Best Day Trip Destinations in New Jersey
New Jersey may be the fourth-smallest state in the country but it does not mean it does not have what it takes to be a great travel destination. From its famous boardwalks, stunning wildernesses, to its city attractions — New Jersey has so many wonderful outdoor destinations. Destinations that are especially perfect for day trips.
Whether you are taking your children for a trip or just unwinding by yourself, here are our favorite day trip destinations in New Jersey.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area straddles the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The whole recreation area covers 70,000 acres and is banked on a 40 mile stretch of the Delaware River. Its access to riverbank alone gives visitors and tourists access to a number of fun activities. Of course, the water gap refers specifically to this passage that passes between low forested mountains and rocky mountain ridges. The landscapes within are just incredible.
Apart from the number of recreational activities you can do here, the park’s historical significance is also extremely fascinating. The park actually encompasses Native American archaeological sites that are continuously being studied. Around the park, there are also still early Dutch settlements as well as historic rural villages from the 18th to 19th century.
The Gap is also a great stop if you are taking an Appalachian Mountains Road Trip.
Atlantic City’s Boardwalk
Atlantic City, New Jersey is one of the most popular coastal towns at this side of the country. There is, of course, no better way to enjoy the Atlantic City than to just walk through its boardwalk. It is also 40 mile long promenade that has been built in the 1870. It has since remained as a popular tourist spot in the city.
Within the boardwalk, there are more specific tourist spots like Steel Pier, Absecon Lighthouse, and Entrance to the Stars. Also, there is just something freeing and unwinding about having a whole day by the beach.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Thomas Edision National Historical Park houses Thomas Edison’s former home and laboratory in New Jersey. It has been said that this is where Edison worked on notable technological breakthroughs from movie cameras, sound recordings, to the the very first batteries. Naturally, those who have a little bit of familiarity with Edison’s work may appreciate the park a little bit even more.
Some of the highlights of a trip to this park include seeing original artificats and up close look and experience of Edison’s labs. Of course, the 29-room mansion itself is an architectural accomplishment that anyone can appreciate.
Old Victorian Cape May
Located at the southernmost corner of New Jersey near the Delaware Bay, Cape May is popular for many reasons. Of course, the beaches are beautiful, but what attracts most tourists here are the beautiful Victorian-style homes. These homes are grandiose precisely because they were built for the wealthiest families back in the 18th and 19th century.
The reputation of Cape May is so impressive that six presidents have had summer homes and vacations here.
Morey’s Pier and Water Parks
If you already are in Cape May here in New Jersey, Morey’s Pier is actually just a short drive away. The amusement park is obviously perfect for a family day trip or if you have children with you. Even if you do not have children with you though, do not let that stop you. I am sure you can still easily spend a fun day here with the park’s bumper cars and daredevil roller coasters. If that sounds like your thing, definitely head on over to Morey’s Pier.
