New Jersey is a great state to visit if you love beaches, outdoor recreation, family-friendly attractions, and proximity to major cities like New York and Philadelphia. Here are our 7 favorite things to do during your trip.
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Atlantic City Boardwalk
Probably the most famous tourist site in New Jersey is the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Stretching four miles along the beach, this iconic boardwalk offers access to gorgeous ocean views, a multitude of shops and restaurants, and attractions that will appeal to all types of travelers.
Casinos abound in Atlantic City. The most popular include Caesars, Bally’s, and Hard Rock. If gambling doesn’t bring on the thrills, a visit to Steel Pier amusement park will! Here you will find classic carnival attractions and games, as well as classic carnival food like funnel cakes.
Make sure to allow time for relaxation at one of Atlantic City’s beaches. The main beach is located along the boardwalk. It can be crowded by has easy access to all of the shops and restaurants in that area. If you want a quieter and less crowded experience, simply drive 15 minutes north to Brigantine Beach or 15 minutes south to Ventnor City Beach.
Other popular things to do in Atlantic City include visiting the Absecon Lighthouse, the Atlantic City Aquarium, and the Atlantic City Experience Historical Museum. If you love to shop, there are several outlet shopping centers nearby. And there’s always live entertainment at one of the city’s many entertainment venues.
There are many great places to stay in Atlantic City. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area encompasses more than 70,000 acres of land along the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Explore the area on foot by taking advantage of 150+ miles of scenic hiking trails. You can also explore by water by kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and tubing on the Delaware River. Fishing and boating are also allowed. Keep an eye out for wildlife – you could see black bears, bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and various birds.
Take a scenic drive or bike ride along Old Mine Road. This is one of the oldest commercial roads in the U.S. dating from the mid-1600s. This 40 mile road will take you back in time. Be prepared for a slow but scenic drive, especially in the fall when the leaves are changing.
You can camp in the park, or there are other places to stay nearby. There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Cape May
Cape May is the quintessential charming seaside resort town. It has beautiful beaches, glorious Victorian architecture, and a thriving arts scene. Start your visit by strolling around the Cape May Historic District and admiring the beautifully preserved Victorian homes. May of these now house shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfast establishments.
Step inside history by touring the Emlen Physick Estate with a traditional estate tour. Or if you are feeling brave, take the Voices from Beyond tour where you will hear about the house’s paranormal activity. You can also visit the Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views of the area and to tour the museum and keeper’s quarters.
If you love watersports, Cape May is the place for you. You can swim, kayak, paddleboard, and fish at the main Cape May beach. If you are interested in beachcombing for sea glass and brilliant sunsets, head to Sunset Beach. Time your visit to attend the evening Flag Ceremony at 7 p.m. scheduled a few nights each week during the summer months.
Cape May is home to a thriving art scene with plenty of galleries, theaters, and live music venues. You can also indulge in fresh seafood and other cuisines at the many restaurants in town. From fine dining to seafood shacks, Cape May has you covered. Also make time in our schedule to visit one of Cape May’s many award-winning wineries. Sample locally produced wines in a beautiful setting.
There are many great places to stay in Cape May. There are other fun things to see and do while in the area as well.
Liberty State Park
Located in Jersey City, Liberty State Park offers unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. You can also take a ferry across the Hudson River to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from the park.
Learn about the cultural significance of the area by touring the abandoned Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal. Located in Liberty State Park, this was a major transportation hub for U.S. immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A variety of tours and interpretive exhibits are available.
The park serves as a gateway to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. This scenic pedestrian and bike path runs 18.5 miles from the George Washington Bridge to the Bayonne Bridge. Like in the park itself, outdoor recreation opportunities abound. There are picnic areas, playgrounds, athletic fields and opportunities for a variety of watersports.
There are many great places to stay in Jersey City. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Visit the laboratory and home of one of America’s greatest inventors, Thomas Edison. Thomas Edison National Historical Park offers you the opportunity to learn more about the brilliant inventor and see the environment where he created many of his outstanding innovations.
As you wander through Edison’s laboratory complex, you will see his main lab, machine shop, and chemistry lab complete with original artifacts and equipment. The park is also home to Glenmont, Edison’s 29 room mansion. It features period furnishings and some of Edison’s personal belongings. Take some time to enjoy the park’s well-maintained grounds complete with outdoor exhibits that highlights Edison’s contributions to the world.
There are several great places to stay in West Orange. There are also several other fun things to see and do in the area.
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Princeton University
Princeton University was founded in 1746, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the U.S. The campus is full of historic architecture and features beautiful landscaping. Take one of the many unique tours of the campus and town to learn more about the history of the area. Or wander about on your own on a self-guided tour.
There are a variety of museums on the Princeton campus. The Princeton University Art Museum’s collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and more from around the world spans thousands of years of history. There’s also a Outdoor Sculpture Collection located in various areas around campus. The Geosciences Museum educates visitors about natural history and has a extensive collection of minerals, fossils, and other specimens. The Princeton Library Special Collections hold rare books, manuscripts, maps, photographs and more. The Firestone Library Exhibition Gallery features rotating exhibits showcasing items from Special Collections. And there’s also the Cotsen Children’s Library with exhibits on rare and historic children’s books.
There are great places to stay in Princeton. And there are other fun things to see and do while in the area as well.
Lucy the Elephant
What’s a list of sensational sites to see without something really quirky? If you love roadside attractions, make the trek to Margate City to see Lucy the Elephant. This elephant-shaped building is six stories tall and dates from 1881. A National Historic Landmark, Lucy is one of the oldest surviving roadside attractions in the U.S.
Lucy was originally built to attract people to visit the area and then purchase real estate there. Today, you can take a guided tour inside the building. You visit starts with a film about Lucy’s history, then you are able to look out of Lucy’s eyes and climb up to the riding carriage on her back for 360 degree views.
There are many great places to stay in Margate City There are also several other fun things to see and do while in the area.
What’s on your New Jersey itinerary?
These are just 7 of the sensational sites to see in New Jersey. But the state is full of many more incredible destinations that are worth exploring. Tell us below where you plan to visit!
We hope you have enjoyed this installment on our 7 Sensational Sites in Each State of the USA series. Tell us what you think in the comments below. You can also contact us and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest so you never miss a post.
