skyline for gingerbread-trim porches.

5. Atlantic City, NJ — about 2 hours

Boardwalk, casinos, and beach in one trip. Atlantic City is an easy weekend getaway from Jersey City for travelers who want nightlife along with their ocean view.

6. New Paltz & the Hudson Valley, NY — about 1.5 hours

Hiking trails in the Shawangunk Ridge, apple orchards, and small-town charm make the Hudson Valley a top pick for a fall or spring road trip from Jersey City.

7. The Pocono Mountains, PA — about 1.5–2 hours

Lakes, waterfalls, and year-round outdoor activity just over the Pennsylvania border. The Poconos are a reliable weekend getaway whether you're planning a summer lake trip or a winter ski weekend.

8. Hershey, PA — under 3 hours

Home to Hersheypark and Hershey's Chocolate World, this is a great weekend getaway from Jersey City for families looking for a road trip with kids.

9. The Wildwoods, NJ — about 2.5 hours

Wide beaches, a classic boardwalk, and retro motels make the Wildwoods a nostalgic summer weekend getaway on the Jersey Shore.

10. Harriman State Park, NY — under 1 hour

For a shorter escape, Harriman State Park offers hiking trails, lakes, and fall foliage without a long drive — perfect for a day trip or a quick overnight camping getaway.

Renting the right car for your getaway

A weekend getaway is only as good as the ride that gets you there. At Primetime Car Rental, we help drivers throughout Jersey City, Hoboken, Union City, Weehawken, North Bergen, and the greater NYC metro area get on the road in a reliable, affordable vehicle — without the markup you'll often find at airport counters. Whether you need a roomy SUV for a Poconos ski trip or a fuel-efficient sedan for a Jersey Shore weekend, book your rental before you go and skip the wait.