Bordered by New York to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Delaware to the south, and Pennsylvania to the west, New Jersey stretches 150 miles (241 km) from top to bottom. And while some may joke that it’s just one big highway, residents and return visitors know of its many charms. The Garden State has something for just about every type of traveller (not to mention some great places to live), whether you prefer the sandy beaches and Victorian homes of Cape May, the nostalgic fun of the Ocean City Boardwalk, or the live entertainment in Atlantic City. We talked to insiders to get the scoop on the best places to visit in New Jersey.

These are the best places to visit in New Jersey 

Ocean City Boardwalk

“The Ocean City Boardwalk is a famous promenade that’s been a source of entertainment for more than 100 years,” says Diane Wieland, chairperson of Southern Shore Region DMO. The wooden walkway has amusement rides for all ages, mini golf, arcade games, souvenir and sweet shops, and iconic boardwalk eats — hot dogs, burgers, fries, pizza, and soft serve.

Cape May

Situated at the tip of the Cape May peninsula, Cape May boasts sandy beaches, historic trolley rides, a striped lighthouse, and Victorian architecture. More than just a summer destination, the charming Jersey Shore town gets into the spirit for all the seasons — especially the holidays with festive decorations, tree lighting ceremonies, and a vendor village at Congress Hall.

Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks

For summertime fun, look no further than Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks. “Families can spend the entire day on more than 100 rides, splashing around the two water parks right on the beach, and lounging in private cabanas,” says Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism.

Wildwoods Boardwalk

In a state known for its seaside amusements, the Wildwoods Boardwalk stands out from the pack. Composed of more than 70,000 wooden planks, the 38-block oceanfront stretch draws crowds with everything from amusement piers featuring rides and games galore to water parks to classic eateries and shopping.

Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District

“Walking around Wildwood’s Doo Wop Motel District is like being transported to the 1950s,” says Vasser. Dotted along the two-mile (3 km) stretch between Atlantic and Ocean Avenues sits the largest concentration of mid-century motels in the country. “It’s really neat to see all the neon signs and retro details.”

American Dream

“American Dream is, quite literally, an indoor vacation one-stop shop that’s open year-round,” raves Vasser. From the Nickelodeon Universe theme park and the DreamWorks Water Park to skiing at Big Snow and surf lessons at Skudin Surf to the hundreds of stores (??it’s the second-largest shopping mall in the United States) and restaurants, it provides endless fun for the whole family.

Lambertville

Founded in 1705, Lambertville brings history to life through its well-preserved federal townhouses, Victorian homes, antique shops, restored 19th-century train depot, and the James Wilson Marshall House. “The charming town also supplies family-owned wineries and photogenic vantage points such as Goat Hill Overlook,” adds Vasser.

Beneduce Vineyards

“Most people don’t realize New Jersey is home to more than 50 wineries,” says Vasser. “One of my favourites, Beneduce Vineyards, has great wine and fun year-round events such as live music and food trucks on Saturdays.” Plus, it’s located less than 75 minutes from New York City and Philadelphia.

Grounds for Sculpture

Located on the former site of Trenton Speedway, Grounds for Sculpture is a 42-acre sculpture park and museum. Visitors can spend the day ogling art and grabbing a bite at the restaurant. The Hamilton cultural institution also hosts special events such as after-dark light and sound experiences in partnership with Klip Collective and the upcoming Def Poetry Jam Reunion.

Atlantic City

Approximately two hours from the Big Apple, Atlantic City — the East Coast’s answer to Las Vegas — dazzles visitors with its casinos, live entertainment, glitzy hotels, and big-name restaurants like Nobu. Steel Pier offers games, entertainment, boardwalk fare, an observation wheel with sweeping views, and the only helicopter ride at the Jersey Shore.

Frenchtown

Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River in Hunterdon County, Frenchtown is a vibrant community with plenty of Victorian architecture, art, and culture to keep travellers entertained year-round. Vasser suggests visiting over Labor Day weekend because that’s when Frenchtown Riverfest takes place. “There are all kinds of street fair activities along the river,” he says.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Located in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township, the Cape May County Park & Zoo houses more than 550 different animals and is free to the public. There are also awesome playgrounds for kids of all ages just outside the entrance. “It’s truly one of the best-kept secrets in the area,” says Wieland.

Asbury Park

Over the last decade, Asbury Park has become a creative hub and music mecca. There are so many venues to catch a show. Wieland recommends The Stone Pony, which is best known for launching the career of Bruce Springsteen. Asbury Lanes combines bowling, dining, and live entertainment. To admire eye-catching artwork, head to the boardwalk. The Wooden Walls Project collaborates with artists to turn blank walls into colourful photo ops.

Adventure Aquarium

Adventure Aquarium protects more than 8,500 aquatic species, including penguins, turtles, stingrays, and the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast. It also gives visitors the chance to interact with hundreds of sea creatures at the touch tanks. “It’s a favourite for kids of all ages, especially if you’re looking for an indoor activity,” says Wieland.

Long Beach Island

With 130 miles ( 209 km) of Atlantic Ocean real estate, there’s no shortage of beautiful beaches in the Garden State. But the shores of Long Beach Island are particularly lovely. Besides its scenic Atlantic Ocean coastline, vacationers go for water sports, charming towns like Barnegat Light, and a laid-back lifestyle.

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This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

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