• Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. See the preserved Allaire Village in Allaire State Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Stephen Bonk/stock.adobe.com

2. Stroll along the Atlantic City boardwalk ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

© Felix Mizioznikov/stock.adobe.com

3. Check out the Barnegat Lighthouse State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© eileen10/stock.adobe.com

4. Relax on the beach in Cape May

© Noel/stock.adobe.com

5. Hike or Snowshoe in Cheesequake State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© CE Photography/stock.adobe.com

6. Enjoy picturesque scenery in Clinton, NJ

© cfarmer/stock.adobe.com

7. Go kayaking in Columbia, NJ

© byrdyak/stock.adobe.com

8. Learn about the American Revolutionary War in Edgewater

© Bing Bai/stock.adobe.com

9. Stroll through the Grounds for Sculpture

© sutteerug/stock.adobe.com

10. Go shopping in Haddonfield

© Andrew Kazmierski/stock.adobe.com

11. Explore New Jersey's maritime pasts in Highlands

© wjbruzek/stock.adobe.com

12. Visit Island Beach State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© hydrobiolog/stock.adobe.com

13. Go for a walk in Liberty State Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© pabrady63/stock.adobe.com

14. Visit Margate

© Annatamila/stock.adobe.com

15. Go hiking in Morristown National Historical Park

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© CE Photography/stock.adobe.com

16. See historical items at The Paterson Museum

Category: Affordable Local Attractions
© The Paterson Museum

17. Go on a day trip to Point Pleasant Beach

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© mlemos89/stock.adobe.com

18. Go shopping in Princeton

© Jin/stock.adobe.com

19. Take a guided tour of Rockingham State Historic Site

Tours in the Area
© Liudmila/stock.adobe.com

20. Have fun on the paddle boat lake in Smithville

© juliedeshaies/stock.adobe.com

21. Relax on the beach in Toms River

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© Tom/stock.adobe.com

22. See an exhibit at Tuckerton Seaport

© denised77/stock.adobe.com

23. Enjoy the outdoors in Wharton State Forest

Category: Weekend Activities & Fun Outdoors
© TetyanaOhare/stock.adobe.com

Summary and Frequenly Asked Questions:

  • Question: What makes New Jersey a top tourist destination on the East Coast?
    Answer: New Jersey is known for its expansive waterfront stretches along the Atlantic Ocean coastline and vibrant resort towns.
  • Question: What types of attractions can visitors find in New Jersey?
    Answer: Visitors can explore quirky and photogenic attractions.
  • Question: How accessible are New Jersey’s top visitor areas?
    Answer: New Jersey’s top visitor areas are easy to get to via car or public transit from New York City or Philadelphia.
  • Question: Why is New Jersey a great choice for a short trip?
    Answer: New Jersey is an excellent choice for a day trip or quick vacation due to its accessibility and variety of attractions.

Plan ahead for these New Jersey events:
- Cape May Food & Wine Festival in early October
- Cape May Music Festival
- Sea.Hear.Now Festival
- North To Shore Festival
- New Jersey State Fair in August

Plan Your Trip

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