Top Places to Visit in New Jersey
Unveil the allure of New Jersey, a state brimming with contrasts. While it claims the title of the most densely populated U.S. state, it’s equally renowned for its captivating beaches and abundant wildlife. Amidst its industrial and metropolitan prowess, New Jersey embraces its “Garden State” moniker, with more than a quarter of its land draped in fertile farmland.
Nestled in the northeast, this state shares borders with Pennsylvania, New York, and Delaware. Its landscape showcases a remarkable diversity, encompassing scenic river basins in the south and southwest, the majestic Appalachian Mountains, and the expansive woodlands of the Pine Barrens in the north. Immerse yourself in our guide to the [Top Places to Visit in New Jersey] and discover the exceptional sites shaping this multifaceted state.
While visitors to the area may be drawn to the suburbs of Philadelphia or the satellite towns of New York City, Atlantic City and Jersey City are two popular destinations in the state. Atlantic City boasts luxurious hotels, casinos, and beaches, while Jersey City offers a lively downtown and waterfront with a rich history.
Princeton, known for its vibrant atmosphere fueled by the presence of the prestigious Ivy League university and the state capital, Newark, are both popular with visitors due to their thriving arts and cultural scenes.
Beyond the urban centers and coastlines, New Jersey offers a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Camping and rafting can be found at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, hiking in the Appalachians, or swimming and sailing at Lake Hopatcong or Island Beach State Park.
New Jersey is more than just a manufacturing and commuter hub for New York City. As one of the original 13 colonies, it played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Today, it is a popular summer destination for its many miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline and the lively boardwalks, arcades, water parks, and amusement parks that earned it the nickname “Jersey Shore.”
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, New Jersey has plenty to offer visitors. From its bustling urban centers to its natural beauty, this state has something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
10. Jersey City
A stunning view of Jersey City’s skyline at sunset as seen from New Jersey. Image source: f11photo/Shutterstock.com
Jersey City, with a population of 247,000, is the state’s second-largest metropolis. Jersey City, a part of the New York metropolitan region, offers a wide variety of attractions and activities. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum at Liberty State Park is a must-see.
From this park, you can see the Statue of Liberty with the fewest people and get the best views of New York City. The Liberty Science Center and Pole Position Raceway are two other must-sees in the area.
Top Places to Visit in New Jersey: Spring Lake
A beautiful day at the beach in Spring Lake, New Jersey. Image source: Andrew F. Kazmierski/Shutterstock.com
Due to its position on the Atlantic Ocean, the name “Spring Lake” may be misleading. No, hold on a second! In addition to the beaches along the coast, the town also has a lake at its heart. Trout have been introduced to the lake, much to the pleasure of anglers.
There are seven tennis courts and two seaside pools in the city, as well as a charming retail district. Vacationers to the city in the summer can get about on bicycles. The city has New Jersey’s longest stretch of non-commercial boardwalk. Two kilometres of beach are only accessible with a special pass.
8. Hoboken
A stunning view of the Hoboken skyline over the Hudson River in New Jersey. Image source: cdrin/Shutterstock.com
Tourists visit Hoboken for its brownstone architecture and dining options rather than its proximity to the ocean, which draws them to neighboring New Jersey communities. Hoboken, just across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan, is a popular destination for tourists in search of authentic Mexican, Italian, and Indian cuisine.
The downtown and the waterfront are both within walking distance. Although the playground at Pier C Park is designed with kids in mind, the breathtaking vistas of the New York City skyline are sure to wow adults as well. The Historical Museum, located in a renovated steel mill, also received rave reviews.
Top Places to Visit in New Jersey: Six Flags Great Adventure
A thrilling day at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. Image source: Pit Stock/Shutterstock.com
The Jackson, New Jersey, attraction Six Flags Great Adventure is the biggest amusement park in the metropolitan New York region. In addition to the 22-mph roller coaster, the amusement park also has a 150-foot-tall Ferris wheel.
When tired of roller coasters, guests may check out the parachute centre or ride the Safari Off Road Adventure bus to observe over 1,200 exotic animals. They may also take a cable car trip above the park or go on a magic tour in the style of Harry Houdini.
6. Cape May
A peaceful evening at Cape May beach in New Jersey. Image source: Racheal Grazias/Shutterstock.com
The City of Cape May is situated at the tip of the Cape May peninsula’s southernmost point. This is the juncture between Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The city has a June festival called Port Fest to honour its maritime history and the commercial fishing fleet that operates in the Atlantic from its harbour.
The port is overlooked by a monument dedicated to the lives of fishermen who have been lost at sea. It calls itself the “oldest seaside resort in the country.” The city has so many Victorian-era structures that it has been designated as a National Historic District.
Top Places to Visit in New Jersey: Wildwood
A group of people enjoying the ocean at Wildwood Beach in New Jersey. Image source: James Kirkikis/Shutterstock.com
Vacationers from New York and Philadelphia augment the population of Wildwood, also in Cape May County, during the summer months. Wildwood has various attractions that are fun for people of all ages, including beaches, boardwalks, and amusement parks featuring rides like roller coasters and Ferris wheels. While these attractions are geared toward families with kids, adults of a certain age may appreciate a trip back in time to the period of Doo Wop in the 1950s at The Doo Wop Preservation League Museum.
4. Princeton
A beautiful street with small shops and restaurants in downtown Princeton, New Jersey. Image source: EQRoy/Shutterstock.com
The town of Princeton, New Jersey, has a population of a little over 29,000, but it is well known for Princeton University, a prestigious institution of higher education that has been operating since 1756. Drumthwacket, albeit not the capital of New Jersey, serves as the governor’s official house.
Princeton, home to a number of Fortune 500 firms, also has a number of notable landmarks, such as Albert Einstein’s childhood home and the Washington Oak, so called because it was still a living oak when the United States Constitution was written in 1787. Sub sandwich lovers must try Hoagie Heaven, a popular Princeton restaurant.
Top Places to Visit in New Jersey: Delaware Water Gap
A breathtaking view of the Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area in New Jersey. Image source: Tetyana Ohare/Shutterstock.com
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is the place to go if you want to get away from it all and enjoy nature without the crowds and noise of the city. A section of the Delaware River that spans 40 miles (65 km) between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Many outdoor pursuits, such as canoeing, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as fishing, may be enjoyed along this stretch of the river since it is designated as a wild and scenic river. As winter approaches, it becomes an ideal location for cross-country skiing. The National Park Service is in charge of upkeep in this region.
2. Ocean City
A scenic view of the boardwalk and ocean in Ocean City, New Jersey. Image source: Ritu Manoj Jethani/Shutterstock.com
New Jersey’s Cape May region, including Ocean City, is a favourite vacation spot for families. As a matter of fact, it is so well-liked that more than a million tourists flock there each year, despite the city’s population being under 12,000. Two amusement parks with exhilarating roller coasters may be found along the 2.5-mile (1.5-kilometer) long boardwalk. Some of the nicest beaches in New Jersey can be found in Ocean City, and they stretch for eight miles down the coast.
Top Places to Visit in New Jersey: Atlantic City
A stunning view of the Atlantic City skyline and beach in New Jersey at sunset. Image source: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock.com
Due to its abundance of casinos and status as the annual site of the Miss America competition, Atlantic City is the number one tourist destination in the state of New Jersey. The wood-planked boardwalk and Gardner’s Basin are two of the city’s most popular tourist destinations along the lake.
To top it all off, parking is free in this neighborhood, which is convenient since it is home to several popular attractions, including restaurants, shops, fishing spots, a pier, and the Atlantic City Aquarium. Absecon, New Jersey’s highest lighthouse, may be found near the intersection of Pacific and Rhode Island avenues.
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What is your favorite place in NJ to visit?
- I don’t have personal preferences.
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What is the most known place in New Jersey?
- Atlantic City
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What is the most visited town in NJ?
- Cape May
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What is New Jersey most famous for?
- The Jersey Shore, boardwalks, and being the Garden State.
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