Being so closely connected to the Big Apple, New Jersey has often been overshadowed by its glittering neighbor, but thereâs actually a lot more to the Garden State than meets the eye. For example, the beaches in New Jersey are just one of the many attractions that make this state such a brilliant place to visit. If youâre looking for a truly unique destination, then youâre in the perfect place.
Visit New Jersey’s Most Charming Places
New Jersey is home to plenty of attractions, including exciting cities, gorgeous beaches, pastoral scenery, and thrilling casinos. This often-overlooked state is becoming increasingly popular among savvy travelers – and you should consider joining them. We’ve put together a list of 10 reasons why New Jersey is a great place to visit!
Stunning beaches abound
The Jersey Shore may be famous for the popular TV show of the same name, for better or worse, but its 130 miles of gorgeous coastline are a beach loverâs paradise. Among the many seaside towns awaiting you are Cape May, Ocean Grove, Avalon, and many more.
Autumnal colors
New Jersey isnât just a summer destination. Far from it! There are many tourists who flock to New England each fall specifically to see the spectacular array of glorious foliage at the turn of the seasons. The fall is when New Jersey really shines, when the leaves change color, when apple picking is abundant, when pumpkin patches are picture-perfect, and when cider is plentiful. The small towns of Lambertville, Princeton, and Collingswood are great places to explore.
Take in the music
Many important and influential musicians were born in New Jersey. In Hoboken, you can find a time capsule dedicated to Frank Sinatra, who was born there. You can walk along the self-guided tour and visit all of Frank’s favorite spots around the city. New Jersey is also famously home to Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi, showing how rock and roll runs through the veins of this brilliant state. Whitney Houston, Paul Simon, Dionne Warwick, the Four Seasons and Queen Latifah all also came from New Jersey. Springsteen fans in particular should check out the Asbury Park Boardwalk and the legendary Stone Pony music venue.
The best views of Manhattan
Despite being one of the world’s most visited cities, Manhattan is not visible from a distance when youâre in it. Itâs not possible to see the iconic city spread out in front of you when youâre actually standing in Manhattan. Head across the river to Hoboken and Jersey City if you want to get a great photo of the Manhattan skyline. Anyone whoâs ever landed at Newark Airport in New Jersey will recall that jaw-dropping moment when you see that famous New York City skyline for the first time from a distance!
The worldâs biggest theme park
Among New Jersey’s most famous attractions is the massive Six Flags Great Adventure theme park, the largest in the world. It can be found in Jackson, New Jersey, the home of the legendary roller coaster. Boasting the fastest and tallest drop roller coaster on earth, Six Flags Great Adventure opened in 1974.
Atlantic City
In Atlantic City you’ll find all the action, excitement, and casinos of Las Vegas, but you’ll also get to breathe in the sea air and enjoy the beach ambiance. Every year, many people choose to visit Atlantic City because itâs a world-class entertainment destination, a gourmet dining destination, and a place where they can strike it big. Oh, and donât forget that famous salt water taffy if you have a sweet tooth!
Waterfalls
Why wouldn’t waterfalls be one of your first thoughts when thinking of New Jersey? There are many of them across the state – places such as Great Falls in Paterson are definitely worth a visit. This 77-foot-high waterfall is a National Historic Landmark, and one of the highest waterfalls in the country. You can also hike the nearby trails and visit the viewpoints surrounding them.
Legendary diners
While every state probably has its fair share of diners, New Jersey has the highest per capita number of diners in the US. The state has deservedly been referred to as âthe diner capital of the world,â making it a dream destination for anyone who loves cheesy fries, giant pancakes, and omelets made with a dozen eggs! Summit Diner is New Jerseyâs oldest and very best, but there are many other choices on offer.
Kite and balloon festivals
Did you know that New Jersey is also a state that loves balloons and kites? New Jersey holds an annual balloon festival, the New Jersey Lottery Festival of Ballooning, as well as world-class kite festivals such as the Wildwoods International Kite Festival.
Historic homes
There are hundreds of historic homes in New Jersey, which played an instrumental role in the Revolutionary War. Additionally, many museums, villages, and farms offer tours and interactive experiences modeled after 19th-century life, such as Red Mill Museum Village, Allaire Village, Howell Living History Farm, and more.
