New Jersey holidays
Nestled between New York City and Philadelphia, this Northeastern state draws visitors to its inviting small towns, beachside bars and American Revolutionary War reenactments. With trails to hike, a chance to see whales frolicking in the Atlantic Ocean and an incredible — and less crowded — view of the Statue of Liberty, a holiday to New Jersey has something for everyone.
Top destinations in New Jersey
Atlantic City
You know about the boardwalk and slot machines, but now explore Atlantic City’s more hidden charms. From art walks to surf breaks, see what makes this seaside getaway a winner.
Jersey City
With iconic landmarks, sprawling green spaces and a global food scene that gives nearby Manhattan a run for its money, Jersey City makes for a first-rate getaway.
New Jersey: fast facts
Language
English
Currency
United States dollar ($)
Time zone
Newark - UTC−5 (EST) and UTC−4 (EDT)
High season
May – September
Low season
January – March
New Jersey holiday highlights
Visit the small towns
No matter where you go in New Jersey, you’ll find a quaint town. Tour Cape May’s colourful Victorian houses with gingerbread trim and Montclair’s small shops with homespun treasures. Hopewell’s Memorial Day parade features everyone from local military veterans to vintage John Deere tractors. And if you didn’t get accepted to Princeton, now’s your chance to experience its Ivy League elegance and art museums.
Watch a historical reenactment
One of the best things to do in New Jersey is to experience a historical reenactment. Relive the state’s rich American Revolutionary War history by watching recreations of the Battles of Trenton and Monmouth in the very places they happened. Go to Washington Crossing Historic Park in December to see reenactors portray George Washington’s famously freezing trip across the Delaware River.
Eat at a diner
New Jersey is known as the diner capital of the world, with hundreds to choose from across the state. Sit in one of the original 1940s booths at Miss America in Jersey City, or try samosas at the Shamong. Enjoy some ice cream at Tony Soprano’s favourite spot, Holsten’s, in Bloomfield. Don’t miss the ‘mile-high meatloaf’ at the Vincentown diner.
Things to do in New Jersey
Top attractions
The Atlantic City Boardwalk has featured in pop culture from songs and movies to board games. Home to the legendary Jersey Devil, the dense forests of the Pine Barrens hide ghost towns and incredible ecological diversity. The historic buildings of Princeton University have housed American Revolutionary War heroes and famous poets and even briefly served as the nation’s capital.
Beaches
To quote a popular local saying, beaches in New Jersey are ‘shore to please’. Ocean City’s is family-friendly, thanks to its multiple mini-golf courses, water sports and movies on the beach. For the ‘Jersey Shore’ experience, check out the bustling boardwalk and bars in Seaside Heights. Nature lovers and mellow sun-worshippers will love the calm of Spring Lake.
Nature
New Jersey has done a remarkable job conserving its open spaces, especially as you head farther south. Go cycling, camping and kayaking in the Pine Barrens, the first Natural Reserve in the US. You may not spot the notorious Jersey Devil (he’s as shy as the Loch Ness Monster), but the birdwatching is top-notch. A hike up Mount Tammany or Baldpate Mountain provides panoramic views.
Cuisine
Some of the best restaurants in New Jersey feature homespun options with fan followings. Whether you call it ‘pork roll’ or ‘Taylor Ham’, try the processed meat treat in a breakfast sandwich. Pizza lovers shouldn’t miss the Trenton tomato pie, a pizza with the sauce added last. And a midday plate of ‘disco fries’ (chips with cheese and gravy) will hold you over till dinner.
Culture and museums
The Liberty Science Center is one of the most popular museums in New Jersey and has a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty. It’s always shark week at Camden’s Adventure Aquarium, but don’t forget to say hi to the penguins and hippos. Check out Battleship New Jersey while you’re there. Fan of 1950s pop music? The Doo Wop Museum in Wildwood is a retro treasure chest.
Nightlife
From beachfront casinos to iconic music venues, nightlife in New Jersey is some of the best on the Atlantic coast. The Stone Pony in Asbury Park helped launch the career of Bruce Springsteen and other local legends. You won’t have to go far to find a delicious cocktail in Hoboken, and Belmar and Point Pleasant have some of the Jersey Shore’s best nightlife.
Find the best time to visit New Jersey
Weather in New Jersey through the year
March – May: Early spring snows and lingering cold aren’t uncommon in March, but by May, temperatures are usually balmy.
June – August: Summer heat and humidity send locals to the beach, where ocean breezes keep things a little cooler. By July, the water has warmed to the perfect swimming temperature and will stay that way throughout September.
September – November: With warm days and crisp nights, autumn is one of the best times to visit New Jersey. Head to the Delaware River for scenic drives through brilliant seasonal foliage.
December – February: New Jersey winters are cold, with temps that can hover around freezing. Snow is common, especially inland. Some shops and restaurants on the Jersey Shore may close for the season.
Events in New Jersey
Pi Day Princeton (March): Princeton’s annual celebration of Pi Day (14 March) is one of New Jersey’s most unique events. Pop on a moustache and bowtie for the Albert Einstein look-alike contest, or test your skills at pie eating — and throwing.
Sea.Hear.Now (September): Watch as musicians perform against an ocean backdrop at this Asbury Park music festival, which also includes a professional surfing competition. Tickets tend to sell out quickly, so plan ahead.
Hoboken Italian Festival (September): The 360-kilogram statue of Madonna of the Martyrs, the patron saint of sailors, is carried through the streets of Hoboken at this Italian heritage festival. Four days of feasting and festivities include a dazzling fireworks show.
Know before you go
Getting around New Jersey
Public transport
Buses: New Jersey Transit routes run from New York City all the way down to Atlantic City. Most major cities and their suburbs are well served by bus routes. However, there isn’t much service to the Pinelands and the rural northwest corner of the state.
Trains: Northeast regional Amtrak trains run through New Jersey, including the high-speed Acela. New Jersey Transit also offers intercity commuter rail service into New York City and light rail in major metro areas.
Boats: Catch the boat from New Jersey into New York City. Ferries run between Jersey City and Manhattan, as well as seasonal service to Sandy Hook Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Domestic flights
Newark’s international airport is one of the busiest in the world, with loads of direct international and domestic connections. If you’re staying in South Jersey, it’s often easier to fly into the Philadelphia airport directly, as it’s right over the New Jersey border. Or connect through Philadelphia to fly into Atlantic City.
Driving and car hire
Two major arteries, the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway, run north–south through the state. Both are toll roads and can be expensive. And traffic can often be heavy, especially on the New Jersey Turnpike.
