New Jersey 

New Jersey is knows as the "Garden State" and certainly lives up to its name. Its strong industrial background and close proximity to New York and Pennsylvania have made New Jersey the most densely populated state in the US. Not bad for the fifth smallest state. Straddling the Hudson and Delaware rivers, and between New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey produces a number of different products that are sold worldwide. New Jersey is the leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical and chemical products as well as a big maker of electronics and food products. Here’s something to chew on: Did you know the state is also known as the Cockpit of the Revolution? Numerous Revolutionary war battles were fought on its soil. New Jersey was one of the founding states and became an official state December 18, 1787 after ratifying the Constitution. It was the third state in the United States.

Tourist attractions

Of course the biggest attraction in New Jersey is Atlantic City. The resort has beaches, gambling, shops, and hotels. If your hand gets too hot, take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean at one of New Jersey’s many beaches. It’s more than a refreshing experience.  

Or maybe dip your fishing rod in the ocean instead, or in one of the many stocked streams around the state. Leave the tackle box at the door of the Kean New Jersey State Aquarium in Camden. The holding tanks are for viewing purposes only. If you’re a hunter, there’s plenty of duck, deer, and pheasant inland. Make sure to get a permit first.  

New Jersey’s vast coastline offers plenty of opportunity for sailing too. Take in New Jersey from a whole other perspective.  

Who knows, the boys from the Princeton University rowing team may pass you. The Ivy League school isn’t the only thing in Princeton either. The Princeton Battlefield was the site of a colonial victory during the Revolutionary War.  

Last but not least is The Waterloo Village. The restored 1700’s village includes a grist mill, blacksmith shops, and many furnished homes.  

Hotel rates and charges

New Jersey offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit any budget and taste. Hotels range from $40 to $240 depending on location and chain. The beachfront properties cost more because of their popularity and understandably so. The best time to snag one is late winter or early spring. Rates tend to be higher during the summer months since it is the height of the tourist season.

Camping is also available in various locations around the state for those who wishing for a simpler vacation.

Nearby Destinations

New York and Pennsylvania are the two closest states to New Jersey. A quick jaunt to New York City isn’t out of the question nor is a trip to Philadelphia. But make sure you see everything New Jersey has to offer first.

Quick facts

 • There is a huge clock on a riverfront park in New Jersey that can be read across the Hudson River in New York City.  
 • The first electronic sewing machine was made in 1889 by the Singer Manufacturing Company at the factory in Elizabethport, which is now known as Elizabeth.
 • Every Christmas at Titusville a reenactment of George Washington crossing the Delaware River is done to remember the courage of the men who braved the cold winter night to free our country.