New Jersey, known as the Garden State, offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors. From historical landmarks to cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine to entertainment, New Jersey has something for everyone. This itinerary is divided into eight sections, each focusing on a different aspect of what makes New Jersey a unique and exciting destination.
Landmarks
Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park, located in Jersey City, is one of the most iconic landmarks in New Jersey. The park offers breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. Visitors can take a stroll along the Liberty Walk, a two-mile promenade along the Hudson River. The park also features the Liberty Science Center, an interactive museum with hands-on exhibits that are perfect for families. Another highlight is the Empty Sky Memorial, dedicated to the 749 New Jersey residents who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.
Princeton University
Princeton University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States, is a must-visit landmark in New Jersey. Located in the charming town of Princeton, the university’s campus is home to beautiful Gothic architecture, historic buildings, and lush green spaces. Take a guided tour to learn about the university’s history and visit the Princeton University Art Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art from around the world. Nearby, the Princeton Battlefield State Park offers a glimpse into the Revolutionary War history.
Cape May
Cape May, located at the southern tip of New Jersey, is a historic seaside resort town known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful beaches. The entire town is designated as a National Historic Landmark, and visitors can take a guided trolley tour to see the well-preserved Victorian homes and learn about the town’s history. Don’t miss the Cape May Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. The Washington Street Mall is a charming pedestrian shopping area with unique boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
Food and Cuisine
Tops Diner
Start your culinary journey in New Jersey with a visit to Tops Diner in East Newark. Known for its extensive menu and generous portions, Tops Diner is a local favorite. Breakfast options include pancakes, omelets, and the classic New Jersey Taylor ham, egg, and cheese sandwich. For lunch or dinner, try their famous burgers, seafood platters, or homemade meatloaf. The diner also offers a variety of desserts, including New York-style cheesecake and homemade pies.
White Manna
For a taste of New Jersey’s iconic sliders, head to White Manna in Hackensack. This historic diner, established in 1946, is famous for its delicious, juicy sliders cooked to perfection on a griddle. The burgers are made with fresh ground beef, topped with onions, and served on soft potato rolls. Pair your sliders with a side of crispy fries and a classic milkshake for the ultimate diner experience.
The Frog and The Peach
For a more upscale dining experience, visit The Frog and The Peach in New Brunswick. This award-winning restaurant is known for its innovative American cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The menu features seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as seared scallops, roasted duck, and braised short ribs. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and offers outdoor seating in a beautiful garden setting.
Carlo’s Bakery
No trip to New Jersey would be complete without a visit to Carlo’s Bakery in Hoboken, made famous by the reality TV show “Cake Boss.” This iconic bakery, founded in 1910, is known for its delicious pastries, cakes, and cookies. Try the cannoli, lobster tail pastry, or one of their famous custom cakes. The bakery also offers baking classes for those who want to learn the secrets behind their famous treats.
Entertainment
Atlantic City
Atlantic City is known as the entertainment capital of New Jersey, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. The city’s famous Boardwalk is home to numerous casinos, hotels, and entertainment venues. Try your luck at one of the many casinos, such as Borgata, Caesars, or Tropicana, or catch a live show or concert at the Boardwalk Hall. The Steel Pier amusement park offers rides and games for all ages, while the Absecon Lighthouse provides stunning views of the city and coastline.
Six Flags Great Adventure
For a day of thrills and excitement, visit Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson. This amusement park is home to some of the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters, including Kingda Ka, the tallest coaster in the world, and El Toro, one of the best wooden coasters. The park also features a water park, Hurricane Harbor, with water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. For animal lovers, the park’s Safari Off Road Adventure offers a unique opportunity to see exotic animals up close on a guided tour.
NJPAC
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark is a premier venue for live performances, including concerts, theater, dance, and comedy. The center hosts a wide range of events, from Broadway shows to performances by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra. Check the schedule to see what’s playing during your visit and enjoy a night of world-class entertainment in a stunning setting.
Culture
Grounds for Sculpture
Grounds for Sculpture, located in Hamilton, is a 42-acre sculpture park and museum that features over 270 contemporary sculptures by renowned artists. The park’s beautifully landscaped grounds provide a serene setting for visitors to explore the art and enjoy the natural beauty. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events. Don’t miss the on-site restaurant, Rat’s, which offers French-inspired cuisine in a charming setting overlooking the park’s Monet-inspired lily pond.
The Newark Museum of Art
The Newark Museum of Art is New Jersey’s largest museum, featuring a diverse collection of art, science, and natural history exhibits. The museum’s art collection includes works from American, Asian, African, and Classical collections, as well as contemporary art. The museum also features a planetarium, a Victorian-era mansion, and a beautiful sculpture garden. Special exhibitions and events are held throughout the year, making it a must-visit for art and culture enthusiasts.
The Zimmerli Art Museum
Located on the Rutgers University campus in New Brunswick, the Zimmerli Art Museum is one of the largest university art museums in the country. The museum’s collection includes over 60,000 works of art, with a focus on American, European, and Russian art. Highlights include the Norton and Nancy Dodge Collection of Nonconformist Art from the Soviet Union and the museum’s extensive collection of works on paper. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and special events.
Outdoor Activities
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, located along the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, offers over 70,000 acres of scenic beauty and outdoor recreation. The park features more than 100 miles of hiking trails, including a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Visitors can enjoy activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming in the Delaware River. The park is also home to numerous waterfalls, including the picturesque Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls.
High Point State Park
High Point State Park, located in Sussex County, is home to the highest elevation in New Jersey at 1,803 feet. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Pocono Mountains and the Catskill Mountains. Visitors can hike the trails, swim in Lake Marcia, or climb to the top of the High Point Monument for panoramic views. The park is also popular for picnicking, fishing, and camping.
Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park, located on the Barnegat Peninsula, is one of New Jersey’s last remaining barrier islands. The park features pristine beaches, dunes, and maritime forests, providing a natural habitat for wildlife such as ospreys, foxes, and various bird species. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, fishing, and kayaking in the park’s waters. The park also has several walking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and guided nature programs.
Shopping
The Mills at Jersey Gardens
The Mills at Jersey Gardens, located in Elizabeth, is New Jersey’s largest outlet and value retail center. The mall features over 200 stores, including popular brands such as Coach, Michael Kors, and Nike. Shoppers can find great deals on clothing, accessories, electronics, and home goods. The mall also has a food court, several sit-down restaurants, and a movie theater.
Red Bank
Red Bank, located along the Navesink River, is a charming town known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and antique shops. The town’s downtown area is home to unique stores such as Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash, a comic book store owned by filmmaker Kevin Smith, and Garmany, a high-end clothing store. Red Bank also hosts several annual events, including the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival and the Red Bank Farmers Market.
Collingswood
Collingswood, located just outside of Philadelphia, is a vibrant town with a thriving arts and shopping scene. The town’s main street, Haddon Avenue, is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Highlights include The Candy Jar, a nostalgic candy store, and Frugli Consignment Boutique, which offers gently used designer clothing. Collingswood also hosts the Collingswood Book Festival and the Second Saturday Arts Crawl, featuring local artists and live music.
History
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Thomas Edison National Historical Park, located in West Orange, is the site of Thomas Edison’s laboratory and home. Visitors can explore the laboratory complex, which includes Edison’s invention factory, chemistry lab, and machine shops. The Glenmont estate, Edison’s 29-room Victorian mansion, is also open for tours. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of one of America’s greatest inventors.
Battleship New Jersey
The Battleship New Jersey, located on the Delaware River in Camden, is the most decorated battleship in U.S. history. Visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the ship, exploring areas such as the captain’s bridge, crew quarters, and the engine room. The battleship also hosts special events, overnight encampments, and educational programs. The on-site museum features exhibits on the ship’s history and the experiences of those who served aboard her.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
While technically part of New York, Ellis Island is accessible from Liberty State Park in New Jersey and is a significant part of New Jersey’s history. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration tells the story of the millions of immigrants who passed through the island on their way to a new life in America. Visitors can explore the restored Main Building, view exhibits on the immigrant experience, and search for ancestors in the American Family Immigration History Center.
Beaches
Point Pleasant Beach
Point Pleasant Beach is a popular summer destination known for its sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and vibrant boardwalk. The beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, while the boardwalk features amusement rides, arcades, and delicious food stands. Jenkinson’s Aquarium, located on the boardwalk, is a great attraction for families, with exhibits featuring marine life from around the world. Point Pleasant Beach also hosts events such as the Festival of the Sea and weekly fireworks during the summer.
Wildwood
Wildwood, located on the Jersey Shore, is famous for its wide sandy beaches and lively boardwalk. The boardwalk stretches for nearly two miles and is lined with amusement parks, water parks, shops, and eateries. Morey’s Piers is a highlight, with its thrilling rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water slides, and a giant Ferris wheel. Wildwood also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Wildwoods International Kite Festival and the National Marbles Tournament.
Long Beach Island
Long Beach Island, or LBI, is a barrier island located off the coast of New Jersey, known for its beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns. The island’s 18-mile stretch of beaches offers something for everyone, from quiet, family-friendly spots to lively areas with beach bars and water sports. Visit the historic Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as “Old Barney,” for stunning views of the island and surrounding waters. LBI also offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to fine dining restaurants.
Festivals and Events
New Jersey Film Festival
The New Jersey Film Festival, held annually in New Brunswick, showcases independent films from around the world. The festival features a diverse lineup of feature films, documentaries, and short films, with screenings held at Rutgers University. The event also includes panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and special events. The festival is a great opportunity to discover new talent and enjoy a wide range of films in a supportive and creative environment.
Atlantic City Airshow
The Atlantic City Airshow, also known as “Thunder Over the Boardwalk,” is one of the largest airshows in the United States. Held annually in August, the airshow features breathtaking aerial performances by military and civilian aircraft, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and the U.S. Army Golden Knights. The event attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators to the Atlantic City beachfront and offers a thrilling experience for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
New Jersey Seafood Festival
The New Jersey Seafood Festival, held in Belmar, is a celebration of the state’s rich seafood heritage. The festival features a wide variety of seafood dishes, from lobster rolls and crab cakes to clams and oysters. Visitors can also enjoy live music, craft vendors, and family-friendly activities. The festival is a great way to sample some of the best seafood New Jersey has to offer while enjoying a fun and festive atmosphere.
New Jersey offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from its rich history and cultural attractions to its stunning natural beauty and vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re exploring landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying outdoor activities, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to the Garden State.