New Jersey is often overlooked as a vacation destination but it is a superb hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Tucked away between the bustling metropolises of New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey packs in a surprising array of beautiful landscapes, exciting towns and cities, and gorgeous beaches – a world away from the stereotypes of the Jersey Shore!
Replete with mountains, oceans, and cultural attractions by the bucketload, the Garden State is the perfect choice for all sorts of travelers, with something to offer anyone. So if you plan to sail from Bayonne on a cruise or just have a weekend planned in New York or Philadelphia, consider adding a few days in New Jersey and discover the surprising beauty of this delightful state. Here are a few of the highlights that the Garden State has to offer.
Beach Bliss Along the Jersey Shore
The Jersey Shore might have a slightly gaudy rep in some quarters, but it is undoubtedly one of the best places in the northeast to go for sun, sand, and surf. From Ocean City to Long Beach Island, the Jersey coastline boasts over 130 miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, charming seaside towns, and beautiful boardwalks. It’s a superb destination for anyone who loves to live that beach life and is the perfect spot for some sun-drenched rest and relaxation.
Outdoor Adventures in the Garden State Parks
Inland, New Jersey really lives up to its nickname. The Garden State is full of amazing landscapes, beautiful forests, pristine parks, and fantastic nature reserves. Visitors can explore these gorgeous outdoor spaces to their hearts’ content, thanks to a wonderful network of hiking and biking trails. Highlights of New Jersey’s great outdoors include the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area on the border with Pennsylvania, which boasts beautiful cascades, incredible panoramic mountain views, and some amazing places for trekking. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is another great spot, particularly for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, and is just a short drive from New York City.
Cultural Enrichment in Historic Towns and Cities
New Jersey is a haven for history buffs and is home to some of the most interesting historic sites and cultural attractions in the country. The Ivy League grandeur of Princeton University is matched by the town’s delightful colonial-era architecture, while nearby Morristown boasts an array of fascinating Revolutionary War sites including the Ford Mansion and Jockey Hollow. Art lovers will enjoy the cultural delights of Newark, including the New Jersey Arts Center, the Museum of New Jersey, and the wonderful Aviation Hall of Fame.
Mountain Escapes in the Skylands Region
Outdoor adventurers will find plenty to love in New Jersey’s Skylands region in the northwest of the state. Standing in stark contrast to the seaside landscapes of the Jersey Shore, Skylands is a paradise of rolling hills, dark forests, and the rugged peaks of the Kittatinny Mountains. From hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and white-water rafting, this part of New Jersey is all about adrenaline-fuelled adventure and is a wonderful place for visitors to challenge themselves amidst the beauty of the natural world.
Whether you are looking for a beautiful beach vacation or something more adventurous out in the backcountry, New Jersey can provide a getaway that’s perfect for you. From soaking up the sun in Ocean City to scaling the heights of Racoon Ridge, the Garden State offers an array of adventures to suit every type of traveler. It’s a glorious, understated, and often under-the-radar destination that guarantees enjoyment and excitement in equal measures!
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