Top 16 Tourist Attractions in New Jersey
Hello friends, today we tell you about the Tourist Attractions in New Jersey. We sure you will love this article.
Although covering an area of only 14,000 square miles and the fourth smallest state in the United States, New Jersey is home to many first-class tourist attractions.
From national parks and areas of outstanding natural beauty to excellent museums and historical sites, New Jersey is worth taking the time to explore.
Along New Jersey’s Atlantic Coast, an excellent place to start your “Garden State” adventure. Using one of its many quaint port towns or resorts as a jumping-off point, you can easily cover a variety of fun things to do in New Jersey in a relatively short amount of time.
Alternatively, you can also choose to use Atlantic City’s entertainment hot spots as a base from which to explore.
New Jersey also has the added benefit of being close to many of New York City’s attractions, with excellent public transportation getting you to and from many of its sites.
The state has many great accommodation options within reach of NYC, ranging from luxury hotels and resorts in New Jersey to quaint family-run inns and B&Bs.
Undoubtedly one of the best places to visit on the United States East Coast, check out our list of the Top Tourist Attractions in New Jersey.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey
- Stroll Atlantic City’s Famous Boardwalk
One of the most popular coastal resort towns on the northeast coast of the United States, Atlantic City is best known for its famous boardwalk.
The four-mile-long promenade was built in 1870 and is still where most of the city’s sightseeing opportunities come from.
Among its most popular tourist destinations is the iconic Steel Pier. This 1,000-foot-long amusement park has rides for all ages, including a giant observation wheel with climate-controlled gondolas that give riders amazing views of the city and ocean year-round.
Bike rentals, historic electric trams, or traditional rickshaw-like rolling chairs make a fun alternative to walking the boardwalk.
While strolling the boardwalk, be sure to check out the entrance to the stars. The East Coast equivalent of Hollywood’s famous Walk of Fame, this must-see landmark features the handprints of celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Johnny Carson.
Atlantic City is also home to many historical and cultural attractions. These include the Absecon Lighthouse; an aquarium; and the sprawling Boardwalk Hall, a venue where concerts and events such as the Miss America Finals are held.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey
- Tour the Old Victorian Cape May
Many of Cape May’s attractions, located at New Jersey’s southernmost tip on Delaware Bay, were explored mainly by the wealthy during the 18th and 19th centuries when it enjoyed its heyday as a fashionable resort town. It was so popular that at least six US presidents had summer homes here.
Tourists today are attracted by what first drew so many American presidents. These include its endless fine beaches; the beautiful Cape May Point Lighthouse, built in 1859; and several beautiful Victorian-style holiday homes.
Of the latter, one of the best examples is the Emlen Physique Estate. Now a museum, this 18-room mansion was built in 1879 and is a fine example of the American Stick style of architecture.
Also of interest is the Yankee, an 80-foot-long schooner that offers a variety of harbor tours, as well as dolphin and whale-watching cruises.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, New Jersey
- Liberty State Park
Views of Upper New York Bay; Liberty Island; and Ellis Island, home of the Statue of Liberty in New York; It takes a while to get around Liberty State Park.
Covering 1,212 waterside acres, it offers fantastic views of the above attractions and many exciting sightseeing opportunities.
One of the best places to visit for nature lovers is Communipa Cove, a 36-acre tidal salt marsh designated as a nature preserve.
The park is also home to many exciting monuments and monuments. The two most important are Liberation, which is dedicated to the Holocaust, and Grim Empty Sky, a memorial consisting of two 210-foot-tall steel walls bearing the names of the victims of the tragic events of 9/11 who belonged to New York City. Jersey.
The park has recreational facilities ranging from picnic areas to fishing, kayaking, and cycling. Be sure to allot a few times to visit the park’s Interpretive Center, which provides information about the ecology and history of this part of New Jersey.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 200 Morris Pesin Drive, Jersey City, New Jersey
Official Site: https://nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/libertystatepark.html
-
Hudson River Waterfront Walkway
New Jersey’s newest attraction, the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, opened in early 2022 and promised to be one of the top attractions in the Garden State.
About 19 miles in length and passing through at least nine different New Jersey municipalities, this great walking trail stretches from Bayonne to Fort Lee.
Along the way are some of the most spectacular views of the Hudson River in New York City, including pictures of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Built entirely for pedestrian and bike use, the route is 30 feet wide for its entire length, ensuring enough room for everyone.
Those who wish to cycle this route can bring their bike or use one of the “bikeshare” options available. Fishing and kayaking are also allowed from the walkway.
Be sure to include a stop at Pier A Park. This delightful pier park stretches over the Hudson, with plenty of seating for those who want to sit and soak up the views. In addition to wet and dry play areas for children, there is also a dedicated fishing area.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 340 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, New Jersey
- Island Beach State Park
Located on the Barnegat Peninsula, just an hour’s drive north of Atlantic City, Island Beach State Park is notable as one of the largest undeveloped barrier islands in the country.
Covering an area of approximately 2,000 acres, the park is divided into a northern and a southern section, which both offer excellent opportunities to get out and explore.
The park is home to an abundance of wildlife with a diverse landscape of beaches, dunes, tidal marshes, marine forests, creeks, and ponds.
It is particularly rich in birdlife and is home to large heron and osprey populations. Birders are welcome to take advantage of the bird-watching blinds, so bring your binoculars.
Other fun activities include kayaking, surfing, swimming, and fishing in designated areas. There is also an extensive network of trails and boardwalks.
Be sure to check out the Barnegat Lighthouse. Located at the southern tip of the park, it offers spectacular views of the water and the surrounding countryside.
-
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – New Jersey Beaches
In addition to the famous beach areas in communities like Atlantic City and Cape May City, there are plenty of other great beaches in New Jersey to explore.
Only a 15-minute drive north of Cape May, Wildwood Crest Beach is famous for its laid-back pace and family-friendly atmosphere.
Its clear waters and three miles of unspoiled white sand are perfect for splashing and playing for the little ones, while everything from mackerel to sea bass to some Atlantic fishing to swim, sail, or even rent a boat. Appeal to interested adults.
The small community in which it is located, Brigantine Beach, is an excellent option for those who prefer their waterfront experience to a quieter one.
Also located north of Atlantic City, the community has a wide variety of beach options.
Another beach worth visiting for adults traveling without children is Gunnison Beach, named after its former role as the location of a military gun battery. However, it is worth noting that a large portion of the beach is designated as clothing optional.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey
-
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Covering more than 70,000 acres, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area straddles the border between New Jersey and Pennsylvania and includes a spectacular 40-mile protected stretch of the Delaware River.
This large recreation area is accessible at several points, with the New Jersey section being serviced by two visitor centers.
The first of these, the Millbrook Village Historic Site, includes a re-creation of a 19th-century community with displays of traditional crafts.
Equally fun to visit, the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center has many exhibits, spectacular views, and an access point for the Appalachian Trail.
Other park highlights include the Minisink Archaeological Site, where the remains of a 10,000-year-old settlement were found, and activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and camping.
If you want to delve deeper into the history of “The Gap,” pop into the Delaware Water Gap Park headquarters in Bushkill, Pennsylvania, across the border.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: Hardwick Township, New Jersey
Official Site: www.nps.gov/dewa/index.htm
-
Princeton Battlefield State Park and Institute for Advanced Study
One of the coolest small towns in New Jersey, Princeton owes its international reputation to its university and affiliated research institutes. These include the Institute for Advanced Study, where Albert Einstein did his last work.
Established in 1756, the school’s 1,600-acre grounds are lovely to explore, and one of the best ways to do so is by joining a student-run tour program. These informative tours last about an hour and are well worth it.
Another famous historical site is Princeton Battlefield, State Park. This impressive 200-acre Site is the Site of the 1777 Battle of Princeton, which resulted in George Washington’s victory over the British in the American Revolutionary War.
In addition to the battlefield, other highlights include the Clark House Museum. Built-in 1772, the building was used as a hospital by soldiers from both sides of the conflict.
The Ionic colonnade and the monument marking the graves of British and American soldiers are also worth visiting.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 500 Mercer Road, Princeton, New Jersey
Official Site: www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/princeton.html
-
Battleship New Jersey
The giant USS New Jersey, the most ornate vessel of the US Navy, is now an outstanding floating museum on the Delaware River.
Highlights of a visit include guided tours through this historic Iowa-class battleship, which was launched in 1942 and is one of the largest military ships ever built.
Throughout the ship, you’ll see numerous displays and artifacts related to its involvement in conflict zones from WWII to the Middle East in the 1980s.
Other highlights include visiting the bridge where Admiral Halsey commanded the Pacific Fleet and seeing its massive 16-inch guns.
If you can manage it, take advantage of the opportunity to spend the night on the ship or join its popular Twilight tour package.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 100 Clinton Street, Camden, New Jersey
Official Site: www.battleshipnewjersey.org
-
Adventure Aquarium
Another popular family attraction in New Jersey is the Adventure Aquarium on the Delaware River in Camden.
Considered one of the best aquatic educational facilities in the United States, this two-million-gallon aquarium is home to more than 8,500 marine animals, including an extensive collection of sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and stingrays. It also distinguishes itself by being the only aquarium with hippos.
In addition to seeing the animals in their habitat, the aquarium allows visitors to go “behind the scenes” and meet some up close, including African penguins and sea turtles. In-water encounters with sharks and stingrays are also available.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 1 Riverside Drive, Camden, New Jersey
Official Site: www.adventureaquarium.com
-
Cape May County Park and Zoo
Cape May County Park & Zoo is a favorite New Jersey attraction for families because of its many things to do and free admission.
The public park offers several recreational facilities that are all free and open to the public, including hiking and biking trails, a disc golf course, volleyball and tennis courts, and many more outdoor play areas. It is also equipped with picnic tables and grills.
The zoo was added to the park’s facilities in 1978 and has grown over the years to include both native and exotic species.
You will find bald eagles, African lions, giraffes, ring-tailed lemurs, zebras, and more among its inhabitants.
Visitors can sign up for a guided tour, a special behind-the-scenes tour of animal care, and even a selection of zoos where reptiles, primates, camels, and giraffes Can encounter with residents.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 707 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House, New Jersey
Official Site: www.cmczoo.com
-
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
The former home and laboratory of Thomas Edison, the state’s most famous son, is a must-see when visiting New Jersey.
Preserved under the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, these two structures were where breakthrough technologies such as movie cameras, sound recording, and batteries first saw the light of day.
Highlights of a visit include the chance to tour the perfectly preserved 29-room mansion of Glenmont, Edison’s luxurious Queen Anne-style home, along with laboratories, old films, and original artifacts. Guided and audio tours are available for both sites.
Hot Tip: Tickets to Glenmore are available on a first come, first served basis, so arrive early.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 211 Main Street, West Orange, New Jersey
Official Site: www.nps.gov/edis/index.htm
-
Grounds for Sculpture
Art lovers (and nature lovers) won’t want to miss the incredible Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre museum and sculpture park in downtown Hamilton.
Established in 1992 to facilitate the appreciation of contemporary sculpture, it has become one of the most famous art exhibits in the state, featuring 270 large-scale works by Seward Johnson and other American artists.
Apart from the sculptures, the park is filled with many trees and flower beds.
Another excellent art experience awaits you at the Jersey City Museum, with a collection of over 300 paintings and an extensive permanent collection of historical artifacts from the area.
In addition, the Newark Museum is home to more than 80 galleries containing American paintings, sculpture and decorative arts, and American Indian and African objects.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 80 Sculptor Way, Hamilton Township, New Jersey
Official Site: www.groundsforoscope.org
-
Moray’s Piers
Located on the shoreline of the resort town of Wildwood, just a short drive from Cape May, the amusement and water parks at Moray’s Piers cover six blocks parallel to the sandy beach.
Built-in 1968 with a lone waterslide and a concession stand, the Morey brothers, have expanded the park over the past 50 years and have a legacy as creators of one of the best parks in the country.
There are rides for every age, from kiddie to family-friendly favorites like the Tilt-a-Whirl, bumper car, and 156-foot Ferris wheel.
There is also no shortage of thrill rides, including several roller coasters and daredevil rides with names like IT and Springs hot.
The park also includes a go-kart track, several driving rides, and interactive attractions such as the “Ghost Ship.” Moray’s Piers also has two water parks that offer pools with refreshing waterfalls, a lazy river, and a floating snack bar.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, New Jersey
Official Site: www.moreyspiers.com
-
Liberty Science Center
A highlight for kids visiting Liberty State Park is the Liberty Science Center. Located at the northwestern tip of the park, this fun interactive science museum offers many fascinating practical exhibits and exhibits related to science and technology.
The recently updated planetarium hosts regular shows that explore the night sky and outer space and hosts spectators enthralling films and amazing laser shows.
The center also has a 3D theater that shows immersive films about science, technology, and nature. Interactive exhibits include infinity climbers and a pixel art wall.
There are plenty of educational presentations, including a lightning show, an animal encounter, and a touch-tank with sea creatures. Other highlights include robotics, engineering, bees, energy, and more exhibits.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Address: Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, New Jersey
Official Site: http://lsc.org/
-
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Established in 1960 and notable as the first federal wilderness area in the United States, visiting the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a great way to spend a few hours in New Jersey.
Just 30 miles from Jersey City, the refuge covers approximately 7,800 acres and is essential for its diverse wildlife and flora.
It is a popular destination for birds, with over 240 species of birds on their migration routes. In addition to a permanent population of birds, other species seen here include foxes and deer, snakes and turtles, and several fish species.
The swamp dated back to the end of the last Ice Age and was also crucial as a hunting ground for the indigenous peoples who had lived in the region for the past ten millennia.
Tourist Attractions in New Jersey – Location: New Vernon, New Jersey
Official Site: www.fws.gov/refuse/great_swamp/
We hope you like our article on – Tourist Attractions in New Jersey
Thanks for visiting US Map of State