Fun Things to Do in New Jersey

It’s been depicted in the media and movies in less than savory ways.

We can all conjure the image of the “fuhgeddaboudit” mentality and the Jersey Girl attitude.

But in truth, New Jersey is a beautiful place to visit.

So “fuhgeddabout” what you’ve seen in the movies and prepare for lots of natural beauty, many historical landmarks, action-packed adventures, and plenty of art and culture.

There are so many fun things to do in New Jersey, from white-sand beaches to thrilling adventures and art museums/exhibits to the Garden State’s nature-rich outdoor activities.

Whether you’re planning to visit New Jersey today, tomorrow, or this weekend, this comprehensive list of New Jersey attractions will have you hardpressed to narrow down the best tourist attractions for you and your family.

This list is compiled of plenty of cool free things to do as well as places of interest, hidden gems, and popular vacation spots.

Overall, New Jersey itself is one of the country’s hidden gems, with sightseeing and activities galore.

Things To Do In New Jersey

1. Six Flags Great Adventure/Hurricane Harb0r

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous to do while you’re in Jersey, you’ll want to spend a day at Six Flags Great Adventure.

With dozens of wild rides and attractions, a drive-through wild safari, games abound, and the best concessions you can dream of, Six Flags is a must see amusement park during your stay in New Jersey.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the summer months, you can add a stop to Hurricane Harbor, adjacent to Six Flags, for water rides and splashing for every appetite.

If the thrill of roller coasters and water slides are too much for you, Six Flags also has lots of wonderful shows, animal attractions, shopping, and eateries.

If you’re traveling with small children, Six Flags has a dedicated section called Bugs Bunny Land for the little ones.

If you’re unsure of what to do while visiting New Jersey, be sure to add a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure to your itinerary.

Address: 1 Six Flags Blvd, Jackson Township, NJ 08527, United States

2. Turtle Back Zoo

One of the best things to do in New Jersey, especially if you’re visiting the Garden State with small children, is a trip to the Turtle Back Zoo.

If you’re looking for a zoo experience in the northernmost parts of Jersey, Essex County’s Turtle Back Zoo is a treat.

The Turtle Back Zoo thrives on the preservation of wildlife while enriching the experience of its visitors.

Named for a famous rock formation that resembled a turtle’s back, the zoo has much more to offer than its deceiving name.

Some of this New Jersey zoo’s other attractions include a dinosaur playground, boating, mini-golf, face painting, pony rides, a butterfly tent, an aviary, and much more.

A day at Turtle Back Zoo, one of many best-loved New Jersey attractions, will be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

Address: 560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States

3. Atlantic City/The Boardwalk

Historically speaking, Atlantic City has been deemed a playground for adults.

With casinos, bars, and a wild nightlife, it’s no wonder.

Although you can certainly partake in all of these adult pastimes, Atlantic City also has many attractions suitable for children.

Atlantic City’s Steel Pier is one of many things to see when visiting Jersey.

Situated on the beautiful coast of the Atlantic Ocean and amidst many world-renowned hotels, casinos, and resorts, the Atlantic City Boardwalk delivers lots of stuff to do.

The Atlantic City Boardwalk has both exclusive and tourist shops, five-star restaurants and snack stands alike, rides and amusements for all ages, live entertainment, local culture, and hours of fun for all.

The cultural epicenter of the boardwalk is wrought with city art, a historical museum, and unique local specialties like saltwater taffy and homemade fudge by the pound.

Although Atlantic City still has all of the adult attractions it’s famed for, don’t count it out for family fun too; it’s one of the top things to do in New Jersey.

4. Liberty State Park

With views of the New York City skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all from the comfort of New Jersey soil, visiting the park makes for an inexpensive day out.

The over 1,200-acre park offers more than majestic views, though.

With panoramic views of the city’s skyline, you should pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with family and friends.

Be sure to pack some fun items to use on the wide expanse of lush green lawns.

A football, frisbee, music, or all of the above, will add to your experience at Liberty State Park.

Moreover, the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial is near the park too.

This, among other points of interest, makes a trip to Liberty State Park in New Jersey, a must do.

Nothing can top a visit to this beautiful park!

Address: 200 Morris Pesin Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States

5. Ellis Island

Ellis Island is a historical landmark that served as a port of entry to millions of immigrants.

With a short ferry ride from Liberty State Park in NJ, you can easily gain access to this sightseeing phenomenon, rich in history.

Tickets to tour Ellis Island are reasonably priced, and through this history-rich and educational tour, you’ll step back in time.

Immersing yourself in our nation’s history has never been easier than with a tour of Ellis Island.

You’ll have the humbling experience of “meeting” some of our ancestors who entered our country through the halls of Ellis Island.

You’ll also read the stories and tales of how the property was used by so many.

6. Princeton University Art Museum

This culture-rich museum on the New Jersey campus of Princeton University is wrought with exhibitions, curated collections, and daily presentations and shows.

Some of the current collections you can hope to see during your visit to the museum include “Women Artists and Abstractions,” “Blue Green Realms in Chinese Painting,” “Landscapes of the Mind,” and “Picasso Prints.”

Beyond these sophisticated collections and exhibitions, Princeton University Art Museum also frequently hosts artist talks, live art shows, special guest lectures, and self-guided family-friendly tours.

There is truly something for everyone at the Princeton University Art Museum.

The museum is not only a fun place to visit during your stay in New Jersey but an educational and enriching one too.

Address: Elm Dr, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States

7. Cape May Historic District

A visit to the Cape May Historic District is another of many fun things to do in NJ.

There are many fun things to do while you stroll the streets of the beachfront town.

Named on the National Register of Historic Places, the streets of Cape May in New Jersey are lined with 19th-century buildings some of which are now operable beds and breakfasts.

Besides strolling and basking in the charm of the town, you can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride or a trolley tour to take it all in.

Cape May has long been known as one of New Jersey’s best seaside towns.

But its history-rich landscape is just another facet of this charming seaside town.

Near to the historical sights are many wonderful restaurants and shops for additional fun to be had.

A drive “down the shore” is a must and Cape May’s Historic District is one of many scenic places in New Jersey you won’t want to miss.

Address: Cape May, NJ, United States

8. Adventure Aquarium

Situated on the scenic Camden riverside, the aquarium is one of many much-loved places to see in New Jersey.

The aquarium is home to more than 15,000 water animals including an expansive collection of sharks, penguins, hippos, and more.

Besides seeing all the wonderful animals the aquarium has to offer, there are also many interactive exhibits.

Furthermore, the aquarium has a turtle cove and live feeding shows that are sure to wow your family.

Be sure to make time for a quick bite to eat at the aquarium’s marketplace, beer garden, or coffee shop.

Adventure Aquarium is one of many great tourist attractions to see during your visit to the Garden State.

Address: 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103, United States

9. Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Another of many fun New Jersey attractions, wrought with history is the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum (NAS).

NAS is located in a real World War II aviation hangar which adds to the experience of a visit to the museum.

Although the hangar is a sight to be seen in and of itself, Hangar #1 also houses WWII aircrafts and relics.

Iconic propeller aircraft, high-speed jet aircraft, helicopters, and engines are all on display at NAS.

The NAS is also home to many World War II-era artifacts from outside of the war.

The exhibit displays real 1940s treasures that are cool to see in person.

Whether a history buff or lover of fast things, a visit to the NAS today, tomorrow, or this weekend, is one of many outrageous places to visit in New Jersey.

Address: Cape May Airport, 500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States

10. Howell Living History Farm

This pitstop on your tour of New Jersey is a cross between farm and museum.

If you’ve never been to a living history museum, here’s what you can expect: a real working farm reminiscent of the early 1900s.

You’ll get to experience what life on a working farm during that time period was like.

The farm is operated using antiquated farm equipment and methodologies.

Moreover, during your visit to the museum, you’ll learn about the operations and daily routines of a real-life rural farm at the turn of the century.

You might catch a glimpse of farmers dressed in authentic garb planting crops, raising fences, shearing sheep, or more.

A visit to the Howell Living History Farm is super fun and one of the top places to visit in New Jersey

Address: 70 Woodens Ln, Lambertville, NJ 08530, United States

11. Morristown Game Vault

Of all the fun places to visit in New Jersey, you’ll want to make the Game Vault a stop on your itinerary.

With over 100 arcade games and pinball machines to choose from, you will undoubtedly recognize many of these nostalgic games.

If you’re wondering what to do on an unseasonable day, the arcade is always a fun choice.

Best of all, no quarters are necessary.

All of the games are free to play with an unlimited amount of games for a set period.

You simply purchase a wrist band for a set time and play to your heart’s content.

There are hours to be had playing retro games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Pinball.

Step back in time during your stay in New Jersey with an epic visit to the Morristown Game Vault.

12. Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

A newly instituted National Park, Paterson Great Falls are one of many activities that you should plan on your trip to NJ.

Open to the public for self-guided outdoor activities, the Falls are a must see for anyone passing through New Jersey.

With a downloadable app that guides you through the park and around the Falls, you’ll learn about the rich history of Paterson while observing all the beautiful scenery the park has to offer.

The Paterson Great Falls are a superb backdrop for a picnic lunch too.

The park offers free picnic benches for public use, but there are also lots of wonderful spots throughout the park to spread a blanket for a picnic lunch too.

The Paterson Great Falls are a top pick for free things to do in New Jersey.

Address: 72 McBride Ave, Paterson, NJ 07501, United States

13. Duke Farms

The Garden State, so nicknamed for its beauty in nature, has tons of free things to do, top of which is Duke Farms.

With over 1,000 acres of lush farm and woodland to explore, you can spend the whole day (or more) having outdoor fun at Duke Farms in New Jersey.

With guided trails to walk, jog, or bike you can spend your day, however, suits you.

You can also pack a lunch and plan a picnic or eat at Duke Farm’s delectable farm-to-table cafe.

Of New Jersey attractions, Duke Farms is a must do activity.

Address: 1112 Dukes Pkwy W, Hillsborough Township, NJ 08844, United States

14. Beaches

The beaches of the Jersey Shore are beautiful up and down the coastline of the Garden State.

No matter where in NJ you are visiting, you are sure to be a short drive from the white-sand beaches lining the Atlantic Ocean.

Many of the beach towns are bordered by old-timey boardwalks with attractions like arcades, rides, restaurants, and snack stands with New Jersey novelties like funnel cake and Italian Ice.

One of the best beaches with a boardwalk is the famed Seaside Heights.

If you prefer a more quiet, slower pace there are plenty of dry beach towns without boardwalks and lots of excitement too.

But no matter your beach speed, the fact remains that the beaches of the Jersey Shore are gorgeous, clean, and safe to swim.

Beware though, many of the state’s beaches do charge small admittance fees and parking can be cumbersome.

15. Cape May County Park & Zoo

The Cape May County Park & Zoo is a non-profit organization that operates on the generosity of donations from visitors and patrons.

A long and scenic drive down the Garden State Parkway, to the very tip of the state, will deliver you straight to the proverbial lion’s den.

A well-kempt and interactive zoo, the Cape May County Park & Zoo spares no attraction.

With a bald eagle exhibit, an African Safari with zebras, giraffes, and more, an aviary, and many other attractions and encounters, the Cape May County Park & Zoo is both family-friendly and educational.

If you want to make your trip even more special, you can even book a private guided tour.

What’s more, with many picnic areas surrounding the zoo, an adorable gift shop, a concession stand, and playgrounds galore, the Cape May County Park & Zoo is sure to please.

It’s one of many fun things to do in New Jersey.

16. Sterling Hill Mining Museum

If you’re looking for a novel place to visit today, this old iron and zinc mine in New Jersey is one of many fun places to visit.

While at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum you’ll be guided through underground tunnels, along which you’ll learn about the mine’s abundant history.

You’ll learn about the equipment used to mine zinc and iron, the working conditions the miners faced, and the mine’s geology.

Additionally, you’ll see artifacts from the mine’s working days dating back as far as the 1830s.

One of the museum’s best-loved exhibits is “The Rainbow Tunnel”; let’s just say it will truly illuminate your experience.

To prepare for your visit to the mine you’ll want to dress appropriately.

Keep in mind that the mine will be damp and cold, and you will undoubtedly do lots of walking, so dress comfortably.

Of the many wonderful places to go in New Jersey, Sterling Hill Mining Museum is highly recommended.

17. Liberty Science Center

With so many things to see in New Jersey, LSC is a wonderful attraction for families with children.

The LSC has a huge planetarium and many interactive exhibitions.

Of note, there’s a “Making Mammoths” exhibit, a Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood-themed exhibit, Rubik’s Cube exhibit, and even a wild-animals exhibit.

These are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg, though.

There are loads of family-friendly activities at LSC.

Additionally, there’s an epic gift shop and cafeteria for your lunching convenience.

If science is one of your points of interest, a visit to Liberty Science Center is one of many awesome places to visit in New Jersey.

Address: 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305, United States

18. Battleship New Jersey

If military history tickles your fancy, you won’t want to miss this site during your stay in New Jersey.

On your tour of the battleship, you’ll have an interactive experience wherein you explore the decks of the ship, climb ladders as you navigate, traverse tricky passageways, and immerse yourself in the lifestyle of a seaman.

After many tours of duty, the Battleship New Jersey was finally decommissioned in 1991 and has been docked in the Delaware River since.

A trip to New Jersey would not be complete without visiting the Battleship New Jersey.

If you plan your visit for the late afternoon, afterward you can even check out the beautiful skyline of neighboring Philadelphia at night.

Address: 100 Clinton St, Camden, NJ 08103, United States

19. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Situated at the tip of Long Beach Island, where the Barnegat Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, this picturesque park is a beautiful place to explore, picnic, collect seashells, shoot photographs, and more.

There is a walking trail through the park, fishing is permitted, and there’s even a nature observation.

What’s more, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is home to Old Barney the Island’s famed lighthouse.

If you are wondering where to go on your visit to New Jersey this weekend, no matter the season, a visit to Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is one of many wonderful things to see in the Garden State.

Address: 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006, United States

20. Tuckerton Seaport

A maritime village, rich in the history of Barnegat Bay, Tuckerton Seaport is one of many neat places to visit in New Jersey.

The seaport is home to a maritime musTTeum with a decoy gallery and historic buildings.

Beyond enjoying the history of the maritime museum, there are many other sights and activities to participate in.

Beyond the sightseeing, Tuckerton Seaport has a boardwalk that connects you to boutiques, eateries, a wetlands nature trail, and a decoy carving workshop.

What’s more, artists and performers are gracing the boards daily.

The Tuckerton Seaport, a New Jersey hidden gem, should be added to your list of places to visit during your trip to the Garden State.

Address: 120 W Main St, Tuckerton, NJ 08087, United States

21. Grounds for Sculpture

Situated among impeccably kept gardens and arboretum, over 300 artistic sculptures grace the nearly-45 acres of expansive land.

A visit to Grounds for Sculpture provides you the unique opportunity to appreciate the sophistication of art in the outdoor grit of nature.

In addition to the gardens and sculptures, Grounds for Sculpture is also home to a delectable restaurant called Rat’s which is warm and inviting, yet culinarily exquisite.

The museum’s affinity for the fostering of up-and-coming artists means that you not only experience the sculptures of famed artists but of emerging sculptors too.

Beyond the art on display at Grounds for Sculpture, the history and construction of the gardens and arboretum are astounding.

The natural landscape of the grounds perfectly juxtaposes the man-made hardscaping like pergolas, patios, and bridges.

Grounds for Sculpture is truly a sight to behold.

It’s one of many beautiful places to see in the great Garden State.

Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619, United States

22. Newark Museum of Art

The state’s largest art museum, the Newark Museum of Art is one of the best places to go when visiting New Jersey.

The museum’s current galleries include collections of art from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean.

As such, you can expect a culture-filled experience at the Newark Museum of Art.

Beyond the global-rich art on display at Newark Museum of Art in New Jersey, there are also science exhibitions, a decorative arts exhibit, and even a museum garden.

Beyond the amazing museum exhibits, there are often workshops, panels, films, performances, and creative-play experiences for families and children.

Newark Museum of Art is a highly recommended place to visit in New Jersey and near New York City.

23. Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks are a fun-filled and action-packed series of interconnected boardwalks in Wildwood Beach.

After a long day of frolicking in the Atlantic and basking in the sun, a visit to the Piers is in order.

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks are packed with wild rides and attractions for everyone, including plenty of age-appropriate ones for smaller children.

The piers have tons of restaurants, snack stands, and games for all.

Morey’s is also home to two epic water parks also packed with fun attractions for all ages.

There is so much fun to be had on Morey’s Piers that you may even consider spending multiple days there while visiting New Jersey.

Address: 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260, United States

24. Garden State Discovery Museum

One of South Jersey’s greatest tourist attractions for small children, the Garden State Discovery Museum is one of many wonderful places to visit in New Jersey.

With dozens of interactive galleries, exhibitions, and activities for children ages infant through 10 years old, your children will have a blast at Garden State Discovery Museum.

Some favorite attractions include a Dinosaurium, mini-model pro ice skating rink, an interactive news and weather station, digger land, an interactive veterinarian clinic, a mock diner, an auto body shop, and so much more.

Additionally, there are many amenities available at Garden State Discovery Museum, including a nursing area, family restrooms, a coat room, a snack area, and a restaurant.

Garden State Discovery Museum is a great place to visit with children during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 2040 Springdale Rd #100, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003, United States

25. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

Situated adjacent to the white sand beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, Jenk’s has it all: well-kept boards for strolls with a view, carnival-style games, an aquarium, eateries galore, and quite the adult nightlife.

Moreover, there are amusement rides suitable for all ages, a gaming arcade, a homemade sweets shop to die for, a magical funhouse, a ropes course, mini-golf, and boutiques for shopping to your heart’s content.

There is so much to do at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk that you could easily make a weekend trip of it.

Point Pleasant isn’t a beach town you want to miss during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 300 Ocean Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, United States

26. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Notably, Thomas Edison is one of America’s greatest inventors.

Hailing from Central New Jersey, Thomas Edison National Historical Park is lauded as the place “where modern America was invented.”

Home to Edison’s laboratory, the park houses the work and inventions of the great scientist.

Divided into three unique categories, the historical artifacts, the archives, and natural history, your family will delight in the antiquity of Edison’s relics.

With interactive experiments that you and your family can participate in, this hands-on park is one of the most fun places to visit in New Jersey.

Another amazing sight to see at the park’s grounds is the Glenmont Collections; this is the 29-room Victorian estate where Edison lived for most his lifetime.

The beauty and history of this estate are certainly worth the visit.

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park is a walk of historical American innovation and worth a visit during your stay in New Jersey.

Address: 211 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States

27. Seaside Heights

With white-sand beaches by the mile, lifeguarded swimming, and umbrella/chair rentals available up and down the beach, a day at the shore has never been more convenient.

Add to that the excitement of the Seaside Boardwalk and a visit to Seaside Heights is a must see place to visit in New Jersey.

The boardwalk is jam-packed with adventure and fun for adults and children alike.

With amusements out the wazoo, boardwalk games for all ages with epic prizes, an arcade for the ages, and daily boardwalk entertainment, there’s always something to see and do in Seaside.

Furthermore, with a bevy of both fine and low-key restaurants, there are plenty of eateries to choose from.

And at night the club scene comes alive with free-flowing libations and both live and DJ music all night long.

28. Allaire State Park

Monmouth County’s Allaire State Park is a beautiful setting for a day well-spent in nature.

Best known for its 19th-century iron-making relics and antique steam train, a hike through the park will bestow both history and beauty upon you.

The Manasquan River delightfully winds through the park whereupon you can canoe and fish.

The park is also home to over 200 varieties of flowers and plant life, the natural beauty of which will awe you.

There are many guided hiking trails where you can observe the awesomeness of birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Each of the hiking trails can be enjoyed on foot, bike, or even horseback.

Allaire State Park in New Jersey is handicap accessible, has restrooms, picnic tables, a visitor center, and even a museum.

Furthermore, their pet-friendly camping sites are available should you choose to make a night or weekend of your visit to Allaire State Park.

Address: 4265 Atlantic Ave, Wall Township, NJ 07727, United States

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting New Jersey during the months leading up to Christmas, the park’s Santa Light Show is a real treat.

Gather around the town square and at 5 o’clock on the dot, Santa emerges from his workshop’s chimney to wish season’s greetings to all those gathered.

Then with the wave of a wand, he illuminates the entire park in spectacular Christmas lights and “real” snow begins to fall.

Add to this magical experience a cup of hot chocolate sold at most of Storybook Land’s concession stands, and you’ve officially entered a winter wonderland.

But if you won’t be visiting New Jersey in the winter months, fret not.

The park has many, just as wonderful, attractions during the summer months too.

Address: 6415 E Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234, United States

30. Jersey Shore BlueClaws

Minor League Baseball in New Jersey is an institution and with teams and ball fields to choose from up and down the state, you truly can’t go wrong.

However, one of the best-loved Minor League teams in the great Garden State is the Jersey Shore BlueClaws.

Set central to the state, FirstEnergy Park, home to the BlueClaws, is a field like no other.

The first perk of visiting the ballpark is the reasonably priced entry tickets.

Upon entry, there are endless activities for adults and children beyond the simple enjoyment of watching the baseball game.

For the kids, you’ll find boardwalk games, a miniature golf course, and live entertainment from the team’s mascot Buster.

For the adults, there’s grade-A shopping, a private clubhouse, a tiki bar in the outfield, and much more.

Finally, on many summer nights, the ball game ends with a live fireworks show.

FirstEnergy Park, home to the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, is a super night out for family and friends when visiting New Jersey.

Address: 2 Stadium Way, Lakewood, NJ 08701, United States

31. Rutgers Gardens

The official botanical garden of the state university, Rutgers Gardens is open 365 days a year and best of all does not charge an admission fee.

A visit to Rutgers Gardens affords you the opportunity to basque in the glory of a real-live living museum loaded with a wide variety of plant life and vegetation.

Strolling through the botanical gardens of Rutgers Gardens is peaceful, serene, and downright beautiful.

Rutgers Gardens are a beautiful New Jersey sight to be seen all for the cost of nothing at all.

Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it, but don’t skip this stop on your NJ itinerary.

Address: 112 Log Cabin Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902, United States

32. Nickelodeon Universe – American Dream

This television network-themed indoor amusement park situated amidst the bustling American Dream Mall in New Jersey is jam-packed with fun and activities for all ages.

With thrill rides, family rides, and even rides for tots, and all indoors, there’s no wrong time to visit Nickelodeon Universe.

One of the park’s coolest features is an indoor lift and mountain for year-round skiing or snowboarding.

Other park attractions include an indoor water park, mirror mazes, blacklight mini-golf, a skating rink, an aquarium, and an official Legoland.

This place has it all in one central location.

Open year-round and rain or shine, New Jersey’s Nickelodeon Universe is a fun attraction to visit no matter when you’re in the Garden State.

beyond the park’s amusements, Nickelodeon Universe is smack dab in the middle of the state’s largest shopping mall, American Dream.

So once you’ve had your share of amusements, plan to spend some time shopping at the hundreds of luxury and inclusive stores, kiosks, restaurants, and snack stands.

Address: 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ 07073, United States

33. Hoboken

Just outside New York City, only a short train ride to the City, Hoboken is a mecca of New Jersey culture, dining, and nightlife.

During the day you’ll enjoy strolling through the park or along the Hudson River’s pier; in fact, Pier A Park is a wide-open green expanse perfect for meeting up with friends and throwing a frisbee.

Follow your time in the park with lunch and shopping in some of the city’s best eateries and boutiques.

By night, you can expect the streets of Hoboken to come alive with bustling restaurants of all cuisine, happy hours galore, live music busting the seams of each doorway you approach, and so much more.

Although in recent years, Hoboken has become a place where young families set roots to raise young children, by and far, Hoboken has a reputation for serving the whims of young adults.

Whether you prefer the sheer majesty of watching the races or the thrill of betting on the horses, you’re sure to have a grand time at the track.

Conveniently, the track is open seven days a week for horse betting and simulcasting.

Additionally, there’s a delectable sports bar and kitchen for snacks and libations.

And the track’s Blu Grotto Restaurant offers a fine dining menu for a more upscale experience if that’s what you’re into.

Moreover, there are tons of family activities, special events, and festivals that go on throughout the year.

Their family-fun days feature pony rides, face painting, a mini-golf course, and even a bounce house.

Finally, the park offers premier seating or picnic seating.

We love the picnic seating; you can pack coolers with snacks, lunch, and drinks, making a full day out of your trip to the Monmouth Park Race Track.

Address: 175 Oceanport Ave, Oceanport, NJ 07757, United States

35. Brooksbrae Brick Factory

Brooksbrae Brick Factory is a very cool sight to be seen in Monmouth County, New Jersey.

Hidden deep in the woods of the state’s Pine Barrens is the juxtaposition of urban art meets natural landscape: a “graffiti wonderland.”

Formerly, the Brooksbrae Brick Factory produced bricks daily by the thousands.

After the owner died in 1908, the brick factory was decommissioned and left to languish.

Later, the massive factory burnt to the ground leaving it irreparable and abandoned.

Cue the “graffiti wonderland.”

After years of abandonment, artists, hikers, dirt bikers, and ATV riders discovered the abandoned factory.

Those artists used the brick slabs as canvases for “street art,” rendering the discovery of the art both astonishing and delightful to passers-through.

Finding the Brick Factory is tricky and cell services aren’t great deep in the woods of New Jersey’s Pine Barrens, so it’s recommended that you use caution or a knowing guide when visiting Brooksbrae Brick Factory.

Address: Pasadena, Woodmanse Road, Manchester Township, NJ 08759, United States

36. Jersey Shore Premium Outlets

If you’re looking for a full day of premier shopping, the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets are a great central location for doing so.

With covered walkways leading to exclusive shopping, boutiques, jewelers, housewares, and more, these outlets provide a full day of retail therapy.

There are novelty kiosks, snack stands, and cafeteria-style eateries to fuel your shopping too.

Furthermore, convenient amenities like stroller rentals, family restrooms, and a children’s playground, make the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets a wonderful day-trip for shopping.

What’s more, the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets are located just a short drive from the beautiful beaches of Asbury Park.

So while you’re in the area, be sure to check out the shopping pavilions, eclectic restaurants and boutiques, and culture out the wazoo.

So with a visit to the Jersey Shore Premium Outlets, you can easily achieve all of your shopping desires while enjoying leisurely strolling and delicious dining.

Be sure to visit the outlets during your next trip to New Jersey.

Address: 1 Premium Outlet Blvd, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753, United States

37. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

This is a pit stop on your trip to New Jersey that you won’t want to miss.

Comprising nearly 70,000 acres along more than 40 miles of the Delaware River, and over 100 miles of hiking trails, the park has so many memorable and breathtaking views.

Around every corner, you’ll observe plentiful plant life, agricultural farms, and abundant wildlife.

A visit to New Jersey’s Delaware Water Gap is truly a breathtaking experience.

Beyond the natural splendor that you can explore on your own, there are other activities available as well.

In addition to exploring the park on your own, you can swim, paddle, boat, bike, fish, picnic, horseback ride, mountain climb, snowshoe, and so much more.

The adventures are limitless when visiting Delaware Water Gap.

You’ll never see it all in one visit; this is a place your family will love to visit for years to come.

Address: 1978 River Rd, Bushkill, PA 18324, United States

However, in recent years, the town has seen an influx of reinvigoration as far as infrastructure is concerned.

As such, it’s become a super hip destination for locals and tourists alike.

With trendy new restaurants and bars, niche music and art scene, and boutique shopping aplenty, Asbury Park Boardwalk is an epicenter for twenty-somethings on up.

Brunches, beverages, billiards, bars, beaches, board-walking, and so much more!

Bring your dog and your ear for music, because anything goes.

You can spend an entire day at the Boardwalk and still not have seen it all.

The art, culture, and sophistication are alive on the boards and in the streets of Asbury Park.

The people are full of life and are a true joy to encounter.

Be sure to add Asbury Park Boardwalk to your itinerary when visiting NJ.

Address: 1300 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, United States

39. Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market

Catering to the punk rock scene, with an all-are-welcome attitude, this flea market is a great one for some truly eclectic finds.

With more than 140 vendors you can hope to get your hands on really cool vintage clothing, classic cassettes and records, oddities, unique collectibles, original clothing and art, comic books and games, and handmade jewelry.

Food trucks from all over the state will greet you with delectable dishes and treats.

Live local musicians are always rocking the market.

And themed and seasonal holiday events and bazaars are always on the calendar.

A trip to Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market is like nothing you’ll experience elsewhere.

We highly recommend you make it a pitstop on your visit to the great Garden State.

Address: 675 S Clinton Ave, Trenton, NJ 08611, United States

40. Surf & Sip Brew Trail

On this self-guided tour, with a map that is stamped like a passport along the way, you’ll have the unique opportunity to visit local breweries and surf sites in the southern part of the island’s county.

Once you’ve stamped every stop on your guided map, you can submit it to the Chamber of Commerce to redeem it for a free Surf & Sip beer koozie.

This is a truly unique experience that combines two very different loves: beer and surf!

Start Planning Your Trip To New Jersey

The great Garden State is often underrated, but don’t be mistaken, it’s one of the most beautiful states to visit in the Northeast.

Throughout the year, you can find so many attractions to make your trip to NJ a great one.

There are family attractions galore, getaway destinations for friends and couples, nature-rich sites to be seen, historical attractions by the hundreds, and so many other things to do and places to see.

There are natural, outdoor attractions, arts and culture, music and sophistication, historical landmarks and beaches by the mile, and shopping and dining options for all.

With so many amazing things to do in NJ, start your planning, pack your bags, and don’t wait another minute to visit the beautiful Garden State.

Want to live here start the search!

About The Source

JK Realty is Clifton’s trusted source for all of your real estate needs and questions. Since 1989 we have been serving the community proudly and look forward to answering any questions you may have. 973-472-7000

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