The State Exploration Challenge - Essential New Jersey Stops For Any Roadtrip

Whether exploring hidden gems, delving into history and culture, or uncovering off-the-beaten-path adventures, our writers are the experts within their state. Each list is curated and checked by our state writers to include local attractions, must-visit spots, and insider tips, making us the go-to authority for fellow adventurers seeking authentic experiences each month.

Get set for an epic adventure in the fantastic state of New Jersey! Imagine diving into the heart of lively towns, soaking up the vibrant arts scene, and treating your taste buds to the absolute best local eats the Garden State has on offer. You can’t miss hitting up buzzing spots like Newark and Jersey City, where history and modern vibes collide in the coolest way. New Jersey’s got it all – from the energetic city life to chill coastal spots – making this trip an absolute blast. Get ready for thrilling escapades, whether you’re kicking it on the Jersey Shore boardwalk or navigating the historic streets of Princeton. Each mile brings you closer to uncovering the awesome culture, jaw-dropping scenery, and incredible stories of New Jersey. This road trip is your ticket to crafting memories that’ll last a lifetime and soaking in all the unique vibes the Garden State has to offer. Psst, for the ultimate guide to your New Jersey escapade, head over to OnlyInYourState – your adventure HQ!

Not Your Average Bucket List, an OnlyInYourState podcast, has curated an incredible experience filled with essential New Jersey road trip stops. This is created for anyone who is looking to get out and explore the Garden State. Not only have we asked our resident in-house experts, but we also asked YOU! On our New Jersey Facebook Page and through our New Jersey Newsletter, we asked you for some of the quintessential New Jersey spots to add to this road trip, and we listened. So get ready for the ultimate road trip adventure, filled with food, fun, and maybe even a giant slice of pizza.

Click to access the entire road trip, where you can create the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure New Jersey road trip.

Essential New Jersey Road Trip Stops

Hot Bagels, 6-07 Saddle River Rd, Fair Lawn, NJ 07410, USA

Tripadvisor River Road Hot begals

Dive into bagel perfection at Bagel Hot Bagels in Fair Lawn! Each chewy, flavorful creation is a local favorite, promising a taste that lingers in your memory. Experience the essence of authentic bagels, crafted with passion and precision, making every visit a delicious journey into the heart of Fair Lawn's culinary scene.

Advertisement

Seaside Heights, NJ 08751, USA

Tripadvisor Bayvilles Miles

Seaside Heights invites you to a sun-soaked haven, where beachfront bliss meets thrilling boardwalk adventures. From sandy shores to vibrant nightlife, this Jersey gem promises a summer playground of unparalleled joy, ensuring memories that linger long after the sun has set on the horizon.

Advertisement

Sinatra Park, Sinatra Dr, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA

Flickr The Explorographer™

Escape to the tranquility of Sinatra Park in Hoboken, where Manhattan views form a breathtaking backdrop. Serenade your senses with live performances, relax by the waterfront, and bask in the enchanting glow of the city skyline. This urban oasis offers a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural vibrancy.

Island Beach State Park, Lanoka Harbor, NJ 08734, USA

Tripadvisor Princess279

Discover the untouched beauty of Island Beach State Park, a coastal haven where pristine shores and wildlife encounters await. Immerse yourself in nature's tranquility as you explore this unspoiled retreat, offering a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life in the heart of New Jersey.

M&M Mars, 700 High St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, USA

Google Reviews Joe Taveras

Embark on a sweet adventure at the M&M Mars Factory in Hackettstown. While the factory tours are no longer available to the public, you can still see the factory and take some photos with some iconic candy friends.

Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305, USA

Facebook Liberty Science Center

Ignite your curiosity at the Liberty Science Center, a hub of interactive exhibits, mind-bending demonstrations, and celestial wonders. From hands-on exploration to celestial marvels in the planetarium, this educational adventure caters to all ages, promising an exciting journey into the realms of science and discovery.

Empty Sky Memorial, 1 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ 07305, USA

Tripadvisor mosplace

Reflect, remember, and pay tribute at Jersey City's Empty Sky Memorial. Majestic twin walls stand as a poignant testament to the events of 9/11, providing a serene space for contemplation and shared reverence. This memorial embodies both history and hope, ensuring that the stories of those lost are never forgotten.

Advertisement

Related Stories

The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary If You Love Spending Time Outdoors In New Jersey

We Dare You To Take This Road Trip To New Jersey's Most Abandoned Places

Take This Road Trip Through New Jersey’s Most Picturesque Small Towns For A Charming Experience

Tony Boloney's Hoboken, 263 1st St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA

Facebook Tony Baloney's Atlantic City

Indulge in the extraordinary at Tony Baloney's in various New Jersey locations, where pizza perfection takes center stage. Creative toppings and bold flavors redefine Jersey's pizza scene, offering a slice of culinary excellence. Savor the fusion of innovation and tradition, making each bite a celebration of the rich flavors that define this iconic pizzeria.

Grounds For Sculpture, 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619, USA

Tripadvisor Management

Immerse yourself in a world of art and nature at Grounds For Sculpture in Hamilton. Wander through enchanting gardens where sculptures seamlessly blend with the landscape, creating a mesmerizing experience. This haven for art enthusiasts offers a tranquil escape, inviting you to explore the intersection of creativity and natural beauty in every step.

Sterling Hill Mining Museum, 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439, USA

Tripadvisor Kai T

Journey into the heart of New Jersey's mining history at Sterling Hill Mine in Ogdensburg. Venture underground, witness fluorescent wonders, and explore the geological treasures that define this historic site. This immersive experience promises not only a glimpse into the state's geological legacy but also a captivating adventure beneath the surface.

Popcorn Park Animal Refuge, 1 Humane Way, Forked River, NJ 08731, USA

Tripadvisor podrozniczka60

Popcorn Park Zoo in Forked River is more than a wildlife sanctuary; it's a heartwarming refuge for rescued animals. Explore the stories of resilience and second chances as you encounter the diverse inhabitants of this unique zoo. Conservation and compassion come together in a space that goes beyond a typical zoo, offering a profound connection with the animal kingdom.

Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA

Facebook Princeton University

Step into the esteemed legacy of Princeton University, where scholarly charm meets architectural splendor. As an Ivy League institution, it captivates with a rich intellectual heritage and a historic campus that echoes with the pursuit of knowledge. Discover the allure of Princeton, where academia and tradition harmoniously coexist.

Advertisement

Highlands Ridge Park, County Rd 510, Chester, NJ 07930, USA

Google Reviews Tigran Kapinos

Nature beckons at Chester's Highlands Ridge Park, fondly known as the Telephone Pole Farm. Tranquil trails wind through scenic beauty, providing a perfect retreat for hikers and nature enthusiasts seeking moments of serenity amidst the picturesque landscapes of this hidden gem.

Morris Museum, 6 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA

Tripadvisor ScenicTrek

Explore the enchanting world of automata at the Morris Museum, where the Guinness Collection showcases intricate mechanical wonders. Step into a realm where history and artistry converge, bringing to life a captivating display of these unique creations in the cultural heart of Morristown.

Recommended New Jersey Lodging

• Beach Camping
• 120-Year-Old Hotel Macomber
• Six Flags Safari Park
• The Castle At Skylands Manor, Ringwood
• USS New Jersey

Top New Jersey Natural Attractions

• Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
• High Point State Park
• Palisades Cliffs
• Buttermilk Falls
• Delaware Water Gap
• Pine Barrens
• Mount Tammany

Quintessential New Jersey Eats

• South Jersey Pizza
• Bagels
• Disco Fries
• Saltwater Taffy
• Sliders
• Pork Roll Sandwich
• Sub sandwich/hoagie

Downloadable New Jersey Passport

Click here to download the passport!

Your Curated New Jersey Road Trip Playlist

Podcast Episode

You can also watch the entire episode on YouTube!

If you have personal experiences with any of the essential New Jersey road trip stops mentioned above, call or text 805-298-1420! We’d love to hear your thoughts on what your visit was like and maybe even share your clip on the show! You can also reach out to us via email at podcast@onlyinyourstate.com.