A Unique Twist to Summer Activities
Birds are singing, blue skies and sun are beginning to appear and an itch to get out and enjoy a breathe of fresh air is returning to your senses. Summer is on the way! Amongst the plans to visit the sandy beaches and visit the usual summer spots, Tri-state East coast residents and visitors can add a little uniqueness into their plans with these different events and ideas.
The Devil’s Tree
For a nighttime thrill, take a drive to Devil’s Tree in Bernard’s Township, New Jersey. Standing in the middle of a large field off Mountain Road this lone tree is said by locals to be cursed and numerous suicides, murders and suspicious circumstances surround anyone that has tried to cut it down. It is also said that during colonial times, unruly slaves were hanged from the branch that runs almost parallel to the ground and local history generally imparts this malicious character to the tree. For more on the tree’s legend visit weirdnj.com
Trapeze School of New York
Soar across the sky with a background of the glistening waters of the Hudson and the breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty in a unique trapeze learning experience. With classes for all levels this school offers lessons in flying trapeze, static trapeze, silks, rope and more, making the art available to anyone who wants to seek out a challenge, get fit or someone that wants a couple hours of unique fun. Also offering opportunities for parties, events and team building workshops this unparalleled thrill is offered in four locations, New York, Washington D.C., Boston, and Los Angeles. For more information visit http://www.trapezeschool.com/default.php .
Museum of American Glass
Located in Millville New Jersey, the museum, which resides in the Wheaton Arts Cultural Center, sparkles with over 12,000 pieces of glass art, beginning with the first successful glass factory in America (dating back to 1739). The museum offers tours for adults for $10 and students for $7. As a non-expensive way to view some history and cultural this museum provides the perfect setting for a day out of the house. Visithttp://www.wheatonarts.org/topnav/education for more information.
Meadowlands Flea Market
Peruse the eclectic mix of items in East Rutherford, New Jersey to find your hidden treasure. Amongst the attic items, crafts, collectibles and garden flowers you can find here are bargains galore. The market is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission and parking are free.
Chelsea Piers Sports Complex
Grab some friends and get fit this summer by visiting this nationally renowned sports center. Located on a 30-acre spot the historical Chelsea Piers in New York City (the intended destination of the Titanic) offers a golf club, sports center, sky rink and roller rink among many other activities. Prices range from about $10 up to $50, depending on the activity. Visit http://www.chelseapiers.com/ for more information.
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Race
Spend a day amongst the colors of the rainbow as dragon-shaped-boats are raced in this festival. Teams row the boats alongside a drum beat rhythm on August 13 and 14 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, New York. As an annual sporting and multicultural event celebrating the fifth moon (month) of the lunar calendar, this fun race will also include traditional Chinese food and performances. The teams compete for cash prizes, trophies and other prizes. Admission is free to this lively festival, making it perfect for a low-budget date.
Movies Under the Stars
Enjoy a warm summer night under the stars with a spectacular view of the Manhattan skyline and some favorite classic movies. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey on Frank Sinatra Drive, the outdoor screenings are free starting at 9 p.m. in June and July and 8 p.m. in August, just bring a blanket and enjoy! Some past movie showings include The Devil Wears Prada, Little Miss Sunshine and Happy feet. Visit http://www.hobokennj.org/departments/human-services/cultural-affairs/movies-under-the-stars/ to pick your favorites to show for this summer. Movie buffs keep your eye out for other outdoor movie locations in your area, like the Open Air Theatre in Titusville, New Jersey, for a great discount date (that can either be romantic or a chill time with friends)!
Camping on the Appalachian Trail
Nature lovers and camping enthusiasts can take a new spin on an outdoor adventure by visiting the Appalachian Trail in New Jersey or any of the 14 states that crosses its path. Stretching a grand 42 miles in New Jersey alone, from High Point State Park on Route 23 down to the Delaware Water Gap, there are many places to explore and trek (as it exchanges points with 60 federal, state and local parks amongst all of the states). Grab some friends and head to the Trail for some weekend fun and a chance to visit various parks of the state and enjoy the fresh air and greens of nature. Visit www.AppalachainTrail.org to find the best spots in your state!
Antoinette’s Chocolatier
Chocoholics can get their fix at this Phillipsburg, New Jersey shop where patrons get their hands chocolaty in truffle-making and chocolate tempering technique classes (and you get to take what you make home with you!). Each chocolate parcel in the store is hand made and delicately perfected by Antoinette and provides unique bursts of flavor in your mouth. Make a visit to this store on a nothing-to-do Saturday because life is too short to not enjoy the making of chocolate!
Grounds of Sculpture
Like art? Then stop in Hamilton, New Jersey and stroll the grounds, viewing over 260 sculptures. As a 35-acre setting, this spot is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of a nice sunny day with friends or a boyfriend/girlfriend. This sculpture park showcases an outdoor permanent collection, indoor seasonal exhibitions and shopping and dining, costing $10 for adults and $8 for students. Visit http://www.groundsforsculpture.org/info.htm for more information.
Princeton University
Enjoy a nice day by strolling through the grounds of Princeton University. Riddled with old architectural buildings this walk is perfect for a nice chat and visit to local area shops (don’t forget to stop by for ice cream). As a perfect way to chat with old friends or get to know new ones, this summer date will also allow for a breathe of fresh air!
