New Jersey is home to lots of things like the Jersey Shore, boardwalks, beaches, restaurants, and shops, to name a few. It also happens to be home to some vintage roadside stops around the state. Places from diners to ice cream shops to music stores have a special old-school and vintage look to them across different parts of New Jersey — making great photo ops. Read on for our list of vintage roadside stops that are a must-see throughout New Jersey.
Arlington Diner | 1 River Road, North Arlington
This iconic diner sits across the Passaic River in North Arlington, sandwiched between Belleville, Kearny, and Lyndhurst. Boasting their “World Famous Cheesecake,” The Arlington Diner is an homage to the beloved, vintage chrome tastes of the 1950s and 1960s. Complete with glowing neon signs, frosted glass windows, and classic tastes, a visit here will send guests back in time.
Read More: The Stories Behind Old Hoboken Signage
Applegate Farm | 616 Grove Street, Montclair
Applegate has a long history in Montclair. Starting in 1848, this farm produced countless dairy products. The original farmhouse and silo are unique and this ground has survived the Civil War, The Great Depression, and two World Wars. Now it is a favored ice cream shop with a quaint country feel rarely seen in our area.
Colonial Diner | 27 Orient Way, Lyndhurst
This Lyndhurst gem is all silver, neon, and 1950s glam. Open 24/7, the Colonial is a classic diner full of beloved Americana. It’s got to be on your list for a summer treat.
Summit Diner | 1 Union Place, Summit
This family-owned and operated diner In the heart of downtown Summit has been serving loyal customers since 1939. An original railroad car is a spectacular example of classic diners — many of which have become lost to time. Enjoy a memorable visit that will have you nostalgic for another era.
Carvel | 240 S Summit Avenue, Hackensack
This Carvel ice cream shop opened in Hackensack in 1969. All these years later, it still boasts an amazing sign which beckons hungry drivers to have a tasty treat. Be sure to swing by on a summer evening and order ice cream to snack on while the neon really shines.
Holsten’s | 1063 Broad Street, Bloomfield
Founded in 1939, this beloved ice cream, candy, and restaurant is all that we love about vintage New Jersey. Whether or not you’re a fan of The Sopranos, you will enjoy its old-fashioned charm. Try the mint chip ice cream — it’s one of a kind.
Dairy Queen | 1123 Stuyvesant Avenue, Irvington
This has got to be the most adorable teeny Dairy Queen in all of New Jersey. With bold, vintage lights, this epically cute pit stop is a must-visit if you love vintage flair. Visitors can almost imagine the classic cars parked out front, with chrome details, pastel charm, and massive winged trunks.
Pizza Town USA | 89 US-46, Elmwood Park
This amazing vintage spot is hard to miss with all the winding highways nearby. Uncle Sam holds a giant pizza pie and their lit sign boasts their age, having been founded in 1958. Their retro-patriotic theme is delightfully fun. Stop by the post-pool for a delicious bite.
Little Falls Trophy + Award Makers | 555 US-46, Little Falls
Here’s another Route 46 stop that has probably not caught your eye, though it may be responsible for the trophy in your childhood bedroom. Founded in 1963, this totally retro building is an absolute treasure. It is particularly beautiful at night when the neon windows showcase a massive collection of trophies.
Tick Tock Diner | 281 Allwood Road, Clifton
New Jersey is known for its diners, and what’s a better road stop than the Tick Tock on Route 3 in Clifton? Founded by a Greek-American in 1948, the Tick Tock has stood the test of time, continuing to grow as its customer base exploded off Route 3. Today, it will forever be loved for the classic vintage exterior that makes it an iconic roadside spot.
Robbie’s Music City | 514 US-46, Wayne
Drivers have probably may have passed this store countless times cruising down Route 46. It’s easy to miss, given all the strip malls and restaurants in newly developed buildings. But Robbie’s Music boasts old-school cool with their vintage signage. There are, their used instruments glistening in the windows and the vibe that they’ve been in this spot for quite some time. Founded in 1926, this family-owned business is worth pulling over for.
White Manna Hamburgers | 358 River Street, Hackensack
This famous roadside stop has been well documented on the Food Network and Travel Channel and is a destination for burger fans. Founded in 1939 during the World’s Fair, Manna opened in Hackensack in 1946. Thrillist believes it’s “New Jersey’s Best Burger.” Its vintage sign, classic diner feel, and delicious burgers make it a must-stop for summer nights.
See More: A List of Historical Places to Visit in North Jersey
Taqueria Los Gueros | 176 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield
Once a diner, always a diner — at least, on the outside. This gorgeous chrome beauty is now a taco spot but it still has its 1954 charm.
32 Holiday Light Displays to Visit in the Tri-State Area
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. If you're ready to feel merry and bright this holiday season, you’re not alone. All throughout the tri-state area, there are gorgeous holiday light displays that are now open to those in the holiday spirit. Attending a light display can illuminate even the heart of a holiday grinch to get into the spirit of the season — and we’re here for it. Read on for a roundup of the best places to see holiday lights in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.
New Jersey
Orchard of Lights at Demarest Farms | Hillsdale
Ongoing through December 29th
Take a guided tour across 32 acres filled with holiday light displays and make sure to turn the car radio to 107.9 to hear the matching music. Visitors can’t purchase tickets on-site, so reserve your ticket online at $35 per car. Attendees can also take pictures with Santa, make s’mores, visit the farmer’s market, and more.
Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show | 94 Championship Place, Augusta
Ongoing through December 30th
This drive-thru lights show is one mile long and features more than two million lights accompanied by music. Bonus: admission is free in the accompanying Christmas Village — where guests can ride a Ferris wheel, or carousel, enjoy holiday food, take pictures with Santa, skate on an ice rink, and stop by the Winter Beer Garden. Tickets for the Drive-Thru Lights Show must be purchased in advance, and are $29 per car.
Holiday Lights Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo | 560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange
Ongoing through December 31st
A winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo is exactly what the holidays ordered. Brightly-lit characters including winter and animal characters can be found at this winter attraction. In addition to the holiday features, the zoo also has an open-air train, a carousel, a reptile house, an aquarium, and pony rides for kids of all ages. Plus on weekends, expect a visit from Santa himself. Admission to the Holiday Lights Spectacular is free, but bringing donations is recommended (can be non-perishable food items, new toys, or gently used coats).
Read More: Holiday Pop-up Markets + Bars in New Jersey
Historic Smithville’s Light Show on the Lake | 615 East Moss Mill Road, Smithville
Ongoing through January 5th
With over 120 Christmas trees made from over 50,000 Christmas lights – guests will experience how they magically float on Lake Meone in the center of Historic Smithville. The lights are coordinated to the music being broadcast aloud for viewers, creating a magical experience. An easy-access light shows this display can be seen from both sides of the village and the bridge over the water. In addition to the floating display, children can chat with the talking tree that lives in Smithville and take part in other winter activities (such as a Smithville train ride).
Night of Lights at Creamy Acres Farm | 448 Lincoln Mill Road, Mullica Hill
Ongoing through December 24th
The whole family can enjoy the magic of all the Christmas lights while warm in your vehicle at Creamy Acres Farm. Tune into the farm’s private radio station to listen to all your favorite Christmas songs while you drive through. It’s $35 per vehicle ($40 on-site), and every vehicle must have its own ticket reservation. Parking is available for families to shop in the retail store, and enjoy some festive food and sweet treats around the fire pits.
Storybook Land’s Christmas Fantasy | 6415 Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township
Ongoing through December 30th
The lights at Storybook Land are lit each night by none other than Santa himself. As he waves his magic wand, he turns on more than 1 million Christmas lights from the chimney of his house. Children can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus until the couple returns to the North Pole on December 23rd. Plus, if you bring an unwrapped, new toy (for Toys for Tots) — you’ll receive a coupon for a small popcorn at the event. In case you need more convincing to make the trip to South Jersey — it’s worth noting this Christmas tradition was featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight.”
DiDonato’s Magical Holiday Express | 1151 South White Horse Pike, Hammonton
Ongoing through December 23rd
Take a train ride through millions of Christmas lights at DiDonato’s Fun Center. Admission includes a meet-and-greet with Santa and his workshop elves, stories, a photo/chat with Mrs. Claus, a movie tent where you can have your picture taken with Frosty the Snowman, a walk-through holiday village, a present from Santa himself, and more. Purchasing a ticket online in advance is encouraged, as the event typically sells out.
Christmas Candlelight House Tours | 1048 Washington Street, Cape May
December 21st
On three nights in December travel to homes, inns, B+Bs, churches, and hotels, stepping across the thresholds to take in interiors beautifully decorated for the holidays. Enjoy your evening in Cape May by taking the provided trolley shuttle that has a planned route with limited stops (maps are provided at the beginning of the tour). For the full experience, walking is encouraged.
Winter Wonderlights Spectacular | 655 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick
Ongoing through January 5th
This family-owned popular Old Bridge residential display has grown into an unforgettable experience at the Middlesex County FairGrounds. Winter WonderLights Drive Thru now has over 1.5 million lights animated to everyone’s favorite holiday tunes. The journey celebrates all of the season's wonderful holidays (Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, and Kwanzaa).
Holiday in the Park Drive-Thru Experience | 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township
Ongoing through January 1st
Six Flags Great Adventure is hosting its annual Holiday in the Park Drive-Thru Experience again. From the comfort of your car, experience different immersive scenes from one of the biggest attractions in New Jersey. And now for 2021, there will be a Merry Market Place Walk-Thru Experience that will include everything from Santa visits to Holiday Festivals. Reservations are required, so purchase your tickets in advance.
Magic of Lights New Jersey | 116 Garden State Parkway, Holmdel
Ongoing through January 4th
Experience this — your radio is set to the Magic of Lights New Jersey radio station, and you’re driving through a merry arrangement of Christmas lights, trees, and decorations off the Garden State Parkway. The PNC Bank Arts Center is a go-to spot this season for some festive fun.
Let It Glow — A Holiday Lantern Spectacular | 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus
Ongoing through January 12th
Head to the Bergen County Zoo to see 30 lit scenes filled with hand-made artistic light displays of various animals. Head to the website to get tickets, which everyone, including members, will need to purchase.
Holiday Adventure at Liberty Science Center | 222 Jersey City Boulevard. Jersey City
Ongoing through January 1st
The Liberty Science Center has created some holiday-specific exhibits to check out including a snowflake maze, synthetic ice rink, snowman riddle scavenger hunt, holiday lights and music show, and more.
Christmas Festival at the Morristown Green | 10 North Park Place, Morristown
Ongoing through December 22nd
Morristown can be fun to visit any time of year, but during the holidays — Morristown Green is transformed into a winter wonderland. Visitors can check out the holiday nights at night, take photos with Santa, see the ice sculptures, and on certain days hear live music in the heated tent. There are also various arts and crafts during select times, including creating holiday cards for children who will be spending their holidays at Goryeb’s Children's Hospital.
New York
Shine Bright at Hudson Yards | 20 Hudson Yards
Ongoing through January 5th
The beautifully decorated plaza at Hudson Yards has let innovation take charge in this magical display. At one of NYC’s hottest destinations, you’ll find more than two million white lights illuminating The Shops, Public Square + Gardens, Edge, and Vessel during the holiday season.
Rolf’s German Restaurant | 281 3rd Avenue
All year (no, that’s not a typo)
Every December the dining room at Rolf’s transforms into a must-see Christmas attraction. It goes beyond “decorated” and qualifies for “over the top” — in the best way. Twinkle lights, ornaments, dolls, and garland are stuffed into every nook and cranny so if you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy holiday spot, this is it.
Holiday Under the Stars at The Shops at Columbus Circle | 10 Columbus Circle
Ongoing through January 5th
Overlooking iconic Central Park, this illuminated color-mixing exhibit is one-of-a-kind. Featuring twelve 14-foot stars hanging from the ceiling in the main lobby of The Shops at Columbus Circle, this installation is a fan favorite each year. The stars continuously morph through a wide range of color combinations and every half hour the stars coordinate their colors with holiday music played through the shopping center.
Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights | 2300 Southern Boulevard
Ongoing through January 5th
The holiday season at The Bronx Zoo is full of five brightly-lit animal safaris, beautiful ice-carving demonstrations, and delicious holiday treats. Guests can have their picture taken with costumed characters or stilt walkers, catch a show at the wildlife theater, see the decorated holiday tree, and more. The outdoor celebration is complete with festive entertainment, seasonal treats, and classic holiday music.
Luminaries at Brookfield Place | 230 Vesey Street
Ongoing through January 6th
Light Up Luminaries signals the start of the holiday season with an evening full of fun and holiday cheer as Brookfield Place celebrates the spectacular light installation and holiday tradition. The mesmerizing display of colorful lanterns returns (conceived and created by the LAB at Rockwell Group). Luminaries is a holiday ritual inspired by the season’s traditions of sharing, giving, community, and light. For each wish made and interaction with Maestro, Brookfield Place will donate $1 up to $25,000 to City Harvest — New York’s first and largest food rescue organization. After viewing the light display, make sure to stop by the winter garden and ice rink on the waterfront.
NYBG Glow | 2900 Southern Boulevard
Ongoing through January 20th
This holiday season, let it GLOW at The New York Botanical Garden in an outdoor experience like no other. The lively, festive nights return for their second year at NYBG with even more displays to wander through and explore. Colorfully lit paths and trees, countless dazzling LEDs, illuminated plant stories, and picture-perfect installations reflect the gardens and collections. Round out your experience with an after-dark visit to the train show under the glow of the Haupt Conservatory (this can be done with a combination ticket). Enjoy a drink, hot cocoa, and a bite to eat at one of our outdoor bars or the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up.
Peace, Love + Lights at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts | 200 Hurd Street, Bethel
Ongoing through December 29th
One of the area’s best and brightest socially-distant activities is the Peace, Love + Lights event. Held at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, guests can drive through 1.7 miles of illuminated light displays. Plus, after your drive head up to the Market Sheds for the Holiday Hub to warm up, unwind with seasonal refreshments, and be dazzled by the Musical Mega Trees light display.
Saks Fifth Avenue Light Show | 611 5th Avenue
Ongoing
The time-honored tradition of decking the store windows along Fifth Avenue is alive and well in 2021 and The Saks Fifth Avenue lights are already in place. For those visiting, don’t miss the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and ice skating right across the street for more holiday fun.
Dyker Heights Christmas Lights | Dyker Heights Boulevard, 83rd Street to 86th Street
Ongoing
Some 300,000 people usually flock to the Dyker Heights neighborhood in Brooklyn to see the extravagant Christmas displays. The Dyker Heights Christmas Lights display has become one of the best New York attractions during the holiday season. The neighborhood is home to some of the greatest Christmas light decorations in the area — with life-size Santas, snowmen, and some houses even playing Christmas carols from speakers. It is a must-see if you haven’t been. Many houses turn off their lights before 9PM, so make sure to get there on the earlier side.
Pennsylvania
Koziar’s Christmas Village | 782 Christmas Village Road, Bernville
Ongoing through January 1st
Koziar’s Christmas Village is decorated with more than 1 million lights, covering trees, buildings, and barns. A reflective lake adds to the natural beauty of the lights. This beautiful holiday experience has grown into an attraction that draws visitors from great distances. Guests can enjoy the experience of walking along a footpath and wrap up the night with a visit to see Santa.
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane | 100 Hersheypark Drive, Hershey
Ongoing through January 1st
Hersey Park Christmas Candylane has decked the halls with five million Christmas lights. Enjoy your favorite rides and coasters, a visit with Santa, festive Hershey Character experiences, and more. Rides include Sidewinder, Wild Mouse, and Cocoa Cruiser, among others.
Lehigh Valley Zoo’s Winter Spectacular | 5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville
Ongoing through January 4th
For children interested in meeting winter wonderland characters, this is the go-to place. Featured in USA Today and featuring breathtaking holiday displays, the Winter Light Spectacular is back for the 2023 season. Geakers Tacos on the glowing picnic patio is a new addition to the experience this year. Plus you can stop by the Spirit Station for delicious hot chocolate and cider with spirits (parents, we understand you might need a little extra boost to get you through the holiday season).
A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens | 1001 Longwood Road, Kennet Square
Ongoing through January 12th
About an hour outside of Philadelphia sits the magical winter wonderland of Longwood Gardens. This dazzling display features candy canes, pine cones, and snowflakes. You can stroll along the path and enjoy the orbs, shimmering trees, and glowing light tunnels. You won’t want to miss the display at the Main Fountain Garden and the large lake where the music is synchronized with the lights show.
See More: Festive Holiday Date Night Ideas in North Jersey
Christmas Magic “A Festival of Lights” | Rocky Ridge County Park
Ongoing through December 30th
The entire family will enjoy the lights at Rocky Ridge County Park. The half-mile trail has about 600,000 lights with candy canes, gingerbread men, and lanterns added throughout for a little holiday whimsy. The event will also feature Friends of the Parks’ cookie and hot chocolate stand as well as Susquehanna Valley Garden Railway Society’s gorgeous train display.
Shady Brook Farm’s Holiday Light Show | 931 Stony Hill Road, Yardley
Ongoing
For over 30 years, the team at Shady Brook Farm has hosted a holiday lights show. With over three million lights, the experience at this farm is a show indeed. A great option for kids of all ages, guests can save themselves from tired feet by driving the two-mile-long trails which take about 20 minutes from start to finish. Guests can have hot chocolate by the bonfire to warm up on a cold night and find the perfect Christmas treat to take home.
Holidays in the Village at Peddler’s Village | 2400 Street Road, New Hope
Ongoing through December
The most festive season of the year arrives with Peddler’s Village’s “Holidays in the Village,” a month-long celebration featuring one million twinkling lights, holiday shopping, a gingerbread house decorating competition, social distance visits from Santa, and much more. The surrounding area also has many local businesses and restaurants to check out if you’re looking to make a day out of it — all with festive decor.
Winter in Franklin Square | 200 North 6th Street, Philadelphia
Ongoing through February 23rd
Winter in Franklin Square is back — for its longest season ever. From spectacular lights to warming winter treats and plenty of holiday cheer — historic Franklin Square is electric all winter long. Two other attractions available in the Square are mini-golf on the Chilly Philly Mini Golf course and a Kwanzaa celebration later in December by The African American Museum.
