Ready to uncover the real New Jersey? It’s so much more than just the famous Atlantic City boardwalk or Hoboken’s skyline. Think charming streets of Princeton, where history and character collide, or hiking up to High Point for sweeping views that stretch across three states. Feel the salty breeze at Asbury Park’s boardwalk or take in the peaceful beauty of Delaware Water Gap, with its towering cliffs and tranquil waters. From Red Bank’s vibrant streets to the natural wonders of the Pinelands, New Jersey is full of unexpected gems. Let’s dive into 15 must-see places in the Garden State that will make you fall in love with New Jersey all over again!
How to See My Favorite Activities and Attractions in New Jersey
New Jersey might be one of the most underrated road trip states in the country. Between scenic beach towns, quiet pine forests, mountain lakes, and Revolutionary War history, it packs way more variety than most people expect. I’ve driven across the Garden State more times than I can count, and every trip reminds me how much there is to explore beyond the Turnpike.
If you’ve got 4–5 days, start in Hoboken or Jersey City for skyline views and local eats, then make your way down the shoreline. Stop by Asbury Park, Cape May, and Ocean City for a mix of beaches, boardwalks, and historic charm. On the way back north, cut inland through the Pine Barrens and Princeton. And finally, detour to the Delaware Water Gap for waterfalls and scenic hikes.
If you’re short on time, even a 2–3 day loop from Philly or NYC gives you a solid taste with beaches, small towns, and maybe a diner or two (trust me, they’re worth it). The best time to go? Late spring through early fall, when the weather’s perfect for coastal drives and outdoor adventures. Just don’t forget your E-ZPass…you’ll need it! Now, here are all the coolest bucket list things to do around NJ!
1. Walk Atlantic City’s Famous Boardwalk
There’s no better way to experience Atlantic City than by walking its Famous Boardwalk. Stretching four miles along the shore, this historic promenade is packed with lively attractions, classic eateries, and nonstop entertainment. Whether you’re riding the Steel Pier observation wheel or checking out the handprints at the Entrance to the Stars, there’s something for everyone.
One of my favorite ways to explore is by renting a rolling chair. This is a local tradition that lets you take in the sights without the walk. If you’re looking for a break from the crowds, head to the Absecon Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline.
For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning before the casinos and shops fill up. Whether you’re here for the games, the views, or the boardwalk food, Atlantic City always delivers.
2. Spot Dolphins on a Breakfast Boat Tour
If you’re an early riser, this Cape May cruise is the best way to start the day. You’ll board a spacious boat at Miss Chris Marina and set out past Victorian homes and the iconic Cape May Lighthouse while pods of dolphins swim and play alongside. The crew serves coffee, juice, and pastries as the Atlantic glimmers in the morning sun, and there’s plenty of room to move between the deck and the comfortable indoor cabin.
I’ve done dolphin cruises before, but none matched this one for how close the pods came to the boat. The guides really know the waters, pointing out details about dolphin behavior and local history as you go. After you dock, grab a bag of saltwater taffy or a cone from Washington Street Mall. It’s the kind of morning that makes you forget about your phone.
3. See Victorian Houses in Cape May
Some of the best seaside views in New Jersey can be found in Cape May, a charming town known for its Victorian homes and relaxed atmosphere. A stroll through Washington Street Mall leads to boutique shops, cozy cafés, and plenty of spots to grab fresh seafood.
I once took a whale-watching tour here and saw dolphins swimming alongside the boat before spotting a humpback whale. If you prefer staying on land, renting a bike is a great way to explore the Cape May Lighthouse and surrounding beaches. After a day by the water, The Lobster House is the go-to spot for a fresh seafood dinner right on the docks.
Visit in the shoulder seasons—spring or early fall—for pleasant weather without the summer crowds. Whether you’re here for the ocean, history, or great food, Cape May never disappoints. For me, it’s one of the most livable places in South Jersey, 100%.
4. Enjoy NYC Skyline Views from Liberty State Park
For incredible views of the New York City skyline, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island, head to Liberty State Park. This massive waterfront park offers plenty of open space, walking trails, and historic landmarks, making it a top spot for sightseeing and relaxation.
I once biked along the Hudson River walkway, stopping at the Empty Sky Memorial, which honors New Jersey’s 9/11 victims with a striking steel monument. Nearby, Communipaw Cove is a peaceful retreat where you can spot birds and explore salt marsh trails. Kayakers will also find great launch points along the waterfront.
For the best skyline views, visit around sunset when the city lights begin to glow. Whether you’re here to take in the history, get outdoors, or simply enjoy the scenery, Liberty State Park is worth the trip.
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5. Join Morning Beach Yoga in Cape May
There’s no better way to wake up in Cape May than rolling out your mat on the sand with the sound of waves as your playlist. This morning beach yoga class takes place right in front of La Mer Beachfront Resort, where instructor Kelsy leads a gentle yet energizing session that welcomes every level. You’ll stretch, breathe, and watch the sun climb over the Atlantic while seabirds drift overhead.
I joined one of Kelsy’s classes and left feeling completely reset, ready to take on the day. She keeps things light and relaxed, reminding everyone to move at their own pace. Bring water and your own towel, then reward yourself afterward with a smoothie from Coffee Tyme just down Beach Avenue. It’s the kind of morning that makes you forget about everything else for a while.
6. Walk Through Shark Tunnel at Adventure Aquarium
At Adventure Aquarium in Camden, visitors can explore a 40-foot shark tunnel, get an underwater view of hippos, and see over 8,500 marine animals. The aquarium holds the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast, including sand tiger sharks, hammerheads, and reef sharks.
Watching sharks glide above inside the tunnel felt like stepping into an underwater world—seeing their teeth up close was equal parts thrilling and humbling. The Hippo Haven exhibit is another rare sight, where massive hippos swim gracefully beneath the surface. In the Little Blue Penguin habitat, the smallest species of penguins dart through the water, barely stopping for a breath. The touch tanks allow visitors to feel stingrays and starfish, while the sea turtle rescue center highlights conservation efforts.
Arriving early helped me avoid long lines at the interactive exhibits. Checking the schedule for shark feedings and behind-the-scenes penguin tours made the experience even better.
7. Feed Giraffes at Turtle Back Zoo
Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange features over 800 animals across exhibits like African Adventure, Sea Lion Sound, and the Reptile House. The giraffe feeding station lets visitors hand-feed leafy greens to these towering animals, while the aviary provides an up-close look at tropical birds.
During a walk through the Sea Lion Sound exhibit, I paused at the underwater viewing tunnel as a sea lion flipped and twirled just inches away. In Big Cat Country, jaguars and cougars paced their enclosures, while the Reptile House housed some of the largest pythons I’d ever seen. The barnyard petting zoo gave younger visitors a chance to brush goats and sheep, which turned out to be a surprisingly relaxing break.
Beyond the animals, the mini train ride, butterfly house, and ropes course added fun ways to explore. Weekday mornings had fewer crowds, making it easier to see everything at a comfortable pace.
8. Go Birdwatching by Boat in Cape May
If you’ve ever wanted to see bald eagles, ospreys, and herons up close, this Cape May birding cruise is the one to book. Captain Bob and his crew take you through the calm back bays and salt marshes where hundreds of species rest and feed during migration season. The pontoon-style boat is comfortable and stable, and binoculars are provided so you can focus on spotting rare birds, not fumbling with gear.
The guides bring such enthusiasm to every sighting, pointing out birds you’d never notice on your own. I still remember watching an osprey swoop down for a fish just a few feet from the boat, it was incredible. Between the peaceful water and the constant action, two hours fly by fast. After the cruise, grab lunch at the Lobster House nearby and enjoy the view of the harbor.
9. See Van Gogh at Princeton Art Museum
The Princeton University Art Museum houses over 92,000 works, including ancient artifacts, Renaissance paintings, and contemporary sculptures. The Greek and Roman collection features detailed mosaics and marble busts, while the Egyptian exhibit includes a preserved sarcophagus.
Standing in front of an original Van Gogh painting, I couldn’t help but notice the thick brushstrokes that made the artwork feel alive. Nearby, the Asian art section displayed delicate calligraphy and porcelain that had been preserved for centuries. The modern and contemporary wing featured bold abstract works by artists like Picasso, offering a stark contrast to the museum’s classical collections.
Located in the heart of Princeton University, the museum pairs well with a walk through the historic campus. Admission is free, and guided tours provided a deeper understanding of key pieces. I spent extra time in the print study room, flipping through rare sketches from some of history’s greatest artists.
10. Walk Hudson River for Manhattan Views
The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway stretches 19 miles along the New Jersey side of the river, offering clear views of Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge. The path connects cities like Jersey City, Hoboken, and Weehawken, making it one of the best urban walks in the state.
Stopping at Pier A Park, I sat on a bench and watched the ferries cut across the Hudson while the sun set behind the skyline. The quiet moment was a reminder of how close yet peaceful this side of the river feels. In Weehawken, the Hamilton-Burr Dueling Grounds marks the site where Alexander Hamilton was fatally shot in 1804, blending history with the scenic backdrop.
Bike rentals made it easy to cover more ground, and food vendors along the path offered plenty of places to grab a snack. Arriving in the evening gave the best views, as city lights reflected off the water and the walkway took on a calmer energy.
11. Visit Edison’s Lab and Inventions
Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange preserves the home and laboratory of one of history’s most influential inventors. This site offers a firsthand look at where Edison developed groundbreaking technologies, including the phonograph, motion picture camera, and long-lasting light bulb.
Walking through the lab, I saw Edison’s original desk, still covered in notes and blueprints, as if he had just stepped away. The music room displayed early phonographs, and hearing the scratchy sounds of one of his first recordings felt like traveling back in time. The Black Maria, the world’s first film studio, was another highlight, showing how Edison helped shape the movie industry.
Guided tours provide deeper insight into his inventions. And the Glenmont Estate, Edison’s 29-room mansion, adds a personal touch to his story. The best time to visit is on a weekday when the crowds are smaller, allowing more time to explore the interactive exhibits.
12. Walk Among 270 Sculptures at Grounds For Sculpture
Located in Hamilton Township, Grounds For Sculpture is a 42-acre outdoor museum featuring over 270 contemporary sculptures set against beautifully landscaped gardens. This unique art park blends creativity with nature, making every turn feel like stepping into a surreal scene.
As I walked through a tree-lined path, I stumbled upon a lifesize recreation of a Renoir painting, where costumed figures looked as if they had stepped right off the canvas. Further ahead, the Seward Johnson sculptures recreated everyday moments in striking realism, making it hard to tell art from reality. The Peacock Run added a surprising touch, with vibrant peacocks roaming freely among the sculptures.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. The on-site restaurant, Ratatouille-inspired Rat’s, serves French cuisine with a garden view, making it a great stop after exploring. Whether visiting for the art, the nature, or both, this is one of the most unique places in New Jersey.
- Read also: My Favorite New Jersey Restaurants
13. Ride the Great White Coaster at Morey’s Piers
Spanning six beachside blocks in Wildwood, Morey’s Piers is one of New Jersey’s best amusement parks, featuring classic rides, roller coasters, and two massive water parks. This boardwalk attraction has been entertaining visitors since 1969.
Riding the Great White wooden roller coaster at night, with the ocean breeze rushing past, was an adrenaline rush unlike any other. The Skycoaster, a mix between bungee jumping and hang-gliding, offers a free-fall experience that isn’t for the faint of heart. Families can enjoy classic carnival rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl and bumper cars, while the Ocean Oasis Water Park provides a refreshing escape with lazy rivers and water slides.
Evenings are the best time to visit, as the boardwalk lights create a nostalgic carnival atmosphere. The food stalls serve up classic boardwalk eats like fried Oreos, funnel cake, and fresh-cut fries, making it a full experience beyond just the rides.
- Read My Guide: New Jersey’s Coolest Nightlife Experiences
14. Climb the Infinity Maze at Liberty Science Center
Liberty Science Center, located in Jersey City, is an interactive museum featuring hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, and the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. This science hub is perfect for visitors of all ages, offering everything from engineering challenges to wildlife encounters.
Inside the Infinity Climber, a suspended maze of pathways and obstacles, I navigated through a network of nets and platforms hanging high above the floor. The touch tank allowed visitors to get up close with sea creatures, while the live lightning show in the Tesla exhibit was a must-see. The Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium delivered an immersive space experience, simulating the feeling of flying through galaxies.
Arriving early helped in getting front-row seats for the most popular demonstrations. Families should check out the energy and robotics exhibits, which feature hands-on activities for kids and adults alike.
15. Spot Herons at Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge
Covering over 7,800 acres, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Morris County is one of the best spots for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography in New Jersey. This protected wetland is home to over 240 bird species, white-tailed deer, foxes, and turtles.
Walking along the boardwalk trails, I paused as a great blue heron took flight just a few feet away. The Wildlife Observation Center provided a quiet spot to watch wood ducks glide across the water, while the winding hiking paths led deeper into the marshlands. The refuge’s history dates back to the last Ice Age, and the preserved wetlands serve as an important migratory stop for birds.
Early mornings offer the best chance to spot wildlife, especially during spring and fall migration. Visitors should bring binoculars and comfortable shoes, as the best trails lead deep into the heart of the swamp.
