Things to Do in New Jersey
New Jersey is a northeastern U.S. state that boasts 130 miles of Atlantic coastline. Jersey City is the state’s most notable destination, across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan. This city is also home to Liberty State Park, which features the iconic Statue of Liberty. The Jersey Shore is also home to many notable resort towns, including Asbury Park and the Victorian town of Edison. To learn more about New Jersey’s many attractions, read on.
Paterson Great Falls
If you’ve never been to the city of Paterson, New Jersey, you’ve probably wondered where the Great Falls are. Located in the National Park Service’s Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, the waterfalls of the Passaic River are 77 feet high and a popular spot for visitors. While visiting the park, you should take the time to explore the surrounding area.
When you’re finished admiring the falls, head to the park to take a break and view. The park features numerous picnic tables and shady areas where you can relax and enjoy the views. You can even take a self-guided audio walking tour to learn more about the park’s history and natural beauty. There’s a National Park Service partner site nearby as well.
The waterfalls are free to view, and visitors can take the time to check out the Welcome Center at the intersection of Spruce and McBride Avenue. They also sell literature about the waterfalls and can earn Junior Ranger badges. The park is open from May 15 to November 30, but it’s best to check the website before going. While you’re there, don’t miss the Art in the Park Showcase, which takes place on Oct. 14. Artworks will include sculptures and murals.
Cherry Blossom Festival
After a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, Essex County officials have announced the schedule of events for their 46th annual Cherry Blossom Festival. The beautiful pink flowers will bloom under 5,000 cherry trees in Branch Brook Park. There will be live music, kids’ activities, a crafters’ marketplace, Japanese cultural demonstrations, and much more. In addition, the festival will include the Cherry Blossom 10K Run and the Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race.
The cherry trees in Essex County, New Jersey, are a testament to the city’s dedication to preserving its natural environment. In the 1920s, the city received more than 2,000 trees from Caroline Bamberger Fuld, co-founder of the Bamberger’s retail chain. She was so captivated by the beautiful cherry blossoms she donated 2,000 trees to the park. However, the festival was so famous that the park couldn’t handle them all.
Visitors to Summit can take advantage of the Arboretum’s serene setting to celebrate the spring season. This park features a beautiful rose garden and daffodil bowl in a serene setting. The arboretum also features a variety of flowering plants, including Japanese maple trees. If you’re visiting with the family, check out the arboretum’s gazebo, which has crisscrossing railings and a small pond.
Thomas Edison’s former home
Visit Thomas Edison’s former home in Glenmont, New Jersey, where he lived for over 30 years. Built in 1880 for a New York businessman, this mansion features ornamental tile flooring and molded brick walls. Its main floor has a red mahogany grand staircase, a small library, and a reception room that was once equipped with a pipe organ. The museum contains original artifacts from Edison’s office, including Edison’s coat of arms.
Thomas Edison’s former New Jersey home is at 651 Menlo Park in Raritan Township. The area was sparsely populated and had undergone a residential development during the early 1870s. In late 1875, Thomas Edison purchased two parcels of land totaling approximately 34 acres from the family of William Carman, an employee at Edison’s Newark office. He converted his office into his own home and lived in it. The other two buildings were subsequently moved by his son to Greenfield Village, the ecumenical gathering place.
Today, the Edison National Historical Park features the mansion and laboratory of America’s greatest inventor. Tours of the mansion last about an hour, and admission to the park is free. Those in wheelchairs or with physical problems are not advised to take the tour, but all are welcome to view the exterior and grounds of the mansion. While a tour is an experience to remember, it may not be for everyone.
New Jersey Aquarium
Adventure Aquarium was formerly known as the New Jersey State Aquarium. This for-profit educational entertainment complex is located in Camden, New Jersey. Herschend Family Entertainment Corporation owns and operates the aquarium. Visitors can explore the many species that call New Jersey home. Its name comes from the state’s nickname, “Aquarium City.”
The project involved renovating parts of the existing aquarium and adding new exhibits. DA provided Interior Architecture services and coordinated theme work development. They also developed concept designs for the aquarium’s exterior and interior areas, including pedestrian bridge connections and multiple viewing levels. The New Jersey Aquarium’s mission was to educate the public and enhance the aquarium’s presence in the community. The project also included the construction of a new hippo exhibit and the development of a pedestrian bridge connecting the existing aquarium to the city.
Visitors can get up close and personal with the creatures in SEA LIFE’s five interactive exhibits. Guests can also touch a sloth and experience an “Animal Whisperer” tour. In addition to these interactive exhibits, visitors can learn about the ocean’s diverse ecosystem by listening to enlightening talks. It’s a great way to get a taste of the world beneath our feet! This is one of the best aquariums in the country.
Rutgers Gardens
If you want to go somewhere unique and interesting without having to leave the state, you may want to visit Rutgers Gardens. Located on the outskirts of the Cook Campus in North Brunswick, New Jersey, the Rutgers Gardens is the official botanic garden of Rutgers University. If you have never been to a botanic garden before, you should definitely take your time to visit it.
The Rutgers University botanical gardens are free to visit. You can visit the gardens from April to September and enjoy various themes. There are also many special dedications, such as trees and flowers that were dedicated to school buildings. You can also check out the sponsored ornaments and garden fascinators to find unique gifts for friends and family. And if you’re traveling on a budget, the gardens are the perfect solution to your needs.
The gardens have been undergoing changes over the years. Over the years, the gardens have had countless additions and subtractions. They have also established several new tribute and ornamental gardens. The gardens also have five benches and two gazebos. Visitors will enjoy relaxing in a shaded garden while admiring the beautiful plants. While visiting Rutgers Gardens, you’ll find many exciting things to do in New Jersey.
Essex Country Turtle Back Zoo
The Turtle Back Zoo is located in West Orange, New Jersey. It is located on 20 acres in the South Mountain Recreation Complex, which is run by the Essex County Park System, the oldest county park system in the United States. You can take a stroll around the zoo or visit the park’s museum and shop. It is definitely something to do with kids, and it’s one of the best things to do in New Jersey.
The Turtle Back Zoo is open year-round, but certain attractions may close during the winter. For instance, the Savannah Cafe and Treetop course are closed during winter. You can play mini golf and see animal shows during the open house in June and July. If you’re looking for a unique date night, visit the zoo during the Celebrate Frog Month event. If you’re planning a trip to New Jersey, be sure to check out the Turtle Back Zoo!
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
If you are looking for a unique place to visit while vacationing in New Jersey, then you should consider visiting Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. Located on Long Beach Island in Ocean County, this historic site once served as an important navigation point for ships bound for New York Harbor. Now, you can visit this attraction and experience its history by renting a tour bus or making a day of it by visiting the lighthouse.
Visiting the historic Barnegat Lighthouse is a unique experience and worth the visit. This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and operates as a historical museum. You can climb the 217-step catwalk to experience the history of this lighthouse and its significance in early navigation. While at the lighthouse, you can also go birdwatching or fishing.
There’s no shortage of things to do at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. There’s a museum nearby that houses the original Fresnel lens. There are also picnic areas, fishing, and hiking trails. The park is open daily from 8 AM until 10 PM, though the lighthouse is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. There is a small fee for the tours, which are free for children under six years old.
Liberty Science Center
A visit to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, New Jersey is sure to be educational and fun. The center is an interactive science museum and learning center. It features the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere and the fourth largest in the world. Visitors can learn about the wonders of space, and experience a hands-on science adventure. It is free to visit and children of all ages can enjoy the fun and educational exhibits.
The Liberty Science Center is the premier attraction in Jersey City. Families with children are sure to enjoy its exhibits on four floors, which focus on the natural world, space, and human communication. The center is dedicated to educating the public about science and is packed with interactive exhibits and interactive shows. The Center is home to over 100 species of animals and hosts an ongoing exhibition that features some of the most interesting ones. The Making Mammoths exhibit explores the ongoing efforts to bring back mammoths, a project led by Harvard geneticist George Church. This exhibit could help the environment by reducing global warming.
Best Sightseeing in New Jersey
If you are looking for the best places to see in New Jersey, you’ve come to the right place! This article will help you find the best places to see, including Historic sites, Waterfalls, Beaches, Museums, and more! Just check out these top spots and you’re ready to begin exploring! Once you’re there, you’ll wonder what else New Jersey has to offer. Read on to discover what this beautiful state has to offer!
Historic sites
You’ll find dozens of historical sites in New Jersey if you’re a history buff. From preserved landmarks to living history farms, New Jersey is home to many places that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. While visiting New Jersey, be sure to add these destinations to your bucket list. Read on to learn more about these destinations and what you can expect when you visit. The best way to explore them is to plan a day trip.
For example, if you’re a history buff, you may want to visit Batsto Village. This village was originally home to an iron-making community. It has now evolved to make glass. There are more than 40 historic buildings and structures, including the Batsto-Pleasant Mills Methodist Episcopal Church. Visitors can enjoy live reenactments, educational programs, and craft shows, and even attend a Revolutionary War-themed event!
Identifying historic resources involves architectural and archaeological surveys. Published guidelines since 1996 have helped guide New Jersey’s archaeological and architectural surveys. The list of endangered resources is intended to draw attention to their importance to the state’s heritage, while raising awareness about the threats posed to these historic resources. The program is based on public nominations and seeks to bring new perspectives to sites in need of creative solutions. You can search for historic places in New Jersey by location, type, status, and status.
Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City is another historic landmark in New Jersey that should not be missed. Standing at 163 feet tall, it’s one of the tallest lighthouses in the country. It serves as a museum today. There are virtual tours available and detailed histories of all lighthouses in the state. Additionally, the website includes information about upcoming events and educational programs for children. And, of course, you can find information on all the lighthouses in NJ by using the links on the website.
Waterfalls
If you’ve ever wanted to take a hike, waterfalls in New York City or Niagara Falls can help you get your fix. They are breathtakingly beautiful and can also be found in the middle of a once-industrial city. There are many different types of waterfalls in New Jersey, and you can find one that’s right for your style and needs. If you want to see them all, check out TravelTriangle, a community of 650 verified travel agents and over 65 domestic and international destinations.
Silver Spray Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the state. In the Delaware Water Gap, Silver Spray Falls has a 30-foot waterfall that free-falls over the red rock of Kittatinny Ridge through a glen of hemlock and mountain laurel trees. Though this fall is among the more famous New Jersey waterfalls, many people have trouble finding it. But it’s well worth the effort, as Gary Letcher’s book, Waterfalls of the Mid-Atlantic States, cited it as one of the most beautiful and photogenic.
Another spectacular waterfall in New Jersey is the Paterson Great Falls, the second largest east of the Mississippi River. This stunning range of water is made of bedrock that has changed over the ice age. Visitors to the Paterson Great Falls can see the breathtaking beauty of the Falls from the Scenic Overlook. However, it’s important to note that there are no hiking trails to reach this waterfall, so you must park at a nearby parking lot to see it from afar.
One of the state’s most scenic and historically significant waterfalls is the Great Falls in Paterson. At 77 feet tall, they are part of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park and are managed by the National Park Service. The waterfall has played a significant role in the industrialization of New Jersey in the early 1800s. While it is an urban waterfall, its height and majesty make it a popular attraction for tourists and locals.
Beaches
The beaches in New York are famous for their great weather, and the Jersey Shore is no exception. This state’s beautiful beaches are dotted with attractions, including boardwalks, water parks, and Six Flags Great Adventure. While you’re in the Garden State, don’t forget to visit the Turtle Back Zoo, which is named for the famous rock formation of a turtle. If you love animals, you’ll find plenty of them here.
In addition to surfing, beachgoers can check out Surf City, the setting of the popular reality TV show “Jersey Shore,” and other state beaches. While many state beaches charge nominal admission fees, parking can be a pain, so plan. A good alternative for families is the Cape May County Park & Zoo, a non-profit organization that relies on donations from visitors to operate.
Sandy Hook Beach: This area is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, which has beautiful clean beaches and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. Visitors can also stroll around Fort Hancock and participate in bird watching. Cedars and Beeches B&B in Long Branch is a good place to stay if you want to enjoy the natural surroundings without the rigors of a hotel. These are the best sights in New Jersey, and you will love them as much as you do.
For the family, the most beautiful New Jersey beaches are in Ocean City. The town is dry and attracts a much less rowdy party crowd than most New Jersey beaches. The town features a 2.5-mile boardwalk lined with ice cream parlors, pizza places, and amusement parks. The beaches in Ocean City are located on the southern end of the town, along Corson’s Inlet State Park.
Museums
While visiting New Jersey, make sure to include a museum in your itinerary. The Grammy Museum is just one example. You can also visit the historic Glenmont Collections, Edison’s 29-room Victorian estate. While you’re there, take some time to see the prototypes of Edison’s inventions. If you’re looking for free and family-friendly sightseeing in New Jersey, museums are the way to go.
Visit the Newark Museum. It is free and has a rich collection of natural science exhibits. You’ll also find an interactive area for kids and adults to explore. The museum also offers educational programs for all ages. There’s something for everyone at the Newark Museum. If you have children, don’t forget to take them to the Battleship NJ Museum. The Museum is open to the public, so there’s no need to make a reservation.
While in Newark, visit the Battleship NJ Museum and Memorial. The museum is housed inside the USS New Jersey, a WWII battleship. Visitors can climb ladders and traverse tricky passageways to learn about the ship’s history. The USS New Jersey has been a part of the world’s history for nearly 100 years and is definitely worth a visit. You can also visit the Newark Liberty Museum and Memorial, located on the shores of the Hudson River in Jersey City.
If you are looking for outdoor activities, you may also want to visit the Greenwood Observatory in the Jenny Jump State Forest. The observatory is open from April to October, and is the perfect place to see the Milky Way. You can also camp in the park and enjoy the nighttime sky. If you’re into the outdoors, you’ll be happy to hear about the many events and festivals throughout the state.
Attractions
There are countless Attractions in New Jersey. While Asbury Park and Cape May are iconic, you will also find some hidden gems. Asbury Park is a seaside resort town with casinos, restaurants, bars, and numerous amusement parks. While Cape May is home to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll also find several historical sites in this coastal state. Attractions in New Jersey include:
The state of New Jersey has a long history of weird and eerie stories. The 1909 report of the “Jersey Devil,” an alien invasion, and streets named Ghost Lake and Shades of Death Road. These tales, and many others, will make your visit to New Jersey even more unforgettable. Here are seven haunted locations that explore New Jersey’s supernatural phenomena. This is not the place to start your New Jersey vacation without visiting one of these places.
If you’re looking for something more secluded and serene, try the Cape May Lighthouse. This historic landmark stands 48 meters tall and was built in 1859. Located in southern New Jersey, Cape May is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the state. There are plenty of Victorian-style holiday homes and historic landmarks to explore here. If you’re visiting the state in the summertime, don’t miss a visit to Cape May, which is known as one of the top vacation spots in the U.S.
Another place in the state that you may want to visit is the Newark Museum of Art. Free to visit, this museum features a diverse collection of works of art. It’s also home to a rich natural science exhibition, including the Dreyfuss Planetarium and Victoria Hall of Science. Kids and families can spend a day learning about the history of our planet, or they can make their own art!
Top 5 Places to Visit in New Jersey
While planning your trip to the northeastern U.S., don’t skip New Jersey’s coastline, as it boasts 130 miles of Atlantic coastline! Start in Jersey City, across the Hudson River from Lower Manhattan, where you can explore Liberty State Park and Ellis Island. Ellis Island is the site of the famous Statue of Liberty and the historic Immigration Museum. You can visit notable resort towns throughout the Jersey Shore, such as Asbury Park. Founded in 1780, Asbury Park is one of the oldest resort towns in America, with Victorian architecture.
Jenkinson’s Aquarium
If you have children, Jenkinson’s Aquarium is an excellent place to take them. The aquarium is classified as a small aquarium, but it is remarkably diverse. Whether you’re a family with young children or an adult who just likes to look at sea creatures, there is something for everyone. Kids will love the educational workshops offered here, as well as seeing the animals in action.
Those who want to learn more about the marine life found along the Jersey Shore should visit Jenkinson’s Aquarium. Exhibits include the Local Fish exhibit, which includes a shark and sea turtle from the region. Another exhibit is the Pine Barrens, which depicts the ecosystems of the Pinelands National Preserve, a pristine area of over 1 million acres of land. The touch tanks in Jenkinson’s Aquarium will let you get close to these animals.
A trip to Jenkinson’s Aquarium is an excellent way to spend an afternoon in Point Pleasant. The aquarium is open year-round and has several activities for kids. The hours of operation are usually from 10 am to 10 pm, but may vary according to the season. The aquarium is located at 300 Ocean Avenue, directly across from Perk’s Cafe. Please note: This post is not sponsored.
Garden State Discovery Museum
My husband and I recently visited the Garden State Discovery Museum in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. It was the perfect place to take our kids for a day of fun. The children would love the hands-on exhibits and interactive activities. As a bonus, we learned a lot about New Jersey’s history and its many places of interest. We also bonded over our love for children. We had a great time.
Whether you’re planning a day trip with your family or a group of friends, the Garden State Discovery Museum offers hands-on activities for the whole family. Kids can explore the various parts of the museum, get messy, and learn more about the science behind suds. There are also real kid-operated cameras, a stuffed animal clinic, and a rock climbing wall. Kids can even take a class on sign language or music.
Besides the museum’s current exhibits, you can also check out other places to visit in New Jersey. The Howell Living History Farm, a classic landmark of the state, is a must-see for history buffs. And while you’re there, make sure to check out the Game Vault, a retro arcade. New Jersey is a great place to visit with so many places to see.
Point Pleasant Beach
If you’re looking for a fun vacation spot, consider the borough of Point Pleasant Beach in New Jersey. The borough has a population of 4,665 as of the 2010 Census, down from 5,314 in the 2000 Census and 5,112 in the 1990 Census. There are several fun things to do in Point Pleasant Beach. There’s plenty to do from the beach to the boardwalk in this town.
The esplanade in Point Pleasant is lined with renovated summer homes and typical jersey shore businesses, like custard shops and cotton candy kiosks. Its famous boardwalk includes restaurants and family-friendly attractions, like the Aquarium, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, and local businesses. Even residents of Point Pleasant Beach flock here to soak up the sun. Visiting Point Pleasant is a great way to spend the day.
The city’s boardwalk spans the shoreline from the Manasquan Inlet to New Jersey Avenue, with the central third dedicated to amusement rides, arcades, and pizza and ice cream parlors. In addition to the boardwalk, Point Pleasant is the northern terminus of the East Coast Intracoastal Waterway. The borough of Point Pleasant is located nearby but is independent of the beach. If you’re planning a trip to Point Pleasant Beach, make sure to visit the United States trip planner.
When visiting Point Pleasant Beach, check out the various packages Travelocity offers. Package deals often include flights, hotels, and attractions, leaving you with more money for fun. Most people visit Point Pleasant Beach for a couple of nights, but you can explore the area for longer if you’re interested in exploring hidden gems. It’s a fun getaway spot for families with children or sun worshippers alike.
Six Flags
Six Flags New Jersey is home to some of the country’s most popular theme parks. This family-friendly attraction offers a variety of thrilling rides, a variety of shopping opportunities, and world-class entertainment. Visitors will find a great variety of dining choices, from fast-food favorites to full-service restaurants. Guests may also attend educational events, holiday festivals, or watch live performances. While most Six Flags are a day-long affair, some attractions are better suited for a longer stay.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, the park is sure to please. Staying on the premises means you can get the most out of your day at the theme park and enjoy a fun photo opportunity with the famous Bugs Bunny. Six Flags New Jersey is located off of Interstate 195 in Jackson, New Jersey, and is open daily during the summer and selected weekends during the spring and fall. The park is popular with locals and tourists alike, and generous season pass deals are often available for those who need more time to enjoy it.
In 2004, Six Flags introduced a new mascot. Mr. Six, a feeble old man in a tuxedo and red bow tie, would exit the park’s multi-colored bus and begin a dance to a Vengaboys song. The mascot soon became the de facto mascot. Despite the change of slogan, Mr. Six was kept as a mascot for years after retiring.
Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Visit the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum at the Cape May County Airport. This World War II-era dive bomber training facility is now a museum to honor the 42 airmen killed while training for the upcoming war. You can view aircraft, engines, and military memorabilia inside the hangar. The museum also features an interactive touch screen display. A guided tour is a great way to learn more about the history of these airplanes.
The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is housed inside a historic World War II hangar used to train dive bomber pilots. Later, after the war, the hangar was used to accommodate commuter and charter flights. In 1997, a doctor and his wife purchased and renovated the building. Today, you can see more than 25 different types of aircraft on display. You can even take a ride in one of the old dive bombers.
The museum is open daily from spring through fall except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and New Year’s Day. The museum is free to visit and offers parking on-site. Admission is free and includes the museum’s museum cards. Most of the museum’s exhibits are on display. The museum is also open on weekends. A 30-minute guided tour is available every day at 11 a.m. There is no charge for the tour, so make sure you plan your visit accordingly.
Grounds for Sculpture
The 42-acre grounds of the Grounds For Sculpture are a fascinating destination in Hamilton, New Jersey. The park and museum is located on the former site of Trenton Speedway. The sculptures are created by world-renowned artists and are a unique way to experience this thriving community. Sculptures by internationally-renowned artists include Ai Weiwei, Anish Kapoor, and David Smith.
The grounds and museum contain a unique collection of works by internationally recognized artists and are a must-see destination for anyone in the area. There are numerous ways to experience the grounds and enjoy the art. Memberships to the grounds are available, and visitors can download an interactive map before their visit. The Garden State is filled with cultural gems like Grounds for Sculpture, and this is one of them. The grounds and museum are open year-round, and many works can be purchased to purchase.
You can take NJ Transit or Amtrak to Hamilton to get to the grounds and museum. You should get off at Trenton Station for NJ Transit, and from Amtrak, take a train to Hamilton. Take a cab from there or take a NJ Transit bus to the grounds. There are also special guided tours for children, and they can use a downloadable Explorer’s Guide to enjoy the sculptures and garden.
