Nobody works harder than mom, and it’s healthy (and fun) to take a step back once in a while and do something just for you. Whether you’re ready for an overnight trip with the ladies to an exciting Atlantic City Casino Resort or a quaint Bed and Breakfast in Cape May, to keep the party going with a weekly band practice at Lakehouse Music Academy in Asbury Park or dance class at Tribe Body in Ramsey, New Jersey has everything you need to create your perfect #NJMOM-cation.

Here are some fun activities just for you, #NJMOM:

Don’t forget to hashtag #NJMOM and @njmomhq to share how you celebrate your NJMOM-cation.

1. It’s Wine O’Clock in New Jersey

It’s your favorite beverage of all time, so why not see for yourself how this nectar of the earth is made? New Jersey is home to just under fifty wineries, all of which feature picturesque landscapes and exceptional service that leaves guests feeling indulged and relaxed. Winery tours usually include a guided walk through the vineyard and facilities, information sessions that teach wine lovers how the product transitions from grapes to the glass, and an exclusive tasting to conclude the tour. Special perks can be found at certain wineries – fruit and cheese platters to complement your wine samples, souvenir wine glasses to take home, or even a taste of a not-yet-released bottle. Looking to cut straight to the chase? Tasting Rooms are a fun way to try a variety of blends that you may have never seen on the shelves of your local liquor store. Every winery may have a slightly different way of doing things; Cava Winery & Vineyard in Hamburg offers “flights” of four samples and a bistro menu, while Unionville Vineyards in Ringoes offers group tastings with a designated attendant. As a generality, smaller, family-operated vineyards offer a more intimate, warmer experience, while larger vineyards may feature larger selections and a more ornate atmosphere. Before your visit, find your local winery on the web to check if tours and tastings require appointments, or if walk-ins are accepted. Cheers!

NJMOM Favorites:
Working Dog Winery: 610 Windsor Perrineville Road, Hightstown, NJ 08520
Laurita Winery: 85 Archertown Road, New Egypt, NJ 08533
Cape May Winery: 711 Townbank Road, Cape May, NJ 08204

2. Spa Time!

Do you ever catch yourself day dreaming about deep tissue massages, seaweed wraps, and coconut lime pedicures while loading the kids into the car between activities? If so, then it’s time to visit one of New Jersey’s day spas for some rest and relaxation. You will feel like the pampered queen you are when the spa attendant hands you a luscious robe, comfy slippers, and complimentary bathroom amenities to complete your spa ensemble. Whether you choose to have a solo spa experience or book your appointments with a friend, you will leave feeling rejuvenated and energized. You don’t need a special occasion to enjoy a Sea Salt Glow Body Scrub from The Fountain Spa in Hackensack or Ramsey or a Vitamin Infusion Facial from Koi Spa in Princeton. Expecting mommies can relieve lower back pains and leg cramps with a Maternity Massage from Unlimited Salon & Day Spa in Berlin. Have fun reading extensive spa “menus” online, with full listings of services for skin care, massage therapy, sleep treatments, facials, hand and foot treatments, and much more, before setting up an appointment. Pick and choose the individual treatments that sound the dreamiest to you, or take advantage of “full day” packages offered by spas like Woodhouse Day Spa in Montclair and Spa Toccare at Borgata Hotel in Atlantic City.

3. Channel Your Inner Rocker

Over 100 adult students return to Lakehouse Music Academy every week to live out their rockstar dreams. Known as “the best night of the week,” Adult Night Sessions is composed of over twenty adult rock bands featuring different themes and genres, lead under the instruction of a Lakehouse teacher. There is a band for everybody, from dead beginners to advanced players; no experience is necessary. Whether you want to get behind the drums and lay down the beat to The Beatles, rock out on the guitar to The Cranberries, or sing into the mic to some Bruce Springsteen – there is a band for you! Band members choose their own songs, learn individual parts with the help of private instructors, and rehearse over the course of a semester for the Big Gig at one of Asbury Park’s legendary venues, including The Stone Pony and House of Independents, where you can showcase your skills to family and friends. The Academy offers a free class for all new students to see the bands, experience a rehearsal, and realize that it is possible to get on stage and play during your first visit. Classes are offered seven nights a week, making it possible for even the busiest mom to play in a band.

Thanks to Lakehouse Music Academy’s adult music programs, we started a band called Mamadrama with 6 moms and 15 kids between us. I look forward to those sacred two hours a week when you can escape to a world where you feel like a rockstar mom. Most of us were beginners who thought our teenage dreams of being in a band were long over…and now we’re playing The Stone Pony next month!
– Carey of Red Bank, NJ

Lakehouse Music Academy: For a free class, call (732)455-5462. 619 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712

4. “Do AC”

Atlantic City is New Jersey’s all-inclusive weekend getaway destination for moms who are looking to have a good time. The fun starts with choosing which Casino Resort fits your style; after a day on the beach, you’ll be laughing together as you get ready to hit the town in the contemporary suites with marbled bathrooms of Borgata Hotel and Casino or in the Ancient-Rome themed hotel with a modern twist, Caesar’s Atlantic City. Sip something “tall and strong” for happy hour at the 5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar before having a critically acclaimed meal from one of the boardwalk’s famous seafood restaurants, including Phillip’s Seafood and Landshark Bar and Grill. You don’t need us to tell you that nightlife thrives in Atlantic City on the weekends. Whether you want to sip a cocktail as you try your luck at the slot machines, grab tickets to a performance at the Atlantic City Ballet or show off your moves at the 70’s and 80’s dance club Boogie Nights, there is something for ladies of all interests and tastes in this exciting town.
Find the best package for you and the girls at atlanticcitynj.com

5. Enjoy a Relaxing (or Strenuous) Adventure

Adventures for Women is a non-profit club that is designed especially or women looking for companions in outdoor adventure. Women of every age an ability are invited to participate in adventures in New Jersey and surrounding states. The goals of this organization is for its participants, “to share adventures and camaraderie, to learn new skills and develop confidence, and to gain new insights and experience.” The extensive Adventure Schedule includes Day Hikes, City Paths, Bike Rides, Paddling, Weekend Trips, Backpacking, and Workshops. Online sign-up makes it easy to pick and choose the adventures that are calling your name. Let loose by exerting energy and getting great exercise while walking the city path at Roebling Museum in Roebling, NJ, a weekend excursion to Pioneer Valley in Amherst, MA, or tour Bannerman Island in Beacon, NY. This supportive group of women are the perfect partners for moms who love the outdoors, but need the extra support and guidance to make their dreams of exploration a reality.
To learn more and see a full schedule of upcoming adventures, visit adventuresforwomen.org

6. Vintage Finds in Lambertville {Your New Fave Town}

One of New Jersey’s most treasured features is the West Coast, and the stretch of quaint, whimsical river towns that line the banks of the Delaware River. Communities like Milford, Frenchtown, and Stockton have interesting downtown areas with historic architecture and scenic landscapes. The City of Lambertville is known as, “The Antiques Capital of New Jersey,” and is home to many quirky, eclectic shops with pieces and collections that cannot be found anywhere else. Grab a cup of coffee from Lambert Trading Company, stroll down the Victorian reminiscent streets, and let yourself meander into any shop that catches your eye. When it’s time for dinner, you will have your pick of phenomenal casual dining; we recommend the French country cooking of Manon Restaurant or Lilly’s on the Canal for an eccentric outdoor experience. Want to make a weekend out of it? Lambertville House is the cozy, colonial bed and breakfast of your dreams, and the Lambertville Inn offers riverfront views that will take your breath away.

We love taking day trips to the Golden Nugget Antique & Flea Market. You can find the best vintage pieces all in one spot. We always come home with a new treasure!
– Maureen of Jackson, NJ

NJMOM Favorites:
Antique Center at The People’s Store: 28 N. Union Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530
Coryell Street Antiques: 51 Coryell Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530
Bridge Street Antiques: 21 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530

7. Stand UP! + Paddle

Yes, standup paddle boarding is good for the body, but it’s even more fun – and always better in a group of friends. This popular water sport is the perfect combination of physical activity and pure aquatic bliss, allowing you to take in the scenery at a mellow pace, while still workin’ out those arms and core. Bring a friend (or a whole group) to one of New Jersey’s many certified paddle board instructors along the coast of your favorite beach or lake, for an all-in-one stop. Most paddle board facilities also are home to rental houses for your convenience, and oftentimes, group classes are even more affordable with the more friends you bring. For a different kind of experience, sign up for a SUP Yoga class to reconnect with nature, balance, and friends.

NJMOM Favorites:
Jersey Paddle Boards: 622 Jersey Ave, Greenwood Lake, NY 10925
Paddle Out: 537 Main St, Manasquan, NJ 08736
Stacey’s Surf & Paddle: 9511 Amherst Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402

8. Get Movin’

Being an NJMOM means having to master the art of multi-tasking. When little ones are in the equation, time to yourself will never fall into your lap, which is why it’s so important to intentionally schedule the time into your week. Taking a dance class at your local studio is a perfect way to get a great workout, socialize with other moms, and most importantly – have fun. Many dance studios throughout the state offer classes for adults in ballet, jazz, tap, zumba, lyrical, and even aerial yoga, lead by the same professional instructors that condition dance troops for regional and national competitions. Whether you have never taken dance instruction before, or if you danced for twelve years through your youth, there will be a class for you. Many adult dance programs culminate in a recital at the end of each semester, giving your family and friends the opportunity to see the performance you have worked so hard on (and you get to wear a sparkly costume!) Visit your local dance studio, and make the time to enjoy something you have always wanted to try.

NJMOM Favorites:
Tribe Body: 25 North Spruce Street, Ramsey, NJ 07446
The Academy of Dance Arts: 70 Apple Street, Suite A, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
DANZhouse Fitness: 352 Sycamore Ave, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
South Jersey Performing Arts Group: 10 Webster Ave, Stratford, NJ 08084

9. Treat Yourself to a Blow Out

Blow Out Bars are the new salon craze for a reason – nothing makes you feel more fabulous. Visiting one of these salons before a night out is a fun way to make the evening even more special. Stylists today know that on a Friday night, you want a quick service with amazing results, which lead to the inception of the Blow Out Bar – a salon that specializes in your weekend ‘do, that shampoos and styles swiftly with professionalism. The process takes about 30 – 45 minutes and can last up to 3 to 5 days, depending on your hair type. Boho Hair Salon in Asbury Park offers Blow Out Happy Hour on Thursday and Friday evenings, and an Express Hair Menu, featuring 15 to 30 minute styles including Hollywood Glam Retro Waves and Asbury Park Beach Waves. Blow outs don’t break the bank either. Standard blow outs found on the menu of any given salon can start as low as $30, with extra services available including up-do styles, half-up styles, and blow out touch ups.

As a mom of three kids under the age of three, I needed to feel good about myself for a date night with the husband, and totally trusted Sally of Boho Hair Salon to revamp me. All I needed was a blow out and magically went from looking frump to fabulous!
– JeanMarie of Wall, NJ

NJMOM Favorites:
Bellizima Blow Out Bar & Salon: 104 Mine Brook Road, Bernardsville, NJ 07924
Up & Out Blowout Bar: 341 Bloomfield St, Hoboken, NJ 07030
The blow Out Lounge & Colour Bar: 3695 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ 08690
Cherry Blow Dry Bar: 1588 Kings Highway North, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034

10. Beach + Chill at a Cape May Bed and Breakfast

For the NJMOM who swoons over the charm and elegance of Victorian style and dreams about miles of sandy beaches and sunshine, New Jersey’s southern haven of Cape May is home to dozens of fantastically accommodating bed and breakfasts for your weekend getaway. You will feel like you took a step back in time in your cozy suite, ornately decorated to match the Historic District’s colorful, detailed architecture. Each bed and breakfast will have its own characteristics and appeal; The Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast on Ocean Street features gas-log fireplaces, The Southern Mansion boasts “genuine southern hospitality” in its perfectly restored manor, and The Mainstay Inn serves afternoon tea every day in the summer. As if the beach isn’t enough to keep you happy for the whole weekend, Cape May offers many interesting attractions including the Cape May Lighthouse, and Historic Cold Spring Village. In the evening, visit the Washington Street Mall for all of your shopping, dining, and nightlife needs.

NJMOM Favorites:
The Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast: 102 Ocean Street, Cape May, NJ 08204
Bedford Inn: 805 Stockton Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
Angel of the Sea: 5 Trenton Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204

Don’t forget to hashtag #NJMOM and @njmomhq to share how you celebrate your #NJMOM-cation.

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