New Jersey, typically ignored, is a treasure trove of numerous sights and experiences that cater to a plethora of tastes and pursuits. Whether you’re a fan of scenic seashores, historic landmarks, interactive museums, or thrilling theme parks, the Garden State has received you lined. Are you ready to launch an journey by way of New Jersey and unearth all of the entertaining actions it has to supply? Let’s plunge into the charming realm of issues to do in New Jersey!
Whether you’re on the lookout for family-friendly actions, cultural experiences, or outside adventures, New Jersey has all of it. In this weblog submit, we’ll information you thru the very best sights the state has to supply. So buckle up, and let’s discover all of the enjoyable issues you are able to do in New Jersey in 2023, and expertise the superb issues to do in New Jersey!
Best Things To Do In New Jersey
Explore the Jersey Shore, Liberty Science Center & Branch Brook Park Unwind at Historic Cape May & Grounds for Sculpture Get your adrenaline pumping with Six Flags Great Adventure and discover Ellis Island’s historical past
1. Experience the Jersey Shore
Offering lovely seashores, energetic boardwalks, and a vibrant nightlife scene, the Jersey Shore is a vacation spot you shouldn’t miss. With a wide range of Jersey sights, there’s one thing for everybody, from family-friendly sights to grownup leisure. Stroll down the well-known Atlantic City Boardwalk and benefit from the traditional amusements, arcades, and mouthwatering snack stands. Or, should you’re feeling fortunate, attempt your hand on the casinos and expertise the wild nightlife of Atlantic City.
For these searching for outside actions, you may go to Point Pleasant Beach for some enjoyable in the solar or discover the picturesque Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which provides beautiful views and mountaineering trails. Asbury Park is one other widespread vacation spot, identified for its wealthy historical past, bustling artwork scene, and exquisite seashores. You’re sure to create unforgettable reminiscences with the myriad of sights the Jersey Shore provides.
2. Discover Liberty Science Center
Located in Jersey City, the Liberty Science Center, with its interactive museum expertise for all ages, ranks amongst New Jersey’s high sights. With hands-on displays, reside science demonstrations, and a cutting-edge planetarium, it’s the proper vacation spot for households and science lovers alike.
While at Liberty Science Center, ensure you take a look at the Making Mammoths exhibit the place you may find out about these historic creatures. Don’t neglect to drop by the Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood-themed exhibit, particularly when you have little ones with you. If you’re a fan of puzzles, the Rubik’s Cube exhibit is a must-see. And final however not least, the Wild-animals exhibit is a delight for all animal lovers.
Aside from the thrilling displays, the Liberty Science Center additionally organizes a wide range of occasions and performances, corresponding to music concert events, dance reveals, and different entertaining spectacles. After your exploration, take a second to admire the breathtaking view of the New York City skyline from Liberty State Park, which is conveniently positioned close by.
The interactive actions and beautiful sights at Liberty Science Center make it a must-visit vacation spot in New Jersey.
3. Unwind at Branch Brook Park
Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey serves as a great location for some downtime amidst nature. Home to the most important assortment of cherry blossom timber in the US, the park boasts over 5,000 cherry blossom timber that bloom every year, creating a wide ranging show. The annual Cherry Blossom Festival is a free occasion that celebrates the attractive blooming cherry blossoms with reside music, arts & crafts, and different enjoyable actions.
Pro Tip: Get to the Cherry Blossom Festival early to snag a parking spot, or use a rideshare service to keep away from parking hassles.
Branch Brook Park isn’t just in regards to the cherry blossoms; it additionally provides quite a few mountaineering trails for outside lovers. Escape the hustle and bustle of day by day life to relish in the pure fantastic thing about Branch Brook Park.
4. Explore Historic Cape May
Travel again in time by exploring Cape May, an enthralling Victorian seaside city nestled at New Jersey’s southern tip. This picturesque city is legendary for its fantastically preserved structure, boutique outlets, and scrumptious eating choices. Take a stroll by way of the Cape May Historic District and admire the beautiful Nineteenth-century buildings, now transformed into quaint mattress and breakfasts.
When you’re in Cape May, you’ve received to swing by the South Cape May Meadows Nature Conservancy. It’s an actual deal with for anybody who loves the nice outdoor. And let me inform you, there’s nothing fairly like watching the sundown over the seashore, particularly with the Cape May Lighthouse standing majestically in the background.
If you need to take it up a notch, why not go on a sundown cruise? It’s a unbelievable manner to expertise the great thing about this coastal gem. All in all, Cape May, with its fascinating historical past and charming environment, is a must-visit spot in the Garden State.
5. Immerse Yourself in Art at Grounds for Sculpture
Art lovers ought to seize the chance to delve into the world of latest artwork at Grounds for Sculpture. This 42-acre sculpture park, created by sculptor and philanthropist Seward Johnson, incorporates a beautiful assortment of latest artwork installations and complex gardens. Wander by way of the park, uncover hidden gems, and be impressed by the creativity and wonder that encompass you.
After exploring the outside artwork installations, take a break and dine at Rat’s, a top-rated restaurant on the grounds, identified for its delectable delicacies and picturesque setting. Perfect for each artwork lovers and nature lovers, Grounds for Sculpture provides a novel and memorable expertise.
6. Step Back in Time at Thomas Edison National Historical Park
At the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, New Jersey, you may step into the world of the legendary inventor Thomas Edison. This is the place the place he introduced to life superb innovations like phonographs, electrical lighting, movement image cameras, and different electrical home equipment. And guess what? You can see all these prototypes on show right here!
But that’s not all. You may go to the Glenmont Collections, a grand 29-room Victorian property the place Edison spent a few years of his life. It’s like stepping right into a time machine! You’ll additionally get a sneak peek into the lifetime of the person who performed a pivotal function in shaping fashionable America. So, should you’re a historical past buff or simply somebody who loves to be taught new issues, this place is a must-visit. There’s a lot to discover and uncover right here!
7. Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at Six Flags Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey is the go-to spot for thrill seekers and households searching for a day filled with pleasure. Home to adrenaline-pumping curler coasters, family-friendly rides, and an adjoining water park, this widespread theme park provides limitless enjoyable for all ages. Don’t miss Kingda Ka, the world’s tallest curler coaster and the quickest in North America.
Aside from the heart-pounding rides, Six Flags Great Adventure additionally provides a wide range of occasions corresponding to parades, fireworks shows, and the seasonal FrightFest. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply on the lookout for a day of household enjoyable, a go to to Six Flags Great Adventure ensures a day stuffed with unforgettable experiences.
8. Connect with Nature at Island Beach State Park
Leave town behind and reconnect with nature on the pristine barrier island, Island Beach State Park, positioned in Berkeley Township, New Jersey. This unspoiled paradise provides miles of sandy seashores, mountaineering trails, and alternatives for birdwatching and fishing. For a very memorable expertise, take a stroll to the Barnegat Lighthouse, go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or fish alongside the shore with a allow.
Island Beach State Park is a sanctuary for nature lovers and in addition offers insights into the world’s wealthy historical past. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings, pristine seashores, and tranquil environment of this lovely park, excellent for a soothing day journey or a weekend getaway.
9. Visit the Historic Ellis Island
Visit the historic Ellis Island, part of a nationwide monument in each New York and New Jersey, and journey again in time. A fast ferry experience from Liberty State Park will take you to this iconic location, the place hundreds of thousands of immigrants entered America in search of a greater life.
During your go to to Ellis Island, you may immerse your self in the wealthy historical past encapsulated inside the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, marvel on the iconic Statue of Liberty, and interact with varied interactive displays that present a deeper understanding of how immigration has formed American historical past.
Ellis Island provides a novel alternative to join with the previous and perceive the struggles and desires of those that got here to America in search of a greater life. Anyone keen to delve into the wealthy historical past of immigration in the United States shouldn’t miss this historic website.
10. Savor New Jersey’s Diverse Culinary Scene
With a various culinary scene that caters to each palate, New Jersey serves as an ideal vacation spot for meals aficionados. From traditional diners to farm-to-table eating places, the Garden State has all of it. In truth, New Jersey is named the “dinner capital of the world” due to its abundance of traditional diners who serve breakfast all day and supply a variety of menu choices.
Beyond its well-known diners, New Jersey additionally prides itself on a energetic meals truck tradition, providing a style of worldwide delicacies on the go. The state can be dwelling to distinctive farm-to-table eating experiences at institutions like The Farm & Fisherman Tavern + Market in Cherry Hill, The Farmhouse in Princeton, and The Farm & Fisherman in Cherry Hill. No matter what your style buds crave, the various culinary panorama of New Jersey is bound to fulfill.
11. Take a Frank Sinatra Walking Tour in Hoboken
Explore a unique side of New Jersey by embarking on a self-guided Frank Sinatra strolling tour in Hoboken, the legendary singer’s hometown. The tour consists of over 20 stops associated to Ol’ Blue Eyes’ life in Hoboken, corresponding to his favourite hangouts, household bakery, and the church the place he was baptized.
Besides the Frank Sinatra strolling tour, Hoboken itself provides a wide range of sights, together with lovely parks, a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, and beautiful views of the New York City skyline. Venture to the charming metropolis of Hoboken and immerse your self in the lifetime of one among America’s most iconic singers.
12. Witness the American Dream Mall
Get prepared to have a blast on the American Dream Mall, an enormous leisure and procuring advanced that’s received all of it. Nestled in East Rutherford, New Jersey, this place is a paradise for fun-seekers and shopaholics alike.
Imagine this: An indoor theme park, an ice rink, a ski slope, and a whole bunch of shops all beneath one roof! It’s like moving into a unique world. Get your adrenaline pumping at Nickelodeon Universe, the place thrilling rides and sights await. If you’re up for some water enjoyable, there’s a water park proper subsequent door, full with slides, lazy rivers, and swimming pools. It’s the proper different to outside enjoyable, particularly when the climate isn’t taking part in good.
But the enjoyable doesn’t cease there. The American Dream Mall additionally boasts a variety of luxurious and inclusive shops, kiosks, eating places, and snack stands, making for a novel procuring expertise. Whether you’re on the lookout for the most recent trend tendencies, a brand new gadget, or a tasty deal with, you’re positive to discover it right here.
So, should you’re planning a visit with your loved ones or simply trying to indulge in a procuring spree, be sure that to add the American Dream Mall to your itinerary. With a lot to see and do, it’s a must-visit vacation spot that ensures a good time for everybody.
13. Bike the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park
Embark on a scenic and enjoyable journey by biking alongside the historic Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, adorned with picturesque surroundings and charming villages. This lovely bike path winds by way of central New Jersey, permitting you to discover the pure fantastic thing about the Garden State whereas visiting quaint villages like Frenchtown and Lambertville.
Whether you’re an avid bike owner or simply on the lookout for a leisurely experience, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park provides a novel alternative to join with nature and discover charming villages. Don’t let this scenic bike path slip away for a very memorable expertise.
14. Visit the Oldest Lighthouse in the US
Visit the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in the United States, and expertise historical past firsthand. Located in the attractive Sandy Hook space of New Jersey, this historic lighthouse provides guided excursions, permitting guests to climb the tower and find out about its storied previous.
Plus, the world across the lighthouse isn’t half dangerous both. You’ve received beautiful seashores, mountaineering trails, and loads of outside actions to hold you busy. So why not swing by this historic magnificence and absorb a little bit of U.S. historical past when you’re at it?
15. Attend a New York Red Bulls Soccer Game
If you’re a sports activities fanatic, attending a New York Red Bulls soccer sport on the Red Bull Arena is an exercise not to be missed. Located in Harrison, New Jersey, the stadium provides beautiful views of the New York City skyline and an electrical environment because the Red Bulls compete in Major League Soccer.
Whether a die-hard soccer fan or simply in search of an thrilling time out, attending a New York Red Bulls sport provides an unforgettable expertise. Cheer on the group, absorb the environment, and benefit from the lovely skyline views at this widespread sporting occasion.
16. Stroll Through Princeton University
Stroll leisurely by way of Princeton University’s ivy-covered campus, famend as one of many United States’ most prestigious universities. Admire the beautiful structure of the college buildings and discover the famend Princeton University Art Museum, which homes a various assortment of art work from world wide.
Princeton University is extra than simply its artwork museum. The campus is dotted with lovely gardens and tranquil walkways, all steeped in wealthy historical past. Whether you’re an artwork geek or only a curious wanderer, you’ve received to take a look at Princeton University. It’s a go to you gained’t remorse.
17. Visit the Unique Diggerland Theme Park
For a very distinctive time out, why not attempt Diggerland in West Berlin, New Jersey? This isn’t your common theme park – it’s all about getting your palms soiled and working some heavy equipment. Yes, you learn that proper! You can truly get behind the controls of actual diggers and development autos. But don’t fear, it’s not all work and no play. There are loads of construction-themed rides and sights to hold the enjoyable going. Plus, it’s an effective way to be taught in regards to the development business.
So, should you’re on the lookout for a time out with a distinction, Diggerland is certainly value a go to. And, whenever you’ve had sufficient of the heavy equipment, there’s a water park on-site too – excellent for cooling off on these sizzling summer time days.
In addition to the heavy equipment experiences, Diggerland additionally incorporates a water park, offering the proper alternative to cool off on a sizzling summer time day. Boasting quite a few thrilling and academic sights, Diggerland is a vital cease for households searching for a unique type of journey.
18. Learn about Wildlife at Lakota Wolf Preserve
Witness the great thing about wildlife conservation at Lakota Wolf Preserve, a sanctuary dedicated to the safety of endangered wolves. Located in Columbia, New Jersey, this protect provides guided excursions that permit guests to be taught in regards to the lives and habitats of the wolves, in addition to observe them in their pure setting.
But it’s not simply all in regards to the wolves on the Lakota Wolf Preserve. They’ve received a number of different cool residents too, like foxes, a bobcat, and even a lynx! It’s a fairly superior likelihood to find out about these unbelievable animals up shut. So, should you’re an animal lover or simply on the lookout for a chill day hanging out with nature, we suggest testing the Lakota Wolf Preserve.
19. Embrace History at Batsto Village
Embrace historical past and journey again in time at Batsto Village, a preserved historic village in South Jersey, housing over 30 preserved buildings. Located inside the Wharton State Forest, this charming village provides guided excursions, scenic mountaineering trails, and a glimpse into the previous, permitting guests to expertise life because it was in the 18th and Nineteenth centuries.
But wait, there’s extra! Besides all of the cool historic buildings, Batsto Village can be surrounded by some critically breathtaking nature. It’s such a peaceable and picturesque place to discover. So, whether or not you’re a historical past nerd or simply on the lookout for a chill time out, Batsto Village is completely a must-see in New Jersey.
20. Shop ‘Til You Drop at Jersey Shore Premium Outlets
Enjoy some retail therapy at Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, which boasts over 120 designer and brand-name stores providing excellent deals and an enjoyable shopping experience. Located in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, this popular outlet mall is home to a wide range of luxury and inclusive stores, providing something for every shopper.
In addition to fantastic shopping, Jersey Shore Premium Outlets also offers family-friendly amenities, such as stroller rentals and a kiddie playground, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, whether you’re looking for a discount or simply shopping, is a procuring fanatic’s must-visit spot.
21. Enjoy Family Fun at Storybook Land
Relive the magic of traditional youngsters’s tales at Storybook Land, an amusement park the place beloved fairy tales come to life by way of varied rides and sights. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, this family-friendly park provides a spread of actions impressed by tales like “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Alice in Wonderland,” and “Three Little Pigs.”
Storybook Land is a complete blast, irrespective of how outdated you might be! This place brings all of your favourite fairy tales to life. But it’s not simply in regards to the rides and sights – additionally they host occasions all year long, so there’s all the time one thing new and thrilling happening. Trust me, whether or not you’re a child or only a child at coronary heart, you’re gonna adore it right here!
22. Take a Scenic Drive Through Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Take a scenic drive by way of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which provides beautiful views, mountaineering trails, and a wide range of outside actions like swimming, fishing, and canoeing. This lovely recreation space stretches alongside the Delaware River, offering guests with a various vary of landscapes and actions to take pleasure in.
Whether you’re after a leisurely drive by way of picturesque surroundings or searching for a extra lively journey like mountaineering or canoeing, nature lovers and outside lovers shouldn’t miss The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
23. Attend Trenton’s Punk Rock Flea Market
If you’re on the lookout for one thing totally different, don’t miss Trenton’s Punk Rock Flea Market, an unconventional occasion showcasing different distributors, reside music, and meals vehicles. This one-of-a-kind flea market provides a various choice of classic clothes, traditional cassettes and information, oddities, distinctive collectibles, unique clothes and artwork, comedian books and video games, and handmade jewellery.
Aside from the funky distributors promoting all kinds of cool stuff, Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market additionally hosts meals vehicles from all around the state, providing a smorgasbord of tasty eats to munch on when you hunt for treasures. If you’re into the unconventional, like us, you’ll love Trenton’s Punk Rock Flea Market. It’s positively a must-do whenever you’re in Jersey.
24. Explore The Newark Museum of Art
Explore a world of artwork on the Newark Museum of Art, which incorporates a numerous vary of artwork collections from across the globe, interactive displays, and a good looking museum backyard. Located in Newark, New Jersey, this famend museum provides guests the possibility to discover art work from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean, in addition to interact with interactive displays that deliver artwork to life.
Besides the superb artwork you may see, the Newark Museum of Art additionally provides cool stuff like lectures, workshops, and courses. And hey, they’ve received a present store and a restaurant too. So, whether or not you’re an artwork lover or simply curious, you gotta take a look at the Newark Museum of Art.
25. Wander by way of Rutgers Gardens
Leave behind the day by day hustle and bustle to discover Rutgers Gardens, a free botanical backyard nestled in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This peaceable and tranquil backyard provides a various array of vegetation, pure areas, and seasonal occasions for guests to take pleasure in, making it the proper vacation spot for a soothing time out.
And should you’re a fan of nature, you may’t miss Rutgers Gardens. This place is slightly oasis of peace proper in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It’s not simply in regards to the lovely vegetation and inexperienced areas, additionally they run cool workshops and courses for anybody who desires to be taught extra about gardening and the setting. So, whether or not you’re a plant lover or simply want a break from the hustle and bustle, Rutgers Gardens is your spot.
26. Visit the Fascinating Museum of American Glass
Marvel on the magnificence and artistry of glass on the Museum of American Glass tucked away in Millville, New Jersey. This charming museum is a treasure trove of over 20,000 glass items that may blow your thoughts. From historic artifacts that inform a story of the previous to up to date artwork installations that problem your notion, every bit provides a novel glimpse into the world of glass artistry.
And there’s extra! The Museum of American Glass isn’t nearly fairly issues. They additionally supply reside demonstrations the place you may see artisans at work, creating lovely items proper in entrance of your eyes. Plus, they host workshops the place you may be taught the artwork of glassmaking and create your personal masterpiece. They even have particular displays that change from time to time, so there’s all the time one thing new to uncover.
So, whether or not you’re a glass artwork fanatic or simply curious, the Museum of American Glass is a must-see whenever you’re in New Jersey. It’s really a spot the place magnificence, historical past, and artistry come collectively in a stunning show.
27. Climb Aboard Battleship New Jersey
Climb aboard Battleship New Jersey, a historic naval vessel that gives guided excursions, interactive displays, and insights into the ship’s storied previous. As you discover this large battleship, you’ll find out about its fascinating historical past, its function in World War II, and the inside workings of this spectacular naval vessel.
Not solely do you get to discover the battleship’s interiors and displays, however guests may take in the beautiful panorama of the encircling panorama from the ship’s deck. Whether you’re a historical past fanatic or simply on the lookout for an enriching and distinctive expertise, the Battleship New Jersey is a must-see whenever you’re in the Garden State.
28. Experience the Charm of Frenchtown
Discover the appeal of Frenchtown, a quaint riverside village located alongside the Delaware River’s banks in New Jersey. This picturesque village boasts boutique outlets, artwork galleries, and scrumptious eating choices, making it the proper vacation spot for a leisurely day journey or romantic weekend getaway.
Along with its charming appeal, Frenchtown offers a bunch of out of doors adventures. You can go tubing on the Delaware River or uncover the great thing about close by parks and nature preserves. Soak in the attract and splendor of Frenchtown for an unforgettable expertise.
29. Visit the Sterling Hill Mining Museum
One of the hidden gems of New Jersey is the Sterling Hill Mining Museum. This fascinating museum, positioned in Ogdensburg, provides a novel alternative to be taught in regards to the historical past of mining and the geology of the Garden State. The museum is definitely housed in a former zinc mine, offering an genuine and immersive expertise. Visitors can embark on an underground tour, the place they’ll get to see the mine’s tunnels, the Rainbow Tunnel with its fluorescent minerals, and the mining tools used again in the day.
The Sterling Hill Mining Museum isn’t nearly mining, although. It’s additionally dwelling to one of many largest collections of fluorescent minerals in the world, making it a must-visit for geology lovers. Plus, the museum provides a wide range of instructional packages and displays, making it a unbelievable vacation spot for households and faculty teams. Whether you’re a historical past buff, a science fanatic, or simply on the lookout for a novel time out, the Sterling Hill Mining Museum is a must-visit whenever you’re in New Jersey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary attraction in New Jersey?
Atlantic City is the primary attraction in New Jersey, typically referred to because the “Gambling Capital of the East Coast”.
It is dwelling to among the most iconic casinos in the world, together with the Borgata, Caesars, and Harrah’s. It can be dwelling to a wide range of different sights, such because the Boardwalk.
What is exclusive to Jersey?
New Jersey is dwelling to the state fowl, the Eastern Goldfinch, boasts the first-ever submarine experience in the Passaic River, and is the precise location of the long-lasting Statue of Liberty – making it really distinctive.
This makes New Jersey a very distinctive place, with a wealthy historical past and tradition that’s value exploring.
What is New Jersey well-known identified for?
New Jersey is famously identified for its beautiful seashores, boardwalk, and casinos in Atlantic City, 115 Million annual vacationers, and numerous eating choices. It’s additionally dwelling to loads of American historical past and untouched nature.
What is essentially the most scenic a part of New Jersey?
Alstede Farms is an idyllic spot for scenic magnificence in New Jersey, excellent for these trying to expertise nation residing in all its glory.
The farm provides a wide range of actions for guests, together with hayrides, pick-your-own produce, and a petting zoo. There are additionally loads of alternatives to discover the encircling space, with mountaineering trails, fishing spots, and extra.
What are some widespread sights alongside the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore provides one thing for everybody, from lovely seashores to energetic boardwalks and vibrant nightlife, in addition to family-friendly actions.
In conclusion, New Jersey provides a various array of sights and experiences for guests to take pleasure in. From lovely seashores and historic websites to interactive museums and adrenaline-pumping theme parks, the Garden State has one thing for everybody. We hope this information has impressed you to discover the numerous enjoyable issues to do in New Jersey in 2023 and create unforgettable reminiscences alongside the best way.
So what are you ready for? Start planning your journey right now and uncover the hidden gems, distinctive sights, and unforgettable experiences that await you in the attractive Garden State of New Jersey.