The Garden State
Go Down to the Jersey Shore for the Boardwalk & Casinos
Venture Out Into Nature in The Mountains Upstate
Get To Know New Jersey
New Jersey is a state full of diverse landscapes, countless beach side attractions, and some of the friendliest people on earth. Whether it’s the boardwalk and casinos along Jersey’s coast, the gorgeous mountains further north, or the bustling metropolises found inland — you won’t be left wanting when visiting the great state of New Jersey. Take a deeper look at what could make New Jersey your best vacation yet.
A Brief History of New Jersey
New Jersey was once named “New Netherlands” by the Dutch explorers who first settled in the area in 1609. Eventually, the English settlers moved into the region and in 1664, an English fleet sailed into New York Harbor and took the territory for themselves. During the Revolutionary War, New Jersey would go on to become a site for many intense battles — the most famous of which occurred from Dec. 25 to 26, 1776, when George Washington crossed the Delaware River to capture Trenton. After the war, New Jersey would become the third state to join the Union, ratifying the constitution in 1787.
There's no shortage of things to do in New Jersey.
A Look at Culture in New Jersey
The New Jersey culture is rife with lively social activity that beautifully clashes with the state’s relaxing beach scenery and 17th-century colonial towns. Those who live in New Jersey are proud of the state they call home and will not hesitate to tell you. Much of New Jersey culture can be summed up by the atmosphere of Atlantic City, delivering a blend of coastal beachlines and urban intrigue. Once you see lit-up casino buildings that are adjacent to boardwalks along the sandy beach and you’ll know you’re nowhere other than New Jersey.
Must See List
- Crystal Springs Family Waterpark
- Cluizel, Chocolate Museum, Chocolatrium
- Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach Waterpark
- Six Flags Great Adventure & Safari
- Steel Pier
- Storybook Land
- Lucy the Elephant
- Algonquin Arts Theatre
- American Repertory Ballet & Princeton Ballet School
- Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey
Top Cities To Visit in New Jersey
Atlantic City
Situated on New Jersey’s Atlantic coast, the iconic resort destination known as Atlantic City glimmers with a promise of fun and excitement. Hotels, night clubs, and casinos can be found in abundance throughout the city, where visitors may find themselves indulging in the pleasures of life without worry. However, the fast-paced atmosphere amongst the casinos and resorts are delightfully juxtaposed by the relaxing draw of the Jersey Shore.
The Atlantic City coastline features a charming beachfront promenade, the boardwalk, which crowns the sandy beaches. Leisure loving beachgoers might spend their days soaking in the sun and waves — or enjoying the rides and carnival games found on the Steel Pier.
Take a stroll along the boardwalk and soak up the seaside scenery as you make your way to the iconic Steel Pier, an amusement park built on a 1,000-foot-long pier with rides, games, and food vendors. Place bets at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, enjoy some upscale shopping at The Quarter, or just bum around on the beach all day. And when it’s time for dinner, Atlantic City’s impressive food scene serves up a great selection of restaurants. Chow down on some ramen at Okatshe, a Japanese speakeasy hidden behind a candy store at the Tropicana, or grab a taco at celebrity chef David Chang’s favorite hangout, Pancho’s Mexican Taqueria. But if your palate is more refined, make a reservation at Angeline, where you can dine on authentic Italian cuisine inside a more swanky, high-end atmosphere.
Mount Laurel
Aside from the many people who decide to raise their families in Mount Laurel, visiting families can always be found enjoying the humble joys around town. Wholesome activities like the thrilling rides and retro arcade games at The Funplex amusement park are never a dull way to spend the day. Contributing to the family vibe of Mount Laurel, visitors can take advantage of the Garden State Discovery Museum, featuring hands-on exhibits for kids.
Cape May
Make a seaside escape toward one of New Jersey’s coastal cities like Ocean City or Cape May. Both of which offer majestic beach views and quaint coastal atmospheres without the hustle and bustle you’ll find in Atlantic City. Not only Cape May’s Victorian-era homes add to the historical vibe to the city, but they also combine a quaint coastal aesthetic that provides a uniquely cozy destination for those looking for low-key relaxation on their trip to New Jersey. Browse the many shops, boutiques, and restaurants along the Washington Street Mall or simply take in the view of Delaware Bay from the Cape May lighthouse.
Ocean City
Just 30 miles north of Cape May, you’ll find Ocean City — another great spot to spend your time along the Jersey Shore. Indulge in the shops, eateries, and amusement parks near the sandy boardwalks and piers. Make sure to visit the Ocean City Historical Museum or catch a live performance at the Ocean City Music Pier before ending your day.
Cherry Hill
Another family-centric township with a knack for charming its visitors — Cherry Hill is bubbling with friendly locals and welcoming neighborhoods. Situated on the Delaware Valley coastal plain, Cherry Hill draws a diverse crowd of families and couples looking for a relaxing place to escape the nearby metropolises. For a great place to shop and eat, people tend to visit the Garden State Park, a retired horse track turned town center. Visitors with children to entertain won’t be disappointed when visiting Clementon Park and Splash World a thrilling water park — or Diggerland, where families and children can operate heavy machinery at this unique construction-themed amusement park.
Newark
Located only 8 miles from Manhattan, the bustling metropolis of Newark is the largest in New Jersey and is constantly buzzing with life and culture. Newark is home to an ever-growing culinary scene with delectable eateries like Blueprint Cafe and Fornos of Spain. Aside from the food, cultural attractions like the Newark Museum offer a vast collection of art as well as natural science exhibits. Additionally, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center is a great place to catch a concert.
Serving as a glimpse at divine beauty and architectural wonder — the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart towers impressively in the middle of Newark. The structure was built over multiple decades and acts as a magnet to many admirers.
Your bus ticket to New Jersey shouldn’t be limited to visiting just the Jersey Shore. Take your adventures to Newark, a lively metropolis fit for shopping sprees, dining, and museum exploration. While there, head to the Mills at Jersey Gardens and do some spending or buy tickets to a show at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, where icons like Yo-Yo Ma, Sting, Elvis Costello, Salt-N-Pepa, and Jerry Seinfeld have all performed at. Immerse yourself in historical American and Tibetan collections at the Newark Museum, featuring a sculpture garden, planetarium, and the Victorian-era mansion called Ballantine House. If you visit Newark in spring, visit Branch Brook Park to enjoy the largest collection of cherry blossoms in the country.
When to Visit
You’ll likely want to plan your bus trip to New Jersey during the summer when the beaches and boardwalks are the most lively and fun. Springs and autumns usher in milder weather and smaller crowds, so traveling during this time of the year will reward you with cheaper hotel rates. And if you’re visiting during the winter, just don’t forget to bring a big coat to keep yourself warm and cozy, as most tourists would often find the weather too cold.
Where to Stay
From budget-friendly hotels to extravagant resorts, there are countless options for lodging and accommodations in New Jersey. Here are just a couple of great options for you to consider before booking your bus ticket:
Tropicana Atlantic City — Located on Atlantic City’s beachfront boardwalk, the Tropicana is a Cuban-inspired hotel and casino. It’s best to fully exploit everything there is to offer at this amazing resort, which features 24 restaurants and bars, an IMAX theater, a comedy club, upscale shops, and much more.
Virginia Hotel and Cottages — Located in Cape May, The Virginia was built in 1879 and has been beautifully renovated with boutique rooms. Just a half a block away from the beach, this historic bed and breakfast is a great place to rest yourself after a long day of enjoying the coastal excellence of Cape May.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the nightlife of Atlantic City or the quaint, coastal vibe of Cape May, we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable experience in New Jersey. Purchase your bus ticket and start planning your trip today!