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New Jersey’s Best Christmas Tree Farms Goes Back 60 Years

In late October, The Pioneer Woman Magazine published a list of the best Christmas Tree Farms in every state. With the holidays right around the corner and many people putting…

A Christmas Tree Farm on an icy day with a red barn in the background.
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In late October, The Pioneer Woman Magazine published a list of the best Christmas Tree Farms in every state. With the holidays right around the corner and many people putting up their tree right after Thanksgiving, this was a very timely feature. In New Jersey, you'll have to travel to the northwestern part of the state to arrive at the best Christmas Tree farm in the area. However, you will be in for a memorable experience that allows you to see some animals.

Each of the locations Pioneer Woman names offers acres of fresh Christmas trees grown right onsite at the property. Then, you either cut down the tree of your choice or select one that the staff properly takes down for you. "The best part is that you'll be supporting a local farm, many of which have been in their families for generations," the state. It's a win-win opportunity. Your efforts give back to the local community and provide you, and it's a great way to kick off a festive holiday season. Clark Griswold comedic references are encouraged along the way.

The best Christmas Tree Farm in New Jersey has been in business since 1961.

In Sussex, New Jersey - Shale Hills Farm

"Cut your own 'Hand Sheared' Christmas Tree at New Jersey’s friendliest cut your own Christmas Tree Farm," Shale Hills says. What makes Shale Hills different is that they still use an old-fashioned hand-shearing method to take care of their trees. This gives each tree its own unique character and look. Each tree is sheared 7-12 times.

Onsite Shale Hills offers pine, spruce, and fir trees. After you pick your perfect tree, you can head in and see the animals. This is a favorite attraction for kids; it includes cows, chickens, goats, and sheep.

"A beautifully decorated evergreen tree, with colored lights ablaze, inspires warm memories of Christmases long past," Shale Hills concludes. You can get your own fresh Christmas Tree at Shale Hills Farm by visiting them at 98 Pond School Road Sussex, New Jersey 07461.

2 New Jersey Destinations Among The Best For Solo Travel

There are some major benefits to taking a trip by yourself. The solitude gives you time to clear your mind and gather your thoughts. And it also enables you to create your own schedule, taking in the sights you set out for. Good Housekeeping published a report that details America’s best places for solo travel, and New Jersey was all over this list.

By The Numbers

In addition, Fifty Grande recently conducted a solo travel survey. They found that “52% of respondents said they planned to take a solo trip before the end of the year, and 64% of them planned to take that trip in America.” Furthermore, they found that 40% of those that participated in their survey answered “10” on a scale of 1-10 on how comfortable they were to travel alone. 83% said answered a 7 or above.

Other interesting items to note were 89% of the people had already taken a solo trip. The main reason was to “explore a new place and/or immerse in a local culture.” 22.9% said they traveled alone because it was “more fun when I’m 100% in control.”

Moreover, 52% of people plan on traveling solo before the end of the year. Much of that will be within the United States, Fifty Grande shows.

New Jersey is filled with areas that are prime for solo travel exploring. Of course, Atlantic City has a major nightlife scene. There are pristine golf courses all throughout the state, some of which are in close proximity to New York City (if you want to head in for dinner or a show). Finally, there are miles of beachside attractions along the Atlantic and historic sites deep in the heart of the Garden State. So, let's take a look at the two New Jersey destinations that were named best for solo travel. They happen to over a hundred and thirty miles away from each other, and vastly different in terms of what you can explore there.

Princeton

Home to the Ivy League Tigers, Good Housekeeping calls out the historic sites this central New Jersey town house to offer. "Princeton Battle Monument honors the battle fought and won by George Washington in 1777." The University Art Museum and the Morven Museum and Garden often attract tourists from all over the world. Lastly, Carnegie Lake is one of the most serene spots in the state.

Carnegie lake in Princeton, New Jersey featuring old bridge on the background

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Cape May

"Spend your day wandering the cute shops, sunbathing at the beach or climbing the 199 steps to the top of Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May Pointe State Park," Good Housekeeping suggest. Cape May draws a lot of visitors in the summer months. It's very common that you will find families, couples, and solo travelers among them. In addition to one of the most beautiful lighthouses on the east coast, you can visit winery's, theaters, safaris, or just rest along the shore of the beautiful beaches.

Cape May branded Lifeboat on the beach with the ocean in the back

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