As a girl who loves exploring new places and hates doing nothing for an extended period of time, I find myself (and usually my friends) in a rut sometimes. Since it is summer, I have more free time than ever, which can be either good or bad. So in order to prevent the inevitable “guys what are we doing today?”, I have compiled a list of 11 places to visit when sitting at home becomes more than just mundane.

1. Loantaka Brook Reservation, Morristown

This park offers a number of different trails for walking or biking. Most of the trails happen to be covered with trees, which provide optimal amount of shade on a hot day. Personally, I think bike riding throughout the reservation is the way to go. At times, the paths can get hilly where using a bike may be more fun and exhilarating.

2. Holsten’s Brookdale Confectionary, Bloomfield

There is no better dessert than homemade ice cream in my opinion. The restaurant/candy store/ ice cream shop offers food, chocolate, and a variety of homemade ice cream flavors. The small shop looks like a set out of a movie and takes its customer back in time. There are dining booths that seem to be from a different decade and bar stools that make the ambience of the place that much more appealing. Of course the ice cream happens to be fantastic as well whether it be plain, topped with sprinkles, or made into a thick shake.

3. Ramapo Valley Reservation, Mahwah

This next place has a special place in my heart because it is only two minutes away from my college. The Ramapo Valley Reservation happens to be huge with plenty of trails ranging from a walk around the pond to trekking up large hills with beautiful views. The trees in the summer are especially beautiful because they are full of lush green leaves that brighten the reservation and provide plenty of shade. Dogs are welcome which can also lead to a great day out with the four legged friend.

4. Max Brenner Chocolate Bar, Paramus

Chocolate lovers will easily adore this place. This café looking restaurant in Garden State Plaza offers actual food along with various combinations of chocolate, fruit, and other treats. The fondue comes out at the perfect temperature and is ready to eat as soon as it arrives at the table. Plus, what is more fun than dipping food into a big bowl of chocolate?

5. Turtle Back Zoo: Ropes Course, West Orange

I have been to Turtle Back Zoo plenty of times over the years but have never personally gotten a chance to try the ropes course. However, a few of my friends have raved about the experience and said that the rest of us must try it immediately. The zoo offers a legitimate jungle gym composed of rope structures for visitors to climb and explore. And if that does not sound appealing there is also zip lining where individuals can glide through the trees.

6. Pine Creek Mini Golf, Ringoes

I happen to be a sucker for a fun round of mini golf. At Pine Creek not only are there two different courses to choose from but, the landscaping throughout the parameters is breathtaking. An assortment of waterfalls, gorgeous greenery, and bright flowers are scattered across all 18 holes. The courses offer both easy and challenging holes which provide fun for the entire family.

7. Verona Park, Verona

Sometimes a walk in the park can be so much more than just that. Verona Park offers a beautiful path encircling a lake, ideal for strolling around on a summer evening. However the best part about this location may be the opportunity to paddleboat through the lake. Taking a cruise through the water gives a different perspective of the entire park rather than just simply walking it.

8. Weehawken Waterfront Park and Recreation Center, Weehawken

My one friend introduced me to this place last year and now we frequent it often. Here there is a path that lines the Hudson River and has the perfect view of the New York City skyline whether it be day or night. My friends and I have seen the skyline when the night was pitch black and watched the sun rise over the buildings. Either way, the view is beautiful, especially when enjoying it with friends.

9. Belmar Beach, Belmar

Of course New Jersey is known for its vibrant and crowded beaches. For the longest time I frequented either Seaside Heights or Point Pleasant like so many others do. However, there is something about the town of Belmar that gives off a completely different vibe. The atmosphere feels more relaxed and although the beach may become busy it never feels as if it is problematic.

10. Bluestone Coffee Co., Montclair

This small but adorable café in Montclair makes and sells its own coffee. Although the restaurant closes early on most days, don’t miss the opportunity to grab some lunch. The quaint atmosphere provides an enjoyable experience along with the café style food and beverages. I highly recommend the grilled Portobello sandwich and a chai tea latte.

11. The Landing Restaurant, New Hope

OK, I cheated on this one. This restaurant is the only place not located directly in New Jersey but it deserves to be noted. The Landing can be reached via a short bridge connecting New Jersey to New Hope, Pennsylvania. If the weather is nice, guests are seated outside with a perfect view of the Delaware River. Plus the ham, brie, and apple sandwich with sweet potato fries is beyond amazing.