People underestimate New Jersey all the time, and honestly, that’s their loss.
This state has a little bit of everything: boardwalk rides in the Wildwoods, live shows in Asbury Park, and trails that take your breath away at the Delaware Water Gap.
But that’s just a splash of what you’ll find in the Garden State.
Luckily for you, we’ve done the digging and brought you the highlights—big names, hidden gems, and everything in between—so you can experience New Jersey like it was meant to be.
Let’s get started.
Long Beach Island
First up is Long Beach Island, or LBI, for those who’ve been coming here for years and don’t feel the need to spell it out.
Stretching 18 miles, it’s one of the most-loved places to visit in New Jersey, and it makes complete sense.
Climbing to the top of Barnegat Lighthouse—affectionately called “Old Barney”—feels like a rite of passage, especially when you see the view waiting for you at the top.
Beyond the beaches (and yes, they’re as good as you’ve heard), there’s a lot to keep you busy.
The New Jersey Maritime Museum is crammed with stories and artifacts from shipwrecks that have dotted the coastline for centuries.
And you’re in luck when you get hungry; Barnegat Light has no shortage of seafood shacks serving some of the best seafood in the state.
For those with kids—or just want to relive your own summer memories—Fantasy Island Amusement Park and Thundering Surf Waterpark hit all the right notes.
Cape May
At the very tip of the Cape May peninsula sits one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Jersey.
Cape May is famous for its 600 preserved Victorian homes, which is definitely what gives the town its unique, timeless feel.
The Cape May Lighthouse is somewhere you should check out—its 217 steps lead to incredible views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay, and they’re worth every bit of the climb.
Strolling through Cape May, you’ll notice the sense of community that ties everything together.
Congress Hall, a centerpiece of the town since the 1800s, is where locals and visitors gather for everything from holiday markets to summer concerts.
History buffs can also dig into Cape May’s World War II connections—it played a key role in coastal defense and still carries that legacy today.
And it’s worth mentioning that nature lovers flock to Cape May for its world-renowned birding spots, especially during migration season when the skies come alive.
For a slower pace, though, the town’s beaches and cozy bed-and-breakfasts are where you’ll want to spend some time.
The Wildwoods
The Wildwoods has all the energy you’d expect from one of New Jersey’s favorite beach spots.
With five miles of free beaches and a 38-block boardwalk, families and visitors say it has some of the most fun things to do in NJ.
The boardwalk is where everything happens—amusement rides, water parks, and the constant hum of activity from morning until night.
Morey’s Piers is a big draw for thrill-seekers, while Splash Zone Waterpark is a big attraction for kids (and adults pretending to be kids).
Oh, and the iconic Sightseer Tramcar rolls along, which gives you a chance to take in the sights or grab a bite from one of the many boardwalk vendors.
Not to mention, the beaches are great for everything, from surfing to simply relaxing on the sand.
Delaware Water Gap
If you’re looking for an outdoor escape, the Delaware Water Gap should be on your list.
Straddling the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border, this 70,000-acre national recreation area has something for everyone—hikers, paddlers, and those who want to recharge in nature.
So, no wonder it’s considered one of the best places in New Jersey for nature lovers.
Hikers can’t get enough of it as the trails here stretch for miles, including a section of the Appalachian Trail that arguably has the most sublime views in the state.
You’ll find waterfalls like Buttermilk Falls and Raymondskill Falls tucked into the forest, and the Delaware River itself is great for kayaking or canoeing—just don’t forget your lifejacket because the currents can get tricky.
If one day isn’t enough, you can pitch a tent at one of the campsites and fall asleep to the sound of the forest.
Plus, history buffs will find plenty to explore, too, from remnants of early Dutch settlements to Native American archaeological sites.
Asbury Park
Ah, Asbury Park! How could there be a list of places to visit in NJ without it?
Once a quiet seaside spot, it’s now one of the most exciting parts of the Jersey Shore, especially if you love music, art, and a little nostalgia.
The Stone Pony is the beating heart of the music scene here. Known for launching Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi into stardom, it still hosts big-name acts and up-and-coming artists.
But then you’ve got Asbury Lanes, an entertainment haven in the area, where you can watch live music, go bowling, and have great food in one venue.
And interestingly, the boardwalk here feels like a snapshot of Asbury Park’s creative energy.
Thanks to the Wooden Walls Project, its walls are covered with captivating murals.
And while the town’s modern vibe gets most of the attention, it still knows how to slow things down.
Stroll by Sunset Lake or grab a bite at one of the local diners—you’ll quickly see why people keep coming back.
Atlantic City
New Jersey tourism wouldn’t feel the same without Atlantic City.
It’s been buzzing since the 1970s, when gambling was legalized, and turned this beach town into the East Coast’s answer to Vegas.
The casinos are still a big deal, with places like the Hard Rock and Ocean Resort pulling in crowds for everything from gaming tables to live concerts.
But there’s a lot more going on here than blackjack and poker.
The boardwalk is where it all happens. Stretching more than four miles, it’s packed with everything from food stands slinging fried Oreos to Steel Pier’s retro rides and games.
On top of that, the observation wheel is where you can experience picturesque views of the boardwalk. And if you’re feeling bold, there’s even a helicopter ride to take it all in from above.
Then there’s the beach. Sure, it might not be the prettiest along the Jersey Shore, but it’s right there when you need a breather from the action.
Ocean City Boardwalk
Of all the places to go in NJ, the Ocean City Boardwalk is, without a doubt, the best for the whole family.
For more than 100 years, families have made their way here for the simple pleasures of the Jersey Shore.
The 2.5-mile wooden walkway is lined with arcades, mini golf, and rides that light up the night during the summer.
And, of course, no trip is complete without grabbing a slice of pizza or a cone of soft serve.
Ocean City’s dry-town status—thanks to its founding by Methodist ministers in 1879—means there are no bars or liquor stores, but that’s part of what gives it its family-friendly vibe.
The eight miles of beaches are clean and perfect for a low-key day in the sun, and when you’re ready for some action, the boardwalk always has something going on.
Even off-season, Ocean City has a charm that doesn’t fade. A quieter boardwalk, a brisk walk by the water, and a handful of shops and restaurants that stay open year-round make it worth the trip.
The Best Places to Visit in New Jersey
New Jersey gets a bad rap sometimes, but anyone who’s spent real time here knows the truth: it’s packed with places worth seeing.
From the Victorian streets of Cape May to the buzzing boardwalks of Atlantic City and Ocean City, you’re bound to have a smashing day out in the Garden State.
Now you know what you’re in for, what place will you visit first?
