Elizabeth, New Jersey: 10 Short Road Trips You’ll Love Exploring

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10 Easy Road Trips From Elizabeth, NJ: Fun Day Trips Just Beyond Union County

Looking for fun, easy day trips from Elizabeth, New Jersey that don’t require a hotel stay or a long drive? You’re in the perfect spot. Elizabeth sits in a sweet location. In about 20–50 minutes, you can hit cool towns, waterfront views, hiking trails, and some seriously good food—all without ever getting on a plane. Below are 10 short out‑of‑county road trips from Elizabeth that take you into nearby counties:
  • Essex County, NJ
  • Hudson County, NJ
  • Middlesex County, NJ
  • Morris County, NJ
  • Somerset County, NJ
  • Richmond County, NY (Staten Island)
Each trip is:
  • Out of Union County (so no local repeats)
  • Doable in a day
  • Family‑friendly and easy to reach by car

1. Montclair, NJ – Artsy Vibes, Great Food, and Cute Streets (Essex County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 25–35 minutes Montclair is one of those towns that feels like a small city with a creative edge. If you like coffee shops, murals, bookstores, and people‑watching, this is an easy win. What to do in Montclair:
  • Montclair Art Museum – A relaxed, walkable museum with American and Native American art. Perfect for a slow Saturday morning.
  • Bloomfield Avenue & Church Street – Stroll, shop, and snack. Think boutiques, cafes, and outdoor seating when the weather’s nice.
  • Eagle Rock Reservation (nearby) – A short drive up the hill for sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, especially at sunset.
If you love the idea of a Brooklyn‑style afternoon without actually going into NYC, Montclair is a great day trip from Elizabeth.

2. Newark’s Ironbound & Downtown – Culture, Food, and History (Essex County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 15–20 minutes Newark is so close that it barely feels like a road trip, but if you’re usually just passing through the airport, you’re missing a lot. Don’t‑miss stops in Newark:
  • Ironbound District – Famous for Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants. Try a plate of grilled meats, fresh seafood, or pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
  • Newark Museum of Art – A surprisingly large museum with art, science exhibits, and even a planetarium.
  • Military Park & Downtown – Take a walk, grab a coffee, and explore the small but growing downtown scene.
Tip: Go for an early dinner in the Ironbound, then swing by a bakery on the way home for dessert. Your car will smell amazing the whole ride back to Elizabeth.

3. Jersey City Waterfront & Liberty State Park (Hudson County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 25–35 minutes If you want those classic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, this is your spot—without fighting midtown traffic. Highlights in Jersey City:
  • Liberty State Park – Wide open lawns, walking paths, and picture‑perfect views across the Hudson River.
  • Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial – A simple but moving memorial with a direct sightline to where the Twin Towers once stood.
  • Liberty Science Center – Hands‑on exhibits and a giant planetarium, great for kids and curious adults.
Pack a simple picnic—sandwiches, chips, a cooler of drinks—and spread out while the sun goes down over the water. It feels like a mini vacation, only a half hour from Elizabeth.

4. Hoboken – Mile‑Square City With Big Personality (Hudson County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 25–35 minutes Hoboken is small, but it’s packed with energy. It’s walkable, lively, and full of bars, cafes, and waterfront views. Things to do in Hoboken:
  • Hudson River Waterfront Walkway – Walk, jog, or just sit on a bench and soak in some of the best NYC skyline views anywhere.
  • Washington Street – The main drag lined with restaurants, bars, bakeries, and shops.
  • Carlo’s Bakery – Made famous by “Cake Boss.” It’s touristy, but grabbing a cupcake or cannoli is still fun.
Parking can be tight, so go earlier in the day or choose a garage. If you’re used to Elizabeth’s streets, Hoboken’s narrow blocks will feel familiar—but busier.

5. Staten Island: Snug Harbor & North Shore Waterfront (Richmond County, NY)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 25–40 minutes (depending on traffic over the Goethals or Bayonne Bridge) Staten Island often gets skipped, but that just means fewer crowds for you. It’s one of the easiest out‑of‑state road trips from Elizabeth. Great spots on Staten Island:
  • Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden – Historic buildings, gardens, and walking paths. It’s peaceful and surprisingly big.
  • Staten Island Museum (at Snug Harbor) – Small and manageable, with local history, art, and science mixed together.
  • North Shore Waterfront – Views of the harbor, the Verrazzano‑Narrows Bridge, and downtown Manhattan in the distance.
If you want to stretch the day, you can park near the St. George ferry terminal and ride the free Staten Island Ferry for more skyline views, then head back to your car and drive home to New Jersey.

6. New Brunswick – College Town Energy and Riverfront Walks (Middlesex County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 30–40 minutes Home to Rutgers University, New Brunswick has that classic college‑town feel—casual eateries, artsy spaces, and a mix of students and locals. What to check out in New Brunswick:
  • George Street – Restaurants, bars, and cafes, with plenty of choices for all budgets.
  • State Theatre New Jersey – Check the schedule for concerts, comedy, or family shows.
  • Raritan Riverfront – Walk along the river and get some fresh air before or after dinner.
If you’re coming from Elizabeth, New Brunswick makes a great late‑afternoon and evening trip—arrive for a walk, stay for dinner, and be home before it’s too late.

7. Edison & Iselin – Global Eats and Cultural Stops (Middlesex County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 30–35 minutes If you’re in the mood for amazing food from around the world, especially Indian cuisine, this area is a must‑visit. Ideas for your Edison/Iselin road trip:
  • Oak Tree Road (Edison/Iselin) – Known for Indian restaurants, sweet shops, jewelry stores, and clothing boutiques. It’s like a slice of South Asia in New Jersey.
  • Roosevelt Park (nearby) – A calm green space where you can walk, relax by the lake, or just sit in the shade.
  • Asian and international markets – Great if you like exploring different snacks and spices to try at home.
Go hungry. Plan to try something new—maybe dosas, chaat, or a dessert you can’t pronounce yet. That’s half the fun.

8. Morristown – Revolutionary War History and Green Spaces (Morris County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 35–45 minutes Morristown mixes small‑town charm with big history. If you enjoy learning about the past or just like strolling through older neighborhoods, this one’s for you. Top things to do in Morristown:
  • Morristown National Historical Park – Visit sites like Washington’s Headquarters and Jockey Hollow, where the Continental Army camped during the Revolutionary War.
  • The Morristown Green – A central park area surrounded by shops and restaurants. It’s perfect for sitting with a coffee and people‑watching.
  • Fort Nonsense – A quick stop for views over the town and a short walk.
If you have kids learning American history, this makes a great educational day trip from Elizabeth without feeling like school.

9. Watchung Reservation & Nearby Towns (Morris/Somerset Area)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 25–40 minutes (depending where you go) When you’re tired of traffic, noise, and screens, it’s time for a nature break. The hills and parks west of Elizabeth offer that “out in the country” feel without actually being far away. Nature‑focused ideas:
  • Watchung Reservation (Morris/Somerset border area) – Miles of trails, lakes, and forested spots for hiking or just wandering.
  • Scenic drives – The roads out this way can be curvy and pretty, especially in fall when the leaves change color.
  • Small towns nearby – Stop for coffee, ice cream, or a simple lunch after your hike.
Bring sneakers, some water, and maybe a light jacket, and you’re set. It’s an easy reset button after a busy week in Elizabeth.

10. Somerville – Classic Main Street and Car Culture (Somerset County)

Drive time from Elizabeth: about 35–45 minutes Somerville has a true old‑school Main Street USA feel—brick buildings, local shops, and a laid‑back pace. What to do in Somerville:
  • Main Street – Walk up and down, browsing shops and stopping for coffee, pastries, or a meal.
  • Seasonal car cruises and events – In warmer months, Somerville is known for classic car nights and downtown events. Check local calendars before you go.
  • Nearby parks – There are several small parks nearby if you want a picnic or a short walk.
It’s a simple day: drive out, stroll, eat, relax, and then head back to Elizabeth with that “I actually did something this weekend” feeling.

Tips for Easy Day Trips From Elizabeth, NJ

To make your road trips from Elizabeth smoother, keep a few basics in mind:
  • Leave a little early – Morning or late morning helps you dodge the worst traffic, especially near Hudson County and Staten Island.
  • Check parking rules – Towns like Hoboken and Jersey City can be strict. Look for garages or clearly marked visitor parking.
  • Pack a small bag – Water, snacks, tissues, phone charger, maybe a lightweight jacket. It makes any mini‑adventure easier.
  • Have a backup plan – If a place is too crowded, know a second option nearby—another park, another main street, another cafe.
Over time, you may find yourself going back to the same spots again and again, each time trying a new restaurant or trail. That’s how these short trips turn into favorite traditions.

Where Will You Go Next From Elizabeth?

From Montclair’s art scene to Hoboken’s skyline views, from Staten Island’s quiet gardens to Morristown’s history, you’ve got a whole menu of day trips within roughly an hour of Elizabeth, NJ. Which one sounds best for your next free Saturday or Sunday? Will you start with food in Newark’s Ironbound, or nature out near Watchung and Somerset? Share this guide with friends or family who live in or near Elizabeth and are always saying, “There’s nothing to do.” And I’d love to hear from you:
  • Which of these road trips have you already tried?
  • Do you have a favorite out‑of‑county spot that should be on this list?
Drop your ideas and experiences in the comments, and feel free to share this post on social media so more New Jersey travelers can discover easy day trips from Elizabeth.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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