100 Best things to do in New Jersey
New Jersey is also known as the ‘Garden State’. It is well-known for the wonderful crops such as corn, tomatoes, and blueberries that are grown there. Additionally, it is known as the ‘Diner Capital of the World’ with many delicious foods regarded as local cuisine.
Historically, over 100 battles were fought on New Jersey soil, and the state is regarded as the Pathway of the Revolution.
Did you know that New Jersey has more horses per square mile than any other state? The first baseball game was played in Hoboken, New Jersey in 1845?
Whatever you plan to do on your holiday, you will find many interesting things to see and do in this state.
1. The Jersey Shore
This is more an area than a specific place. It is the shoreline of the state which runs for 141 miles from Perth Amboy to Cape May Point.
‘The shore’ is famous for the boardwalks along the way. Many of them are filled with arcades and amusement parks. All of them have plenty of places to buy food so you may want to check into a hotel along the shoreline and stay a few days.
2. Ellis Island
This is found in Upper New York Bay. It was the entrance point for over 12 million immigrants from 1892 – 1954.
The original island was far smaller than what you see today. The Statue of Liberty monument is now a part of the island, and you will find a museum on the island.
You can access the island by means of boats which are readily available on the mainland.
3. Liberty State Park
You will find this on Upper New York Bay in Jersey City. The park is bordered on three sides by water and is directly across from both Liberty Island and Ellis Islands, so the views of the islands are marvellous.
This is a great park to take a packed lunch on a sunny day and enjoy the outdoors.
4. Montclair Art Museum
This is found in Montclair, just a few miles west of New York City. There are over 12,000 exhibits dedicated to American Art and Native American art forms.
The School of Art, which is based there offers classes for both professional and amateur artists, and there is an extensive programme of art education for all ages.
Allow yourself a full day to see the museum. There is a cafe where you can get lunch.
5. Reeves-Reed Arboretum
This is found in the town of Summit and is the only arboretum in the state. The nice thing about this is that it is free to enter, making it a good day out for a family.
The rose garden was added in 1925 and the herb garden in 1968. Try to visit the garden in May, when it is ablaze with Azaleas, Roses, lilacs, and many more. Make sure you see the Rose garden which contains 286 rose bushes. The garden also explodes with colour from 30,000 daffodils in April.