garden state excursions

Garden State Adventures

Escape the Hustle Enter the Garden State

Get Into Your Backyard…

Kayak Adventures

Historic hikes, fishing excursions.

4 hrs, $99/person

Hope floats.

Discover a healing journey like no other during our 3-hour group kayak expedition, thoughtfully designed for individuals overcoming substance abuse, mental health hurdles, and workaholic tendencies. 

Allow the winding waters of the Raritan to wash away the traumas and wounds of the past and guide you towards a path of recovery, community, and newfound Hope.

4 hrs, $45/person

Guided nature hike & lunch.

Landsdown Trail and Meadow Hike about 4 miles, easy pace.The trail passes among open fields, woodlands, and wetlands. The trail follows part of an old rail corridor once used as a spur for the Lehigh Valley Railroad, which was built in 1881. Children 8 years and older are welcome.

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Bus Tours: (732) 689-2251

[email protected]

5 Meadowlark Ct,

Jackson Township, NJ 08527

Faith Reese, owner and tour escort is an active member of the ABA American Bus Association, CPR and First Aid Certified, and holds a B.S. degree in Recreation and Program Planning from The University of Maryland. Past and current clients include Ocean County College, Georgian Court University, Johnson & Johnson, AT&T, private Senior Communities, Jackson Community School...

What You Can Expect

• Each tour includes a Professional Tour Escort on the bus the entire time AND Professional Driver ...and often a step-on guide at destinations
• Water and Snacks are provided on each trip
• Stops are made on long trips for bathroom breaks
• Games and prizes are enjoyed on each trip.
• Tips are always included!
• Reserved seats so you don't have to worry about sitting with your friends and family. Make the request and we will make it happen. 
• Both the Bus Company AND Garden State Getaways, LLC is FULLY INSURED. 
• (We can provide a Certificate of Insurance to any community or group if needed)

Policy and Procedures

• We gladly refund money with notice of at least 30 days, 60 days for multi day tours. 
• No refunds on ticketed events.
• Travel insurance is encouraged especially for multi day tours. Call 1.855.358.6433 for details. 
• Less than 30 days prior to trip, no refunds, however, if we have a wait list we can substitute for you.
• Always check itinerary (sent one week prior to trip) for any changes including departure times. Please note times and itinerary are approximate and subject to change. 
• Please advise, in advance, of any disabilities, concerns or special needs.
• Some tours may require walking. Please call if this is a concern.
• Seats may be assigned according to order of registration if we have a full bus. 
• All trips run rain or shine. Please call if you are unable to attend last minute.
• Photographs may be taken on tour and may be posted on social media and/or website. 

New departure locations added!

Please check departure choices for each trip.

• Target, 570 Rt 70, Brick NJ Park in the rear of the building, bordering Cedarbridge Ave. 
• Garden State Parkway Exit 98 PARK AND RIDE, Wall
• Garden State Parkway Forked River Rest Area Park and Ride (near exit 76) 
• Jackson Church, 68 Bennetts Mills Rd, (select trips and overnights )

Responsibility Statement: Garden State Getaways, LLC, Jackson, NJ, is not liable or responsible for faults of vendors or persons providing services to carry out tour services. Garden State Getaways, LLC is not responsible for loss of personal items or substitutions of hotels, events or attractions as necessary, for any reason such as terrorism, weather, traffic, acts of God, strikes, nature or issues beyond the control of Garden State Getaways, LLC. Garden State Getaways, LLC is not responsible for any parking issues, items left behind or changes in itinerary as needed for the comfort, convenience and safety of the passengers.

I understand that the payment of a booking fee to Garden State Getaways, LLC assumes I have read these conditions and release and discharge Garden State Getaways, LLC, its agents and employees from and against any and all liability arising from my participation in the trip I am participating in.

Meet Our Tour Directors

We make travel affordable. 

At Garden State Getaways, LLC we offer our trips at affordable prices. Our trips come complete with meals, accommodations and transportation so you save money. 

(732) 689-2251

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Best things to do in the Garden State

New Jersey is one of those states that people often overlook; however, the garden state has some delightful sights to see. If you’ve never set foot in New Jersey, consider visiting some of these top attractions.

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Come here to see New Jersey’s second tallest lighthouse . Built in 1834, it stood at only 40 feet high and proved insufficient for mariners coming into the bay. General George Meade redesigned Barnegat Lighthouse, which began operating on January 1, 1859. There are over 200 steps to reach the top of the tower. Soak in the panoramic view of Long Beach Island and Barnegat Bay during your visit and learn about this historic lighthouse. 

The lighthouse is open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day; however, the state park welcomes visitors year-round. People often come for birding, picnicking, hiking, and fishing. The spring and fall are the optimal seasons to view migratory birds that stop here to nest. If you want to go fishing, expect to catch some of these species: striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, flounder, and black sea bass. There is also a maritime forest with a 0.2-mile loop trail for guests that enjoy hiking. 

Explore a beautiful landscape along 18-miles of paved walking trails. This natural wonder is perfect for a family outing. There is much to see, including barns, woodlands, lagoons, and statues. Admission is free, and the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on sunny days, so arrive as early as possible. If you want to stop for a bite to eat, head to the cafe, which created a farm-to-table menu featuring local ingredients produced on the farm.

Grounds for Sculpture

Spend time at the manicured gardens and view the unique sculptures on display at this intriguing attraction. This picturesque place is located in the heart of Hamilton, New Jersey, and has been open since 1992. It is open every day except Tuesday and Wednesday and is situated on over 40 acres of land. Featuring hundreds of sculptures and exceptional outdoor gardens, everyone can enjoy a trip to New Jersey’s Grounds for Sculpture.

Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Whether you want to relax on the beach or get your energy out at an amusement park, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has it all. Located in Point Pleasant Beach, this attraction will not disappoint. Even young children can hop on several rides such as the carousel, boat ride, swings, and dizzy dragon. There is also an aquarium, mini-golf course, ropes course, and arcade center along the boardwalk. This coastal theme park is your ticket to summer fun.

Howell Living History Farm

Visit a year-round farm that shows what farm life was like in the early 20th century. Be prepared to help out around the farm during your visit. This place is an interactive attraction highlighting the history of rural America. The best day of the week to visit is Saturdays; however, they are open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission to this living history farm is free, and the experience is something you’ll never forget. Be sure to stop by if you’re traveling near Lambertville, New Jersey.

Liberty State Park

This scenic state park offers views of the Manhattan skyline. Points of interest within the state park include the Central Railroad Terminal, Nature Center, and the Richard Sullivan Natural Area. Many visitors like to walk along the 2-mile promenade situated next to the Hudson River too. If you’ve worked up an appetite, you can bring your own food and eat at one of their many picnic tables for a while. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are in the distance, so take pictures and soak in the epic view.

Monmouth Park

Monmouth Park has been around since 1870; however, for over 50 years, the state banned people from betting on horse races. Thankfully, it survived those years and is up and running once more. Located in Oceanport off of State Route 36, weekend races begin at 12:15 pm. They also host festivals throughout the year and often provide family-friendly activities such as pony rides, bounce houses, and face painting. Make it an all-day affair and eat at one of their restaurants, bars, or grills while you’re here.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

Paterson is known as the birthplace of America’s Industrial Revolution. By the early 1900s, it was dubbed “Silk City” due to the high silk production in many of its factories. The waterfall within the park used to power the mills. Today, it stands as a natural feature for all to enjoy. The outdoor areas of the park are open to the public year-round. Check out the waterfall from either Overlook Park or Mary Ellen Kramer Park. Guided tours are available but must be requested at least two weeks in advance. 

Turtle Back Zoo

Located in West Orange, children and adults will enjoy spending time in this fantastic zoo . Along with typical wildlife found in most zoos, you will also find a butterfly pavilion, aquarium, touch tank, petting zoo, and sea turtle recovery center here. Be sure to stop by all the outdoor exhibits featuring different Asian, Australian, South American, and native North American animals. There are over 200 wildlife species to see, so start in the morning to make the most of your visit. 

USS New Jersey Memorial

A self-guided tour of this Navy battleship will be worth your while if you’re in Camden. History comes alive when you visit the USS New Jersey , the nation’s largest battleship ever built. Visitors can see the Bridge, communications room, the big 16” guns, and more. Several guided group tours are also available upon request. First commissioned for WWll, this battleship was also involved in the Korean and Vietnam wars. It is a treasured military ship that has been open for public tours since 2001.

We hope you enjoy your time in the garden state. New Jersey has lots of things to see and do. It is right in between other notable nearby cities such as New York and Philadelphia, making it ideal to stop here during a road trip through the northeastern United States.

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Garden State Gardens

A Consortium of New Jersey’s Public Gardens

seeks to increase the public’s awareness of and appreciation for the beauty and horticultural, educational, artistic and historic value of New Jersey’s public gardens. This is to be accomplished through the collaboration of allied public garden professionals as they work to promote public garden visitation, development, stewardship and support.

New Jersey Legislature Recognizes Public Gardens and Arboreta

Creating a New Jersey Public Garden and Arboretum Day

Read about the History of Garden State Gardens Consortium  here . Click  here  for a pdf of a map showing the location of our member gardens.

We are excited to unveil our new  Garden State Gardens Consortium Passport to our gardens! The passport is available in paper form at some member gardens. Fulfill the passport requirements at all the member gardens using either the paper passport or download the web version and then email us for a prize (see instructions in passport)! Help us publicize the passport by posting or distributing this  GSG passport flyer , which has a copy of the passport available via a QR code.

Looking for plants for your 2024 gardens? Check out our member gardens’ online and in-person 2024 plant sales !

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Garden State Gardens is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

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FARM TO TABLE TOURS !

(start & end hopewell, nj), tours can be customized to your needs.

Easy  10-15 miles

Ride through organic farm heaven including the oldest organic farm in the Garden State - Honeybrook Organic Farm .

See the farm animals, learn the history and "Know Your Farmer" at the grass fed only  Beechtree Farm.

Enjoy the views and horses at John Hart Farm and the beautiful gardens of Blue Moon Acres .

Organic salads, buddah bowls, hamburgers, pizza, philly steak, produce and more with a refreshing visit at the farm-to-table Brick Farm Market !

Free farm to table meal!

Always great photo opps!

4+ farm visits

Can customize for more flat

Plan for 3 - 4 hours total

$110 per Rider*

*Save $40 with 4 riders!

Save $100 with 5 riders!

Save $180 with 6 or more riders!

2 rider minimum.

Select the day and time when you book.

Medium 20-30 miles

Beechtree farm has grass fed, open range beef, goats, horses and more. It boasts a farm house from as early as 1800 AD.

Discounted local ice cream, bread, produce and more with a visit to  Blue Moon Acres Farm.

2+ farm visits

For a basic level of fitness; some hills

Challenging 30-40 miles

Photographers, history buffs, you won't want to miss the scenic roads that lead us through the most stunning views of our European escape.

Only the strong will get a chance to see the last remaining covered bridge in New Jersey, enjoying the beautiful  Fulper Farms , one of the few dairy farms remaining in the state.

Best views in the state!

3+ farm visits

For advanced cyclists; hilly

Plan for 4 - 5 hours total

or Give any tour as a gift

Giving Gift Cards is EASY!

You can give a gift of any amount towards any of our bicycle tours. Not sure what tour your giftee would prefer? No problem... when you give a bike tour as a gift, it is applied as a credit towards any of our tours.

Important Tour Notes

Our private tours are safe , at your pace , and fit your schedule . With new e-bikes, we can accommodate everyone!

Bring your bike or we can set up a rental for you. Liquids, extra tubes/repair kits, and cash is always good.

Bike rentals are available at local bike shops. Please contact us for more information.

All tours can be  customized  with local expert guides fitting your fitness level and interests.

Minimum of 2 people for each booking .

Any bike will do , as long as it's in good working condition.

Tours are on paved roads, except Paths & Pastries, which is on a gravel path.

Meet the Farmers! Taste the Organic Food! Learn the Fun Insider Tips from Local Expert Guides!

Road bike through New Jersey farms and Sourland Mountain. Fun, fresh, fitness, food. Perfect weekend get away.

The best places to visit, the best things to do in New Jersey are found on bike tours!

New Features!

You can now save favorite things to do and places to visit, build your own trip itineraries and have everything you love about the Garden State — all in one place — with a MY VISITNJ page.

As you navigate through the site, click on the little “heart” icons to save Favorites, or click the “map” icons to save items to your trip itinerary.

At any point you can view your Favorites or manage your Itineraries by clicking “Account” in the header to return to your dashboard.

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This Summer, Venture Beyond the Shore and Experience The Garden State

TRENTON, NEW JERSEY (July 11, 2023) – New Jersey is known for its shimmering beaches and seaside getaways, “Down the Shore.” This summer season, residents and visitors to the Garden State can experience an array of activities that are available across all of New Jersey’s diverse regions. 

With outdoor activities, historic sites, a vast wine region and much more, travelers have much to explore beyond the Jersey Shore.

National Parks and Trails New Jersey is called the Garden State for a reason. Stunning and serene green space can be found throughout the state and are excellent getaways to discover nature. The National Park Service has protected several spaces in the state to preserve their beauty, biodiversity and history. Check out Paterson Great Falls to hike alongside rolling waterfalls, where America's first planned industrial city was centered on. From here, humble mills created industries that changed the face of the United States. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area provides a unique opportunity to experience tranquil landscapes, rich human history, and striking scenery along 40 miles of the longest free-flowing river east of the Mississippi. Explore one-million acres of farms, forests and wetlands in the New Jersey Pinelands , the country’s first national reserve. Union Transportation Trail is a calm and scenic 9-mile gravel pathway, dotted by fields, forests, and a historic wooden trestle bridge over Lahaway Creek with an overall feeling of quaint rural tranquility.

Historical Sites and Museums  As the third official state in the country, New Jersey is home to historical sites from the nation’s earliest days and beyond. The Historic Village at Allaire was once an iron-producing, factory-town and now is an interactive museum where visitors can experience history directly through hands-on activities and discover the experiences of the economic and social changes of those who experienced early Industrial America. Washington Crossing State Park is the site of General George Washington’s historic 1776 Christmas night crossing of the icy Delaware River. Visitors can explore the site where for almost ten hours, boats and ferries moved continuously back and forth carrying men, horses and cannon to the Jersey side. Liberty Science Center  in Jersey City lets families explore the universe at the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium, the biggest planetarium in America, or visit “weird, naked” mole rats, tiny cotton-top monkeys, schools of piranhas, massive fish and hundreds of other intriguing animals.

Entertainment and Theater New Jersey has a variety of theaters across the state, offering world class entertainment, in beautiful and often historic venues. Count Basie Theater in Red Bank is a 1,568-seat historic theater that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in America. Everyone from Tony Bennett to Bruce Springsteen to Ringo Starr and William J. “Count” Basie have performed on its historic stage. The New Jersey Performing Arts Center is the anchor cultural institution for the city of Newark, as well as the state of New Jersey, and it has an impressive lineup of musical acts, theater productions, comedians and many more arriving this year. All of the hottest tours of the season are sure to stop at MetLife Stadium this year, including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, BlackPink, Bruce Springsteen and Metallica. 

Fine Dining and Wineries New Jersey boasts some of the best culinary offerings in the country, and with an up-and-coming wine region, the state is the perfect place for a gastronomic getaway. With over 50 wineries, the Garden State has established an international award-winning status with its unique vintages and offers several scenic backdrops to enjoy vino with friends and family. Renault Winery is the oldest continuously operating winery in the state with a rich history, and Hawk Haven Vineyard’s selection features a signature series, which often have fruity notes of melon, grapefruit, or even black cherry. New Jersey natives are proud of the wide variety of world-class culinary offerings, such as Italian options like Augustino’s in Hoboken and Bareli’s in Secaucus , or hot outdoor dining at Haven in Edgewater and Mediterra in Princeton. Enjoy modern Indian at Aarzu in Freehold and Café Panache in Ramsey for elevated American dining. If you are looking for a bit of everything, Hoboken’s main thoroughfare, Washington Avenue, is lined with an exciting array of eateries and drinking spots that you’ll want to check out. Pop into  East LA  for authentic Mexican fare or pull up a chair at  Amanda’s  for American classics with an upscale spin.

Retail Shopping   New Jersey is known for having some of the best shopping in the country, and with its impressive newest addition, it’s easy to see why. The brand-new American Dream Mall redefines what it means to be a shopping mall. The tremendous facility has an indoor theme park, water park, ski slope and high-end luxury stores. Check out Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, the largest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere or Big SNOW, the first of its kind in North America, which is the only indoor real-snow park on the continent. There are also several premium malls throughout New Jersey, such as the Freehold Raceway Mall , Woodbridge Center, and Willowbrook Mall . For those travelers who love a good deal, don’t miss the The Mills at Jersey Gardens . New Jersey is also filled with towns with quaint shopping districts in their downtown areas, like Princeton, Red Bank, Morristown and Montclair. 

For more information on New Jersey’s upcoming events, please visit www.vistnj.org .

About New Jersey  

New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers and residents can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax free shopping, historic sites, museums and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers a picturesque escape and dynamic opportunities for visitors from near and far. For more information, visit www.visitnj.org . 

Media Contacts:   

N.J. Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism  Emel Crawford  Tel: 609.292.7138 Email: [email protected]  

Lou Hammond Group  Victoria Polansky / Brigid Garrett Tel: 212-891-0238 | 212-891-0213 Email: [email protected] | [email protected]  

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courtesy Cape May Co. Dept. Of Tourism

Plan a Garden State Getaway to New Jersey

There are nearly 9 million people in new jersey. but for travelers, the garden state offers a remarkable variety of ways to escape the crowd..

There has never been a better time for groups to travel off the beaten path. New Jersey is known for its closeness to major metro areas, but its mountains, beaches and farmland make great settings for socially distant group adventures.

If you have groups going to the mid-Atlantic, plan some time in northern, central or southern New Jersey to experience art, history, luxury and outdoor fun.

First Resorts

Northern New Jersey is dominated on its eastern side by proximity to New York City. Metro-area cities such as Newark and East Rutherford are in this part of the state, as are New York landmarks such as MetLife Stadium. But an hour’s drive west takes travelers into beautiful mountainous terrain where they’ll find first-class resorts and a variety of unique attractions.

In Vernon, the Mountain Creek Resort is an outdoor lovers paradise. Comprising more than 1,000 acres spread between four mountain peaks, the resort is a popular ski destination. But guests come during all four seasons to enjoy golf, mountain biking and a treetop aerial course. Groups can take advantage of mountainside accommodations and an on-site restaurant at the resort.

Just five miles away in Hamburg, the Crystal Springs Resort focuses on luxurious experiences for guests. Billing itself as a “golf, spa and culinary resort,” Crystal Springs features six golf courses, two spas and 11 restaurants, cafes and pubs. Groups can choose to stay overnight in the resort’s rustic lodge or in its elegant hotel, and special packages with culinary experiences and other activities are available.

Groups traveling in the area should plan to stop at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, a former iron and zinc mine that closed in the 1980s. Mine tours showcase the tools and technology miners used to extract materials, and the on-site museum features a collection of beautiful, fascinating luminescent minerals.

On the western edge of the state, the Lakota Wolf Preserve in Colombia is a sanctuary for endangered wolves, as well as foxes, bobcats and lynx. Groups can take a tour of the preserve to see these beautiful animals up close and learn more about them from the private couple that founded the organization.

In central New Jersey, travelers will find a mix of historic institutions, fine art and peaceful farmland.

Perhaps the best-known city in the area is Princeton, home to the famous Ivy League school of the same name. Princeton University is scenic and historic, and walking tours highlight many of its unique buildings. The university’s on-site art museum has a collection of 92,000 works to explore.

Beyond the campus, groups visiting Princeton can learn more about area history at one of its Revolutionary War sites. More Revolutionary War battles were fought in New Jersey than in any other state, and a walking tour on one of the battlefields offers a great way to explore the outdoors and appreciate the region’s heroic legacy.

Also in Princeton, Terhune Orchards has become a popular agritourism stop for groups. The 200-acre family farm grows more than 35 varieties of fruits and vegetables. It features a farm market, a bakery, a cider plant, greenhouses, gardens and a farm trail. Groups can get guided tours of the orchard or arrange a tasting in the 150-year-old barn at the on-site winery.

Groups shouldn’t leave central New Jersey without stopping at Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton. About 10 miles from Princeton, this institution is a 42-acre public sculpture park founded in 1992 on the site of the former New Jersey State Fairgrounds. Visitors will find a collection of more than 270 sculptures by both well-known and up-and-coming artists. An indoor museum features seasonal exhibits in eight galleries.

Sculpture isn’t the only thing on display at this park, though. The grounds also feature an arboretum with paved terraces, pergolas and courtyards, as well as natural woodlands, ponds and groves of bamboo.

Shore Thing

With miles of coastline and a legacy of amusement, southern New Jersey has always had a reputation for fun. A short drive from both New York and Philadelphia, the area has long attracted city dwellers that want to get away from the crowds. Today, groups can enjoy the region’s delights with numerous outdoor and out-of-the-way experiences.

You may know Atlantic City as the gaming mecca of the East Coast — the city features nine casino resorts that rival any in Las Vegas. But it was the sand and sea that first brought visitors to the area, and today’s travelers can get a taste of this timeless appeal on the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

Construction of the boardwalk began in 1870. Today, it stretches four miles and is 60 feet wide at its broadest point. Visitors can stroll the boardwalk for views of the surf as well as the city that has been built alongside it. Many enjoy spending time at the Steel Pier, the boardwalk’s classic amusement area with its giant Ferris wheels and lots of other fun and games.

Another great area for groups to explore is Gardner’s Basin. A few blocks away from the high-wattage coastline, the basin is home to the city’s fishing fleets, and visitors can hop on a local vessel for charter fishing, as well as dolphin watching and sightseeing cruises.

An up-and-coming area worth visiting is the Orange Loop on Tennessee Avenue. This hip neighborhood features a beer hall, a chocolate bar and an outdoor restaurant based out of a food truck.

About 40 miles away from Atlantic City, Cape May sits at the southernmost point of New Jersey and has gained notoriety for its historic architecture. After taking a sightseeing tour in the area, many groups also spend time visiting one of the stops on the Cape May Wine Trail. There are six wineries in Cape May County, some of which were built on land that was once used for other agricultural products.

Enthusiasts and casual wine drinkers alike will enjoy the variety of wines produced in Cape May, which is at approximately the same latitude as Bordeaux, France. Among the most special varieties is Malvasia, a light white wine that originated in the Mediterranean but also grows well in South Jersey.

visitnj.org

Brian Jewell

Brian Jewell is the executive editor of The Group Travel Leader. In more than a decade of travel journalism he has visited 48 states and 25 foreign countries.

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9 Beautiful Gardens To Visit In The Garden State

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Ever wonder why New Jersey is called the Garden State? Well, it is full of gardens. There are 25 public gardens in New Jersey. Beyond that, nature and flower lovers will find even more to see and do from the northern Delaware Water Gap and the Pine Barrens to the Cranberry Bogs and Cape May to the south.

Travel the state and you’ll find small and large public gardens that will take your breath away and calm you down with their tranquility. From daffodils to tulips to blossoming cherry trees, you’re sure to find a garden that will delight you.

It is hard to select favorites among the 25 public gardens in New Jersey . We managed to narrow it down to our nine favorite gardens in the Garden State .

1. Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Listed on the National and State Register of Historic Places, the lovely Reeves-Reed Arboretum , previously a country estate, is a beautiful and intimate garden of just over 13 acres. The child-friendly gardens are great for walking, bird watching, viewing the flowers, and enjoying the sculptures.

If you love daffodils, Reeves-Reed is the place to be in early April when 50,000 daffodils bloom in the Daffodil Bowl. In the height of the bloom, it is quite a sight. It was planted in as a response to 9/11.

You can take a self-guided tour at Reeves-Reed (pick up a map at the visitor center kiosk) or sign up for the 30-minute free guided tours on most Saturdays from April to October.

Pro Tips: Check the website before to find out what is currently blooming and to make sure it is not closed for a private event. Reeves-Reed has paved pathways, making it generally accessible (no wheelchairs are provided) and the small parking lot has limited accessible parking spots.

2. Laurelwood Arboretum

One of our favorite gardens, Laurelwood has peaceful paths, tons of flowering plants and trees, and outdoor sculptures. A sensory garden greets you at the entrance of the 30-acre garden. Nearby is a small wetlands garden. Follow the gravel paths to see the many different hybrids of rhododendrons and azaleas. Lilacs bloom in May on the aptly named Lilac Walk. Sculptures dot the trails and complement the flowering shrubs and trees.

Pro Tips: Much of the trail is gravel so accessibility can be an issue. The parking lot is small. There are many maps that show self-guided tours, including exotic trees, lilacs, and wetlands.

3. Presby Memorial Iris Gardens

The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens is our go to place for… irises! We love irises and Presby has a very impressive collection. Imagine 100,000 blooms, 10,000 irises, and 1,500 varieties in a small 6-acre area. It is a rainbow of colors. You’ll see types of irises that you’ve never dreamed of.

Presby is only open a few weeks of the year when the irises are blooming, generally mid-May to early June. As a result, it can get crowded, especially on the weekends during peak bloom.

Pro Tips: Check the website for the peak bloom. The gift shop has Iris-related gifts and mementos.

4. Leonard J. Buck Garden

Far hills, somerset county.

The Leonard J. Buck Garden is an exquisitely landscaped 33-acre wooded garden with surprises at every turn. We love how the rocky outcrops are embedded with rare and exotic garden plants. In the spring, the contrast between pastel colors and the rocks is striking. Paths lined with wildflowers and the scenic landscaping around the pond make this garden a lovely experience. Although there are steps, the garden is accessible on paved paths.

Pro Tips: The main parking lot is small, you can also park at the lower lot if the main lot is full. Public toilets are available in the visitor center.

5. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum

Spread over 124 acres, The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is part of the Morris County Park Commission. The arboretum is huge with forests, woodlands, meadows, trees, flowers, and gardens. You’ll want to bring your hiking shoes for the trails.

Frelinghuysen is the place for tulip lovers with 150 varieties and more than 3,000 tulips. The lovely beds of tulips can be found around the Colonial Revival mansion dating back to 1892.

Pack a picnic lunch or take a moment to relax in the Adirondack chairs dotting the great lawn. 

Pro Tips: There are no public restrooms currently. Porta Johns are available in the parking lot. Download a digital map before heading out. Use the cell phone guided tour for information on the gardens.

6. Willowwood Arboretum And Bamboo Brook Garden

Far hills, chester township.

Among the most peaceful gardens in New Jersey, Willowwood Arboretum and Bamboo Brook Garden are located side by side. You can only see a small slice during a day trip as Willowwood spans 136 acres and Bamboo Brook is 687 acres. One of the most relaxing places in all of New Jersey, the gardens have rolling fields, hiking trails, woods, and 3,500 varieties of native and exotic plants.

At Willowwood, we love visiting Pan’s Garden and meandering along the brook behind it. In the early spring, you’ll find daffodils dotted around the property. You can also see the landscaped circular pool, east lawn, and terrace at Bamboo Brook.

Pro Tips: The buildings are still closed to the public but there are Porta Johns. Download the digital map and use the cell phone tour for a self-guided tour.

7. Branch Brook Park

Every year, we go to see the cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park in Newark. There are 5,200 cherry trees in the park, more than the 3,800 trees in Washington, D.C. The most scenic walk is along the Passiac River with the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in the background.

Most people drive to the park and then walk along the river. There is a cherry blossom festival in Branch Brook every year with activities for young and old.

Pro Tips: Check the website for peak bloom and for the dates of the festival. It’s an easy ride from New York City (take the PATH and then a taxi or car service). We recommend going to the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart while you are in the area. It is the fifth largest cathedral in North America.

8. Grounds For Sculpture

The Grounds for Sculpture is most known for its sculptures that dot the landscape, but many people visit to enjoy the wonderfully manicured landscape and gardens. The 42 acres are full of wildflowers, landscaped ponds, exotic trees, and much more. The paths are easy to walk and there are many places to sit and admire the view.

Pro Tips: There is a lovely cafe and a restaurant at the Grounds for Scultpure (reservations are required). If you want to learn more about the Grounds for Sculpture, check out New Jersey’s Best Kept Secret: 12 Reasons To Visit Grounds For Sculpture .

9. Greenwood Gardens

Short hills .

Greenwood Gardens is a 28-acre oasis less than an hour drive from New York City. As with many of the other gardens, it was a former private estate. In the late spring, the Saucer and Star Magnolias are a must see. The walking paths will take you past beautiful fountains, grottoes, and gardens. Take a moment to admire the massive chestnut trees. Or, wander by the Garden of the Gods, a lovely location to see the panorama of the formal gardens. If you are lucky, you’ll see the turkeys that roam the grounds.

Pro Tips: Greenwood is only open from May to November, though there are occasional events during the rest of the year. There is an admission fee and it is advantageous to pre-register for visiting.

Visiting The New Jersey Gardens

Check out the Garden State Gardens website for a list of all 25 public gardens in New Jersey.

You can do several of these gardens in a day if you have a car. Branch Brook Park, Reeves-Reed Arboretum, and The Frelinghuysen Arboretum are all less than 15 miles from each other. If time permits, you can venture further west to Leonard J. Buck Gardens. The Presby Iris Garden in Montclair is about 6 miles north of Branch Brook Park.

Willowwood Arboretum and Bamboo Brook are very large, so you’ll need a whole day for each of them. You can combine a trip to Laurelwood Arboretum with the NJ Botanical Gardens. 

A trip to the Grounds for Sculpture could be combined with a number of gardens near Princeton of the Rutgers Garden in New Brunswick. 

• Most of these gardens have walking paths and are easily walkable. The larger gardens (Frelinghuysen, Willowwood, Bamboo Brook) have hiking trails and hiking shoes are useful if you plan to do a longer trek.
• These gardens do not have cafes, so bring a picnic or try a place to eat nearby.
• With the exception of Greenwood, these gardens do not have entry fees and parking is free.
• Most of the gardens have tours that you can access via your mobile phone. Keep your eyes out for the signs.

These are our top nine gardens in New Jersey. Although, you cannot go wrong with the others that we did not mention here. Spring, summer, and fall, you’ll always find something blooming in the Garden State.

If you now have the itch to indulge in more greenery, check out these amazing gardens all over the world:

• These Are My 9 Favorite Gardens To Visit Around The World
• Best Botanical Gardens In The U.S.
• 8 Incredible Botanical Gardens To Experience In The Midwest

Sue Davies and Regina Ang live in both the New York area and Singapore. Sue -- a native New Yorker -- and Regina -- a native Singaporean -- share their experiences at Travel for Life Now . Between them they've traveled to all seven continents (including Sue's dream trip to Antarctica) and more than 50 countries. They love Street Art, LGBTQ+ travel, Asia (especially Singapore), local food, and the search for local travel experiences around the world.

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Garden State Getaways, LLC is a friendly, family-owned tour company here in Ocean and Monmouth counties. Our Bus Tours provides you with everything you need for you, your friends, and your family to have a wonderful trip together!

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Close your eyes and think of Hawaii - Lush forests, waterfalls, black sand, Aloha... This awesome blend of adventure and luxury is the best of both worlds, in heavenly Maui.  This adventure starts with the epic drive "Road to Hana" and ends in legendary Wailea. Explore nature in Hana, stand on top of the world during sunrise on Haleakala and enjoy an exhilarating Luau and traditional Hawaiian feast. Your hotel options are plentiful, our fav being Four Seasons Maui.  - Ke aloha!

Fun for the Whole Fam!

5 Nights exploring America's frontier! Stay in the NPS Lodges, Ride Horses, Sights, Hikes, Kayak & Fish! There is so much to do and see as Yellowstone is one of many undiscovered gems in the great U S of A. This itinerary is fun for the whole family, does not require a bachelors in boys scout skills, and has a great mix of experiences for everyone!  This is one of many amazing domestic destinations GST can plan for your family - Cheers!

Nothing like a quick getaway

Need a refreshing getaway with your Bestie? Spouses, Roomies, and even Randos count!  There is nothing like a quick last minute getaway to paradise. This sample trip includes nonstop flights from Newark to the Caribbean and private transportation to and from your resort. There are hundreds of different resorts and we are experts at differentiating based on your style!  These trips are fun & relaxing, a true vacation! Remember, what happens in Jamaica - well you get the idea - Salud!

Amalfi, Tuscany, & Beyond

Italy is special to almost everybody, if not because of heritage than because of the history and gastronomy! This awesome 2 week honeymoon was developed to give a taste of the best of Italy. Roma, Positano, Florence, Tuscan Hills, and Venice - an active trip with unlimited activities to choose from and regional tastes to discover. From homemade pastas and fresh Mediterranean seafood to some of the worlds best vino; Saluti!  

Idyllic Aegean

Embark on an epic 2 week adventure to the epicenter of the Greek Isles. This trip was requested by honeymooners looking to dance the day and the night away! This good vibes only itinerary includes nonstop flights from New York to Athens, First Class Express Ferry Service, and stays in 2 Ultra luxury 5 Star Day club Resorts. This is surely an unforgettable experience in Greece - Ya mas!

Grandeur on the Final Frontier

An truly awesome family trip . Epic sights, Epic activities aboard, Epic Excursions, and EPIC Family Dinner every night! There is nothing like a family cruise to Alaska. This 1 week getaway is planned for a mid sized family coming from different locations. Coordinate in Seattle and ALL ABOARD! Connecting Cabins for Mom/Dad & kidos and Grandparents! Great Destination, Great Entertainment and Great Family  - Cheers!  

During our initial consultation we explore how you like to travel and better understand your vision.  Our highly trained travel experts will research and propose a custom itinerary just for you. We personally handle every detail of your trip and make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible. 

Your time is valuable, leave the tedious planning to the experts Every. Single. Aspect. Planned. Destination research, flights, accommodations, tours, and experiences are all tied up in a pretty bow and ready for you.

Contact  us now if ... +You’re busy and don’t have time to plan on your own  +You love the details but are overwhelmed by all of the options  +You want to go somewhere but yo u don’t know where to go +You are planning a trip that is simply too complex such as Multi-generational, Groups, Honeymoon, Reunion, etc.

Call or Text  (855)872-8770

We simplify complex travel planning so that you can see more of the world with less stress .  Planning trips can be stressful: paperwork, timetables, tickets, guides, reservations, staff, tipping, customs, transportation, electronics, border crossings. Let us do the work and provide you a simple way to manage the details. We provide all our travelers access to our Smart Itineraries on your phone or tablet! Your custom  itinerary is home to each and every detail of your travel information in an easy-to-use app. 

+ Comprehensive Custom Itinerary Design  + Multi-Destination Travel + Luxury Honeymoons + All Inclusive Resort Packages + Family Fun Cruising + Luxury Small Ship Cruising + European River Cruises + Flight Management including private Jets + Weddings and Reunions including in-destination meet and greet

*We work on a consultative basis to design trips customized to your each and every need. Our goal is to ensure you get the best value for your dollar but more importantly make the most of your most precious asset: TIME.

*Service fees do apply and will be communicated transparently upon consultation.

Throughout his 11 years in the travel industry, Adam has been recognized for his deep knowledge, caring stewardship, and relationships with the best hotels and operators in the world. 

Adam left his previous role as VP of a Senior Group Travel Agency to create his own firm with the goal of transforming desires into discerning itineraries and providing next level support before during and after your trip. Adam develops positive, respectful, and fun relationships with clients. "I believe strongly that your dream hotel exists at any budget."  Adam is the consultant you want in your corner.

Adam is married to his college sweetheart Katie. They live in Hamilton NJ with their two beautiful children and labradoodle! Prior to the kids (& Covid), Adam was an avid traveler, having visited hundreds of destinations domestic and international.  This photo was taken in Havana, Cuba in 2019!

Adam enjoys light jogs, the gym, spending time with family, hiking and cooking. He is a big "local" IPA guy but can appreciate a well paired Pinot Noir. 

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Summer Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

June 7, 2024, 6:00 pm – july 27, 2024, 8:00 pm.

Friday and Saturday evenings, June 7 – July 27. 6:00 to 9:00 pm (Last entry 8:00 pm) Tickets available online or at the door, subject to availability.

Visit this page to learn more and get your tickets today.

Want to keep up with all things Summer Nights ? Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , and TikTok !

This summer, join us during exclusive evening hours to explore the profound impact of recreation on prison life through engaging talks, family-friendly activities, and interactive experiences.

Discover the rich and captivating history of sports, the arts, and other team activities at Eastern State Penitentiary and their enduring societal legacy in prisons today. Grab a beer or a soft drink and relax outdoors in The Fair Chance Beer Garden , presented in partnership with Triple Bottom Brewing . 

Summer Nights takes place Friday and Saturday evenings from June 7 to July 27. Ticket prices vary:

-       Fridays - $23 online, $25 at the door -       Saturdays - $28 online, $30 at the door

Discounted rates  are available for groups of 15+. Visit this page to learn more and get your tickets today.

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DI softball super regionals resume

🥎 Re-ranking super regional teams

🏆 Stanford captures DI women's golf title

⚾️ Baseball bracket picks

NCAA.com | May 23, 2024

2024 ncaa dii men's golf championships: schedule, results.

The 2024 DII men's golf championship finals are here and run from May 21-25 in Winter Garden, Florida, at the Orange County National Golf Club. Oklahoma Christian has kept hold of the top spot on the leaderboard through Day 1 and 2.

The 2024 DII men's golf championships began with selections on Friday, April 26 released here on NCAA.com .  Regionals ran from May 9-11 and the finalists — 20 teams and 8 individuals — were announced via a press release . 

At the finals, all 20 teams and eight individuals will complete 54 holes of stroke play. Following 54 holes of stroke play, an individual champion will be declared along with finishers 2-10 based on cumulative total score and any applicable tiebreakers. The top eight teams after 54 holes of play will be placed into a bracket and seeded based on 54-hole scores. The pairings for the quarterfinals will be Seed #1 versus Seed #8, Seed #2 versus Seed #7, Seed #3 versus Seed #6 and Seed #4 versus Seed #5, competing in head-to-head medal play (stroke play over 18 holes and low score wins).

Below, you'll find the championship finalists, schedule, scores and history.

2024 DII men's golf championships schedule, results

*All times Eastern

Finals (May 21-May 25)

• See the finalists  | Follow live team results | Follow live individual results
• 1. West Florida - 838
• 2. Oklahoma Christian -839
• T3. Central Oklahoma -846
• T3. Coker University -846
• 5. North Georgia -851
• 6. Colorado Christian -852
• T7. Wingate University -853
• T7. West Texas A&M -853
• 1. Oklahoma Christian -552
• T2. West Florida -561
• T2. Colorado Christian -561
• 4. Central Oklahoma -563
• 5. West Texas A&M -566
• T1. Oklahoma Christian - 277
• T1. California Christian - 277
• T3. West Florida - 279
• T3. Grand Valley State - 279
• 5. Cal State Monterey Bay 280

Regional Selections

• Friday, April 26 |  Full selections release

Regionals (May 9-11)

• Team results | individual results

DII men's golf championship history 

The DII men's golf national championship dates back to 1963, skipping 2020 due to COVID-19, with the first-ever championship trophy going to Missouri State. 

Nova Southeastern took the 2023 national title after taking down Oklahoma Christian.

Below you can check out a list of all DII men's golf champions since 1963.

*54-hole tournament. **Fourth round rained out. ***Won title in playoff. ****Won title by tiebreaker rule. Match-play finals began in 2011 .

Methodist wins 2024 DIII men's golf championship

2024 DI men's golf championships participants announced

This week in DII sports: DII baseball championship predictions for Cary

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Kump Education Center set to host Garden Party, Pie Auction

Submitted photo Kump Education Center volunteers, from left, Debra Barsy, Laura Santmyer and Denise Hass carefully boxed up pies for last year’s KEC Pie Auction. This year’s major fundraising event will be held on June 8. The summertime Garden Party celebration will include children’s activities, Arboretum Walk, refreshments and free tours of the historic Kump House. All proceeds from the event support the KEC.

ELKINS — The Kump Education Center will host a Garden Party celebration and Pie Auction at the historic Kump House on Saturday, June 8.

The Garden Party will run from noon to 4 p.m. and will feature tours of the renowned house, which was built in 1925 and was home to West Virginia’s 19th governor, H.G. Kump. The Pie Auction has become a cherished tradition at the center and will get underway at 1 p.m.

“We are delighted to host this summer event that highlights not only all the beautification projects that have been taking place both on the exterior and interior of this historic home, but also features our wonderful local pie bakers,” said Kump Education Center director Heather Biola.

Those attending the party will have the opportunity to tour the Kump House and take in all of its craftsmanship, which was designed from locally sourced wood. The home is an excellent example of pre-war life in America and has one of the state’s most extensive collections of original furniture. There will be artwork from local artists reflecting the Garden Party theme inside the home during the event.

The Pie Auction, meanwhile, provides a significant source of funding for the Kump Education Center, which provides professional development for teachers, outdoor education opportunities and historic restoration guidance.

The event will also feature free activities that include kids games and the Arboretum Walk. Kump Center volunteers will be on hand throughout the day selling old-fashioned lemonade and sandwiches.

The Kump House has hosted many events over the past year and will continue to be a hub for activities in the future. Some of the previous events and activities include the Woodlands Lecture Series, presentations, tutoring, and summer camps. 

“This event marks the beginning of a year-long celebration of the Kump House Centennial,” said Biola. “We have been busy undertaking many beautification projects, thanks to the assistance of board members Debra Barsy and Laura Santmyer. New lights were installed to illuminate the home in the evening and the rose garden is getting loving care…The home is being rejuvenated as it enters its next century.”

Events like the upcoming Garden Party and Pie Auction helps provide financial support to the Kump Education Center. Funds raised goes a long way toward providing educational opportunities for the region,and assists in maintaining the historic site.

For more information call 304-637-7820 or visit kumpeducationcenter.org.

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Crash on Garden State Parkway injures 3 people, including 1 in serious condition

• Published: May. 20, 2024, 2:10 p.m.
• Jeff Goldman | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

A 32-year-old man driving a car was seriously injured while the passenger and driver in a pickup truck were left with minor injuries after the two vehicles collided on the Garden State Parkway on Sunday, officials said.

The crash took place just before 3:30 p.m. on the southbound side of the Parkway near milepost 83.8 in Toms River, State Police said.

After the collision, the car stuck the guard rail and the driver was thrown from the vehicle, police said. The driver, a Beachwood resident, was flown to an area hospital.

The crash remains under investigation.

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Original tenants reflect on 10 years in business on Anaheim Packing House’s anniversary

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When Nika Shoemaker-Machado opened Georgia’s at the Anaheim Packing House 10 years ago, she didn’t have any previous restaurant experience.

“When we first started out we had no preconceptions. We were new to the restaurant business.” said Shoemaker-Machado.

Georgia’s, a soul food concept serving fried catfish, red beans and rice and jambalaya based on family recipes, was an idea inspired by her mother’s delicious home cooking. Shoemaker-Machado, her husband, Marlon, and her mother, Gretchen, were working with the Small Business Development Center in Santa Ana when they found out about the opportunity to be apart of an innovative new two-story food hall in Anaheim.

“Our consultant actually had another client that ended up being our link into that. That client is Adya,” Shoemaker-Machado said.

Adya is an Indian street food restaurant from chef Shachi Mehra, and like Georgia’s, one of the Packing House’s original tenants.

Mehra and her husband Maneesh Rawat were looking to open a restaurant of their own when she reached out to the Camp in Costa Mesa. They didn’t have any openings, but they did tell her about a new property they were opening in Anaheim. The couple paid the Packing House a visit.

“They had the basic outline of it done, but sometimes when you walk into a space you just have a feeling, and it feels good,” said Mehra. “It felt right for us. The place felt special. ”

Over the next couple of weeks the Anaheim Packing House will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary, and Georgia’s and Adya will be among the merchants marking a decade in business.

The Anaheim Packing House opened on May 31, 2014, inside a former 1919 Anaheim Orange and Lemon Assn. Packing House. Nearly 5,000 people attended the food hall’s grand opening, and today the place remains busy, housing nearly 30 culinary artisans and hosting events like live music and monthly markets.

“These food halls have evolved into large places of gathering,” said Packing District owner Shaheen Sadeghi. “We love the fact that this is a completely international selection of culinary arts.”

In honor of the 10-year anniversary, the Packing House’s Dreamers Market will host a Citrus Carnival on May 31 from 5 to 9 p.m., with Valencia orange-themed vendors that honor the venue’s history, where the washing, grading and packing of Sunkist fruit took place. The festivities will continue on Saturday, June 1, with a classic car show from noon to 2 p.m. and live music performances from Big Butter Band and a rockabilly revue from Anaheim native Amber Foxx. Additionally, the Anaheim Historical Society will give guided historical tours from 2 to 4 p.m.

As a part of the celebration, Georgia’s will offer a two-piece chicken meal with a side for $10 on June 1 and will run a different $10 special for five days starting Monday, June 3.

Adya will host a special a four-course anniversary dinner priced at $125 per person on May 30, featuring a mix of new dishes and beloved choices that have appeared on the menu over the past years including watermelon chaat, a fan favorite made with fennel, lime and chaat masala and lobster curry. It’s the dish that cinched Mehra as the winner of the Food Network’s cooking competition show “Chopped” back in 2019.

“Everything on the menu has a story,” said Mehra.

Georgia’s and Adya are just two of the original merchants still open at the Packing House. The Blind Rabbit, Black Sheep GCB, Hammer Bar, Popbar, the Kroft, Chippy Fish & Grill, Hans’ Homemade Ice Cream and the Iron Press all opened back in 2014 and are still in business today.

Mehra and Shoemaker-Machado both admit that the last 10 years haven’t been without their challenges. Both businesses had to weather the storm that was the pandemic, for one thing.

“We had a complete standstill happen with COVID, we were just kind of frozen in time,” said Shoemaker-Machado. “We were the only business open inside the Packing House for many months.”

In 2022, Georgia’s received funds from the Restaurants Care Resilience Fund through the California Restaurant Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to California restaurants and their workforces.

As a chef with fine dining experience Mehra, said she had to learn when to wear her chef hat and when to wear her business-owner hat.

“Over the course of 10 years, I recognized that there is ‘chef brain’ and there is ‘owner brain,’ and sometimes they want different things,” said Mehra.

Despite the challenges, the two business owners said they are lucky to have found a home at the Packing House. Its close proximity to Disneyland means a constantly revolving door of tourists.

“We had a website in Australia publicizing our ribs, telling people from Australia that if they ever were to visit Disneyland, they had to come to us to have ribs,” said Shoemaker-Machado. “It was just mind-blowing.”

Mehra said it isn’t just the guests that have contributed to her success. The camaraderie among the other vendors within the Packing House has also been supportive.

“One of the things that really made it special in the very beginning was the community of people that was opening businesses there,” said Mehra. “It is nice to be in a building where if you run out of salad, you can go across the building and ask so-and-so if they have salad we can borrow. It’s like a little village.”

The success that Adya and Georgia’s have found at the Packing House has also allowed the women to grow their businesses. Georgia’s will open its second Orange County location at Irvine Spectrum this summer and Mehra launched her line of Spice Girl Sauces in 2021, first with a small batched original hot sauce, followed by a tomato chutney.

They both are happy they took the leap to open in Anaheim.

“I know at that time, it was a huge risk,” said Mehra. “It was a risk for everyone that went in because we didn’t know what was going to happen.”

Shoemaker-Machado said it is hard to believe they have made it this far.

“It is so surreal that here we are, with no restaurant experience and everything else, and still thriving to this day,” Shoemaker-Machado.

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Sarah Mosqueda covers Orange County food, art and culture for TimesOC. She most recently worked as a staff writer in Food for the Los Angeles Times. She also has several years of experience in the restaurant industry, including as a proprietor. Mosqueda earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Cal State Fullerton.

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WEATHER ALERT

3 warnings and an advisory in effect for 12 regions in the area

Garden oaks man overjoyed as power is restored at his home almost a week after storm.

Bill Barajas , Anchor / Reporter

HOUSTON – A Garden Oaks man literally lit up with excitement as his power was finally restored, six days after it initially went out.

Ziad Taha told KPRC 2 he like many struggled to stay cool at his home near the intersection of Sue Barnett Drive and West 38th Street as temperatures inside got up to 88 degrees.

The temperatures forced Taha to send his wife and children to a relative’s home, throw out the food in the fridge and freezer, all while he tried to find ways to stay cool.

• Q&A with Houston storm attorney on insurance claims after last week’s tornadoes, thunderstorms

“We were able to open up some windows, I have portable fans that we had around the house, candles at night of course but just opened the doors and windows and hoped for some good wind,” Taha said.

Taha said now what he looks forward to the most is having his loved ones return home and enjoying the cool air circulating through his home.

He’s also said he plans to be ready the next time there’s a similar disaster.

“We are going to definitely invest in some generators. Yea absolutely, we can’t let that happen again,” said Taha.

• Heat trend intensifies for Houston: Here’s how Memorial Day looks

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Bill barajas.

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Ranking NBA arenas from oldest to newest: Madison Square Garden to Chase Center

Which NBA arenas are the oldest? Which are the newest?

Take a look at each NBA team's current arena, ranked from oldest to newest, based on the season the team started playing there.

Sixteen current NBA arenas were constructed prior to the 1999-2000 season. The historic home of the New York Knicks, Madison Square Garden, is the oldest venue in the league.

The Knicks started playing there in the 1967-68 season.

Thirteen current NBA arenas started being used in the 2001-02 season or even more recently. The Golden State Warriors' Chase Center is the most recently constructed venue.

They started playing there in the 2019-20 season.

There are currently 29 NBA arenas for the 30 teams in the league with the Lakers and Clippers sharing Crypto.com Arena until the Clippers are scheduled to move into the Intuit Dome in the 2024-25 season.

More: Ranking NFL stadiums from oldest to newest: Soldier Field, Lambeau Field to SoFi Stadium

More: Ranking NHL arenas from oldest to newest: Madison Square Garden to Climate Pledge Arena

More: Ranking MLB stadiums from oldest to newest: Fenway Park, Wrigley Field to Globe Life Field

NBA arena rankings from oldest to newest

• 1. New York Knicks - Madison Square Garden: 1967-68
• 2. Minnesota Timberwolves - Target Center: 1990-91
• 3. Utah Jazz - Delta Center: 1991-92
• 4. Phoenix Suns - Footprint Center: 1992-93
• 5. Cleveland Cavaliers - Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse: 1994-95
• 5. Chicago Bulls - United Center: 1994-95
• 7. Portland Trail Blazers - Moda Center: 1995-96
• 8. Boston Celtics - TD Garden: 1995-96
• 9. Philadelphia 76ers - Wells Fargo Center: 1996-97
• 10. Washington Wizards - Capital One Arena: 1997-98
• 11. Toronto Raptors - Scotiabank Arena: 1998-99
• 12. Denver Nuggets - Ball Arena: 1999-2000
• 12. Los Angeles Clippers/Los Angeles Lakers - Crypto.com Arena: 1999-2000
• 12. Indiana Pacers - Gainbridge Fieldhouse: 1999-2000
• 12. Miami Heat - Kaseya Center: 1999-2000
• 12. Atlanta Hawks - State Farm Arena: 1999-2000
• 17. Dallas Mavericks - American Airlines Center: 2001-2002
• 18. San Antonio Spurs - Frost Bank Center: 2002-03
• 18. New Orleans Pelicans - Smoothie King Center: 2002-03
• 20. Houston Rockets - Toyota Center: 2003-04
• 21. Memphis Grizzlies - FedEx Forum: 2004-05
• 22. Charlotte Hornets - Spectrum Center: 2005-06
• 23. Oklahoma City Thunder - Paycom Center: 2008-09
• 24. Orlando Magic - Kia Center: 2010-11
• 25. Brooklyn Nets - Barclays Center: 2012-13
• 26. Sacramento Kings - Golden 1 Center: 2016-17
• 27. Detroit Pistons - Little Caesars Arena: 2017-18
• 28. Milwaukee Bucks - Fiserv Forum: 2018-19
• 29. Golden State Warriors - Chase Center: 2019-20

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Reach Jeremy Cluff at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter  @Jeremy_Cluff.

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Finding bliss at Naples Botanical Garden, anchor of Bayshore Drive

I have friends who’ve lived here for decades who’ve visited Naples Botanical Garden but once.

None of those friends have eaten at the Garden’s terrific Fogg Café, one of my top 10 restaurants in town.

This unofficial statistic doesn’t surprise the Garden’s Director of Community Relations Kara Laufer, who said: “When you've got something spectacular in your town, it's like ohh next weekend, next weekend, next. The next thing you know, a year’s passed.”

Led by President and CEO Donna McGinnis, it’s Bayshore Drive ’s anchor and most popular attraction, averaging 260,000 visitors annually.

Bliss among the blossoms

I try to visit each season for many reasons, including discovering something new, getting inspiration, seeking tranquility, and given my daily beat, eating.

Numerous studies, including a Jan. 2 article from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, confirm that spending time in nature benefits the body and soul.

The mind too: According to Heather Eliassen , professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the School, “spending time in nature has been linked to better mental health and a decreased risk of psychiatric disorders among adults and children.”

When the 170-acre Garden was created in 2009, construction and mindful design made it usable for those with physical challenges.

Now, it’s among the most accessible facilities for every demographic and generation.

But it wasn’t always that way.

Bayshore Drive: Meet the fabulous women making it Naples' coolest neighborhood

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A Garden for All

In 2017, the Garden polled its visitors and discovered it wasn’t as inclusive as they thought.

Laufer described the then-typical Garden goer as a “woman of a certain age, 50 to 65. It wasn't reflective of our community.”

That dilemma was addressed in 2019 with “Garden for All,” comprising several initiatives to broaden its appeal to the community, including:

• Signs, audio tours, and brochures are in English, Spanish, and Creole, reflecting the neighborhood's residents.
• Quiet hours, when equipment is shut so those disturbed by loud noises can revel in peace.
• Providing easy navigation and access for wheelchairs, which can be borrowed, and scooters that can be rented.
• Creating exhibits so everyone can bliss out with nature. Case in point: the sensory Buehler Enabling Garden, where plant beds are raised for touching and smelling botanicals.
• Supplementing free admission days and weeks with more affordable family memberships. Single-visit summer admission for Collier, Lee and Charlotte County residents from June 1 to Sept. 30 is $15 for adults and $5 for kids, which can still be too much for neighborhood residents.

If you’ve never visited or it’s been years, mark your calendar for November when tickets go on sale for Johnsonville Night Lights in The Garden, a month-long display that's the most magical way to spend an evening.

Where to find Naples Botanical Garden: 4820 Bayshore Drive, 239-643-7275; naplesgarden.org