This northeastern U.S. state is easy to get to and has over 130 miles of beautiful Atlantic coast.
New Jersey is famous for many things including its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, places to eat and outdoor attractions. New Jersey is also consistently named among the safest, healthiest and best places to live in the whole of the USA!
When you visit New Jersey, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that it has everything a traveller could desire. Here are some of the top things you'll love about New Jersey.
1. Beaches and Iconic Boardwalks
New Jersey is a state in the north-eastern United States with 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. An English Channel Island inspired the state’s name. New Jersey beaches are plentiful, and each has their own set of attractions, ensuring there will be something for everyone.
With small seaside communities, sophisticated resort areas, and beaches geared for surfing, picnicking, or sunbathing, the white sand and blue seas of the Jersey Shore cater for varied interests. Some people boast that it is here you will find some of the best beaches in the country. Hand in hand with these popular beaches are the iconic shoreside promenades.
Boardwalk experiences may include games, carnival rides and salty taffy. And there is even more to see on the Jersey Shore if you have an interest in lighthouses. There are numerous historic ones along the coast, the most popular being the Cape May Lighthouse. Others to see include the East Point Lighthouse, The Twin Lights, and the Barnegat Lighthouse.
2. Nature-lovers Paradise
Perhaps you prefer chasing waterfalls rather than lighthouses? Throughout New Jersey, there are several waterfalls you may choose to visit. There are hiking paths and national parks nearby making them convenient and well worth the visit.
There's a reason New Jersey is known as "The Garden State," since it is home to more than 35 state parks and a dozen state forests. One of the highest waterfalls in the United States, the Paterson Great Falls, is in New Jersey. The Delaware Water Gap (DWG) is a year-round destination with approximately 150 miles of hiking and bicycling trails, boats, fishing, swimming holes and scenic drives available.
After taking in all this splendour, you may want to take a deep breath and relax at one of the many spas in the area. These offer a variety of services with different degrees of rejuvenation, and many boast jaw-dropping views of Manhattan.
3. Historical Interest
There are hundreds of historic homes to explore in New Jersey, many of which played an important role in the Revolutionary War. The newly opened (in 2020) Harriet Tubman Museum honours this historical figure’s tenacity and contribution to the history of the United States. The New Jersey State Museum makes learning fun with everything from dinosaurs to colourful art to ancient antiquities and stargazing at the Planetarium. Travelling and exploring history is such an important part of our journey as humans. Asbury Park is a must-see for music lovers, as not only has it been named the musical mecca of New Jersey, but it also boasts a fantastic annual line-up.
4. Thrill-seekers Heaven
Look no further than New Jersey if you're chasing a thrill. You can visit one of the state’s record-breaking amusement parks to get your adrenaline pumping. Six Flags Great Adventure is in Jackson, New Jersey, and features a waterpark, a roller coaster with one of the tallest and fastest drops in the world and a "4D" coaster that debuted in 2016. In this downtime, you may want to visit and explore BonusFinder's review of the best online casinos in New Jersey. At American Dream, you not only get stunning views of New York City’s skyline, but you can visit the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, DreamWorks Water Park, and the Observation Wheel.
5. Festivals for All
There are various festivals held in New Jersey throughout the year and surely one or more of these may pique your interest. The Festival of Ballooning sees up to 100 balloons taking to the air at once. There is also the International Kite Festival which is the largest of its type in North America.
During Patriots Week in Trenton, you can relive the history of the Revolutionary War. The festival takes place every December 26th – 31st and honours the state capital's crucial role in the American Revolution — the streets and buildings are still standing today as they were in 1776. The Barefoot Country Music Fest and the Cherry Blossom Festival (featuring a 10K race, trolley rides, and Japanese cultural activities including origami, bonsai, ikebana, and martial arts) are just two others to mention in a list that is long and varied.
The joy of festivals is that there is always so much on offer and something for everyone, including even the pickiest of travellers.
With so much on offer, this is one state you surely do not want to miss.
