The Travelers’ Field Guide toNew Jersey
Discover New Jersey’s Hidden Gems and Unique Attractions
New Jersey is more than its shorelines, though the beaches are a big draw. Inland you’ll find rolling farmland, pine forests, and small towns with deep history. Cities add energy with arts districts, markets, and cultural landmarks, while the coast mixes boardwalk fun with quiet stretches of sand. From scenic byways and historic sites to quirky roadside stops, the Garden State has a way of surprising travelers who take the time to look closer.
UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2025
Things to Do In New Jersey
New Jersey’s variety is part of its charm—beaches and boardwalks along the Atlantic, forest trails and lakes through the Pinelands, farmland across the center of the state, and lively cities up north. Each region offers something different, whether it’s history, culture, or outdoor time. No matter which direction you head, there are plenty of ways to fill a trip.
Arts & Culture
Theaters, galleries, and music venues thrive in both small towns and big cities, blending local creativity with regional tradition.
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Sussex County Arts & Heritage Council – Newton, NJ
A nonprofit arts council in Newton supporting Sussex County’s cultural vitality through gallery shows, classes, and community programs. By distributing state grants and hosting exhibitions, SCAHC helps artists and organizations thrive across New Jersey.
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Cape May Lighthouse – Cape May Point, NJ
A historic lighthouse standing at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Its climb rewards visitors with wide, wind-swept views that feel especially striking in quieter, off-season months.
Shopping
From farm markets and antique shops to downtown boutiques and outlets, shopping in New Jersey is as varied as its landscapes.
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Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe – Cape May, NJ
A year-round Christmas shop known for its ornaments, maritime accents, and carefully curated décor. Easy to wander and hard to leave empty-handed.
Events
County fairs, seasonal festivals, concerts, and parades keep the calendar full all year long.
Outdoor Adventure
Hike pine forests, paddle rivers and lakes, or head to the shore for trails and sandy beaches—New Jersey’s outdoors span more than just the coast.
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Cape May Lighthouse – Cape May Point, NJ
A historic lighthouse standing at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Its climb rewards visitors with wide, wind-swept views that feel especially striking in quieter, off-season months.
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Cape May Point State Park – Cape May, NJ
A quiet coastal park where ponds, dunes, and open sky meet at New Jersey’s southern edge. Known for its birdlife and wide, walkable trails, it feels especially peaceful outside the busy summer season.