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Trenton, N.J. (September 30, 2026) – New Jersey’s rich film and television history takes center stage this fall with the launch of the official New Jersey Film Trails, a new tourism platform on VisitNJ.org, connecting iconic movies and TV shows with the Garden State locations where they were filmed. Created by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT), in consultation with the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission, the New Jersey Film Trails invite fans, residents, and travelers to explore memorable filming locations, uncover the stories behind the scenes, and discover the local dining, shopping, and attractions located nearby.
Explore New Jersey’s Movie Magic through Seasonal Film Trails
The New Jersey Film Trails online hub features interactive maps, behind-the-scenes stories, and detailed travel itineraries that make it easy to explore New Jersey’s on-screen history. The platform is launching with three uniquely curated experiences:
- Spooky Season Trail: Perfect for horror fans and thrill seekers, the Spooky Season Trail takes fans to New Jersey locations featured in iconic horror films, from “Friday the 13th” and “The Amityville Horror” to “I Saw the TV Glow.” Along the way, visitors can grab a coffee at the Blairstown Diner, order a ripper at Rutt's Hut or stroll the Sunken Garden at Georgian Court University.
- Holiday & Family Feel-Good Trail: Designed for families and holiday travelers, this trail connects beloved seasonal movies and family classics with festive New Jersey destinations, from charming downtowns and shopping districts to cozy local stops. Featuring movies such as “BIG,” “Annie,” “The Perfect Holiday,” and “The Preacher’s Wife,” the trail offers ideas for winter day trips and weekend getaways. Visitors can explore the grand estate grounds of Monmouth University in West Long Branch, which served as Daddy Warbucks’ mansion in “Annie,” or discover the historic downtown locations featured in “The Preacher’s Wife” in Newark.
- Fall in Love Trail: Romance fans can hit the road for a cinematic getaway through romantic comedies, dramas, and love stories filmed across New Jersey. Inspired by movies including “Atlantic City,” “Big Night,” and “Chasing Amy,” the trail pairs memorable movie locations with opportunities to enjoy local food, scenic destinations, and charming communities. Couples and rom-com fans can stroll the historic Atlantic City Boardwalk and browse local comic shops and explore coastal spots in Asbury Park and Red Bank, which are both featured in “Chasing Amy.”
“New Jersey has been the backdrop for countless memorable movies and television shows. Now, we’re making it effortless for people to experience those stories for themselves with easily accessible film trail itineraries on VisitNJ.org,” said Acting Secretary of State Shirley Emehelu. “The New Jersey Film Trails offer a new way to explore our historic downtowns, local restaurants, and scenic destinations. Television and movies introduce people to a special place in the Garden State, and our vibrant communities give them a reason to stay.”
“The creation of the New Jersey Film Trails is a dream come true for the Commission, and we are excited to partner with NJTT as we unveil it to residents and visitors. We are grateful to Governor Sherrill and the Legislature for creating a fun way for fans to not only discover the locations of their favorite shows and movies, but also the wide variety of landscapes and locations that exist throughout the state. Film and television production is on its way to becoming a billion-dollar statewide industry and the addition of film tourism is going to be a boon for all our towns and local businesses,” said Jon Crowley, executive director of the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission.
Step into the Scene: Four Weeks of October Frights in New Jersey with Johnny Mingione
With Halloween fast approaching, Audacy, a leading audio content and entertainment company, and digital creator and filmmaker Johnny Mingione, who is morning host on NEW 102.7 (WNEW-FM) in New York, will kick off the Film Trails’ seasonal programming with the Spooky Season Trail and an October-long multiplatform campaign.
Mingione’s journey will unfold in four chapters throughout October, taking audiences across New Jersey to experience some of the Garden State’s most recognizable horror filming locations through weekly video chapters, radio features, and social media content. The series will build excitement for a sweepstakes giving listeners and viewers the chance to win a bucket-list “Crystal Lake” experience.
Enter to Win the Ultimate “Friday the 13th” Prize Experience
Horror enthusiasts will be able to enter a special sweepstakes, created by Audacy, starting on Oct 5, 2026. One lucky fan will win a grand prize package including an overnight stay in New Jersey and an experience through Crystal Lake Tours at Camp No-Be-Bo-Sco, the private filming location of the original 1980 classic horror film, “Friday the 13th.”
The experience will include access to the real-life “Crystal Lake,” dining gift cards for Film Trail locations such as Rutt’s Hut and the Blairstown Diner, and passes to local attractions, including Six Flags Great Adventure. The runner up will win a 4-pack of passes to Six Flags Great Adventure. The sweepstakes will remain open through Oct. 29, with a winner selected on Oct. 30.
Additional Details
Garden State film enthusiasts are also invited to submit their favorite statewide filming locations and ideas for consideration in future New Jersey Film Trails. Submissions are open now at the New Jersey Film Trails hub on VisitNJ.org. The New Jersey Film Trails will receive dedicated exposure in the 2027 Official New Jersey Travel Guide, extending the initiative’s reach to travelers planning future visits. To explore the trails, interactive maps, and travel inspiration, visit VisitNJ.org.
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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.
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