They say that “August is the Sunday of summer”. Do you feel like you still need to check some bucket list items off the list before the official closing of summer? If you’re craving a quick escape before a sense of routine returns, you don’t need to hop on a plane. These last-minute summer getaways from the Cranford/Westfield, NJ area are all within easy driving distance and packed with adventure, nature, culture, and fun. Whether you’re into waterfalls, waterparks, fossils, or glowing rocks, this list has something for everyone.

Scroll through these close-to-home favorites for spontaneous day trips that are easy to plan and fun for all ages. Don’t forget to check hours and websites before heading out!

🦴 Monmouth Museum – Lincroft, NJ

Hands-on fun with fossils and STEAM exhibits

• 🚗 40 min drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 765 Newman Springs Rd, Lincroft, NJ
• 📝 Fossil lab, dino teeth, air & space exhibits
• 📅 Open Tues–Sun, 10 AM–4 PM
• 🔗 https://www.monmouthmuseum.org

Why Go?
A short, educational adventure that feels like a road trip without the hassle—ideal for curious kids and fossil fans.

🛕 BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham – Robbinsville, NJ

North America’s largest Hindu temple—absolutely stunning

• 🚗 1 hr 10 min drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 112 N Main St, Robbinsville Twp, NJ
• 📝 Marble carvings, gardens, stepwell, vegetarian café
• 📅 Open daily (except Tues), 9 AM–7:30 PM
• 🔗 https://usa.akshardham.org

Why Go?
A peaceful, jaw-dropping cultural escape—one of the most beautiful last-minute summer getaways from Cranford/Westfield. *Must reserve a free, timed slot for entry on weekends, national holidays, and select Hindu festivals.

🏺 Mercer Museum – Doylestown, PA

A castle packed with quirky tools and history

• 🚗 1 hr 15 min drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 84 S. Pine St., Doylestown, PA
• 📝 40,000+ artifacts, boats & wagons in the air
• 📅 Open Tues–Sun, 10 AM–5 PM
• 🔗 https://www.mercermuseum.org

Why Go?
History gets weird—in a good way. A creative and cultural escape that’s fun for all ages.

🌊 Mountain Creek Waterpark – Vernon, NJ

Water rides, wave pools, and cabana vibes

• 🚗 1 hr drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 200 Route 94, Vernon, NJ
• 📝 High-thrill slides, lazy river, family zones
• 📅 Open daily through Labor Day, 11 AM–6 PM
• 🔗 https://mountaincreek.com

Why Go?
A last-minute summer getaway packed with splashy thrills—easy to do in a day.

⛳ 1Club Park Golf – Vernon, NJ

Simple, social golf in a scenic resort setting

• 🚗 ~1 hr drive (~50 miles) from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 414 County Rd 517, Vernon Township, NJ
• 📝 One-club “park golf,” large ball, easy to play
• 📅 Open daily, typically 10 AM–6 PM
• 🔗 https://play1club.com/location-new-jersey

Why Go?
Easygoing, outdoorsy fun—no experience golf! Perfect for a casual day out with drinks, laughs, and light activity.

⛏️ Sterling Hill Mining Museum – Ogdensburg, NJ

Underground tunnels, glowing rocks, and sluicing fun

• 🚗 1 hr 20 min drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 30 Plant St., Ogdensburg, NJ
• 📝 Mine tours, fluorescent minerals, sluice stations
• 📅 Daily 1 PM tours through Labor Day
• 🔗 https://www.sterlinghillminingmuseum.org

Why Go?
Dig into one of the coolest last-minute summer getaways—literally. Great for rock lovers and kids who love to explore.

🌿 Buttermilk Falls – Layton, NJ

New Jersey’s tallest waterfall in a serene forest

• 🚗 1 hr 20 min drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 Mountain Rd, Walpack Township, NJ
• 📝 Roadside views, short walk to viewing locations, or hike to Appalachian Trail
• 📅 Open year-round (weather permitting)
• 🔗 https://www.nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/buttermilk-falls-trail.htm

Why Go?
One of the most refreshing last-minute summer getaways from Cranford/Westfield—perfect for hikers and nature lovers.

📮 Postcard Cabins – Roscoe, NY

Tiny cabins, big views, total peace in the Catskills

• 🚗 2 hr drive from Cranford/Westfield
• 📍 26 Miller Hollow Rd, Roscoe, NY
• 📝 Cabins w/ kitchenettes, fire pits, outdoor seating
• 📅 Open year-round to soak in Upstate New York; book in advance
• 🔗 https://postcardcabins.com/western-catskills

Why Go?
Looking to unplug? A peaceful Catskills retreat—perfect for hikes, starry skies, and slow mornings.

Our area is full of adventures for every interest. Embrace the easy pace of summer and let us plan your stress-free getaway close to home!