Often overshadowed by its famous neighbors like New York or Philadelphia, New Jersey nonetheless deserves your full attention. This state—at once coastal, urban, and rural—offers surprising diversity: sandy beaches brimming with life, peaceful forests, historic small towns, and modern skyscrapers. Easy to access and rich in discoveries, it proves perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.

The History of New Jersey

New Jersey played a key role in American history. Initially home to the Lenape Native Americans, it was colonized in the 17th century by the Dutch, then fell under English control in 1664. During the American Revolution, it became a strategic battleground: several major battles took place here, earning it the nickname "Crossroads of the American Revolution."

Over the centuries, New Jersey transformed into a major industrial hub. Its proximity to New York and Philadelphia attracted numerous immigrants, who came to work in factories or settle in suburban communities. Today, this legacy still resonates in its cultural richness and population diversity.

What to See and Do in the State of New Jersey?

1. Beaches and Boardwalks

With more than 200 kilometers of coastline, New Jersey brims with magnificent beaches and promenades. In summer, the atmosphere buzzes with energy, festivals, attractions, and unforgettable sunsets.

− Atlantic City Boardwalk

Atlantic City is renowned for its immense wooden promenade, the oldest in North America. The Boardwalk, stretching nearly 7 km, hugs the Atlantic Ocean and blends casinos, shops, rides, restaurants, and attractions galore. It's a must-visit to experience the vibrant pulse of the New Jersey Shore, especially in the evening when the lights come alive.

− Cape May Beach

At the southern tip of the state, Cape May charms with its Victorian atmosphere. Its beaches rank among the cleanest and most peaceful on the coast. The waterfront, lined with colorful houses, feels like stepping back in time. It's an ideal destination for families and seekers of tranquility. On organized cruises, visitors often spot dolphins.

− Wildwood Beach

Wildwood Beach, a few kilometers north of Cape May, attracts a younger crowd thanks to its vast, free beaches. Its nearly 3 km boardwalk hosts amusement parks, vintage shops, and countless food stands.

2. Parks and Outdoor Activities

With its mountains, forests, and wide-open spaces, New Jersey is a true paradise for nature lovers, hikers, cyclists, and campers.

− Liberty State Park

Spanning 500 hectares across from Manhattan in Jersey City, this park is perfect for a green escape with views of the New York skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. You can stroll or cycle through it, picnic, or take a ferry to these famous islands. It's also an excellent spot for stunning sunrise or sunset photographs.

− High Point State Park

Located in northwestern New Jersey, this park surrounds the state's highest point, High Point (550 meters elevation). You'll enjoy a spectacular panorama spanning three states: New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The park welcomes visitors year-round with hiking trails, lake beaches for summer swimming, and cross-country skiing circuits during winter months.

− Appalachian Trail

The famous Appalachian Trail crosses through New Jersey for 115 km, winding through forests, hills, and marshes. The most popular sections are in the northwestern part of the state, notably near Wawayanda State Park. Hikers frequently encounter deer, rare birds, and sometimes black bears, which flee at any human presence.

3. Museums and Cultural Sites

New Jersey boasts numerous fascinating places that trace its industrial, artistic, and scientific past. Around every corner of the state, a surprise awaits.

− Grounds For Sculpture

This open-air museum houses more than 300 monumental works scattered throughout a stunning garden. The space blends contemporary art, nature, and poetic atmosphere. Visitors wander for hours, camera in hand, discovering sculptures that are alternately whimsical and intriguing. The site is located in Hamilton.

− Sterling Hill Mining Museum

The Sterling Hill Mining Museum occupies a former zinc mine in Ogdensburg, in the northern part of the state. You'll descend underground to explore galleries, see fluorescent minerals, and understand this region's historic role in the mining industry.

− Morris Museum

This Morristown museum combines art, history, and science. It's particularly renowned for its collection of automatons and mechanical music boxes, the largest in the country. You'll also discover highly varied temporary exhibitions, from contemporary art to local history.

A visit to the Morris Museum is also an opportunity to explore other attractions in the city, including the Morristown National Historical Park, George Washington's headquarters during the American Revolution.

− Thomas Edison National Historical Park

In West Orange, in the northern part of the state, sits Thomas Edison's laboratory. Phonographs, light bulbs, projectors… everything remains intact. It was here that several major inventions came to life. The visit will literally transport you into the world of 19th-century innovation.

− U.S.S. New Jersey

This World War II battleship, moored in Camden just across from Philadelphia, is now a floating museum. Several sections of the vessel, from the engine room to gun turrets and crew quarters, are accessible for tours. An immersive dive into the lives of sailors!

4. Shopping and Entertainment

New Jersey will delight you if you're seeking retail therapy or craving thrills.

− The Mills at Jersey Gardens

This shopping center is a paradise for shoppers. Over 200 boutiques, often offering discounted merchandise, are housed here. Located in Elizabeth near Newark Airport.

− Morey's Piers

In Wildwood, three giant piers transformed into amusement parks jut directly onto the beach. Roller coasters, water slides, a Ferris wheel with ocean views… everything is designed for fun. Rides range from gentle to extreme, appealing to both children and adrenaline seekers.

− Six Flags Great Adventure

In the town of Jackson, between New York and Philadelphia, stands one of the largest amusement parks on the East Coast, Six Flags Great Adventure. You'll enjoy roller coasters among the world's tallest, a safari with exotic animals, and shows for the whole family. In summer, the Hurricane Harbor water park offers refreshment between rides.

Practical Information

Where is New Jersey Located?

New Jersey sits between New York to the north, Pennsylvania to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The state can be divided into several main regions: the mountainous and urbanized North under New York's influence (North Jersey), the transitional Center with education and industry (Central Jersey), the flat and agricultural South influenced by Philadelphia (South Jersey), and the tourist Coast along the Atlantic (Shore Jersey).

New Jersey is easily accessible from Manhattan: by train, car, or bus. Newark International Airport (EWR), one of the country's largest, welcomes numerous international flights.

Train service (NJ Transit) connects major cities throughout the state and serves New York and Philadelphia as well. The bus is convenient for local travel. To explore less urban areas, renting a car is advisable.

What are the Cities of New Jersey?

New Jersey overflows with interesting cities to explore. The most visited are Newark, Jersey City, Atlantic City, Trenton, and Cape May.

− Newark

Newark, the state's largest city, is known for its rich cultural heritage (the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark Museum…).

− Jersey City

Just across from Manhattan, Jersey City offers stunning views of the New York skyline and is home to Liberty State Park and the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

− Atlantic City

The state's gaming and entertainment hub, featuring casinos, its famous boardwalk, beaches, and world-renowned shows.

− Trenton (the capital)

New Jersey's capital is rich in history. Sites like the Old Barracks Museum and the New Jersey State Museum are located here.

− Cape May

Cape May is a charming coastal town with colorful Victorian houses, magnificent beaches, and fresh seafood restaurants.

Other celebrated cities in the state include Princeton, renowned for its prestigious university and cultural atmosphere; Wildwood and Spring Lake, seaside resorts cherished for their beaches and boardwalks, and Long Branch, another popular coastal town.