Even though the Garden State doesn’t get all the headlines as its big brother neighbor, The Empire State, it still remains a hidden gem of places to visit and things to do. While Atlantic City is the first thing that comes to mind when speaking about New Jersey, when putting together your bucket list, these top ten amazing things should be on the list.
1. Cape May
No trip to New Jersey would be complete without visiting the historical landmark, Cape May. Every step on this historical beach island is a step into the marvelous Victorian era. Most of the original Victorian home architecture is well preserved, as is the historical lighthouse.
2. Island Beach State Park
Prepare to trek through miles of amazing sandy beach shores at Island Beach State Park. Admire the amazing natural dunes and wetlands through Island Beach State Park. Get some much-needed relaxation fishing or go hiking down Spizzle Ceek Bird Blind Trail.
3. High Point State Park
Bring the family along at High Point State Park. The first thing is to honor and pay tribute to the fantastic life-size statue honoring America’s proud fallen soldiers. Go hiking in the fall as the leaves fall on parts of the Appalachian Trail, or go swimming in Lake Marcia.
4. Adventure Aquarium
Get to know Camden up close on the waterfront where the Adventure Aquarium is located. Get as close as possible to seeing sharks up close by walking through the shark tunnel. Take your heart in your hands as the sharks swim around the 40-foot tunnel. Other interesting marine life at the Adventure Aquarium are ancient sea turtles and even a pair of hippos.
5. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
Make your way to Point Pleasant Beach to have a pleasant family memory at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk. The first step should be on the fantastic coastline to have a family picnic as the sailboats pass by. Of course, you can also settle in at one of the amazing diners along the beach that give you impressive views of the serene beach waters. Take the kids on the carousel or on the Ferris wheel.
6. Princeton University
Walk on the campus of one of America’s oldest and most prestigious Ivy League schools at, Princeton University. As you walk around this historical campus that dates back to 1756, admire the amazing Gothic architecture. Be sure to visit the museum, which has over 100,000 great works of art and includes many cherished ancient art pieces.
7. Thomas Edison National Historical Park
You have your excuse to visit West Orange, New Jersey, by visiting Thomas Edison National Historical Park. The entire museum pays homage to the famous inventor Thomas Edison. Step foot into the very laboratory where he made many of his inventions like the light bulb and the phonograph.
8. Battleship New Jersey
If you haven’t made it to Camden, you have a second chance to get there to admire up close the Battleship New Jersey. The Battleship New Jersey is one of the most legendary military ships in the history of the US Navy. It was one of the vessels during World War 2 and played a major role in the battle of the Pacific. Beyond World War 2, the Battleship New Jersey saw action in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. It’s been decommissioned and permanently docked since 2001.
9. Elizabeth, New Jersey
Explore one of New Jersey’s oldest and most elegant towns with Elizabeth, New Jersey. Visit Boxwood Hall that dates back to the 1750s. Boxwood Hall was the headquarters for George Washington during America’s revolt against the British.
10. Atlantic City, New Jersey
Even with so many historical and charming towns, Atlantic City remains the major draw. Tourists from all over the world, including New Yorkers, come to the Beach Boardwalk to play at some of the biggest casinos in the USA. Of course, you don’t have to play to enjoy the amazing beach coast with world-class cuisine and live entertainment.
Conclusion
New Jersey offers many hidden gems all year long. The Garden State offers all four seasons. Even visiting your local New Jersey park during the fall and watching the leaves fall is a sight for sore eyes. Other favorite spots include part of the Delaware River and The Ashbury Park for its contemporary art and historic boardwalk.
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