Baby, it's cold outside! We had frigid temps in the 20s today, not to mention the crazy wind. What's a girl to do when she doesn't want to go outside?
How about we make plans to spend time indoors, eh?
Last week I saw Rock of Ages, for the second time. Broadway shows involve a quick trip across the river (or under if you're taking the Lincoln) and it's rare that I will see a show more than once, but the deal was too good to be true. An hour or two before the show, Rock of Ages holds a lottery right outside of the theatre. Names of interested parties are thrown into a bucket and 10 lucky winners have a chance to purchase tickets for $26!. The only drawback being that you'll have partial view seats that are on the end of an isle which cuts off some of the stage.
Rock of Ages is one of the best plays I have seen on Broadway in quite a while. A departure from the classic storylines of traditional plays, Rock of Ages is comprised of hit songs from the 80s. Audience members treat the show like a rock concert and wave lighters - Rock of Ages branded flashlight lighters - during favorite performances. With a cast lead by Constantine Maroulis of American Idol fame, this hot show is fun fun fun!
Active NJ recommendations:
1. As we always say, take mass transit when traveling to NYC
2. Make plans to go to Rock of Ages about two hours prior to the show so you can enter the lottery for discounted tickets
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Broadway: Bye Bye Birdie
The holiday season is almost over, and we all have a little extra time for entertainment and travel. Having the funds for such activities might be another question.
Last week, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to see John Stamos in the Bye Bye Birdie musical on Broadway for a mere $18 (including tax and fees). You may have to do some hunting online to find such discount codes, but they do exist.
As for Bye Bye Birdie, it isn't the best play I have ever seen. Yet, it is fun and entertaining, and John Stamos is fun to watch on the stage. The play also features Gina Gershon and a variety of young and experienced actors.
Active NJ's recommendations:
1. Try a Google search for discount codes before buying Broadway tickets. It might take a few minutes to dig through forums and posts, but the deals are out there and are well worth it in the end.
2. If you are commuting from NJ to NYC, take mass transportation. There's no need to fight through the mean streets of NYC when you can take the train or bus.
3. Go see Bye Bye Birdie soon. The play has a limited run that ends on January 24, 2010, and John Stamos is fun to watch on stage.
Last week, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to see John Stamos in the Bye Bye Birdie musical on Broadway for a mere $18 (including tax and fees). You may have to do some hunting online to find such discount codes, but they do exist.
As for Bye Bye Birdie, it isn't the best play I have ever seen. Yet, it is fun and entertaining, and John Stamos is fun to watch on the stage. The play also features Gina Gershon and a variety of young and experienced actors.
Active NJ's recommendations:
1. Try a Google search for discount codes before buying Broadway tickets. It might take a few minutes to dig through forums and posts, but the deals are out there and are well worth it in the end.
2. If you are commuting from NJ to NYC, take mass transportation. There's no need to fight through the mean streets of NYC when you can take the train or bus.
3. Go see Bye Bye Birdie soon. The play has a limited run that ends on January 24, 2010, and John Stamos is fun to watch on stage.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Christmas in New York City
It isn't in New Jersey, but it sure is close! Don't forget to visit New York City during the holiday season to see the sites and enjoy the festive holiday season.
All of the major department stores are decorated for the holidays from Macy's with interactive displays (you can write a letter to Santa by touching a screen on the window!) to the nightly light show on Saks Fifth Ave, you are sure to feel like a kid again!
That's not enough? How about the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center or The Pond in Bryant Park (which is also surrounded by the shops at Bryant Park).
Sunday, November 29, 2009
New Jersey Nightlife
Out and about and in the mood for a little bit of the fun New Jersey nightlife that this great state has to offer? Let the recommendations begin!
On Thanksgiving Eve I found myself at Sona 13 in Morristown, NJ. The establishment, which is in the former location of the Funky Monkey, is clearly the hotspot of Morristown these days. By 11:00, the line was down the block. Once inside, the crowd of festive friends and trendy 20 something year olds crammed into the semi-small space to socialize and enjoy the music.
Speaking of music, the tunes were courtesy of a dj (or sound system of some sort) and consisted of shorter snippets of popular music. While there was limited room for dancing, a few daring souls cut a rug and showed their moves to the world.
I definitely recommend Sona 13 because:
- Sona 13 is the "it" place to be
- Fun atmosphere with a great crowd
- Decent prices and specials throughout the week
On Thanksgiving Eve I found myself at Sona 13 in Morristown, NJ. The establishment, which is in the former location of the Funky Monkey, is clearly the hotspot of Morristown these days. By 11:00, the line was down the block. Once inside, the crowd of festive friends and trendy 20 something year olds crammed into the semi-small space to socialize and enjoy the music.
Speaking of music, the tunes were courtesy of a dj (or sound system of some sort) and consisted of shorter snippets of popular music. While there was limited room for dancing, a few daring souls cut a rug and showed their moves to the world.
I definitely recommend Sona 13 because:
- Sona 13 is the "it" place to be
- Fun atmosphere with a great crowd
- Decent prices and specials throughout the week
Monday, November 23, 2009
Hoboken Waterfront
Hoboken is known for many things. A rockin' nightlife, good restaurants, the birth place of legendary Frank Sinatra, and awesome views of New York City.
And this is where I come in with yet another idea of things to do in New Jersey. Aren't there times when you aren't interested going to bars or parties, yet you still want to be active? Hoboken has some fabulous piers with grassy areas designed for lounging, playing frisbee, and chilling with your puppy. Not your style? Try the benches along the brick waterfront paths.
An added benefit, this fun little activity is appropriate during the day or night! That's right. Enjoy the fascinating view of the NYC skyline with some of the most amazing structures of our time in the brightest sunlight. Or, watch the cruise ships and small boats as they lazily coast down the shoreline. Yet, my favorite is the view at night, with the Empire State Building lit with different shades of light and the beautiful twinkle of lights that emerge from building to building.
If you haven't already, I highly recommend a trip to Hoboken just to relax on the fringe while watching the city that never sleeps do its thang.
And this is where I come in with yet another idea of things to do in New Jersey. Aren't there times when you aren't interested going to bars or parties, yet you still want to be active? Hoboken has some fabulous piers with grassy areas designed for lounging, playing frisbee, and chilling with your puppy. Not your style? Try the benches along the brick waterfront paths.
An added benefit, this fun little activity is appropriate during the day or night! That's right. Enjoy the fascinating view of the NYC skyline with some of the most amazing structures of our time in the brightest sunlight. Or, watch the cruise ships and small boats as they lazily coast down the shoreline. Yet, my favorite is the view at night, with the Empire State Building lit with different shades of light and the beautiful twinkle of lights that emerge from building to building.
If you haven't already, I highly recommend a trip to Hoboken just to relax on the fringe while watching the city that never sleeps do its thang.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Bingo in New Jersey
Love the thrill of gambling but don't feel like going all the way down to Atlantic City? Try bingo!
I know, I know. Bingo is for old people, right? WRONG! There are plenty of bingo halls all over New Jersey, and they aren't all at churches. Some even have jackpots that reach 4 digits!
Over the weekend, we went to the Wayne PAL (1 PAL Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA. Phone: 973-696-2896) and we had a blast! While we didn't win, we had three full hours of entertainment for the bargain price of $17 each! Most games had a payout of $100 with an additional game that accumulates from week to week (until someone wins) that is currently over $3,000.
I know, I know. Bingo is for old people, right? WRONG! There are plenty of bingo halls all over New Jersey, and they aren't all at churches. Some even have jackpots that reach 4 digits!
Over the weekend, we went to the Wayne PAL (1 PAL Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470, USA. Phone: 973-696-2896) and we had a blast! While we didn't win, we had three full hours of entertainment for the bargain price of $17 each! Most games had a payout of $100 with an additional game that accumulates from week to week (until someone wins) that is currently over $3,000.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Apple Picking in New Jersey
It seems to be a tradition in the Northeast - as soon as a chill hits the air, we go apple picking! The Northeast has no shortage of farms with acres of fields filled with varieties of apple to choose from, but I like to stay right in the area and pick my apples from a regional farm.
OK, when I say 'right in the area', I really mean a good half an hour West at a farm that isn't too far off of Rt 80 called Longmeadow Farms. It isn't necessarily the coolest of the apple orchards that I've ever been to, but it's fun, fresh, and most importantly homegrown right in our great state.
In addition to a large variety of apples, the farm has pumpkins, berries, flowers, and honey that comes straight from the beehives that are cultured right on the property.
OK, when I say 'right in the area', I really mean a good half an hour West at a farm that isn't too far off of Rt 80 called Longmeadow Farms. It isn't necessarily the coolest of the apple orchards that I've ever been to, but it's fun, fresh, and most importantly homegrown right in our great state.
In addition to a large variety of apples, the farm has pumpkins, berries, flowers, and honey that comes straight from the beehives that are cultured right on the property.
PS Even better than apple picking was the opportunity to take some awesome pictures. Check out some cool shots below such as the daytime moon, apple in the dew, and the fly apple. Enjoy!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Starland Ballroom
Concerts. Music. Shows. Performances. Entertainment. I love it all.
High ticket prices. $12 for parking. An idiot behind you kicking your seat. I dislike it all.
You with me? Read on, cause there's a place right in Sayreville with great music and low ticket prices. I know what you're probably thinking. "They can't have good bands", but you're wrong! Starland Ballroom has awesome bands, most of which you can see for less than $30. In the next month alone they have shows featuring Boys Like Girls, Cobra Starship, and Saving Abel. Over the past few years I've seen Papa Roach, 10 Years, Blue October, Yellow Card, and Jonny Lang.
What's the catch? There really isn't any. The shows are standing room only (with a few couches to lounge on and seating in the bar area) so it's really first come first serve for the best view. Shows are small with a few thousand in the crowd. Don't get me wrong, you probably aren't going to see Beyonce and Jay Z at Starland, but you will have a great variety to choose from including musical acts and comedy shows for entertainment.
Don't believe me? Check it out at Starland Ballroom.
High ticket prices. $12 for parking. An idiot behind you kicking your seat. I dislike it all.
You with me? Read on, cause there's a place right in Sayreville with great music and low ticket prices. I know what you're probably thinking. "They can't have good bands", but you're wrong! Starland Ballroom has awesome bands, most of which you can see for less than $30. In the next month alone they have shows featuring Boys Like Girls, Cobra Starship, and Saving Abel. Over the past few years I've seen Papa Roach, 10 Years, Blue October, Yellow Card, and Jonny Lang.
What's the catch? There really isn't any. The shows are standing room only (with a few couches to lounge on and seating in the bar area) so it's really first come first serve for the best view. Shows are small with a few thousand in the crowd. Don't get me wrong, you probably aren't going to see Beyonce and Jay Z at Starland, but you will have a great variety to choose from including musical acts and comedy shows for entertainment.
Don't believe me? Check it out at Starland Ballroom.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
New Jersey Devils
One of my all-time favorite things is the vast world of sports. And, while it isn't a sport that I can actively partake in, I am a huge fan of NHL hockey. I'm sure you can imagine my excitement as the 2009 - 2010 season began last week, even if my team hasn't had a stellar beginning (let's just say that my fingers are crossed that things will get better).
To add to the excitement of a brand new season, the second game of the year included one of the biggest rivalries in the tri-state area - the New Jersey Devils vs. The New York Rangers. The game was held at The Rock in Newark, which is ridiculously easy to get to via mass transportation. I will refrain from discussing the final outcome of the game, but all of they hype leading into the night created an awesome atmosphere and great pride for Jersey's Team. The pre-game festivities included balloons in fun twisty shapes, street hockey, promotions and radio stations. All of this in addition to an awesome new hockey statue that was designed by a New Jersey native that lives in the Champion Plaza in front of the arena.
Even more amazing? You can get tickets to any New Jersey Devils home game for as low as $35! Top tier not your style? Plenty of seats are still available for home games. Better yet, the Devils have several packages - guys night, college night, mini game plans, and a Family Four Pack that includes 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs, and 4 sodas for an insanely low price. For more ticket information check out http://devils.nhl.com/.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Fright Fest
October signifies many things. The official end of summer, an extra chill in the air, not to mention the darker skies on your nightly commute home. If there is one thing that helps to distract from the depressing wave of winter, it's the scary tales of ghosts and goblins and all that Halloween cheer.
This weekend I was fortunate enough to go to Fright Fest at 6 Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ. Tickets, which are originally $49 at the door, can be purchased ahead of time online for just $39. We were lucky enough to have a discount code that reduced the price to $15 per ticket! You can't beat that. All of the rides were in full operation with the exception of the water rides, and lines were minimal for the early afternoon.
As the sun went down, the crowds picked up and the zombies started to come out of the woodwork along with clouds of fog and scary noises. Kids seemed to enjoy the creatures that perused through the park, and all children under the age of 10 were given a whistle they could blow to keep the creatures at bay in case they were scared.
Live performances with music and dancers rounded out the night. My only disappointment was the lack of the haunted hayride, which I had been fortunate to experience in previous years and was really looking forward to this year. Maybe it'll be a consideration for Halloween 2010.
This weekend I was fortunate enough to go to Fright Fest at 6 Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ. Tickets, which are originally $49 at the door, can be purchased ahead of time online for just $39. We were lucky enough to have a discount code that reduced the price to $15 per ticket! You can't beat that. All of the rides were in full operation with the exception of the water rides, and lines were minimal for the early afternoon.
As the sun went down, the crowds picked up and the zombies started to come out of the woodwork along with clouds of fog and scary noises. Kids seemed to enjoy the creatures that perused through the park, and all children under the age of 10 were given a whistle they could blow to keep the creatures at bay in case they were scared.
Live performances with music and dancers rounded out the night. My only disappointment was the lack of the haunted hayride, which I had been fortunate to experience in previous years and was really looking forward to this year. Maybe it'll be a consideration for Halloween 2010.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Active NJ
Welcome to Active NJ, a resource for fun things that active adults can do in (and surrounding) the great state of New Jersey. This site is a result of too many conversations with friends that have started with the classic "I'm bored" and ended with "there's nothing to do around here" when there is, in fact, plenty to do, see, and explore all around us. I invite you to join me on this journey as we take a walk on the fun side.
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