Key Takeaways:
- New Jersey offers a unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity.
- Whether you’re hiking through its parks, exploring its vibrant cities, or enjoying its beaches, New Jersey has something for everyone.
- From the Jersey Shore to its scenic mountains, New Jersey provides memorable experiences at every corner.
New Jersey, the “Garden State,” is a place where the hustle and bustle of the East Coast meets natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture. Though often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, New Jersey offers a surprising array of activities that attract visitors year-round. Whether you’re exploring the charming beaches of the Jersey Shore, hiking the lush landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, or immersing yourself in the state’s rich history, there’s something for everyone. Cities like Hoboken, Princeton, and Newark provide an exciting mix of arts, entertainment, and dining, while rural areas boast tranquil parks and historic landmarks.
New Jersey’s appeal lies in its diversity—both in terms of geography and activities. The state is home to bustling urban hubs, relaxing shorelines, and lush parks, making it the perfect destination for both adventure and relaxation. Its rich history, from colonial-era landmarks to its significant role in the American Revolution, provides plenty of opportunities for cultural exploration. Whether you’re enjoying a day at the beach, exploring a historical site, or taking in a live performance, New Jersey offers an experience that combines excitement and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination in the Northeastern United States.
Here are 25 things to do in New Jersey:
#1 Relax at the Jersey Shore: Soak up the sun, enjoy boardwalks, and explore the beach towns along the coastline.
#2 Hike in the Delaware Water Gap: Trek through scenic trails and enjoy views of the Delaware River in this beautiful national recreation area.
#3 Visit Liberty State Park: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline in this urban park.
#4 Explore the Grounds For Sculpture: Wander through this unique 42-acre sculpture park and museum in Hamilton.
#5 Visit Princeton University: Take a tour of the historic Ivy League campus and explore its museums, gardens, and architecture.
#6 Discover the Cape May Historic District: Stroll through this charming Victorian seaside town, known for its beautiful architecture and pristine beaches.
#7 See the Thomas Edison National Historical Park: Explore the laboratory and home of one of America’s most famous inventors in West Orange.
#8 Go Whale Watching in Cape May: Embark on a boat tour to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine life off the coast.
#9 Take a Scenic Drive on the Palisades Interstate Parkway: Enjoy views of the Hudson River and the New York City skyline along this picturesque route.
#10 Visit the Battleship New Jersey: Tour the retired battleship docked in Camden and learn about its military history.
#11 Go Wine Tasting in the Delaware Valley: Visit wineries and vineyards for tastings and scenic views in this charming wine-growing region.
#12 Attend the Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall: Catch a live performance or sporting event at this historic venue along the famous Atlantic City boardwalk.
#13 Explore the Liberty Science Center: Engage with interactive exhibits on science and technology in Jersey City, perfect for all ages.
#14 Tour the Grounds For Sculpture: Discover contemporary art in this lush outdoor museum located in Hamilton.
#15 Go to the Adventure Aquarium: Explore aquatic exhibits, including sharks, hippos, and sea turtles in Camden’s Adventure Aquarium.
#16 Visit the Princeton University Art Museum: Admire diverse collections ranging from ancient to modern art at this renowned museum.
#17 Explore the High Point State Park: Enjoy hiking, fishing, and scenic views from New Jersey’s highest point in Sussex County.
#18 Take a Boat Tour in Hoboken: Get a unique view of the Manhattan skyline while enjoying a relaxing boat ride from Hoboken.
#19 Check Out the Red Bank Arts District: Explore galleries, theaters, and cafes in this vibrant arts district along the Navesink River.
#20 Visit the New Jersey State Museum: Learn about New Jersey’s history, art, and natural sciences at this museum in Trenton.
#21 Tour the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival: Attend one of the state’s largest arts and crafts festivals featuring local artisans and creators.
#22 Attend the New Jersey Film Festival: Experience independent films and filmmakers at this annual festival hosted at Rutgers University.
#23 Walk the Princeton Battlefield: Visit the historic battlefield where the Battle of Princeton was fought during the American Revolution.
#24 Take a Day Trip to Liberty Island: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, learning about their significance in American history.
#25 Relax at Island Beach State Park: Enjoy the natural beauty of this coastal park, perfect for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.
Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in New Jersey?
To find both free and paid events in New Jersey, PlanMyWeekend.ai is an excellent resource. This platform allows you to easily search for a variety of events, whether you’re looking for free outdoor festivals, live performances, or paid experiences like museum tours and concerts. With its user-friendly search options, you can filter events by location, budget, and interest, ensuring you never miss out on the best things happening in New Jersey.
Final Thoughts
New Jersey is a state filled with diverse attractions, from its scenic shorelines to its rich history and vibrant cultural scenes. Whether you’re exploring the beaches, hiking in the state’s parks, or experiencing its dynamic arts and food scenes, there is always something exciting to discover. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to find the best events and experiences during your visit and ensure that your time in New Jersey is as enjoyable as possible. With so much to offer, New Jersey guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai