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Day dates without leaving the state

Day dates without leaving the state
In shortTry Duke Farms in Hillsborough, Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton or the trails at Jockey Hollow in Morristown. All three make a full day out without crossing a river.

Key facts

Duke FarmsAbout 2,700 acres and 20 miles of trails
Duke Farms openTuesday to Saturday, 8:30am to 4:30pm
Grounds For SculptureClosed Tuesdays, open 10am to 5pm other days
Jockey Hollow groundsSunrise to 5pm daily

You do not have to leave New Jersey for a good day out. The middle of the state has big parks, art and history close together. Here are three easy picks.

Walk the trails at Duke Farms

Duke Farms in Hillsborough has about 2,700 acres and 20 miles of trails. Start at the Orientation Center in the old Farm Barn for a map and coffee. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Source: Duke Farms: Plan your visit, checked 8 November 2026

Art outside in Hamilton

Grounds For Sculpture is open all year except on Tuesdays. You can get there by NJ Transit to Hamilton Station or the 608 bus. Book a timed ticket for weekends.

Source: Grounds For Sculpture: Hours, admission and directions, checked 8 November 2026

History and woods in Morristown

Morristown National Historical Park has trails at Jockey Hollow and guided tours of the Ford Mansion, which start at Washington's Headquarters Museum. Tour passes are free and handed out first come, first served. Buildings close on Thanksgiving, December 25 and January 1.

Source: National Park Service: Morristown NHP hours and seasons, checked 8 November 2026

Questions

Is Duke Farms open on Sundays?

No. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Can we get to Grounds For Sculpture without a car?

Yes. Take NJ Transit to Hamilton Station or Trenton Transit Center, or the 608 bus to Sculptors Way.

Can we tour the Ford Mansion?

Yes, by guided tour only. Pick up a free pass at the Washington's Headquarters Museum desk.

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