We lived in New Jersey for 11 years, however after this 7-day street journey, we realized how a lot we had taken without any consideration. Nicknamed the Backyard State, it boasts quite a few out of doors leisure alternatives, together with 130 miles of seashores, 12 nationwide park websites, and the primary nationwide reserve. It’s the one state within the US the place all of the counties are thought of metropolitan areas, so you’re by no means shy of high quality eating, cultural happenings, and issues to do. And did we point out it’s the Diner Capital of the World? You’re in for some good eats!
Too usually, individuals choose New Jersey by what they see from the turnpike…however hop on the backroads, observe our journey information under, and also you’ll see {that a} New Jersey Street Journey is stuffed with implausible and surprising issues to do.
New Jersey Street Journey Route
For those who’re renting a automobile, Newark Airport is essentially the most economical and central place to choose up a set of wheels and begin your street journey. From right here, go a mere 13 miles towards the Hudson River to Hoboken, NYC’s “sixth borough” and “The Mile Sq.”. As one of the vital walkable cities within the nation and with an intensive riverfront bike path connecting to Liberty State Park, you gained’t want your automobile for a few days, however prepare, the street journey is about to start.
After your city adventures, head 21 miles north to the Nice Falls of the Passaic for a jaw-dropping cascade and a significant piece of American historical past. After a half day on the falls, drive southwest by the countryside (set your GPS to “keep away from highways”) to Lambertville and the Delaware River. Spend an evening or two on this historic city (there’s loads to do!), then proceed 70 miles to New Jersey’s little-known vineyards of Egg Harbor Metropolis for wining, eating, and pampering.
Pack a number of bottles of glowing rosé, you’re heading to the seaside! First cease alongside the Jersey Shore is Ocean Metropolis for among the best seaside boardwalk experiences, full with old-school pastimes. At Exit 0, you’ve hit the top of the Backyard State Parkway and one in every of our favourite seaside cities in America, Cape Could.
Learn on for the most effective issues to do in your New Jersey Street Journey, going from North to South...
Bike Experience the Most Scenic City Path, Hudson River Waterfront
@honeytrek For the most effective vistas of New York Metropolis, bike the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway! Linking North Jersey’s most scenic riverside cities by way of a manicured path, this journey has nonstop views of the Manhattan skyline and so many implausible stops alongside the best way. The five-mile part from Hoboken to Liberty State Park is especially scenic, bringing all the pieces from the Freedom Tower to the Statue of Liberty entrance and middle. Do not miss this bucket-list bike journey! #YesNJ @Go to NJ #partner #bikeride #HudsonRiverWaterfrontWalkway ♬ Belly Of The Castle – Tep No
Spanning 18 miles from the George Washington Bridge to Bayonne, the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway hyperlinks a few of North Jersey’s most scenic riverside cities by way of a manicured path and provides nonstop views of Manhattan. In case you are brief on time, the Hoboken to Liberty State Park part is especially spectacular…bringing world-famous monuments like Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty entrance and middle. Whether or not you’re hopping the boat to Woman Liberty or not, cease into the ferry terminal to see the enchanted forest taking up the outdated prepare tracks. Watch the video above for extra suggestions and scenic stops.
Pub Crawl America’s Best Density of Bars, Hoboken
With 120 liquor licenses in simply 1.25 sq. miles, Hoboken has the best density of bars of any metropolis in America. Whereas that will sound like whole debauchery, stroll historic Washington Avenue and also you’ll be wooed into Hoboken’s brownstone eating places, rooftop bars, and sidewalk cafes for a chilly one. When Mike moved right here after school, he and a few buddies tried to go to each bar in Hoboken in sooner or later (they made it to 96). Don’t attempt to break that file (lol), however do try these 4 bars and cocktail-shaking eating places:
Greatest Bars in Hoboken
- Pier 13: Jutting into the Hudson River, so near Midtown Manhattan’s skyscrapers they practically poke you within the eye, this beer backyard is Hoboken’s go-to sundowner spot. With six meals vans, a full bar, loungers, picnic tables, video games, and weekly occasions, the vibe is playful, younger skilled, and the views can’t be beat.
- Leo’s Grandevous: In-built 1939, simply as hometown Hoboken boy Frank Sinatra was hitting his musical stride, this restaurant is an homage to all issues Ol’ Blue Eyes, serving stable Italian meals and a full old-school bar.
- Antique Bar & Bakery: A century-old bakery was one of many hippest bars and eating places on the town. We love that the house owners saved the unique tile flooring and painted by hand indicators, then blended in classic and modern furnishings for a hella cool vibe by the coal oven’s firelight. Along with implausible meals (omg the bread pudding), the cocktails are divine. Strive the Smokin’ Mary and the Johnny Pleasant, and seize one to-go of their artsy memento bottles.
- The Elysian Cafe: Bars come and go in bustling Hoboken, however the Elysian has been holding sturdy since 1895. The French bistro-style menu and crown-molding-topped salon will make you say oh là là and order a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc and a bucket of mussels. Take pleasure in dinner at their mahogany bar or below the shade of the patio’s old-growth tree. It’s been our go-to Hoboken restaurant ever since we began courting.
P.S. We had been so nostalgic about our time in Hoboken that we made this video, full with throwback images, a go to to our outdated house, and extra of our favourite spots.
Discover the Nice Falls of the Passaic
We’ll admit that we didn’t find out about this Nationwide Historic Park simply 21 miles from our outdated dwelling, however once we noticed it, our jaws dropped. Framed by a sleek bridge and squeezing by a volcanic basalt gorge, the falls drop 72 toes with a roar and a splash. Not like waterfalls hidden in a forest, these are within the coronary heart of America’s first deliberate industrial metropolis, envisioned by founding father Alexander Hamilton! Take pleasure in this contrasting panorama and obtain the free Mill Mile App to discover the historic hydro-powered buildings that supported industries, from textiles to locomotives, that received America’s industrial revolution shifting.
The place to Keep in North Jersey
W Hoboken
For those who’re solely going to have one resort on the town, the luxe W is a darn good selection. At 18 tales excessive and proper subsequent to Pier A, you may’t beat the situation or the views. Plus, the W is in the course of a renovation, so the already beautiful rooms, foyer, and restaurant are solely getting nicer.
Hyatt House, Jersey City
Ideally located on JC’s Waterfront, this residential-inspired constructing options spacious suites, many with kitchens (although you gotta love their complimentary breakfast). Spend a night on the Hyatt House’s rooftop bar with large firepits and epic views of decrease Manhattan and the Freedom Tower.
Classic Store within the Antiquing Capital of NJ, Lambertville
Head southwest towards the Delaware River and attain the completely charming Lambertville and its Pennsylvania sister village of New Hope. This historic river city and Revolutionary Battle crossing was based in 1705…with the products to show it! Thought of to be the “Antiquing Capital of New Jersey,” Lambertville has a high quality flea market thrice every week and high quality vintage purveyors open day-after-day. Window store to your coronary heart’s content material, and you should definitely cease into the huge, multi-vendor Individuals’s Retailer and the extremely curated Contact of the Previous. Whether or not your fashion is Baroque or Boho, you’ll discover it in Lambertville.
New Jersey Street Journey Tip: Take a slight detour to Stockton to see one of many final coated bridges in New Jersey.
Sip Legit Champagne Exterior of France, Egg Harbor Metropolis
Who knew that New Jersey has a 161-year-old vineyard making licensed Champagne? When Renault Winery’s founder arrived from his dwelling of Champagne, France, he discovered the terroir of Egg Harbor Metropolis to be surprisingly related, so he put down roots. Being established earlier than France’s 1891 Treaty and staying in steady operation, Renault’s bubbles have been in a position to maintain the coveted title of Champagne!
These bragging rights apart, Renault Vineyard’s grounds are stunning, with rows of vines, expansive gardens, a powerful Champagne Glass Museum, and a vigorous tasting room. You’ll want to take the guided tour to study their implausible wines and intriguing historical past. (Spoiler alert: to maintain the bottles popping throughout prohibition, it concerned Al Capone, the church, secret airports, and a whole lot of fancy footwork!)
New Jersey Street Journey Tip: As part of their Twenties advert marketing campaign, Renault made 80 huge champagne bottles to behave as roadside billboards across the nation. Few stay, however you may take a selfie with this intoxicating 24-footer in New Gretna, NJ (GPS Coordinates: 39.589183,-74.463217)
Discover the US’s First Nationwide Reserve, The Pine Barrens
Whereas New Jersey is perhaps essentially the most densely populated state, it has the biggest physique of open house on the East Coast from Richmond to Boston! Spanning seven counties and 1.1 million acres, the Pine Barrens (or Pinelands) is a biodiverse community of forests, rivers, fields, and bogs that’s dwelling to many uncommon crops and animals. Even Congress acknowledged the particular nature of this place, and in 1978, it designated this wilderness the US’s first Nationwide Reserve. Whether or not you fancy a hike or a kayak, Pinelands Adventures is a good clothes shop that can assist you discover and perceive this official biosphere.
The place to Keep in Central New Jersey
The Inn at Lambertville Station
A Nineteenth-century prepare station was a resort, that is essentially the most distinctive and vigorous keep in downtown Lambertville. On the river and backed towards the historic canal locks, The Inn is surrounded by water, providing gorgeous views and a variety of recreation alternatives. Plus, their restaurant has been sweeping up the culinary awards.
Château Renault
With a day of wining and eating at Renault in your future, you may as effectively keep the evening and luxuriate in it to the fullest. Lately renovated, the Château has a recent and modern look; there’s a pool on web site, a golf course, and a soon-to-be-open spa. Not like most wineries, Renault’s tasting room, restaurant, and beer backyard are open till 8 or 10pm and infrequently have stay music for enjoyable after darkish.
Underneath The Boardwalk Nostalgia, Ocean Metropolis
With its expansive wood boardwalk, curler coasters, sizzling canine stands, salt water taffy makers, and views up and down the sandy shore, Ocean City, NJ, is as basic because the Jersey Shore will get. Holding the tchotchkes at a minimal and the bars at bay, they’ve saved a family-friendly ambiance with out feeling kiddy. Playland’s Castaway Cove is a 65-year-old theme park with 32 rides (you should definitely do the high-flying swings for 360-degree views). We had a grand outdated time, enjoying video games, consuming Polish Ice, and people-watching. The boardwalk is 2.5 miles lengthy and really bike- and pedestrian-friendly. And it goes with out saying that in the event you stroll the entire 5-mile spherical journey, you earn an additional funnel cake.
Go on a Salt Marsh Safari, Cape Could Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
The place the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Could County has unimaginable biodiversity, together with 400 species of birds and 300 species of fish! To get on the water, we joined a Salt Marsh Safari on The Skimmer. We noticed osprey, white ibis, laughing gulls, herons, and extra ghost crabs than you may think about! Captain Travis and his crew made this 2-hour journey as academic because it was a blast.
Strolling Tour of Victorian Cape Could
We reached the tip of New Jersey and swung a left at Exit Zero for the seaside village of Cape Could! It has been a well-liked resort vacation spot because the 1700s, and regardless of a fireplace destroying a lot of the city in 1878, it has stayed sturdy! Cape Could used the catastrophe as an opportunity to get away from massive resort growth and concentrate on Victorian inns and houses, with gingerbread trim, wrap-around porches, witches-hat roofs, and allure galore. Trendy-day Cape Could has achieved an unimaginable job of preserving the 600+ Victorian buildings and earned the complete outdated city the designation of a Nationwide Historic Landmark!
To discover and study extra in regards to the structure that makes this place additional particular, be a part of a strolling tour with the nonprofit Cape May MAC (Museum, Arts, Tradition). We adored their basic structure strolling tour, however you may also do quite a lot of dwelling and backyard excursions, even of the haunted selection.
New Jersey Street Journey Tip: You’ll want to cruise down Cape Could’s Seaside Ave, the place the grandest Victorian mansions come one after the subsequent. Activate Jackson Avenue to dine in one in every of these Nineteenth-century beauties; The Mad Batter has implausible plant-based choices!
Save the Horseshoe Crabs, Delaware Bayshore
The Delaware Bayshore has extra horseshoe crabs than anyplace on this planet! These prehistoric creatures come to the seashores to spawn from April to July, however being comparatively unchanged for the final 400,000,000 years, they aren’t essentially the most nimble and infrequently get caught within the jetties.
Alongside leaders of the New Jersey Audubon Society, the Wetlands Institute, and a dozen new associates, we participated within the reTURN The Favor program to rescue impinged horseshoe crabs (a species whose uncommon blood has been important for contemporary medication!). We’re proud that our group saved 48 of them, and since 2013, this program has rescued over 1 million! To hitch their volunteer efforts, check the calendar for their beach walks, which happen a number of instances every week in late spring and early summer season.
The place to Keep in South Jersey
Elaine’s Cape Could
In-built 1860 within the Southern plantation fashion (do you know South Jersey was under the Mason-Dixon line?), Elaine’s simply underwent a wonderful renovation with the appropriate steadiness of outdated and new. Ideally located close to Washington Avenue promenade and with an amazing on-site restaurant and stay music each summer season evening, this place has it occurring.
Beach Plum Cottages & Suites
Cape Could hoteliers and restaurateurs Will and Curtis determined they wanted higher produce for his or her friends, in order that they began a regenerative farm the place individuals might expertise the meals they ate. Right now, you may store the farm stand and have an epic farm-to-dinner desk dinner at Seaside Plum, however you may also sleep in this bucolic dreamscape. Keep of their stylish one-bedroom suites or their 6-8 individual cottages and have this 62-acre farm nearly to yourselves every evening.
New Jersey Street Journey Tip: Regardless of if you’re staying at Seaside Plum or not, don’t miss their Harvest Dinner Series. Eating on a protracted farmhouse desk exterior the Amish barn, having fun with superbly crafted meals, and breaking bread with new associates made for our greatest meal in New Jersey!
Stomach Up in The Diner Capital of the World
With 500+ diners in a variety of kinds, from painted wood prepare vehicles to neon-lined silver bullets, New Jersey is the Diner Capital of the World! From World Battle I to World Battle II, Diner Godfather Jerry O’Mahony constructed greater than 2,000 diner vehicles, and that signature metallic restaurant received dispersed across the state and the nation. A dozen extra prefab diner factories remained in operation till the Nineteen Eighties, getting all of the extra ornate and neon-lit alongside the best way. Greater than only a place to eat, diners are a cultural expression of NJ’s roots as multi-cultural and hard-working individuals, the place neighbors get collectively for a great, inexpensive meal and atone for life…even when that’s at 3am.
Greatest NJ Diners from North to South
- Summit Diner: At over 100 years outdated, Summit Diner is likely one of the oldest within the state and on the coronary heart of Summit, NJ. It has retained its Twenties allure with its hand-painted signal, black & white flooring, wood partitions, floral curtains, and employees that makes you’re feeling like household. Towards all odds, our waitress satisfied the chef to show their basic Reuben sandwich right into a vegan dream for us.
- Angelo’s Glassboro Diner: Owned by the identical household because it opened in 1946, this nostalgic eatery is Grade A, from its striped awnings to its neon signal to its griddle desserts.
- Silver Coin: This diner leans into the Nineteen Fifties appear like a silver Thunderbird. We did a double-take once we handed and needed to go in. Not only a greasy spoon, it had an unlimited collection of salads, Greek meals, and extra wholesome choices than any diner we’d seen.
We had such a blast on our New Jersey street journey and know you’ll too! For extra suggestions, try our NJ Instagram highlight reel. And in the event you suppose we should always add any must-sees to this NJ street journey itinerary (we all know it’s a giant and delightful place!), we’d love to listen to them within the feedback under.
Many due to Visit New Jersey for inviting us to discover their unimaginable state and for supporting our content material creation.
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