New Jersey Highlights
Jersey Shore
It’s one of the most popular seashore destinations in the East, and the white sandy beaches, mild temperatures and famous beach cities make the Jersey Shore the top tourist attraction in the state. Choose from the glittering late-night excitement of Atlantic City or the smaller resort-like towns complete with boardwalks and seaside eateries. Cities such as Avon-by-the Sea and Sea Isle City paint a picturesque picture while more vibrant communities include Seaside Heights and Wildwoods.
Cultural Arts
New Jersey Performing Arts Center—See the New Jersey Symphony among many other performing arts groups in this immense center, with several theaters of different sizes as well as a restaurant and grill. It’s been a real asset to the downtown area in adding to the revitalization efforts there and sees more than five million visitors each year. (Newark)
Paper Mill Playhouse—The cast may be full of New York actors (the city is just 25 miles away) but the productions and the atmosphere are pure New Jersey. The quality productions, low ticket prices and extensive school program aimed at children make this once simple playhouse a real powerhouse in the theater arena. (Milburn)
Outdoor Recreation
South Mountain Reservation—It’s all about preserving the original forests that once dominated the state, and this reservation has changed little since the early 1600s. Small rivers, ponds and waterfalls are scattered throughout the towering hardwood trees, and although there are no more wolves or cougars in the area, there are a variety of other species such as deer, raccoons, foxes and more. (Essex County)
Appalachian Trail—Almost 72 miles of the famous interstate hiking trail runs through New Jersey, and goes through several scenic forests and lake areas. The trail goes past High Point State Park, where the highest peak in the state is located, and also through several other state parks and forests before it enters New York.
Wawayanda State Park—It’s a haven for such birds as owls, herons, hawks and more and it’s just as popular for humans. Wawayanda Lake offers swimming and boat launches as well as camping nearby. Hiking trails are laced through the park, and part of the Appalachian Trail also cuts through this peaceful area. (Sussex County)
Historic Sites
Morristown National Historic Park—This important area is made up of the Ford Mansion, Fort Nonsense and Jockey Hollow. With significant historic events occurring at each location, this park is a wonderful way to experience some truly remarkable events in American history, including the spot where George Washington and the Continental Army stayed in the winter of 1779.
St. Michael’s Church—A historically-significant piece of architecture, this church saw much action during the Revolutionary War and was used as a hospital. The cemetery and surrounding grounds also have unique stories and tales, making this centuries-old building well worth a visit. (Trenton)
Ellis Island National Monument—At one time, it was a main entry on the East Coast for immigrants seeking a new home. Today, Ellis Island is a historic site and museum. See period photographs and artifacts that document the personal journeys of thousands of newcomers and perhaps even some of your own ancestors. (Jersey City)
Theme Parks
Six Flags Great Adventure—So many of the area’s metropolitan residents can take advantage of this fun theme park’s rides, wild safari and water park. Some of the park’s more popular rides include Nitro, Rolling Thunder, Batman and the world’s tallest coaster, Kingda Ka. (Jackson Township)
Mountain Creek Waterpark—The Tidal Wave Pool, Tarzan Swing, Canyon Cliffs and the Kamikaze are just a few of this water park’s awesome attractions. (Vernon)
Museums
Thomas Alva Edison Memorial Tower and Museum—Located right where the Menlo Park laboratory was located. The adjacent museum houses memorabilia and original inventions from Edison’s personal collections. Several walking trails are located around the tower. (Edison)
Montclair Art Museum—Experience art from many eras, cultures and regions at this all-encompassing museum, that specializes in 19th century American and Native American art. Paintings, sculptures, handicrafts and more are attractively displayed to educate and enlighten any visitors who choose to spend the day there. (Montclair)
Liberty Science Center—Find out about real science at this interactive center for learning. Education has never been so much fun, with multiple exhibits, IMAX theater, Hoberman sphere and a special wing for educators. (Jersey City)