This fall in Monmouth County, enjoy a crisp day outdoors by picking the best pumpkin you can find while sipping on a hot cup of apple cider to accompany your search.

Monmouth County may be well-known for its sandy beaches and boardwalks, but don’t let the cooler weather stop you from continuing to explore the outdoors.

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend the day outdoors with family or friends, take a trip to a pick-your-own farm that gives you the chance to pick your own fruits and vegetables. Instead of roaming the grocery store, take the time to pick out your own fresh produce straight from the source. In-season produce available includes apples, peaches and pumpkins. Enjoy a crisp, fall day outdoors by picking the best pumpkin you can find while sipping on a hot cup of apple cider to accompany your search. Many farms also provide extra outdoor activities for visitors, so check with your desired location to see what’s offered.

Many farms in Monmouth County also provide extra outdoor activities for visitors, so check with your desired location to see what’s offered.

To find the perfect pick-your-own farm for your trip, visit the Grown in Monmouth County website by going to growninmonmouth.com and using the directory search. The website also provides information on local wineries, breweries, farmers markets, restaurants that use produce grown in Monmouth County and, later in the year, farms that sell Christmas trees.

If you’re looking to spend the day outdoors but don’t want to head to a farm, you’re in luck — Monmouth County is home to more than 30 county-owned park areas totaling nearly 18,000 acres of open space, trails, lakes and woods. Enjoy the fall foliage by hiking on a trail, such as the one around the Manasquan Reservoir.

Monmouth County is home to more than 30 county-owned park areas totaling nearly 18,000 acres of open space, trails, lakes and woods.

Visitors also can take advantage of the numerous county-owned golf courses. The Monmouth County Park system offers five championship 18-hole courses, two 18-hole executive courses, a 9-hole, par 3 course, and three warmup ranges. Visit monmouthcountyparks.com to plan your next outing.

Monmouth County also is home to numerous historical sites. To view a map of these sites, check out the Monmouth County Cultural & Heritage Virtual Tours program at tourism.visitmonmouth.com.

For more information about everything to see and do in Monmouth County, visit tourism.visitmonmouth.com.

This article is supported in part by a grant from New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism.