Vineland, New Jersey: 10 Must-Do Activities and Nearby Attractions

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Vineland, New Jersey (Cumberland County)

Looking for easy day trip ideas in South Jersey? Vineland, New Jersey might surprise you. This Cumberland County city sits in the heart of South Jersey farm country, about 45 minutes from both Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and anyone who loves small-town charm, outdoor adventures, and good food. Below are 10 fun things to do in and near Vineland, NJ that you can turn into a full weekend getaway or a simple day trip.

1. Catch a Movie at the Delsea Drive-In Theatre

If you’ve never been to a drive-in movie, this is your chance. The Delsea Drive-In Theatre in Vineland is the only drive-in left in New Jersey, and it feels like stepping back in time in the best way. You pull your car into your spot, tune your radio to the movie’s station, and watch under the open sky. In the summer, you’ll usually get a double feature for one ticket price.
  • Bring lawn chairs or a blanket if you like sitting outside the car.
  • Grab classic snacks from the concession stand—burgers, fries, funnel cake, and more.
  • Great for date nights, families, and groups of friends.
It’s a uniquely American experience and one of the top things to do in Vineland at night.

2. Stroll, Shop, and Dine on Landis Avenue

Vineland’s downtown stretches along Landis Avenue, a long main street packed with small shops, restaurants, and local businesses. You’ll find:
  • Family-owned restaurants serving Italian, Latin American, and classic American food
  • Thrift and vintage shops
  • Local bakeries and coffee spots
On certain weekends, you may bump into street fairs, car shows, or community events. It’s a nice place to park once, walk around, and just see what catches your eye. If you like supporting small-town businesses, Landis Avenue is a must-do in Vineland.

3. Explore Nature at Parvin State Park

About 20–25 minutes from Vineland, you’ll find Parvin State Park in Pittsgrove, right on the edge of Cumberland County. It’s a peaceful park with tall pines, lakes, and easy trails. Things to do at Parvin State Park:
  • Hike flat, family-friendly trails through the woods
  • Swim at the guarded beach area in summer (check seasonal hours)
  • Fish in the lake or paddle a kayak or canoe
  • Pack a picnic and relax by the water
If you’re used to crowded Shore beaches, Parvin can feel like a calm change of pace—plenty of trees, shade, and quiet.

4. Visit the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton

Just a short drive from Vineland, the Cohanzick Zoo in Bridgeton is known as New Jersey’s first zoo—and admission is usually free (they welcome donations). It’s not a huge zoo, but that’s part of the charm. You can see animals like:
  • Tigers
  • Monkeys
  • Wolves
  • Various birds and reptiles
The zoo sits inside Bridgeton City Park, which has walking paths, a lake, and playgrounds. It’s perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon with kids, especially if you don’t feel like tackling a giant, all-day zoo.

5. Discover the Bayshore at East Point Lighthouse

If you’re up for a scenic drive—about 35–40 minutes from Vineland—head south toward the Delaware Bay and the East Point Lighthouse in Heislerville. This 1800s lighthouse sits where the Maurice River meets the bay. The area feels wild and open, with wide marsh views and big skies. What you can do there:
  • Walk around the lighthouse grounds and enjoy the view
  • Watch birds and other wildlife, especially during migration seasons
  • Catch a peaceful sunset over the water
It’s one of those quiet New Jersey spots most people zoom past on their way to the more famous beaches, but it has its own, softer kind of beauty.

6. Wander Through the Glasstown Arts District in Millville

About 15 minutes from Vineland, Millville has turned its downtown into the Glasstown Arts District, a creative hub with galleries, studios, and public art. Highlights include:
  • Art galleries featuring local artists
  • Unique shops with handmade crafts and gifts
  • Cafes and restaurants with a cozy vibe
If you time your visit for a “Third Friday” art walk (a common event here), the whole district comes alive with music, open studios, and evening energy. For anyone who loves local art and culture, this is one of the best things to do near Vineland, NJ.

7. Experience Glass Art at WheatonArts & Cultural Center

Right next door in Millville, the WheatonArts & Cultural Center is one of the most unique attractions in South Jersey. This historic glassmaking center offers:
  • Live glassblowing demonstrations—you can watch artists shaping molten glass
  • The Museum of American Glass, with stunning glass pieces from different eras
  • Craft classes and hands-on activities on certain days
  • Seasonal festivals and markets
If you’ve ever wondered how those delicate glass ornaments or vases are made, seeing it in person is pretty amazing. It’s a great rainy-day activity near Vineland, and it works for both adults and kids.

8. Taste Local Flavors at South Jersey Farms and Markets

Cumberland County is farm country. Around Vineland, you’ll find plenty of produce stands, farmer’s markets, and U-pick farms, especially in late spring, summer, and early fall. Depending on the season, you can pick or buy:
  • Blueberries and strawberries
  • Peaches and apples
  • Sweet corn, tomatoes, and peppers
  • Jams, honey, and baked goods
Spending a morning picking fruit, then heading home with a trunk full of fresh local produce, is a simple but satisfying way to enjoy the Vineland area. Tip: Check online or call ahead—U-pick hours and crops change with the weather and the season.

9. Go Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting at Cumberland County’s Natural Areas

If you like wide-open spaces and marsh views, the Cumberland County area around Vineland is full of hidden nature spots. Some places to look up:
  • Heislerville Wildlife Management Area – known for birdwatching and scenic impoundments
  • Cumberland County lakes and ponds – great for fishing and quiet paddling
  • Nearby Wildlife Management Areas – offering trails, dirt roads, and peaceful views
Bring binoculars if you have them. In the right season, you might see eagles, ospreys, shorebirds, and other coastal wildlife. It’s a completely different side of New Jersey than the one most people imagine.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Jersey Shore

One of the best things about basing yourself in Vineland is how close you are to the Jersey Shore without the high prices or heavy crowds once the day is over. From Vineland, you can usually reach popular shore towns in about 45–60 minutes, including:
  • Ocean City – classic boardwalk, family-friendly beaches, mini-golf, rides
  • Sea Isle City – relaxed vibe and long sandy beaches
  • Cape May (a bit farther) – Victorian charm, great restaurants, and a famous lighthouse
Spend the day on the sand, ride some coasters or Ferris wheels, grab boardwalk pizza, then head back inland to the quieter pace of Vineland.

Planning Your Trip to Vineland, NJ

To make the most of your visit to Vineland and Cumberland County:
  • Bring layers: Even summer nights at the drive-in or on the bay can get breezy.
  • Check seasonal hours: Places like the Delsea Drive-In, Parvin State Park beach, and some farms are seasonal.
  • Consider a weekend: A full weekend gives you time for downtown Vineland, Millville, nature spots, and maybe one shore day.
Vineland isn’t a flashy resort city, and that’s exactly what many people love about it. It’s real, local, and surprisingly full of things to do once you give it a chance.

Have You Been to Vineland?

Have you visited Vineland or anywhere else in Cumberland County?
  • Did you catch a movie at the Delsea Drive-In?
  • Do you have a favorite spot on Landis Avenue?
  • Know a hidden gem I didn’t mention?
Share your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan their own trip. And if you found this guide to things to do in and around Vineland, New Jersey helpful, please share it with a friend or on social media. It might inspire someone’s next South Jersey adventure.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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