New Jersey is not just a state close to New York. With its 130-mile-long coastline, historic lighthouses, world-class museums, and exciting theme parks, New Jersey offers a whole different world. New Jersey is a state full of surprises. Wide beaches, industrial heritage, national parks, art gardens, and history alongside the Manhattan skyline. If you’re a traveler who loves walking, good food, and exploring side streets like me, I can promise you’ll have a lot of fun here.
Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park is one of the closest parks to the city. From the park, you can see the Manhattan skyline. If you wish, you can take the Ellis Island ferry from here and visit the Statue of Liberty.
Atlantic City and the Legendary Boardwalk
Atlantic City’s Boardwalk is the first wooden walkway ever built in the world. Constructed in 1870 and stretching 4 miles long, this iconic walkway is still a must-visit spot for travelers coming to this city.
Steel Pier
Steel Pier, which has stood in the same place since 1898, is one of Atlantic City’s most beloved entertainment centers. This 1,000-foot-long pier features 24 different amusement park rides. The Wheel, America’s third-largest panoramic wheel, is quite impressive. This giant wheel, standing 227 feet tall, features a temperature-controlled enclosed cabin system. Here, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and Atlantic City.
American Dream
Located in East Rutherford, American Dream is more than just a shopping mall. It is truly an entertainment center. Seventy percent of this mall is dedicated to entertainment areas. The remaining 30% is occupied by retail stores. American Dream is just a few minutes away from Manhattan.
Six Flags Great Adventure
For adrenaline junkies, Six Flags Great Adventure is a paradise. You can easily spend a whole day here. It is especially popular among families with children due to its family-friendly activities. There is a large drive-thru area next to the park. Tickets sell out very quickly during peak seasons.
Grounds For Sculpture
Grounds For Sculpture is a 42-acre sculpture garden. If you’re a traveler who wants to be alone with art, you can add this to your itinerary.
Cape May County Park & Zoo
Cape May County Park & Zoo is a free park for families. There are also picnic and play areas within the park.
The Mills at Jersey Gardens
If you want to shop at an outlet mall, you can find clothes that suit you at The Mills at Jersey Gardens. This store is quieter on weekdays.
Adventure Aquarium
The Adventure Aquarium in Camden is designed for families who want to see fascinating creatures such as sharks, penguins, and even hippos up close. The tunnel and interactive sections in the center of the aquarium are children’s favorite parts.
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Paterson Great Falls is both a magnificent natural waterfall and a place where you can explore the traces of US industrial history up close. This park is managed by the NPS.
Liberty Science Center
The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City has interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly workshops. It combines learning with fun for both children and adults. Don’t forget to check the times of major shows and events.
Branch Brook Park
Branch Brook Park in Newark has one of the largest and most diverse collections of cherry blossoms in the country. Photographers show great interest in the Bloomfest event held in the spring. You can walk and ride a bike in the park.
Cape May Lighthouse
Built in 1859, the Cape May Lighthouse offers a breathtaking view of the sea from the top of its 199 steps. However, be aware that climbing hours and admission fees vary seasonally. You can observe birds and go for walks in the natural park areas surrounding the lighthouse.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
You can explore the invention process of this famous genius up close at Thomas Edison’s laboratory and property in West Orange. If you are interested in American industrial history, you should definitely visit here. Thomas Edison National Historical Park is managed by the NPS.
Battleship New Jersey
Anchored on the Delaware River at the Camden Waterfront, the USS New Jersey is the largest and most decorated battleship in the US Navy. Launched in 1942 during World War II, Big J saw active service in Korea, Vietnam, and the Middle East in the 1980s. This battleship participated in America’s most critical wars.