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The iconic road trip has become a popular choice for those who crave adventure, and is expected to be “amongst the hottest travel trends for 2025,” a survey conducted by Talker Research for Club Wyndham discovered. It’s further revealed that short trips of four days or less (dubbed ‘microcations’) are also set to be a popular travel trend, which further affirms the value of an impromptu adventure. For Pennsylvanians that wish to embark on a short trip themselves, the short journey to New Jersey can be well worthwhile — especially when it comes to the vibrant art and music scene.
An artistic exploration
New Jersey has a spirited arts scene, and there are no shortage of events set to take place in 2025. According to the Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, the South Jersey Arts Fest is set to take place on Saturday, April 26 this year. From the hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the free festival features live music in addition to craft vendors. Teaching artists from Appel Farm are also set to host artistic workshops, the Appel Arts & Music Center site notes. The Hoboken Fall Arts and Music Festival is another option for those who wish to experience New Jersey’s creative scene first-hand. This year, the festival is set to take place on October 12th, a Hudson Reporter article by Moses Lookman notes. The article details the creativity that accompanies the festival, with live music throughout the day as well as artistic creations that range from paintings to multimedia installations. Creative workshops, street food, and plenty of shopping are also expected.
In addition to the artistic events that take place throughout the year, the Garden State is home to a variety of art museums and galleries that are suitable to visit year-round. In Hoboken, for example, the Barsky Art Gallery features unique and original artwork that art enthusiasts are sure to enjoy. The Barsky Art Gallery also offers a variety of art-related services that range from art sourcing to professional canvas stretching and framing. In regard to museums, the Newark Museum of Art is just one worthwhile option to consider. The museum features a number of different ongoing exhibits, which include the Animal Kingdom exhibit that is set to take place through the rest of 2025. The museum’s website notes that the Animal Kingdom exhibit showcases life on planet Earth via “a series of immersive and interactive experiences.” In addition to a variety of exhibits, the museum is also home to installations such as NOW by Shahzia Sikander, found at the building’s main exterior, and Arts of the Ancient Mediterranean.
Upcoming music events
In addition to local live music, performances by major artists are a reason why many arrange travel plans. For Pennsylvanians who plan to visit New Jersey in 2025, there are a number of artists set to visit the Garden State throughout the year. As part of the “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” World Tour, Shakira is set to perform at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on May 15. On the other hand, fans of alternative rock will be delighted to know that Linkin Park is set to perform on August third at the Prudential Center in Newark. My Chemical Romance will be at the MetLife Stadium on August ninth, followed by System of a Down and Korn on August 27 and 28 respectively.
Those set to travel to the Garden State for an art or music event may wish to book local accommodation, especially when plans include a late night performance. Jersey City hotels, for instance, present a wide variety of comfortable options that are centrally located for maximum convenience. The stylish Canopy by Hilton is another option for visitors who wish to become immersed into the arts scene, as it’s conveniently located in the city’s arts district and attractions that include the Liberty Science Center. On the other hand, options like the Residence Inn by Marriott and the Holland Hotel can provide easy access to transport to other parts of the city and New York, which can be ideal choices for those who wish to extend their stay and explore additional tourist destinations.
For Pennsylvanians in search of a nearby summer getaway, a road trip to New Jersey can bring to light a wealth of opportunities. From the artsy side of the Garden State to the major music headliners set to perform, there are a plethora of options to suit a range of tastes for a short trip.
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