With its coastal beauty, cultural landmarks, and heart-pounding attractions, New Jersey is definitely worth visiting. Visitors can experience the scenic coastline that features many shops, casinos and entertainment options along the iconic Atlantic City Boardwalk, which is one of the state’s most popular attractions. For the more outdoorsy types,
Liberty State Park in Jersey City offers excellent views of the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor, as well as picnic areas and walking paths, great for a quiet getaway. And Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, with its collection of world-class roller coasters and water rides, is a great option if you’re looking for thrill-seeking fun for the whole family. History buffs can see the life of the famed inventor at the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, in West Orange, with tours of his laboratory and home.
From bustling boardwalks to serene parks and exciting amusement parks, there is something for every traveling type in New Jersey! From the glitz and glamor of Atlantic City to the natural beauty of Liberty State Park, this diverse state is a cool destination with something for every interest.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
The oldest boardwalk in the United States was built in 1870; it was the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Ranging along four miles of beautiful Atlantic coast, this legendary destination is your tourism hub to entertainment, repose, and merriment. A must-do for those who love history, amusement parks, or ocean views, the boardwalk provides an experience like none other.
At Steel Pier, visitors can enjoy the thrills of rides and carnival games. In addition to the amusement park, the Boardwalk features a number of casinos — including Caesars, Tropicana and Borgata — where gaming fans can try their luck. And the sandy beaches by the boardwalk are perfect for those who just want to chill out.
Food aficionados can savor the local specialties, including saltwater taffy and freshly caught seafood at waterfront eateries. Iconic landmarks such as the Absecon Lighthouse and Boardwalk Hall, which features concerts and events, provide a cultural backdrop to your trip. Take a spin in a classic rolling chair while enjoying the lively ambiance for a dash of nostalgia. 3- The Atlantic City Boardwalk: This is a place full of history, leisure, and fun.
Address: Atlantic City Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
Website: www.atlanticcitynj.com
Liberty State Park New Jersey
Liberty State Park A beautiful oasis in the heart of Jersey City, Liberty State Park features incredible views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline. Covering more than 1,200 acres, the park is a paradise for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Visitors can partake in picturesque walking and biking paths, expansive picnic areas, and a tranquil marina.
Among the park’s most prominent attributes is the Liberty Science Center, a family-oriented destination with hands-on exhibits and the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. It’s an ideal destination for kids and adults to explore science and technology — in a fun way. You are familiar with bit of park named Empty Sky Memorial, a somber and powerful tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks.
Liberty State Park is also a gateway to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Ferries regularly leave from the park so it’s an excellent starting ground for exploring these historic sites. Liberty State Park, Natural Beauty at Its Bitty Best: With its mix of natural beauty, cultural significance, and recreational activities, Liberty State Park is a wonderful place for anyone to visit in New Jersey
Address: 200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Six Flags Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure Jackson, NJ Six Flags Great Adventure Jackson, NJ is one of the largest worldmost thrilling amusement parks. Covering more than 500 acres, this expansive theme park combines roller-coaster thrills with family-oriented rides and live shows. Six Flags is a Mecca for adrenaline junkies, famous for its innovative roller coasters.
The park is home to record-breaking rides, including Kingda Ka, the tallest roller coaster in the world, which shoots riders 456 feet into the air at speeds of up to 128 mph. Also among the top attractions at Six Flags New England is El Toro, a wooden coaster famous for its insane airtime and silky smooth ride. Families can also enjoy gentler attractions such as the classic carousel, safari jeep tours, and water rides. In the summer, Hurricane Harbor water park offers a great way to beat the heat, with its giant wave pools, water slides and lazy rivers.
Six Flags Great Adventure also offers seasonal outings, such as Fright Fest during Halloween and Holiday in the Park in winter, which transform the park into a holiday extravaganza. Four other cards are available at a special price so the entire family can experience the thrill rides, animal encounters found in the Safari Off Road Adventure and world-class entertainment.
Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson, NJ 08527
Cape May Historic District
The Cape May Historic District is a delightful coastal gem where visitors can experience the Victorian era. Situated at the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is one of the oldest beach resorts in the United States. Its historic district has been designated a National Historic Landmark and contains over 600 preserved Victorian-era buildings (including the famed St. Charles Avenue), renowned for their beauty and stately character.
A walk around the district showcases a number of beautifully restored homes, many converted into bed-and-breakfasts, boutiques or museums. The Emlen Physick Estate, a lovingly restored Victorian mansion, features guided tours with a trove of information about life in the late 1800s. Beach Avenue, with its quaint shops and eateries, is perfect for a gentle stroll.
The clean beaches at Cape May are perfect for sunbathing, or dolphin-watching tours. Visitors can also hike to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse for sweeping views of the coast, or go birdwatching at the adjacent Cape May Point State Park. The district is active with seasonal events including the Cape May Music Festival and the Christmas Candlelight House Tour. You’ll find that you have an outstanding time visiting the Cape May Historic District that including the history, relaxation, and seaside charm.
Address: Cape May Historic District, Cape May, NJ 08204
Website: www.capemay.com
Adventure Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium, situated on the picturesque Camden Waterfront, is among the top aquatic attractions in the United States. Home to more than 15,000 aquatic animals, it features unique, interactive experiences that visitors of all ages will love. It’s an excellent family and aquatic life destination, with immersive exhibits and interactive activities.
Among the aquarium’s star attractions is the Shark Bridge, an exhilarating rope suspension bridge that allows you to walk mere inches above a gigantic tank full of sharks. They can also visit the Shark Realm, which features sand tiger sharks, nurse sharks and more swimming through the tank. The Hippo Haven, home to Nile hippos, Button and Genny, gives visitors a unique chance to see these magnificent creatures in an underwater habitat.
Another good spot is the “Little Blue Beach,” where little blue penguins can be seen up close. For someone wanting a more tactile experience, the touch pools give you the opportunity to gently touch stingrays, sea stars and other marine species. Educational programming, including behind-the-scenes tours and animal feedings make the fun informative, too. From just minutes outside of Philadelphia, Adventure Aquarium entertains and educates in a way that inspires everyone who comes through the door.
Address: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ 08103
Website: www.adventureaquarium.com
Grounds For Sculpture
Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton, N.J., is an enchanting 42-acre outdoor museum where art and nature meld. Founded in 1992 by J. Seward Johnson, an artist and philanthropist, this unique destination features more than 300 contemporary sculptures displayed throughout landscaped gardens and paths.
Visitors are free to roam the grounds, where larger-than-life sculptures frequently shock and inspire. High points include whimsical renditions by Johnson of famous paintings, such as The Dance by Renoir, reinterpreted in three dimensions. The park’s placid ponds, resplendent floral plantings and artfully disheveled vistas create a restful backdrop for art appreciation.
The on-site Museum Building features rotating exhibits and multimedia installations to complement the outdoor displays. There is also Rat’s Restaurant, a delightful restaurant inspired by the artwork of Claude Monet and serving French-inspired dishes in a beautiful environment. Grounds For Sculpture is a living, breathing place with regular workshops, tours and live performances. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a little peace and quiet, this spot is a must.
Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ 08619
Website: www.groundsforsculpture.org
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is an expansive playground along the Delaware River — the natural wonder spans 70,000 acres — with nearly endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Nestled on the New Jersey/Pennsylvania border, the beautiful area is a turn off for campers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
The recreation area boasts more than 100 miles of hiking trails, including the Appalachian Trail, which traverses the beautiful Kittatinny Ridge. Visitors can explore waterfalls, like Dingmans Falls and Raymondskill Falls, or splash along the calmer Delaware River. In warmer months, canoeing, kayaking and tubing are popular.
Deer, black bears, eagles and other species also find a home there, and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate where they get to be, with the diverse habitats in which they live. In the fall, the park becomes a palette of foliage that draws photographers and leaf-peepers. Many of the area’s historic sites—you can visit Millbrook Village—give you a taste of the region’s history, and campgrounds let you experience the great outdoors. The Delaware Water Gap offers an experience that is hard to forget.
Address: Headquarters: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
Princeton University Art Museum
Princeton University Art Museum — The art of history. Located on the prestigious Princeton University campus, this museum features a vast collection representing over 5,000 years of human creativity. Home to over 112,000 works of art, the museum offers a variety of exhibits, from ancient Greek and Roman sculptures to Asian, African and contemporary works.
Notable among the museum’s features is its mission to present art from around the globe. They can marvel at masterpieces by European painters including Monet and Cézanne, admire Park Slope-ready ceramics from China of the last millennium and explore American modern works that reflect the spirit of the 20th and 21st centuries. There are also rotating exhibitions, so every trip feels new and exciting.
In addition to its exhibitions, the museum provides a range of educational programs, lectures, and workshops, establishing itself as a center for cultural exchange and education. The outdoor sculpture garden offers a peaceful area to appreciate artwork surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you are a student, a family or a solitary traveller, the Princeton University Art Museum offers an enriching and inspirational experience. And best of all, admission is free, making sure art is accessible to all.
Address: Princeton University Art Museum, Elm Drive, Princeton, NJ 08544
Island Beach State Park
The breathtaking natural gem of Island Beach State Park on the Jersey Shore13. With nearly 10 miles of unspoiled coastline, the park is a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers and nature lovers. Unspoiled sandy beaches, dynamic dunes and lush maritime forests provide an idyllic backdrop that draws visitors year-round.
The park is home to wildlife, including red foxes and herons, and is also a stop for the endangered piping plover. Ospreys nest here and migratory species stop on their journey, creating a spectacle for birdwatchers. Adventure-seekers in the park won’t be disappointed, with plenty of recreational activities like swimming, kayaking, surfing, and hiking. The Barnegat Bay side has quieter waters and is popular for paddleboarding and fishing; the ocean side attracts surf fishers hoping to reel in striped bass or bluefish.
Island Beach State Park also has a focus on environmental conservation and education. Guided excursions, talks and programs showcase the park’s unique ecosystems and provide a glimpse into the fragile balance of coastal habitats. Families gather to picnic in designated areas, while photographers set up their tripods and wait for the next breathtaking landscape or wildlife opportunity that comes into view.
Whether seeking to lounge on a calm beach, explore nature paths, or commune with wildlife, Island Beach State Park offers an unforgettable visit. It’s an ideal detour from daily life hustle.
Address: Island Beach State Park, Seaside Park, NJ 08752
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, New Jersey, a fascinating look at the life and accomplishments of one of the world’s greatest inventors. This national park maintains Edison’s laboratory complex, where he developed such inventions as the phonograph and motion picture camera. Visitors can walk through the laboratory, the machine shops, and Edison’s own library, all of them filled with artifacts and tools from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The highlight of the park is the chemistry lab, where Edison worked on projects that transformed industries. Knowledgeable park rangers and interactive exhibits bring history alive here, explaining how Edison’s innovative spirit shaped much of modern technology. Another highlight is the Glenmont Estate, the grand Victorian home of Edison. Set among the verdant Llewellyn Park, the estate is a reflection of Edison’s personal life and provides a window into the family’s lifestyle.
Visitors young and old are welcome to take part in hands-on activities and learn about Edison’s contributions to science and engineering. The Revised Text: The park includes walking tours and educational programs and is a good destination for families and history buffs. With its wealth of historical significance and immersive exhibits, this park is an inspirational homage to Edison’s genius.
Address: Thomas Edison National Historical Park, 211 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052
Asbury Park Boardwalk
The Asbury Park Boardwalk is a bustling beachside destination that beautifully fuses history, entertainment and nature. This classic boardwalk, which stretches along the Jersey Shore, has served as a cultural hub for more than a century. Today, it remains a destination for visitors, drawn to the square’s eclectic mix of attractions, restaurants, and places to be entertained.
Walk down the boardwalk, and you’ll discover an abundance of boutique shops, art galleries and interesting eateries. Concerts and events are held in the historic Paramount Theatre and Convention Hall, and there is a vintage touch at the Asbury Park Casino. Live music fans need only visit the iconic Stone Pony, where artists like Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi started their careers.
Family-friendly activities such as miniature golf, arcades and a splash park for kids are also available on the boardwalk. Sandlovers doze on the beach and swim in the Atlantic; jocks run and cycle on the promenades and boardwalks. Seasonal events like outdoor markets and fairs guarantee something fun is always going on.
As such, Asbury Park Boardwalk is either a small slice of paradise on a relaxing day by the beach, a night of live music or a culinary adventure, or all three.
Address: Asbury Park Boardwalk, Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Website: apboardwalk.com
Battleship New Jersey
The Battleship New Jersey, moored along the Camden Waterfront, is a floating museum and monument to American naval history. The most-decorated battleship in U.S. history, this enduring vessel fought in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Today, visitors can walk around its decks and learn about its storied past.
Click on to sail away and live life as a sailor. Guided and self-guided tours lead visitors through the ship’s magnificent interior, including the bridge, engine rooms and crew quarters. On the ship’s upper deck, huge 16-inch guns and other smaller weapons give visitors an up-close glimpse of the firepower that helped achieve victories in several wars.
Interactive displays and exhibits detail the ship’s history, technology and the lives of those who served on board. Visitors can sit in the captain’s chair, explore the Combat Engagement Center and even spend the night in the crew’s bunks as part of special overnight programs.
The Battleship New Jersey isn’t a mere museum; it’s a living memorial to American sailors who showed incredible bravery and made great sacrifices. It is both an educational and emotional experience that links visitors with the nation’s maritime history.
Address: Battleship New Jersey, 100 Clinton Street, Camden, NJ 08103
Website: battleshipnewjersey.org
High Point State Park
High Point State Park in Sussex County, N.J., is a nature lover’s paradise. Known for its breathtaking views, varied terrain, and recreation. That makes the High Point Monument, a 220-foot obelisk, the park’s centerpiece, providing panoramic vistas of New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.
Desolate, harrowing, and beautiful at the same time: how can I ever explain this corner of the world? Hikers can traverse a web of trails, including segments of the Appalachian Trail. In the summer months, visitors can swim, boat, and fish in Lake Marcia at the park.
In winter, High Point becomes a winter sports destination, with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Wildlife lovers may see deer, black bears and many species of birds. The park has picnic areas and open fields that are ideal for families and groups.
Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, stunning scenery or a quiet getaway, all seasons High Point State Park is the perfect destination.
Address: High Point State Park, 1480 State Route 23, Sussex, NJ 07461
The Wildwoods
The Wildwoods, a Jersey Shore beach area, evokes a sense of nostalgia paired with some modern-day attractions. Famous for its expansive sandy beaches, lively boardwalk and classic doo-wop architecture, this region charms visitors young and old.
More than two miles long, the boardwalk in the Wildwoods is lined with family-friendly attractions such as amusement rides, water parks, arcades and old-fashioned boardwalk games. With plenty of room to spread out and enjoy yourself in the sun or even play some beach volleyball.
At the beach: In addition to that surf, visitors can learn about the Wildwoods’ storied history and eccentric architecture. There are more than 30 mid-century motels in the area that feature the signature doo-wop style of the 1950s and ’60s. And the year-round events and concerts at the Wildwoods Convention Center add to the atmosphere in the area.
Families can visit Morey’s Piers, with its roller coasters, water park and rides suitable for every age. With a relaxed yet vibrant environment, The Wildwoods make an ideal location for a fun family vacation, romantic retreat or a day trip.
Address: The Wildwoods, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Website: wildwoodsnj.com
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park — Paterson, NJ The Creation of the Falls The park’s centerpiece, Great Falls, is one of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. East Coast. The thundering waters plunge 77 feet, building a dramatic show. The falls have been central to Paterson’s history, once fueling the city’s early industrial mills.
Visitors can walk the park’s scenic paths, which offer many angles of the falls and surrounding industrial landscape. The Paterson Great Falls also played a central role in the development of the city, and the park has laid out some of its history through various information panels throughout. The park’s visitor center occupies a restored structure that once was a boarding house for millworkers.
Apart from its natural beauty, the park offers educational programs that explore the significance of Paterson’s industrial revolution and its place in the nation’s early manufacturing economy. The region around the falls are ideal for photographs, bid watching and soaking in the surrounding parks beauty.
Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is a rewarding stop for the history-minded and the nature-minded alike, and for anyone looking for the transformative power of water.
Address: Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, 72 McBride Avenue Extension, Paterson, NJ 07501
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
A Jersey Shore staple for years, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach is one of the most beloved family-friendly locations on the shore. With a perfect mix of exciting rides, fun attractions and gorgeous beachfront, Jenkinson’s is one of those places where you can literally spend the whole day doing something.
The boardwalk is mobile, with attractions ranging from classic carnival rides and games to more unique offerings like a mini-golf course and an aquarium. One popular section is the amusement park at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, with thrilling rides that include a Ferris wheel, roller coasters and bumper cars. Families of young children will enjoy the carousel and other smaller rides designed for all ages. One of the top attractions on the boardwalk, the Jenkinson’s Aquarium offers visitors a close-up look at creatures from the sea, including penguins, sharks and sea turtles.
For those in the mood to spend time at the beach, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk is a few steps to the sand’s edge, where visitors can lounge, swim and try their hand at water sports. The boardwalk also features a range of dining options, including casual spots serving up boardwalk staples like saltwater taffy, pizza and seafood. If visitors are looking for entertainment, there are seasonal events at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk — such as fireworks displays and live music performances. A fun-filled day of ocean waves and amusement rides at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk.
Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Website: jenkinsons.com
Liberty Science Center
Facing the Hudson River, Liberty Science Center is an interactive museum, a 12-minute drive from New York City, that focuses on science, technology, and innovation. A particularly popular science museum that is great for families and one of the most visited science centers in the United States, with many exhibits suitable for all ages. Liberty Science Center combines hands-on exhibits, inspiring experiences, and educational programs to satisfy both the inquisitive mind and the desire to learn while having fun.
The Museum features a range of thrilling exhibits, from interactive excavations to lifelike environments that allow visitors to dive into deep learning about robotics, space exploration, environment science, health, and so much more. The IMAX theater is a centerpiece of the center, which shows a rotating selection of educational features on mammoth screens that put you in the film. The museum also regularly features special exhibits and temporary displays that change as the museum evolves.
Liberty Science Center’s mission is technology and learning through hands-on experiences. Kids can enjoy exhibits like the My Way or the Highway, to help them learn about traffic safety and the science of driving, and the Infinity Climber, a giant three-story climbing apparatus. The center also has educational programs, from science camps to birthday parties and workshops, for students and families.
Just across from Liberty State Park and boasting some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty, Liberty Science Center is the perfect blend of education, fun, and exploration. Perfect way to spend the day learning about the world around us through fun, hands-on activities.
Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Website: lsc.org
Camden Waterfront
If you want to be introduced to the best and most vibrant part of the city then discover the Camden Waterfront. Lying along the banks of the Delaware River, the area is the center of some of New Jersey’s most popular cultural institutions, parks and entertainment venues. It is an ideal destination for families, history enthusiasts and travelers eager to soak in the best of the area’s natural beauty and cultural opportunities.
The Camden Waterfront Park One of the iconic attractions of the Camden Waterfront is the Camden Waterfront Park, which offers stunning views of the river as well as the Philadelphia skyline. The park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and green spaces, providing an excellent place to relax or engage in outdoor activities. One of the other major attractions is the Adventure Aquarium, housing several sea species from sharks to sea turtles to penguins. Among the aquarium’s many immersive exhibits, the shark tunnel lets guests walk below the water to get close to those mysterious fish.
For those interested in a bit of history, the Camden Waterfront is also home to the Battleship New Jersey, a floating museum that tells the story of the most chambered battleship in American navy history. There is also a cruise on the Delaware River, a unique view of the area. The waterfront is an entertainment hub as well including concerts, festivals and special events year around.
Address: 2 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103
Website: camdenwaterfront.com
Palisades Interstate Park
What it is: The Palisades Interstate Park, located on the Hudson River, features some of the most picturesque natural scenery in New Jersey, in addition to a lot of recreational offerings. Covering more than 2,500 acres, the park is loved for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic vistas of the Hudson River Valley, and is home to an extensive system of hiking trails, making it popular with outdoors people.
Pointing toward the Palisades Interstate Park, where there are a number of scenic overlooks that offer sweeping views of the river, the George Washington Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. Besides abundant wildlife, the park has a lot of history too, being one of the first state parks in the United States. For visitors, this means plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and the perfect destination for a day outdoors with friends or family. Trails in the park vary from easy walks to more strenuous hikes, many offering sweeping views of the surrounding area.
The park is known for its breathtaking scenery, but it also has a number of cultural and historical sites. On-site at the park, the Historic Sites Museum illustrates the rich history of the area, including the Paterson Great Falls, the history of the Palisades, and the role the park played in shaping New Jersey’s park system. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history fanatic or simply searching for a peaceful, natural environment to retreat to, Palisades Interstate Park is a must-visit destination in the area.
Address: Alpine, NJ 07620
Website: palisadesparksconservancy.org