Bordered by New York to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Delaware to the south, and Pennsylvania to the west, New Jersey stretches for 150 miles from north to south. Some joke that New Jersey is just one big highway, but residents and returning visitors know the state has a lot to offer. From the sandy beaches and Victorian homes of Cape May to the nostalgic fun of the Ocean City Boardwalk to the live entertainment of Atlantic City, the Garden State has something for every type of traveler (and great places to live, of course).
We spoke to insiders about the best places to visit in New Jersey.
Ocean City Boardwalk
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“The Ocean City Boardwalk is a famous promenade that has been a source of entertainment for over 100 years,” said Diane Wieland, president of the Southern Shore Regional DMO. The wooden walkway features rides for all ages, mini golf, arcade games, souvenir and sweet shops, and Boardwalk specialties such as hot dogs, burgers, fries, pizza and soft serve ice cream.
Cape May
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Located at the tip of the Cape May Peninsula, Cape May is known for its sandy beaches, historic trolleys, striped lighthouses and Victorian architecture. This charming Jersey Shore town isn’t just a summer destination; it’s a thriving all year round destination, especially during the holiday season, when it comes to festive decorations, tree lighting ceremonies and a vendor village at Congress Hall.
Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Waterpark
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Turn your summer fun to Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Park. “Families can spend the day riding more than 100 rides, splashing around in two water parks right on the beach, or relaxing in a private cabana,” says Jeffrey Vassar, Executive Director of the New Jersey Travel and Tourism Office.
Wildwoods Boardwalk
Courtesy of New Jersey Wildwoods
In a state known for seaside fun, the Wildwoods Boardwalk stands out above the rest. Made of more than 70,000 wooden planks, the 38-block oceanfront promenade draws crowds with everything from amusement rides and games to a water park and old-fashioned dining and shopping.
Wildwood’s Doo-Wop Motel District
Courtesy of New Jersey Wildwoods
“Walking through Wildwood’s Doo-Wop Motel District feels like you’ve been transported back to the 1950s,” Vassar says. The two-mile stretch between Atlantic and Ocean Avenues is dotted with some of the largest collection of midcentury motels in the country. “It’s really fun to see the neon signs and retro details.”
The American Dream
American Dream Offering
“American Dream is literally your one-stop indoor vacation shop that’s open year-round,” exclaims Vassar. From Nickelodeon Universe theme park and DreamWorks Water Park to skiing at Big Snow and surfing lessons at Skudin Surf, and hundreds of stores (it’s the second-largest shopping mall in the United States) and restaurants, American Dream offers endless fun for the whole family.
Lambertville
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Founded in 1705, Lambertville celebrates its history through well-preserved Federal-style townhouses, Victorian homes, antique shops, a restored 19th-century train station and the James Wilson Marshall House. “This charming town is also home to family-owned wineries and spectacular viewpoints, including Goat Hill Overlook,” adds Vassar.
Beneduce Vineyards
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“Most people don’t know that New Jersey is home to over 50 wineries,” Vassar says. “One of my favorites, Beneduce Vineyards, has great wines and fun events throughout the year, like live music and food trucks on Saturdays. ” Plus, it’s located less than 75 minutes from New York City and Philadelphia.
Sculpture space
Courtesy of Ground for Sculpture
Located on the former site of Trenton Speedway, Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre sculpture park and museum where visitors can spend the day appreciating art and dining at the restaurants. Hamilton’s cultural institution also hosts special events, such as nighttime light and sound experiences in partnership with Klip Collective and the upcoming Def Poetry Jam Reunion.
Atlantic City
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Located about two hours from the Big Apple, Atlantic City is often referred to as the Las Vegas of the East Coast and attracts tourists with its casinos, live entertainment, luxury hotels and famous restaurants like Nobu, while Steel Pier offers gaming, entertainment, boardwalk dining, a scenic Ferris wheel and the Jersey Shore’s only helicopter rides.
Frenchtown
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Located along the Delaware River in Hunterdon County, Frenchtown is a vibrant community rich in Victorian architecture, arts and culture that entertains visitors year-round. Vasser suggests visiting over Labor Day weekend, when Frenchtown Riverfest takes place. “There’s all kinds of street fairs happening along the river,” Vasser says.
Cape May County Park and Zoo
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Located in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township, Cape May County Park & Zoo is home to more than 550 animals and admission is free. Just outside the entrance is a great play area for kids of all ages. “It’s truly one of the best-kept secrets in the area,” says Wieland.
Asbury Park
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Over the past decade, Asbury Park has become a creative hub and music mecca. There are plenty of venues to catch a concert; Wieland recommends The Stone Pony, famous for launching Bruce Springsteen’s career; Asbury Lanes combines bowling, dining and live entertainment; head to the boardwalk to see some eye-catching artwork; The Wooden Walls Project works with artists to transform blank walls into colorful photo opportunities.
Adventure Aquarium
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Adventure Aquarium is home to more than 8,500 aquatic species, including penguins, turtles, stingrays and the East Coast’s largest collection of sharks. You can also interact with hundreds of sea creatures in the touch tank. “It’s popular with kids of all ages, and especially great for those looking for an indoor activity,” says Wieland.
Long Beach Island
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With 130 miles of land fronting the Atlantic Ocean, the Garden State has no shortage of beautiful beaches, but the coast of Long Beach Island is particularly beautiful. Besides the beautiful Atlantic coastline, visitors come for the water sports, charming towns like Barnegat Light, and laid-back lifestyle.
