Top Things to do in New Jersey
Top Hotels in New Jersey
Things to do in New Jersey, United States: The Best Nature & Parks
Whether you are looking for sun-drenched beaches or outdoor activities in beautiful countryside, New Jersey has plenty to offer. Those who love the great outdoors should head for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which runs along the Delaware River for forty miles. Here you can go rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking or fishing, or simply admire the stunning waterfalls. There is a huge range of hiking trails to choose from as well as historic sites to visit. In winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing near Blue Mountain Lakes, and birdwatchers might be lucky enough to catch sight of bald eagles. If you are looking for a change, visit one of New Jersey's eleven lighthouses that are open to public, such as the one in Cape May. For art and history enthusiasts, New Jersey State Museum in Trenton has historic artifacts and American fine art from the nineteenth century to the present day as well as a Planetarium.
Restaurants in New Jersey
1. Grounds For Sculpture
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,890 reviews
The perfect day trip! Grounds For Sculpture (GFS), located in Hamilton, New Jersey (midway between Philadelphia and New York), is a forty-two acre not-for-profit sculpture park and arboretum founded by Seward Johnson. Its collection features more than 270 contemporary sculptures by renowned and emerging artists. Rotating exhibitions in six indoor galleries. With rich educational offerings, a robust schedule of performing arts, and fun family events, the park is open year-round. Shopping and dining options complement every visit. Members receive free admission year-round plus a host of other benefits. For hours, admission prices, membership information, and a calendar of events, visit us online at http://www.groundsforsculpture.org.
Reviewed By jubda - Fremont, United States
This is a large and beautiful grounds full of amazing sculpture, art and flora. There is an entrance fee to get in and nice cafes inside. The grounds are vast - so much to walk around and see. Along with beautiful life size, abstract and larger than life sculptures, there are also a lot of beautiful horticulture of plants and trees from around the world, elegantly and artfully arranged. Great place to walk around and very family friendly.
2. Wildwood Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,879 reviews
A wide beach that appeals to families.
Reviewed By stronziger - Carlstadt, United States
Absolutely one of the cleanest, largest and most importantly free beaches in New Jersey. After spending time here you will not want to go anyplace else.
3. Gateway National Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 448 reviews
Site of the oldest lighthouse in America.
Reviewed By richardpE7533VU - Easton, United States
This area, in my opinion, has some of the best beaches in America. Lots of history here too. Great place for bike riding along the miles of bike trails. It's a little more crowded this summer because the New York City beaches are closed so those who usually would stay closer to home are coming to Sandy Hook and other New Jersey beaches. I could tell you the least crowded beach on Sandy Hook, but if I did, it would just get crowded. I'm keeping this beach a secret.
4. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 185 reviews
This 127-acre preserve, which surrounds a historic Colonial-Revival mansion and its formal gardens, offers self-guided nature trails with all trees and shrubs labeled as reference.
Reviewed By jeff1809C - Yardley, United States
I discovered this place in 2019 and wanted to go back in the spring, so glad I did! The flowering trees and all the daffodils were beautiful! Definitely a nice place for a walk to quiet place to sit and look at all the beauty.
5. Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
This wilderness area consists of 3,660 acres in the state of New Jersey, and is a popular destination for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers and paddlers.
Reviewed By PaleoGypsy - Philadelphia, United States
Paved and unpaved roads exist. If keeping your car clean is important to you, don’t visit this NWR. The speed limit is 15 mph. Wear shoes that may get muddy. As you are hiking in a swamp, soft mud exists. Check yourself for ticks after the hike. If you enjoy birding, a zoom lens and binoculars may be helpful. Many trails exist and they are not all connected. Look at the map before you go, as your choice of trails determines where you park.
6. Island Beach State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
One of the few undeveloped barrier island covering 3,000 acres. Activities include fishing, swimming, sunbathing and surfing. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here.
7. Hamilton Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 139 reviews
This is where in 1804, Aaron Burr killed Alexander Hamilton.
Reviewed By kelliplansitall - Keller, United States
Hamilton Park has the most breathtaking views of Manhattan. Additionally there is a little monument for the Alexander Hamilton - Aaron Burr duel. The actual dueling ground would have been somewhere in the trees below the cliff, so largely inaccessible. It’s beautiful and somber to consider the lives lost here (since it was home to more duels than just this famous one). We took the ferry across from the city and then took an Uber to the park. Walking to the park is not impossible, but it’s not easy and mostly uphill, making it difficult for my travel companion.
8. Branch Brook Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
Reviewed By jesus911z
Branch Brook Park is a great place to relax on the beautiful grass or a quiet walk around the park on the new rubberized walkways. Its a great place for one to meditate on life while gazing at the beautiful trees to absorb all that nature has to offer. Its a place where I go to let go of the past and regroup to continue moving forward. Whether your alone, with love ones, or just friends, Branch brook Park offers a unique experience for all to enjoy.
9. Liberty State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,471 reviews
Reviewed By ERat - Bunker Hill, United States
We stopped by for a quick visit before checking in to our hotel. All I can say is WOW! If you want a great view of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty without the crowds and craziness, you need to stop here. This would be a perfect picnic spot during warmer months!
10. Bergen County Zoological Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 404 reviews
Reviewed By paul3776 - Paramus, United States
Bergen County Zoo in Van Saun Park is a wonderful place for people of all ages. Great zoo with all kinds of animals, train ride, pony ride, carousel, picnic area and acres of walking trails. This is located in Paramus, NJ accessible to mass transportation .
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