7 of the Most Beautiful Places to See in New Jersey

The Garden State, as the locals call it, is home to many first-grade attractions. Despite being one of the smallest states in America, it’s hard not to get awestruck with its blend of man-made beauty and nature’s wonders. Check out the most beautiful places to see in New Jersey!

1. Atlantic City Boardwalk

This over four-mile-long stretch is one of the most popular coastal resort towns in the United States. Constructed in the 1870s, the famous boardwalk continues to draw visitors near and far.

The Steel Pier, a carnival-amusement park offers rides that everyone can enjoy. It includes an observation wheel with gondolas that can control the weather, giving riders astounding views of the city and the ocean all year long. You can rent a bike or skates as you roam around the boardwalk. Ride the electric tram or a rickshaw-like rolling chair to add a twist to your sightseeing. The Entrance to the Stars is also a site you shouldn’t miss for it features handprints of popular artists like Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and Cher!

2. Old Victorian Cape May

This Cape May gem is one of the most beautiful places to see in New Jersey. It’s so popular, six former United States presidents chose to have their summer homes here!

It’s not just the pristine beaches that drew them and the thousands of visitors, but also the strip of elegant Victorian-style homes. One of the most famous homes here is the Emlen Physick Estate which was built in the late 1870s. This 18-room mansion has an American Stick Style of architecture and now serves a museum. You may also check the Cape May Point Lighthouse or pick from the variety of boat tours and activities that this town has to offer.

3. Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park spans up to about 500 hectares. It is home to a number of memorials and monuments in the city. One of which is the Liberation, a memorial dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust. The Empty Sky monument, with a towering height of over 200-foot tall steel walls, is a memorial for the victims of the tragic 9/11.

The park offers a spectacular view of the Upper New York Bay, Ellis Bay, and Liberty Island. Also found in this park is a tidal salt marsh called Communipaw Cove, a designated nature preserve. Fishing, kayaking, and cycling can also be enjoyed in this park.

4. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

This recreation area is nestled in the border of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It spans over 30,000 hectares of land. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area features a 40-mile protected area of the Delaware River. In addition, the New Jersey area of this massive land is accessible through the two visitor centers.

One is the Milbrook Village – a 19th-century community that exhibits traditional crafts. Next is the Kittatinny Point Visitor Center, where a number of artworks and stunning views are featured. A bonus feature is the access point to the Appalachian Trail. Drop by the Minisink Archaeological Site, which is home to a 10,000-year-old ancient community.

5. Princeton and the Battlefield State Park

Princeton University, one of the most sought-after universities in the world calls this small townhome. It caters to the Institute for Advanced Study, a place where the famous scientist Albert Einstein finished his final work. The University, established in 1756, spans over 650 hectares.

The park is quite overwhelming to explore by yourself, so feel free to join student run-tours. The tour usually lasts an hour and will be long enough to take you to the most historic places on the campus.

If you’re looking for more historical sites in this town, Princeton Battlefield State Park is perfect for you! The ground of this park is witness to the Battle of Princeton of 1977, where General George Washington won over the British. The Clarke House Museum is also a site you should not miss. Soldiers from both sides of the war used this hospital. There’s also the Ionic Colonnade which serves as a memorial for American and British soldiers who died in battle.

6. Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers and Water Park is located on the shore of Cape May and is considered one of the country’s best parks. It is paralleled to the sandy beach and it is six blocks long. The Morey Brothers first opened this park with only a water slide and a concession stand but have expanded to a much bigger area with lots of other attractions that everyone can enjoy.

There are family-friendly rides like bumper cars, tilt-a-whirl, and the Ferris wheel. If you’re seeking for a more exhilarating experience, you can ride on the roller coaster and a daredevil ride called Springshot.  An interactive attraction called the “Ghost Ship” is also widely enjoyed by many visitors to the park.

7. Grounds For Sculpture

This museum and sculpture park helps facilitate the appreciation and understanding of contemporary sculpture. The Grounds For Sculpture museum is a 42-acre land that has become a hub for artists and art lovers alike. Aside from the sculptures, there’s also an abundance of beautiful landscapes, flowerbeds and numerous species of trees.

There are also a couple of other museums to check out in the area, like the Jersey City Museum- which features a collection of artifacts from the region. And the Newark Museum is home to over 80 galleries including sculptures, paintings, decorative items, and Native American and African items.

With so many things to do and places to visit, the most beautiful places to see in New Jersey should top your list. From its museums and historical sites to national parks and picturesque landscapes, this quaint little town will definitely give you an unforgettable experience that will make you come back for more.

Not sure where to start? Our list of 20 Best Things To Do in New Jersey can help!