This post brought to you by New Jersey’s Division of Travel & Tourism. All opinions are 100% mine.
It may have been snowing just last week, but with the return of warmer weather on all of our minds, it's never too soon to start making your summer plans now! We live within a fairly short driving distance to New Jersey and the East Coast, so I have been looking for great travel destinations that wouldn't require a long travel time.
The Jersey Shore has so many draws – it would be the perfect place to plan a weekend escape with my hubby, or a great family vacation this summer. Whether you want to learn to surf, browse the farmer's markets or take in a music festival — with 130 miles of Shore and a lineup of festivals, events and concerts all summer long — there will be an activity for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to visit NJGoingStrong.com – your go-to source for everything at the Jersey Shore. Also, check out all of the events planned for this season by visiting the Shore on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Tumblr.
There is so much to do and so many ways that a family can discover New Jersey that it's hard to choose where our family would go first. Of course, we'd love to visit fabled beaches in southern New Jersey, such as the Wildwoods, to experience 38 blocks of attractions, shopping, amusement piers and more family fun.
I know that seeing the Statue of Liberty in person is high on my children's and my bucket list. New Jersey's 1,212-acre Liberty State Park, located in Jersey City, offers a ferry service to Ellis Island, boating, hiking, a state of the art Liberty Science Center which features hundreds of exhibits and the nation's largest IMAX Dome Theater with a screen 88 feet in diameter and so much more!
Since our family also loves animals and zoos, a stop at the Adventure Aquarium would be a great place to spend a few hours. The almost 200,000 square feet aquarium offers a 40 foot shark tunnel and families can view over 20 sharks and 850 creatures, from land and sea, including two huge Nile hippopotamuses in the West African River Experience — how cool is that!
For a great New Jersey outdoor experience, I know my family would love to visit the "Great Northwest" Skyland Region of the Garden State. As just a portion of the state's millions of acres of state and national parks, this area calls to the history, nature and wildlife lover with attractions such as the Morristown National Historical Park, a nearly 70,000 acre Delaware Water Gap park and numerous other stops in the towns and villages that dot this region.
A wildlife and nature lover's paradise — New Jersey boast 4,100 fresh waterways, 130 miles of Atlantic Ocean coastline, more than 325 species of birds, 90 mammal species, 79 reptile and amphibian species and more than 400 species of fish!
The Delaware Water Gap park, with its waterfalls and trails that wind through the Appalachian Mountains, especially calls to me. I'd love to explore the 40-mile river valley and see the breathtaking scenery I know awaits us. If we were feeling adventurous — tubing or canoeing the free-flowing river would be an experience our family would never forget!
I cannot even begin to share with you all of the fantastic ways you can create wonderful memories in New Jersey this year! For those who live in, visit and dream of visiting the area, it's a relief to know that after Hurricane Sandy, the Jersey Shore is Going Strong and ready for summer — with an amazing lineup of fun, festivals, concerts and events.
To start planning your New Jersey vacation, be sure to sign up for e-news and download a visitor’s guide on visitnj.org. You can also learn about New Jersey’s live festivals, fun attractions, family activities and amazing events by following their social sites on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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I think I’d like to see The Water Gap park! I haven’t been to Jersey. Hubby wants to go for the food (Bourdain special he saw one time). ;)
I have always wanted to visit Jersey shores. Maybe one day :) Thanks for sharing the info.
If you’re planning your next getaway, few places offer the diversity and charm of New Jersey and The Jersey Shore. From the lively boardwalks of Atlantic City to the family-friendly beaches of Ocean City, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic hiking trails in the Pine Barrens, while foodies can explore a mix of cultures in cities like Newark and Hoboken. What makes New Jersey truly special is its ability to blend urban energy with natural beauty—whether it’s a day trip to Liberty State Park with stunning views of Manhattan or a weekend soaking up the sun at Cape May.
Speaking of scenic beauty, if you ever want to take your adventures beyond the U.S., a hunza valley tour in Pakistan offers breathtaking mountain landscapes and rich cultural experiences that rival any destination. But closer to home, The Jersey Shore remains a perfect escape for beach lovers, complete with cozy inns, water sports, seafood festivals, and charming coastal towns.
Whether you’re chasing waves, history, or a bit of both, New Jersey and The Jersey Shore should definitely be on your travel bucket list.
I love the advice about traveling during the shoulder season. It’s something I’ve tried in the past, and it really works. Not only are the ticket prices and hotel rates much lower, but the atmosphere feels more relaxed without the peak-season rush. Setting up flight alerts is another great hack—I’ve caught some incredible discounts that way. Flexibility really is the key to making travel both affordable and enjoyable.Central Maine
This post perfectly captures the charm of the Jersey Shore! I love how you highlighted the variety of activities—from surfing to farmer’s markets to music festivals. It’s great to know there’s truly something for everyone, whether it’s a romantic weekend with your partner or a fun-filled family trip. I’ll definitely check out NJGoingStrong.com and follow the Shore’s social media pages to stay updated on all the upcoming events and festivals this summer.st martin boat tours
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This post really captures the excitement of New Jersey and the Jersey Shore bouncing back stronger than ever after Hurricane Sandy. It’s inspiring to see how quickly the area has recovered and now offers so many events, concerts, and festivals for both locals and visitors. Articles like this are helpful for people planning their vacations because they highlight the vibrant energy of the community while also reminding everyone that tourism supports local businesses.shopping in Cairo
This is a really helpful perspective! Travel booking sites are convenient, but sometimes the hidden benefits of booking directly are overlooked. Things like complimentary breakfast, loyalty points, and flexible cancellation can make a big difference in the overall travel experience. I appreciate you sharing this insight—it can help travelers save money and enjoy extra perks during their stay.what is a travel agency
Great point about the inconvenience of traveling with raw-fed dogs. The statistic about 18 million Americans traveling with pets this year really stood out to me—it shows just how important this conversation is. I know many pet owners struggle to balance proper nutrition with convenience when camping or going on long trips. Personally, I think planning ahead and portioning meals can save a lot of stress. Curious if you’ll share a guide on how to prep raw meals for travel?travel guide
Thank you for sharing this meaningful post. I can only imagine how much extra effort goes into planning each trip when accessibility is a major concern. It’s very thoughtful that you pointed out the importance of reliable transportation and accessible hotels and restaurants. Your story helps others understand how essential accessibility is—not just for comfort but for independence. I hope more travel companies take notes from stories like yours to improve accessibility worldwide.things to do in mui ne
Eco-travel emphasizes sustainable practices and environmental responsibility, encouraging travelers to exclusive travel guide to malta their impact while exploring natural or cultural destinations. From choosing eco-friendly accommodations to participating in conservation efforts, travelers can align their journeys with their values and help protect the destinations they cherish. Eco-travel nurtures a sense of stewardship and mindfulness that extends beyond the trip.
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These findings are very relatable, especially the part about people planning to spend less on summer activities compared to last year. Many households are becoming more mindful of where their money goes, and choosing budget-friendly vacations is a smart adjustment. I think this is a great reminder that vacations do not need luxury spending to be enjoyable. Simple outdoor experiences and free attractions can often be more relaxing and meaningful than expensive trips. Historical Hotels
Congratulations on purchasing your first new car together. That is such an exciting milestone, especially with road trips coming up around Memorial Weekend. I really liked how you shared your experience with the Solvit Sta-Put Hammock Seat Cover. It is great to see a product that actually transitions well from an old car to a new one without hassle. Keeping the back seat clean while still letting Lucky Ruckus enjoy the ride sounds like a win-win situation. This review was helpful and relatable. Salah Time
This is such a great post! I completely agree that travel doesn’t have to stop when you have kids. Letting children have a say in where you go is such a smart idea because it makes them feel involved and excited about the trip. I’ve tried this with my own family, and it really changed the way our vacations feel—more engaging and fun for everyone. Also, it teaches kids responsibility and decision-making in a fun way. Scenic Railroad
This is such a lovely overview of family travel options in New Jersey. I really like how you highlighted both the fun beach experience at the Wildwoods and the educational side with Liberty State Park. It’s nice to see destinations that combine entertainment with learning, especially for kids. The mention of the Liberty Science Center and the ferry to Ellis Island makes the trip sound memorable and meaningful. Posts like this truly help families plan trips that balance relaxation, adventure, and history all in one journey. Best travel agent in Bangalore
This topic doesn’t get enough attention. Most race advice focuses on training, but not on how to handle race travel logistics. The change in environment can really impact sleep, nutrition, and even mental preparation. I appreciate how you highlighted the emotional side of it as well. It is comforting to know that feeling uneasy before traveling for a race is completely normal. I’m excited to see what solutions you recommend for staying consistent away from home. Cabo Rojo Dominican Republic
I think a lot of people assume all beaches are the same, but your experience proves otherwise. The undertow at Rockaway Beach can definitely be dangerous if you’re not careful, and freezing water doesn’t help either. Cleanliness and safety are huge factors when deciding whether to get into the ocean. Warm Caribbean waters like those in Jamaica really create a completely different atmosphere for swimming and relaxing. Trolley Tour
Reading this makes me want to start planning a trip right away. The Jersey Shore truly seems like a place where you can balance relaxation with adventure. Surfing during the day and attending a music festival at night sounds like the perfect summer combo. I appreciate how you mentioned social media channels as well, it’s always helpful to stay updated on events and seasonal activities. Honeymoon safari Tanzania
This is such an important discussion for pet owners who prioritize raw feeding. The idea of hauling a heavy cooler everywhere or making daily grocery runs while camping sounds exhausting. When you’re supposed to be relaxing, the last thing you want is extra stress about food storage. I really appreciate how you address both the convenience factor and food safety concerns. It’s refreshing to read something that speaks honestly about the challenges involved. Cambodia dirt bike tours
Wow, this post really makes me want to plan a trip to the Jersey Shore! I love that there are so many activities for both couples and families. From surfing lessons to music festivals, it seems like there’s something for everyone. I especially appreciate the links to NJGoingStrong.com and social media pages — it makes finding events so much easier. I can already picture a weekend full of sun, food, and fun along the Shore. Rockford Travel Advisor
This is a great reminder that race preparation isn’t just physical, it’s also mental. Traveling adds an extra layer of stress, even for experienced runners. By sticking to familiar routines, it becomes easier to stay calm and focused. I really like how you highlighted the importance of practicing race-day habits during training. That’s a smart strategy that can make a big difference. Event Trains
This is so true and very relatable for runners preparing for races. The mental preparation is just as important as the physical training. Having a fixed routine before race day really helps reduce anxiety and improves confidence. I also believe that rehearsing everything in training builds muscle memory, so on race day your body just follows what it already knows. Great insights for anyone planning long-distance races. Desert safari tour packages