Road Trips in New Jersey

As a road tripper in New Jersey, you're in for a treat with endless discoveries awaiting you. This state has a fascinating mix of cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, culinary experiences, and exciting cities. Start your journey by exploring the stunning beaches of the Jersey Shore, where you can soak up the sun, enjoy water sports, and try some delicious seafood.

As you head inland, you'll find charming small towns with historic landmarks, such as the Victorian town of Cape May or the Revolutionary War-era town of Morristown. The state's many parks and forests provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Don't miss the chance to visit the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a breathtakingly beautiful park that spans the Delaware River between New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

New Jersey is also a foodie's paradise, with a rich culinary history and a vibrant restaurant scene. Be sure to try the state's iconic foods such as pork roll, tomato pie, and saltwater taffy. And don't miss the chance to visit one of New Jersey's many wineries, breweries, or distilleries for a taste of the state's craft beverages.

For those seeking an urban adventure, New Jersey has plenty of exciting cities to explore. Atlantic City is a must-visit for its world-famous boardwalk, casinos, and nightlife. Newark is a cultural hub with fantastic museums, performing arts venues, and ethnic cuisine. And Jersey City offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and a burgeoning arts and restaurant scene.

Finally, no road trip in New Jersey would be complete without a visit to the birthplace of American music, Asbury Park. This iconic beach town is known for its vibrant music scene, unique boutiques, and fantastic restaurants. Catch a show at the legendary Stone Pony or Paramount Theatre, or simply stroll along the boardwalk and soak up the lively atmosphere.

In short, a road trip in New Jersey offers a wealth of discoveries for every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or urban excitement, you're sure to find it in the Garden State. So buckle up, hit the road, and get ready for a journey you won't forget.

Suggested Road Trips in New Jersey

• The Jersey Shore Road Trip: A road trip along the Jersey Shore is perfect for first-time visitors to New Jersey. Start in Atlantic City, famous for its boardwalk, casinos, and nightlife, and head south to Cape May, a charming Victorian town with historic landmarks and beautiful beaches. Along the way, stop at the many beach towns, such as Ocean City, Wildwood, and Sea Isle City, each with its unique attractions, such as amusement parks, arcades, and boardwalks.

• The Delaware River Road Trip: This road trip takes you through the picturesque Delaware River Valley, a region known for its beautiful scenery, quaint towns, and historic landmarks. Start in Lambertville, a charming town with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, and head north to Frenchtown, a small town with historic buildings and outdoor activities. Along the way, stop at the historic towns of New Hope, PA, and Washington Crossing, PA, both known for their Revolutionary War history.

• The Skylands Road Trip: The Skylands region in northern New Jersey is known for its rolling hills, state parks, and outdoor activities. Start in Morristown, a historic town with museums, shops, and restaurants, and head northwest to High Point State Park, the highest point in New Jersey, for breathtaking views. Along the way, stop at the charming towns of Chester and Hackettstown, both with unique shopping and dining options. Don't miss a visit to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, a beautiful park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and the Delaware River.

Here are some things to be aware of when taking a road trip in New Jersey:

• Tolls: New Jersey has a lot of toll roads, so make sure you have cash or an EZ-Pass to pay the tolls.

• Traffic: New Jersey is a densely populated state, so expect some traffic, especially during rush hour or on weekends.

• Weather: New Jersey's weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you check the forecast before hitting the road. In the winter, snow, and ice can make driving hazardous, and in the summer, heat, and humidity can be intense.

• Construction: Like many states, New Jersey has ongoing road construction projects, so be prepared for detours, lane closures, and delays.

• Parking: In urban areas, parking can be a challenge and expensive, so plan ahead and look for parking garages or street parking options.

• Beaches: New Jersey's beaches can be crowded during peak season, so plan accordingly and arrive early to secure a good spot.

• Wildlife: New Jersey has a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and coyotes. Be cautious when driving through rural areas, especially at dawn or dusk when animals are more active.

• Driving laws: Make sure you are familiar with New Jersey's driving laws, such as speed limits, seat belt requirements, and cellphone use restrictions.

By being aware of these factors, you can plan and prepare for a safe and enjoyable road trip in New Jersey.

The best time of year for taking a road trip in New Jersey depends on personal preferences and the activities you have planned. Here are some considerations for each season:

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a great time to visit New Jersey, with milder temperatures and blooming flowers. The crowds are also thinner than in the summer, making it a great time to visit popular attractions.

• Summer (June to August): Summer is peak tourist season in New Jersey, especially at the beaches. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor events and activities.

• Fall (September to November): Fall in New Jersey is famous for its colorful foliage, making it a great time for scenic drives and outdoor activities. The weather is cooler, and the crowds are thinner than in the summer.

• Winter (December to February): Winter in New Jersey can be cold and snowy, but it's a great time for winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding. The state's many indoor attractions, such as museums and theaters, also provide a great escape from the cold.

Overall, the best time for a road trip in New Jersey is from late spring to early fall when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, each season has its unique charms, and there are always things to do and see in the Garden State.

The cost of a road trip in New Jersey can vary depending on the length of your trip, the type of accommodation you choose, your dining preferences, and the activities you plan to do. However, here is an estimate of the daily cost per person for a road trip in New Jersey:

• Budget: $50-$100 per day For budget road trippers, hostel or budget hotel accommodation would cost around $30-$50 per night. You can expect to spend around $10-$20 on food (fast food or cheap eats), $10-$20 on gas and transportation, and $5-$10 on attractions. Renting a car would cost around $50-$80 per day.

• Mid-range: $100-$200 per day Mid-range road trippers can opt for mid-range hotels or vacation rentals, which would cost around $70-$120 per night. You can expect to spend around $30-$50 on food (casual restaurants or local cuisine), $20-$30 on gas and transportation, and $20-$30 on attractions. Renting a car would cost around $50-$80 per day.

• Luxury: $200+ per day For luxury road trippers, luxury hotels or upscale vacation rentals would cost around $150+ per night. You can expect to spend around $50+ on food (fine dining or high-end cuisine), $30-$50 on gas and transportation, and $50+ on attractions. Renting a car would cost around $50-$80 per day.

It is essential to budget for other expenses such as tolls, parking fees, and unexpected costs such as car maintenance or medical expenses. When planning your road trip, it is always a good idea to compare prices for accommodations and car rentals, and look for discounts on attractions and activities.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in New Jersey can vary depending on your travel style and preferences, but with proper planning and budgeting, you can have a memorable trip without breaking the bank.

There are several guidebooks and road maps available that can help you plan your road trip in New Jersey. Here are some recommendations:

• "Moon New Jersey Road Trip" by Jason Frye: This guidebook is perfect for road trippers who want to explore New Jersey's scenic routes, charming towns, and hidden gems. It includes detailed maps, suggested itineraries, and insider tips on the best places to eat, sleep, and visit.

• "New Jersey Atlas & Gazetteer" by DeLorme: This atlas and gazetteer provides comprehensive coverage of New Jersey's roads and highways, along with detailed topographic maps, campgrounds, and recreational sites. It is an essential tool for navigating the state's back roads and finding off-the-beaten-path attractions.

• "Fodor's New Jersey" by Fodor's Travel Guides: This comprehensive guidebook covers all the major destinations in New Jersey, including Atlantic City, Cape May, Princeton, and the Jersey Shore. It includes practical information on transportation, accommodations, and dining, as well as insider tips on the best things to see and do.

• "New Jersey Road Map" by AAA: This detailed road map from the American Automobile Association (AAA) covers the entire state of New Jersey and includes insets of major cities such as Newark and Trenton. It also features tourist information, distance charts, and points of interest.

• "New Jersey State Map" by Rand McNally: This map from Rand McNally is another excellent resource for road trippers in New Jersey. It includes detailed maps of major cities, along with highways, toll roads, and scenic routes. It also features a comprehensive index of cities and towns, as well as popular attractions and landmarks.

Overall, these guidebooks and road maps can help you plan a memorable road trip in New Jersey, whether you are looking for scenic places, historic landmarks, or outdoor adventures.