Ultimate Guide to 25 Must-Do Activities in New Jersey

New Jersey has cultivated a somewhat misleading reputation due to popular television shows such as The Real Housewives of New Jersey and Jersey Shore.

However, beyond the “McMansions” and vibrant party venues, the state is rich in natural beauty, historic parks, and world-class museums that celebrate history and art.

While it may be overshadowed by New York in terms of tourism, New Jersey boasts numerous attractions that can compete with those of the Big Apple.

It is indeed feasible (and advisable) to visit two of New York’s most celebrated landmarks from New Jersey: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

In addition to enjoying city life and the Shore, visitors should consider taking a detour to experience the agriculture and scenic landscapes of New Jersey.

Below is a curated list of the top attractions in New Jersey, designed to offer a blend of action, adventure, and tranquility for an enriching experience in the Garden State:

1. Cape May

Cape May earned acclaim as a fashionable and appealing seaside resort during the 18th century, drawing in the affluent.

Located on Delaware Bay, the town’s beaches, historic lighthouse, and picturesque Victorian-style homes attract numerous visitors annually.

Historically significant, six different US presidents have chosen Cape May as the site of their vacation homes over the years.

The Emlen Physick Estate serves as a prime illustration of the area’s residences and currently operates as a museum, inviting guests to explore its 18 opulent rooms.

2. Atlantic City/The Boardwalk

Another noteworthy and beautiful resort town in New Jersey is Atlantic City, renowned for its iconic Boardwalk.

The boardwalk, constructed in 1870, serves as a promenade featuring an array of seaside attractions, including several piers and hotels.

Spanning four miles, it may appear daunting for a seaside stroll; however, bike rentals are conveniently available, facilitating efficient exploration of the area.

3. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

This historic national park features the laboratory and home of Thomas Edison.

Within these two buildings, Edison conducted experiments and developed inventions such as the first batteries and early movie cameras and sound recording devices.

Visitors to the park can closely examine the labs and view original artifacts utilized by Edison himself.

The residence, a 29-room mansion, has been excellently preserved; however, it is advisable to acquire tickets in advance for mansion tours due to limited availability.

4. Princeton

The name Princeton is widely recognized due to the prestige and accomplishments of its university and academic programs.

Established in 1756, the university boasts an expansive 1,600 acres of grounds.

Guided tours lasting approximately one hour are conducted by university students and are both informative and engaging.

5. Battlefield State Park

Located in Princeton is the historically significant Battlefield State Park.

The site spans an area of 200 acres and was the scene of the Battle of Princeton, which represented George Washington’s victory over British forces in 1777.

Additionally, visitors can explore the Clarke House Museum, which served as a hospital for injured soldiers since 1772, and the Ionic Colonnade, a memorial honoring soldiers from both Britain and the United States.

6. Grounds for Sculpture

The Grounds For Sculpture in Trenton represents one of the most favored art destinations in New Jersey.

Founded in 1992, it aims to celebrate contemporary sculpture and has expanded to its current size of 42 acres.

Situated in Hamilton, the park displays a diverse array of sculptures, featuring significant works by Seward Johnson and other prominent artists from the United States.

The park’s grounds are equally captivating, characterized by beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with an array of flowers and trees.

7. Delaware Water Gap

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area straddles the borders of Pennsylvania and New Jersey, encompassing an extensive area exceeding 70,000 acres.

The region includes a notable 40-mile stretch of the Delaware River, designated as a protected recreational space, along with two visitor centers that provide insights into the area’s history, geography, and recreational opportunities.

This area might be the premier destination in the state for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, natural swimming, and camping.

8. Liberty State Park

Many visitors to New Jersey may find it surprising that the Statue of Liberty is listed among the top attractions in the state; nonetheless, Liberty State Park provides the chance to witness this iconic monument.

The park offers remarkable views of Ellis Island (home to the famed statue) as well as Liberty Island and Upper New York Bay.

Within the park, visitors can explore Communipaw Cove, a salt marsh nature reserve, and the poignant “Empty Sky” memorial, dedicated to the victims of 9/11 with ties to New Jersey.

9. Paterson Great Falls

The Paterson Great Falls represent one of the most recently designated national parks in the United States, featuring an impressive collection of waterfalls and natural landscapes.

Exploring the park promises enjoyment, with several viewpoints and varying vantage points of the falls, including the magnificent bridge near Falls Gorge.

Intriguing historical insights about the area can be discovered at the nearby Paterson Museum.

10. USS New Jersey

This remarkable vessel now serves as a museum, anchored serenely on the Delaware River.

Visitors to the ship may participate in guided tours and view numerous exhibits, artifacts, and documents that recount the vessel’s storied past.

Launched in 1942, the ship actively contributed to World War II and subsequent conflicts in the Middle East.

For a truly distinctive experience, options are available for evening tours or even overnight stays aboard the ship.

11. The Adventure Aquarium

This aquarium, located in Camden on the Delaware River, is ideal for families visiting New Jersey.

Housing approximately 2 million gallons of water, the aquarium features an impressive array of 8,500 marine creatures.

Recognized as a leader in marine biology education, the aquarium is home to a diverse collection of species, including sharks and hippos.

12. High Point State Park

Central to this beloved natural attraction is the High Point Monument, a tribute established in 1930 honoring American participants in World War I.

The park spans an expansive 16,000 acres, featuring numerous well-marked and maintained trails.

A variety of outdoor activities is available, with fishing, natural swimming, and camping being particularly popular.

13. The Liberty Science Center

Located within Liberty State Park, the Liberty Science Center is particularly beneficial for children visiting New Jersey.

It offers interactive educational experiences, featuring an array of engaging hands-on displays and exhibits that delve into various scientific and technological fields, including robotics and environmental science.

Notably, the center houses the largest IMAX theatre worldwide.

14. Six Flags Great Adventure

Situated in Jackson, this theme park is a prominent attraction for both New Jersey and New York residents as well as visitors to the region.

The park offers rides suited for all ages and thrill-seeking levels, as expected from a Six Flags venue.

Additionally, it features the water park Hurricane Harbor, boasting an impressive array of slides and water thrill rides.

The venue also hosts live entertainment and numerous dining options throughout the season.

15. Lucy the Elephant

In Margate, visitors can behold an extraordinary 65-foot tall wooden elephant.

Lucy is designated as a National Historic Monument and was constructed in 1881 to attract prospective buyers to the area, having served multiple purposes throughout her existence, including function as a hotel.

Now a six-story structure, Lucy is 134 years old and is currently undergoing restoration; however, tours through the building continue to be available daily.

16. Ellis Island

Ellis Island lies within the harbor of both New York and New Jersey.

Rich in history, it served as the primary immigration processing center for New York for 50 years, starting in 1892, processing 12,000 individuals daily.

Visitors to the island can experience the immigrant journey through the Immigration Museum.

Self-guided tours of the island are popular, and audio guides are available for an additional cost.

17. Newark Museum of Art

The Newark Museum of Art, the largest museum in the state, is located in Newark, Essex County.

This impressive collection showcases contemporary and historical artworks from around the globe, including pieces from American, Asian, African, and European artists.

18. Montclair Art Museum

The Montclair Art Museum, located in Montclair, was established in 1914 and now houses an extraordinary collection exceeding 12,000 sculptures, paintings, and photographs.

The museum focuses primarily on American and Native American art, providing visitors with valuable insights into the evolution of art in the United States.

The museum hosts events, including live music throughout the year, and their website serves as a valuable resource for information prior to visiting.

19. Monmouth Battlefield State Park

Straddling the border between Freehold Township and Manalapan, this state park encompasses just under 3,000 acres.

The site was the scene of one of the largest battles of the American Civil War, with reenactments conducted during the summer.

Additionally, the park is ideal for hiking and includes various points of interest such as a restored farmhouse from the Revolutionary War.

20. Sterling Hill Mining Museum

Situated in Ogdensburg, where iron and zinc mining was prevalent in the past, this museum highlights the working and living conditions of local miners.

Mine tours are offered, allowing exploration of the industrial labyrinth while showcasing the various minerals located beneath the surface.

21. Trump Taj Mahal

Owned by Trump Entertainment Resorts, this casino and spa is one of the most renowned establishments in Atlantic City.

It features a variety of dining options, nightlife experiences, and one of the city’s premier gaming floors.

However, it is important to note that this locale may not be suited for travelers seeking budget-friendly options.

22. Space Farms Zoo and Museum

This zoo distinguishes itself with a remarkable collection of over 50,000 objects and artifacts related to farms, farming equipment, and tools.

In addition, the zoo hosts 500 animals across 100 different species, primarily focusing on North American wildlife.

23. Howell Living History Farm

This captivating family destination is an outdoor living museum that emphasizes agrarian life in New Jersey.

Located in Lambertville, the museum encompasses 130 acres and provides visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the historical lifestyle of the state.

24. Turtle Back Zoo

Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange has recently been voted the best zoo in the state, featuring diverse enclosures and exhibits themed for animals from around the globe. Like many zoos, Turtle Back is deeply committed to conservation efforts and research.

The zoo also includes a treetop adventure course, adding another layer of excitement to the visit.