Climb a Lighthouse

Take in some stunning coastal views (and get a little exercise in!) by climbing one of NJ’s historic lighthouses. Try the Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1847, where you’ll get full panoramic views of the peninsula. If you want to stay closer to home, check out the one in Sandy Hook, which is the oldest in the US. Peek inside the keeper’s quarters in a tower that dates back to the 18th century. 

Cape May Lighthouse: 215 Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point; 609-884-2159. Open 10 am–4 pm; $8 per person. Sandy Hook Lighthouse: 2 Hudson Rd., Highlands; 732-872-5970. Open 9 am–5 pm; free admission.

Solve a Mystery with a Twist

Was it Colonel Mustard with a knife? Or Miss Scarlet with the candlestick? It’s up to you to solve the crime at this murder mystery dinner, where guests help create the story line. Enjoy a formal wine tasting while weaving your part of the tale before digging into a buffet-style dinner. Celebrate cracking the case with a glass of your favorite dessert wine on the patio and a tour of the wine cellar. 

Four Sisters Winery: 783 Rte. 519, Belvidere; 908-475-3671; foursisterswinery.com; $35 per person plus tax; August 14 at 2 pm. Reservations are required.

Bike a Scenic Route

Take a trip back in time on a 25-mile-long bike ride along the historic Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. Board the train with bike and helmet in tow before biking back to the starting point. The route is super flat, so it’s perfect for newbies. Don’t feel like hauling your gear all the way to Pennsylvania? No worries. You can rent a bike and equipment once you arrive. Don’t forget your camera! 

Pocono Biking: Jim Thorpe, PA. 800-WHITEWATER; poconobiking.com; August 20 & 21; 9 am and noon; $25 per person if you bring your own bike; $42 per person for bike rentals.