Overview

New Jersey may be one of the smaller U.S. states, but it offers an incredible variety of experiences — from beautiful beaches and bustling cities to quiet countryside and historic towns. Known as the Garden State, New Jersey is packed with shorelines, state parks, rich American history, and easy access to both New York City and Philadelphia. Whether you’re strolling a boardwalk, hiking in the Highlands, or enjoying world-class food, New Jersey surprises and delights.

  • Capital: Trenton
  • Largest Cities: Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth, Edison
  • Population: ~9.3 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) / EDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical — hot summers, cold winters, and four distinct seasons

Top Destinations in New Jersey

Jersey Shore

A stretch of beach towns from Sandy Hook to Cape May, offering boardwalks, amusement parks, seafood, and sandy relaxation.

Atlantic City

Famous for its casinos, nightlife, concerts, and historic boardwalk, plus beach access.

Princeton

A charming university town with historic architecture, museums, and leafy streets.

Delaware Water Gap

A nature-lover’s retreat with waterfalls, hiking, kayaking, and scenic views along the Delaware River.

Hoboken & Jersey City

Trendy neighborhoods just across the Hudson from NYC, full of great food, skyline views, and waterfront parks.

Must-See Attractions

  • Atlantic City Boardwalk – The oldest and one of the most famous boardwalks in the U.S.
  • Liberty Science Center (Jersey City) – Interactive science exhibits and views of the Statue of Liberty
  • Cape May – A Victorian beach town with colorful homes and cozy B&Bs
  • Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson) – Thrill rides, safari park, and family fun
  • Thomas Edison National Historical Park (West Orange) – Explore the labs where modern invention began

Things to Do

  • Relax on the beach or explore coastal towns along the Jersey Shore
  • Take a ferry or cruise to see the Statue of Liberty from Liberty State Park
  • Walk the historic streets of Princeton or Morristown
  • Hike, bike, or paddle in the Highlands or Pine Barrens
  • Catch a concert or try your luck in Atlantic City

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Newark Liberty International (EWR), Atlantic City International (ACY), Trenton–Mercer Airport (TTN)

Transport

  • NJ Transit and PATH trains connect cities and suburbs to NYC and Philly
  • Rental cars are helpful for exploring shore towns, parks, and rural areas
  • Ferries and buses offer scenic and affordable options in North Jersey

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–Jun): Gardens bloom and beach towns reopen
  • Summer (Jul–Aug): Prime time for shore trips, boardwalks, and festivals
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Apple picking, foliage drives, and cool breezes
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Great for indoor museums and cozy small-town stays

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A diverse mix of Italian-American, Portuguese, Jewish deli, and boardwalk favorites
  • Specialties: Pork roll (Taylor ham), salt water taffy, tomato pie, disco fries, boardwalk funnel cakes
  • Drinks: Jersey craft beer, blueberry wine, and root beer floats
  • Events & Festivals:
  • QuickChek Balloon Festival (Readington)
  • Cape May Music Festival
  • Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival
  • Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival
  • State Fair Meadowlands

Souvenirs from New Jersey

  • Salt water taffy or fudge from the boardwalk
  • Princeton or Rutgers University gear
  • Cape May soaps, candles, or Victorian keepsakes
  • Local hot sauces, jams, or Jersey tomatoes (in season)
  • Pine Barrens cranberry goods or artisan crafts

Fun Facts

  • New Jersey has the most diners of any state in the U.S.
  • It’s the birthplace of FM radio, the light bulb, and motion pictures
  • More than 130 miles of coastline define the Jersey Shore
  • Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, and Whitney Houston all hail from New Jersey
  • The first official baseball game was played in Hoboken in 1846

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Jersey Shore Getaway

  • Day 1: Asbury Park – explore the boardwalk and art scene
  • Day 2: Cape May – enjoy beaches and historic homes
  • Day 3: Atlantic City – casinos, boardwalk, and nightlife

5-Day Garden State Tour

  • Day 1: Jersey City & Hoboken – skyline views and waterfront dining
  • Day 2: Princeton – university tour and museums
  • Day 3: Morristown – Revolutionary War history
  • Day 4: Delaware Water Gap – hiking and waterfalls
  • Day 5: Return via a scenic drive through the Pine Barrens with local stops

Cities in New Jersey

  • Atlantic City