One of the smallest states in the United States, New Jersey hugs the Atlantic Ocean between New York and Delaware. It was named by English settlers after the largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey, and since the mid-19th century, it has been affectionately known as the “Garden State”.
Things to do in New Jersey
Whether you want to birdwatch on the Cape May Peninsula or get lucky in the casinos of Atlantic City, New Jersey will appeal to all travellers.
Sightsee in Newark. New Jersey’s most populous city is also one of the oldest in the United States and lies at the mouth of the Passaic River. An impressive collection of American paintings and sculptures are exhibited at the Newark Museum of Art while one of the world’s most famous awards shows is brought to life at the GRAMMY Museum Experience. Cherry trees ignite the scenic trails of Branch Brook Park in the springtime.
Live it up in Atlantic City. Clustered with casinos and high-rise hotels, Atlantic City is a pulsing resort city on New Jersey’s coast. It’s famed for its six-kilometre-long Boardwalk, which was constructed in 1870 and connects to the amusement-style rides and observation wheel of Steel Pier. While exploring the Boardwalk, keep an eye out for the “Entrance to the Stars”, which features the handprints of Frank Sinatra and Stevie Wonder.
Escape to Cape May. Protruding into Delaware Bay, the Cape May Peninsula has been a fashionable resort destination since the 18th century. Relax on its wild beaches and gaze up at the 19th-century Cape May Point Lighthouse or stroll between the grand Victorian residences that cluster in the city of Cape May. A particular highlight is the Emlen Physick Estate, which is an excellent example of American Stick-style architecture.
Getting around New Jersey
Newark Liberty International Airport is the main aviation gateway to New Jersey and has flights to destinations across the globe. Long-distance train services connect to the Trenton Transit Center, Metropark and Newark Penn railway stations while both rail and bus services travel throughout New Jersey.