The Recreation State

For its small size, New Jersey ranks in the big leagues as a travel and tourism destination.

Imagine a place with luxurious, sandy beaches, dynamic ski slopes, pristine forests and trails, family amusements, diverse foods, and every amenity a seasoned traveler could want? It’s not hyperbole to say the Garden State truly does have something for everyone, and given that we are one of the smallest states in the nation, our many travel destinations are all within driving distance.

To start, visitors can explore the Victorian charm of Cape May, 24-hour entertainment in Atlantic City’s casinos and 127 miles of stunning coastline. As the first state to create boardwalks and seaside resorts, places like Point Pleasant and Asbury Park offer games and fun for children of all ages. Further inland, folks can visit pick-your-own blueberry farms and unique boutiques that line the region.

Travel north, cities like New Brunswick and Newark offer a blend of museums, cultural centers and restaurants for the trendy, the eclectic and every taste in between. Farther north, you’ve got a perfect view of the Statue of Liberty. And there’s plenty of skiing in places like Vernon Township, home to ski slopes on par with the best anywhere, whether you’re a novice on the bunny hill or more experienced. Golfers will also find no shortage of greens, and relaxation is moments away at Crystal Springs Resort, just one of our stunningly lavish spas. Are you a nature lover? Then say no more. In addition to New Jersey’s 36 state parks, a few also provide visitors the opportunity to hike sections of the famed Appalachian Trail.

If you prefer to watch – rather than participate in – athletic activities, New Jersey offers a number of professional sports teams to cheer for, including: the New Jersey Devils at The Prudential Center in Newark; the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena in Harrison; and the New York Giants and New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.

Moreover, you can explore the history behind some of the many ideas and innovations that built our country at one of our 24 nationally recognized historic sites. In fact, before he was president, General George Washington rested his head in New Jersey many times during the Revolutionary War at places such as Ford Mansion in Morristown and Dey Mansion in Wayne. Our capital city, Trenton, also salutes New Jersey’s role in the American Revolution each year with Patriots Week, a time to remember early life along the banks of the Delaware River and the battles waged that led to independence.

Unbeknownst to some, New Jersey is an early leader in the nation’s film industry, and home to countless television and movie productions thanks to its abundance of natural beauty and collection of inspiring locales. What’s next? A good question given The Palisades is where the early cinematic cliffhangers earned their moniker.

Our state and its innovative residents are always starting or staying ahead of the trends. We have taken on the craft brewery market with our 100 plus breweries, and offer more than 50 licensed vineyards with regular wine tastings to satisfy every palette.

So as you can see, New Jersey has ample offerings with more to come each year. Visit often so you don’t miss a thing, and for more information visit visitnj.org today.

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