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Beaches, coasts, mountains and more for a 3-day weekend

Pack your car full of unnecessary items, pack your kids, and pack some road trip snacks because New Jersey is full of awe-inspiring attractions and dreamy destinations.

Online geography resource WorldAtlas.com has listed 10 New Jersey-only destinations you’ll want to visit for a three-day weekend.

Atlantic City

Atlantic City is nationally known for its casinos, beachfront, and nightlife—the pinnacle of adult entertainment. The Borgada and Caesars Atlantic City resorts, right in the middle of all the action, are home to endless gambling opportunities, Food Network restaurants, and performances by artists, comedians, and more. Kennedy Plaza can be your all-day educational endeavor, offering free entertainment and photos and a glimpse into Atlantic City’s historic past.

Avalon

If quirkiness is more your style, visit Avalon, a town of fewer than 1,500. Spend your vacation at the Icona Avalon, which has hot tubs, pools, and lounge chairs that are always accessible. To top it off, there’s a dining experience overlooking the beach. And depending on the age of the travelers, there’s Avalon Surfside Park, Miniature Golf Club 18, and local watering holes dotted around town. The Avalon History Center and the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse are two of the on-site learning experiences offered in town.

Cape May

A place for every occasion – whether you’re with loved ones, friends or just by yourself, Cape May offers plenty of shopping and entertainment. Washington Street Mall is a popular tourist attraction with food, jewelry and other quality items for purchase.

For a more adventurous crowd, try the A ropes course and zipline at the Cape May Zoo, which is free and open most days of the year. Or learn more about the town’s history at the Cape May Lighthouse. The property features a museum, great vantage points, and a shop where you can buy all the souvenirs you could possibly want.

Lake Hopcatong

Take a dip in New Jersey’s largest lake and get in touch with your wild side as you hike or bike the many trails. After your nature adventures, visit Lake Hopatcong Golf Club. The mini-golf course features 18 holes and a historical theme, then head to the Castle Cove arcade center for some friendly competition.

Long Beach Island

Ride through the past like Marty Mcfly with old-school shops, enthusiastic bikers and old-fashioned beach house colors that will make you feel like you’re in a classic movie. Barnegat Light, Surf City’s shops and a coastal road will make your 3-day trip interesting. Conquer the roller coasters at the amusement park and water park. At the end of the day, don’t miss out on the ocean and ride the biggest waves.

Holly Mountain

Known for its recognizable brick sidewalks, Mount Holly is a popular day trip destination. Indulge your taste buds with a variety of budget-friendly wineries, breweries, and eateries. For a younger crowd, take your little ones to the Old Schoolhouse and the Mayan-themed mini golf course at Springfield Golf Center.

Ocean City

Take a stroll along the boardwalk and continue to Playland’s Castaway Cove. You can ride the roller coasters or take a go-cart. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of food options to choose from along the boardwalk. Carson’s Inlet State Park is your final stop, where the options are seemingly endless — from hiking to biking to fishing, there are plenty of activities to spare.

Red Bank

Shop till you drop and shop till your pockets hurt in the town of Red Bank, overlooking the Navesink River. Red Bank is home to a number of tourist attractions, including The Count Basie Theater For the Arts, which has been around since 1926. The Molly Pitcher Inn, a dining destination and historic landmark, was built in 1928. Or visit Downtown Red Bank, home to casual eateries, beautiful outdoor seating, and shops to suit all tastes.

Sea Bright

Enjoy reading a book on the public beach, soaking up the constant scorching sun, and heading to a restaurant with picture-perfect views of the ocean. Other attractions include, but are not limited to, a tiki bar, an outdoor pool, and the 27,000-acre park of the Gateway National Recreation Area. Finally, beat the heat by touring the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which is open to the public on weekends.

Vernon

If you’ve had enough time at the beaches, head to the Vernon mountains, known for their stunning views, farms, hiking and horseback riding.

But staying at a resort can offer the pleasures of the great outdoors without ever having to set foot there. Crystal Springs and Mountain Creek Resort are just two of the many places to camp. During your stay, you and your travel companions can enjoy on-site activities like spas, water parks, sledding, and golf.

For active and thrill-seeking tourists, WorldAtlas recommends visiting the Great Gorge Golf Club and TreEscape Adventure Park.

This article originally appeared in Asbury Park Press: 10 New Jersey weekend adventures for every traveler