Vernon(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Vernon, the top choice for families is Lake Vernon Resort, offering spacious family suites, a children’s play area, and access to Lake Vernon for kayaking and fishing. The resort features themed weekend activities like nature scavenger hunts and craft workshops, ideal for kids. Located near Vernon Park and hiking trails, it blends outdoor adventure with comfort. Its on-site restaurant serves locally sourced meals, making it a perfect base for families exploring northern New Jersey's rural charm.

The Lake Vernon area and downtown Vernon are the prime neighborhoods for accommodations. Lakefront properties offer serene views and direct access to water activities, while downtown offers proximity to local shops, farmers markets, and the annual Vernon Harvest Festival. Both areas provide a peaceful yet convenient base, with easy access to nature trails, historical sites, and seasonal events. Staying here ensures a balanced mix of relaxation and authentic small-town experience.

Visitors should not miss the Apple Cider Festival held every October at the Vernon Farm Center, where guests can press their own apples, sample artisanal ciders, and enjoy live folk music. Additionally, the Vernon Historical Society hosts reenactments of 19th-century farm life, including vintage tool displays and period costume walks. These events highlight Vernon’s deep roots in New Jersey’s agricultural heritage, offering immersive insights into rural American traditions.

Yes, Lake Vernon Resort provides a full range of child-friendly amenities, including supervised kids’ clubs, splash pools, storytime sessions, and family cooking classes. All guest rooms come equipped with cribs, high chairs, and eco-friendly baby supplies. The resort also partners with the Vernon Nature Education Center, offering guided nature walks tailored for young explorers, making it an ideal destination for parents seeking safe, engaging activities for children.

Lake Vernon at sunrise is a photographer’s dream—mist rising over calm waters, framed by autumn-colored trees. The Vernon Old Church, with its Gothic architecture and ancient oak tree, offers a dramatic backdrop for portraits and architectural shots. In winter, the snow-covered forest trails around Vernon Woods create a magical, minimalist landscape. Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod to capture the serene beauty of this hidden gem in northern New Jersey.

While Vernon is a quiet town, it’s well-connected: Newark Liberty International Airport is just 45 minutes away via Route 80, and public buses link to New York City and Princeton. Hotels like Green Valley Inn offer complimentary shuttle services to nearby train stations. For travelers seeking convenience without sacrificing tranquility, Vernon offers a strategic location for day trips or weekend getaways from the Northeast Corridor.

Must-try dishes include Honey Butter Pie, crafted at Vernon Bakery using wildflower honey from local apiaries—rich, golden, and deeply flavorful. Visit the Vernon Farmers Market every Saturday to sample fresh-picked blueberries, pumpkins, and house-made jams. Pair these treats with a cup of locally roasted coffee for a true taste of rural New Jersey cuisine and slow food culture.

Nighttime highlights include Lake Vernon Bonfire Nights, held on the third Saturday of each month, featuring s’mores, campfire stories, and acoustic music under the stars. For stargazers, the Old Oak Observatory offers guided night sky tours with telescopes, revealing constellations and Milky Way views. These intimate, low-key events make Vernon’s evenings as memorable as its daytime adventures.

Many Vernon lodgings embrace sustainability. Green Valley Inn runs on solar power, uses rainwater harvesting, and eliminates single-use plastics. Guest rooms feature refillable toiletry dispensers and organic cotton linens. The hotel partners with the New Jersey Conservation Alliance to host volunteer clean-up days and tree planting events. Guests can earn rewards for eco-friendly choices, making it a top pick for environmentally conscious travelers.

Vernon is ideal for travelers seeking peace, nature, and authenticity—perfect for families, photographers, retirees, and off-the-beaten-path adventurers. Whether kayaking on Lake Vernon, hiking through fall foliage, or simply unwinding in a countryside retreat, visitors enjoy a slower pace of life. Its proximity to New York City makes it a convenient escape for urban dwellers craving quiet, green spaces and rich local culture.