One thing South Jersey doesn’t get enough credit for? How great of a place it truly is throughout the year, not just during the summer months.
Introducing the shoulder seasons: The little chunk of time after the summer months and before the holidays. Think post-Labor Day until around Thanksgiving and the entire month of May until Memorial Day. These weeks and months are some of the best times to see the Jersey Shore. It’s still warm, but it’s less crowded, so you can see and do all the things you might not have time to during the craziness that summer brings.
September is the peak of our prime shoulder season here in Jersey, or “locals summer,” as it’s famously called, so we figured we’d help you out. Give you some options and ways to really enjoy the rest of September and the fall months here at the shore this year.
Whale watching
Just because the summer season is over doesn’t mean you have to put your sea legs away yet. Take a trip to Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center for a day out on the water observing the incredible marine animals under the sea. From dolphins and whales to birds and more, a day on the water observing these beautiful creatures is just what the fall season at the shore ordered! Booking online is open through the end of October.
Casino party
Picture this: a slight chill in the air, your cutest new light jacket on as you step into Ocean Casino, ready to have a day. The fall season here brings about the perfect time to do the things we didn’t get enough of during the busyness of summer, and no one gets enough of Ocean Casino. From the best restaurants, bars, drink specials, and views, you could spend an entire day inside the casino and still run out of time.
Visit Lucy
Lucy the Elephant is a staple in our shore community and an attraction that draws thousands of people every summer season. If you live here, it’s probably been a long time since you’ve actually gone inside, or maybe you never have, so now’s the time. She’s calling your name, and it could be a super fun activity for the whole family. Lucy’s visiting hours continue daily until January, then scale back to just weekend hours in February and March, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy this piece of local history that draws hundreds our way.
Day at the farm
Nothing screams fall quite like spending the day on a farm, so we say visit the Funny Farm. The Funny Farm is another staple in our community, one that helps all kinds of animals and does so much good. Whether you want to spend the day there or just pop in quickly, there are so many animals to see and feed, and we promise you’ll leave with your heart full and feeling inspired.
Go to Storybook Land
A family theme park since 1955, Storybook Land holds a special place in the hearts of many South Jersey locals. Whether you have memories of seeing Santa light up the park or just riding the rides with friends, Storybook Land is at the heart of locals. That’s why we’re dubbing “locals summer” as the best time to visit. Bring the kids, let them run wild, and have a day at a place where memories are easily made.
Go see a show
There’s nothing better than a night embracing yourself in the arts. Here in South Jersey, we have so many local, creative, and outstanding outlets for young artists and for consumers to enjoy. Gateway Playhouse hosts multiple shows and various events throughout the fall. It has a very special holiday show as well. So, grab your fall sweater and head over to the local theater soon for a night of arts, fun, and community.
Go antique shopping
It’s a perfect fall day activity, and of course, we have the perfect spot to do so. Days of Olde Antique and Collectors has over 20 years of experience and has everything from clothes and furniture to figurines and tools. Anything you could wish to find, you’ll find here. Spend an hour or a whole day, and let the memories take you in as you shop amongst it all.
Attend High Tea
The season of fall not only brings about change but also a sense of calm and peace that we miss during the summer months. Take that change of pace in stride and delve even more into the serenity by attending the Flanders Hotel’s High Tea events. It’s a perfect escape and adventure for your next free fall day.
So, while the crowds thin and the beach chairs pack away, South Jersey doesn’t slow down. It simply transforms. The shoulder seasons are a gift, offering the perfect blend of energy, relaxation, discovery and nostalgia. Whether you’re a lifelong local or just beginning to explore, these months remind us that the Jersey Shore is not just a summer destination, but a year-round treasure waiting to be enjoyed.
Delaney Crawford is a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for storytelling and digital marketing. After earning a BA in Communications, Delaney built a successful career in the newspaper industry, honing skills in, news writing, media, and content creation. Driven by a desire to empower local businesses, Delaney founded DC’s Social Media & Content Creation, a company dedicated to helping businesses enhance their brand image and thrive online.
