Have relatives or friends coming in to town? Planning a staycation? Or are you maybe looking for something to do this weekend with your friends? Whatever your hankering is to get out of the house, you don’t have to look much further than something only a few minutes away. Though we all might dream of tropical getaways or ventures into the city, finding fun in your hometown is a humbling and rewarding experience. Here are a few ideas to keep yourself entertained while staying in the boundaries of Freehold Township.

10. Visit a farmer’s market.

New Jersey is home to multitudes of farms, meaning quick accessibility to a variety of fresh produce. While buying from a supermarket may seem more easy and fitting to do, supporting local farmers is the most effortless way to sustain your community, all the while providing you with fresh food. There are plenty of farmer’s markets and orchards to be found within the city limits, so don’t feel like you have to stray too far from home to find a great bargain.

9. 

   Go to a local concert.

Downtown Freehold consistently hosts artists and bands at outdoor concerts throughout the year. Music festivals and concerts often feature an abundance of bands of different genres (rock, jazz, blues, etc.) that display the rich culture of Freehold. Most outdoor concerts are free and take place in Downtown Freehold on East Main Street.

8. Shop at a local thrift shop.

Thrift shops are like community treasure chests. Often times brand and designer clothes are sold at thrift shops for cheap prices. On top of that, thrift shops open a new door for someone looking to change up their style. Heading out with friends to a thrift shop to hunt for hidden gems to add to your wardrobe can end up being a fantastic day trip, as well a new hobby for you. There are two thrift shops off of Throckmorton Street in Downtown Freehold.

7. Try out a restaurant you’ve never been to.

As locals, we’re pretty well-acquainted with the places we choose to go out to eat. While we tend to be regulars with usual orders, changing up what place you eat at can lead to a great discovery. Like thrift shops, changing up your routine can lead to the discovery of a new hangout. Instead of resorting to chain restaurants or fast food, trying out a place you never got the chance to try, or trying a completely different kind of food can turn out to be a great night.

6. Go to a high school sporting event.

Supporting our high school by attending sports events can be a true display of school spirit. On top of that, it’s a good way to get your adrenaline pumping as the Freehold Township sports teams put up a good fight across the board. While some aren’t necessarily sports people, you may end up surprised and impressed by the energetic performance of our players.

5. Browse through the public library. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed day, look no further than the Freehold Public Library. In this modern day, we often find it hard to settle down with- or even enjoy a book every once in a while. Plan your day around finding a book that you’re genuinely into, or even center your day around reading the entirety of one book in one sitting. Reading one good book can get you into the routine of reading books as a hobby, and starting by venturing out to the Freehold Public Library and treating yourself to a good book.

4. Go to the movie theatre.

While going to the movie theatre isn’t necessarily a unique thing to do, it’s still a classic way to get out of the house to experience something larger than life within the comfort of your hometown. Going to see a movie is an especially versatile way to spend your time as it has no risks in it – new, exciting movies are constantly rotating into the AMC theatres in Freehold.

3. Eat at a local diner. 

   

New Jersey is notorious for its plentiful amount of diners, and Township is no exception. Some more well-known than others, diners like the Park Nine Diner, All Seasons Diner, and Gus’s Diner are all examples of places to go that are relatively close to the center of downtown. Though no diner is the same, all of these diners are perfect places to hang out with friends. On top of that, and maybe most importantly, you have the opportunity to dine with friends or family while enjoying some comforting diner food.

2. Have a picnic at a local park.

Having a picnic is the perfect way to get out of the house without having to spend too much money doing so. Simply schedule a sunny day with a friend, pack some sandwiches and other snacks, a blanket, and head over to a nearby park, such as Michael J. Tighe Park. Having a picnic is a simple but personalized way to spend your time with others.

1. Visit and learn about the historical sites of Freehold.

Freehold has deep historical context, dating back to the Revolutionary War. Victorian Era buildings and historical sites adorn the entirety of the town. Taking a day to go out and appreciate the rich historical value that Freehold has to offer is the most extremely eye-opening and grounding experience by far. Being able to recognize the culture and history that’s right in your backyard is a treat not many towns can offer like Freehold can.

Each and every day, Freehold is growing and developing into a bustling center of culture and entertainment, all the meanwhile having a bountiful amount of history hidden in every corner. In the end, one’s eagerness to get out and explore will dictate the amount of fun they have, and not the money or energy one has to put in in order to have fun.