20 Best Places To Visit In New Jersey 2024

Best Places To Visit In New Jersey

1. Liberty State Park

• Liberty Science Center:Featuring interactive exhibits and the Western Hemisphere’s largest planetarium.
• Empty Sky Memorial:A moving tribute to the victims of 9/11.
• Activities:Walking, biking along the waterfront, and enjoying picnics with stunning views of Manhattan.

2. The Adventure Aquarium

• Shark Realm:Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks for an immersive experience.
• Hippo Haven:Get close to the world’s only aquarium exhibit featuring hippos.
• Interactive Experiences:Touch tanks and feeding sessions that engage visitors of all ages.

3. Cape May

• Cape May Lighthouse:Climb the 199 steps for panoramic views.
• Historic District:Over 600 preserved Victorian buildings, offering a glimpse into the past.
• Seasonal Events:The Cape May Music Festival and Christmas Candlelight House Tours add a festive charm.

4. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

• Scenic Hikes:Trails like Mount Tammany provide stunning vistas.
• Water Activities:Kayaking and canoeing on the Delaware River.
• Camping:Numerous sites for both primitive and developed camping.

5. Grounds For Sculpture

• Explore Over 270 Sculptures:By both famous and emerging artists.
• Attend Seasonal Events:Workshops, performances, and guided tours.
• Photography:The park’s beautiful landscaping provides a perfect backdrop for photography.

6. The Boardwalk And Beaches Of Atlantic City

• Casinos and Dining:A variety of casinos and world-class restaurants.
• Steel Pier:Offering amusement rides and games for all ages.
• Nightlife:Clubs, bars, and beachside venues that keep the city alive after dark.

7. Princeton University And Art Museum

• Tour the Campus:Explore historic buildings like Nassau Hall and the Chapel.
• Visit the Art Museum:Featuring collections ranging from ancient to contemporary art.
• Stroll Through Princeton Town:Quaint shops, cafes, and bookstores add to the charm.

8. Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

• Waterfall Views:Enjoy the sheer power of the falls from various viewpoints.
• Historic Sites:Visit the restored mills and the nearby Paterson Museum.
• Educational Tours:Learn about the role of the falls in the Industrial Revolution.

9. Six Flags Great Adventure

• Thrilling Rides:Including Kingda Ka, the tallest roller coaster in the world.
• Safari Off Road Adventure:A drive-through experience with exotic animals.
• Family-Friendly Attractions:Kid-friendly rides and shows throughout the park.

10. Liberty Science Center

• Interactive Exhibits:Engage with hands-on exhibits about energy, health, and outer space.
• The Planetarium:The largest in the Western Hemisphere, offering breathtaking shows.
• Special Events:Science-themed nights, workshops, and educational programs.

11. High Point State Park

• High Point Monument:Climb to the top for sweeping views of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.
• Outdoor Activities:Hiking, fishing, and skiing in the winter.
• Scenic Drives:Particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.

12. The Pine Barrens

• Explore the Forest:Hike through trails surrounded by pine trees and rare wildlife.
• Visit Batsto Village:A historic iron-making village now preserved as a state park.
• Experience the Legend:Learn about the folklore of the Jersey Devil, a creature said to haunt the area.

13. The Battleship New Jersey

• Tour the Ship:Walk through the ship’s many decks and learn about its history.
• Interactive Exhibits:Try the flight simulator or explore the command center.
• Special Events:The ship hosts unique events like overnight encampments and re-enactments.

14. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

• Edison’s Inventions:See where the light bulb and phonograph were created.
• The Laboratory Complex:Explore the main lab, the chemistry lab, and the machine shop.
• Glenmont Estate:Tour Edison’s mansion and learn about his personal life.

15. Asbury Park

• The Stone Pony:An iconic venue where legends like Bruce Springsteengot their start.
• Beachfront Boardwalk:Featuring shops, eateries, and an arcade.
• Murals and Art Installations:The town is filled with vibrant street art.

16. The Red Mill Museum Village

• The Red Mill:A fully restored 19th-century mill that is the centerpiece of the village.
• Exhibits:Interactive displays on milling, quarrying, and blacksmithing.
• Events:Seasonal festivals and historic reenactments that bring history to life.

17. The New Jersey Botanical Garden At Skylands

• Beautiful Gardens:Featuring themed sections like the Lilac Garden and Perennial Border.
• Skylands Manor:A historic mansion with guided tours available.
• Seasonal Blooms:Enjoy the changing colors and varieties of flowers throughout the year.

18. Lucy The Elephant

• Take a Tour:Learn about Lucy’s history and architecture from inside this unique structure.
• Panoramic Views:The observation deck offers views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Family Activities:Nearby beaches and parks make this a great stop for families.

19. Duke Farms

• Explore the Grounds:Walking and biking trails wind through meadows, lakes, and woodlands.
• Orchid Range:Visit the stunning greenhouse filled with exotic orchids.
• Sustainability Workshops:Participate in educational programs on environmental conservation.

20. Morristown National Historical Park

• Ford Mansion:George Washington’s headquarters during the winter of 1779-1780.
• Jockey Hollow:The winter encampment site for Washington’s troops.
• Museum Exhibits:Artifacts and displays that tell the story of the Revolutionary War.

FAQs About Visiting New Jersey

What Is The Best Time To Visit New Jersey?

• Summer:Ideal for beach vacations and outdoor activities.
• Fall:Perfect for hiking, leaf-peeping, and attending harvest festivals.
• Winter:Great for holiday events and skiing in the northern part of the state.

Are There Any Free Attractions In New Jersey?

• Liberty State Park
• The New Jersey Botanical Garden at Skylands
• Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

What Are Some Family-friendly Places To Visit In New Jersey?

• The Adventure Aquarium
• Six Flags Great Adventure
• Liberty Science Center

How Can I Get Around New Jersey Without A Car?

• NJ Transit:Trains and buses connect major cities and attractions.
• PATH:Connects parts of New Jersey with Manhattan.
• Biking and Walking:Some cities, like Princeton and Hoboken, are very walkable.

What Are The Must-see Natural Attractions In New Jersey?

• The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
• High Point State Park
• The Pine Barrens

Conclusion