Sussex
Located in the Kittatinny Mountains, High Point State Park got its name for being home to the tallest peak in New Jersey. The park is a wonderful break from the rush of the city, with hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities for visitors. In 1930, a monument was added to honor the nation’s fallen soldiers.
Hamilton Township
With both indoor and outdoor exhibits, Grounds for Sculpture is sure to have something everyone will love. Many artists have contributed more than 270 sculptures to the park, most of which are much larger than lifesize. Pieces are often used to immortalize celebrities or recreate famous works of art.
Paterson
While the park has many things to offer, the real treat is Great Falls itself, a 77-foot-tall waterfall on the Passaic River. The waterfall has gained a near-mythical reputation and is referenced in many aspects of pop culture, in everything from a William Carlos Williams poem to The Sopranos.
(image via Flickr)
Vineland
New Jersey’s only remaining drive-in movie theater remains a big hit. During the warmer months, guests can see current releases, as well as select classics, at the Delsea Drive-In. Just like the drive-ins of years past, you are able to hear the sound of the films by tuning your car radio to a specific frequency. If you’ve never experienced a movie like this, there’s no better place to start.
Cranberries are an important crop for the New Jersey agriculture industry. Never is this more apparent than at the Chatsworth Cranberry Festival, which attracts visitors with live music, delicious food, and over 160 local vendors. The festival has become an institution within the community, with residents looking forward to it all year round.
Jersey City
There are over a dozen Pole Position Raceways across the nation, but the main attraction is the one located in Jersey City. This indoor go-kart arena contains two quarter-mile tracks—you can race your friends and family at speeds up to 45 miles per hour.
Opened in 1870, Atlantic City had the first boardwalk in the United States. Over the years, it has been home to several famous piers. Visitors can enjoy the hustle of the crowd and the many vendors. Though part of the boardwalk was damaged during Hurricane Sandy in 2012, it is still overflowing with vibrant culture.
(image via Flickr)
West Orange
Thomas Edison’s home and workplace in New Jersey are now maintained as a museum. While Edison resided here, he came up with some of his most well-known inventions, such as the motion picture camera, sound recordings, and the electric battery.
(image via Flickr)
In addition to birdwatching and 19th-century architecture, Cape May City is known for its beach activities. This lovely seaside town regularly ends up on lists of the best beaches in the country. Visitors come from all over to swim, soak up some rays, or simply walk along the shore.
Hillsborough
Named for James Buchanan Duke, the founder of the American Tobacco Company, Duke Farms is a 2,700 acre nature preserve. With both indoor and outdoor garden displays, the estate caters to nature lovers. Four of the ten oldest trees in the state can be found at Duke Farms.
