Unplugging in the Garden State: Discovering Hidden Picnic Gems to Chill and Decompress

In the bustling state of New Jersey, known for its vibrant metropolitan areas and rich cultural heritage, one may find solace in unexpected corners. Away from the hustle and bustle, there are tranquil picnic spots that offer a unique blend of nature's beauty and authentic local culture. So grab your wicker basket, pack some delicious treats, and prepare to unwind as we explore some of the best places to unplug, decompress, relax or simply put it in modern terms chill.

Our journey begins with a small but enchanting spot nestled amidst sprawling greens - Van Vleck House & Gardens (21 Van Vleck Street Montclair). This historic estate transports you back in time with its magnificent gardens adorned with blooming flowers. Find respite under shady trees while savoring your favorite snacks. As you recline on soft grass beneath clear skies, let F. Scott Fitzgerald's words from The Great Gatsby whisper through your mind: "The city seen from the Queensboro Bridge is always the city seen for the first time."

Moving along our path towards tranquility takes us eastward to Island Beach State Park (Route 35 South Seaside Park). Here lies an oasis where sand meets sea; this natural barrier island provides plenty of space to stretch out and breathe in fresh ocean air as seagulls dance overhead. Close your eyes for a moment and imagine yourself immersed within John McPhee's lyrical prose found in his book The Pine Barrens: "Beneath me was Death Valley... Its color ranged across terra-cotta shades into dark chocolate; all at once it was going away like water down a drain."

Next on our list is Grounds For Sculpture (80 Sculptors Way Hamilton Township), an extraordinary outdoor museum where art merges seamlessly with nature. Wander among the sculptures, each one telling a story through its unique form. Find a shady nook near your favorite creation and let yourself be transported to the world of Walt Whitman's Leaves of Grass: "I hear America singing... Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe and strong."

Our journey continues northwest towards Prallsville Mills (33 Risler Street Stockton), nestled along the banks of Delaware River. This historic complex showcases beautifully restored mills that stand as a testament to New Jersey's pioneering spirit. Spread your blanket on its picturesque grounds and take in the view while savoring local delicacies. As you admire the rushing waters, let Richard Ford's words from his novel Independence Day envelop your thoughts: "In those days we lived in an almost perpetual state of irony; now I ask myself what was ironic about all that?"

Finally, our quest for peaceful picnic spots takes us southward to Cape May Point State Park (215 Lighthouse Avenue Cape May Point). Here, where land meets sea at New Jersey's southern tip, lies a serene sanctuary teeming with wildlife. Enjoy awe-inspiring views from atop the lighthouse or lay back beneath swaying beach grasses just like Tom Robbins once said in Still Life with Woodpecker: "Anything can make me stop and look and wonder..."

As our journey comes to an end and we prepare to bid farewell to these hidden gems, remember that picnicking is not just about food but also about immersing ourselves fully into nature’s embrace. So go forth adventurous wanderer! Seek out these corners of New Jersey - places both small and unusual - where you can unplug, decompress, relax or simply put it in modern terms chill.

Websites:

- Van Vleck House & Gardens: www.vanvleck.org

- Island Beach State Park: www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests

- Grounds For Sculpture: www.groundsforsculpture.org

- Prallsville Mills: www.prallsvillemills.org

- Cape May Point State Park: www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests

Twitter Handles:

- Van Vleck House & Gardens: @VanVleckGardens

- Island Beach State Park: @IslandBeachNJSP

- Grounds For Sculpture: @GroundsForSculp

- Prallsville Mills: @PrallsvilleMills

- Cape May Point State Park: @CapeMayPointSP