A road trip frm New Jersey is a unique adventure that offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural hotspots along the way. As you make your way through the scenic route, you will encounter diverse experiences, from bustling cities to the peaceful countryside. So, buckle up, put on some music and hit the road as we explore the 10 best road trip destinations from NJ.
Poconos
The Poconos should be on top of every beginner’s list for road trips as it is well connected, located close, and offers some of the best scenic drives in this part of the country.
The fall is a perfect time to experience the Poconos roads as the landscape transforms from a calming green to magnificent shades of red, yellow, and orange. The Poconos offer many activities, such as hiking, biking, boating, etc, that are suitable for all age groups.
It is located around 150 miles away and can be reached within 2 hours drive.
Delaware
Delaware, located about 100 miles from NJ is a small but unique state which offers peaceful beaches, beautiful hillsides, and historic sites. Dover, the state capital is a must-visit, where you can explore the First State Heritage Park and the Dover International Speedway. Other major stops at Delaware are Rehoboth Beach, Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Cape Henlopen State Park, and Funland. You can also take a ferry ride, go shopping, and explore local history. On your drive to Delaware, stop over in Wilmington and visit the Hagley Museum and Library.
Washington D.C
Washington D.C, the capital of the United States is located a 3 hr and 30 min drive from NJ and is home to many important historical sites. The drive to Washington is a great experience in itself, passing through beautiful cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, Wilmington, Princeton, Dover, and Staten Island. You can choose to stop and explore any of these cities as they have so much going on all the time. In Washington, you can visit historic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the National Mall.
Maryland
Maryland is an amazing destination for a road trip, with charming historic cities, beautiful beaches, and ample natural beauty. The distance from New Jersey to Maryland is around 130 miles and can take about 2.5 hours. Some popular stops in Maryland are Assateague Island National Seashore and Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Ocean City is a classic East Coast beach town with boardwalks, amusement parks, and plenty of shopping and dining. Known for its blue crabs and excellent restaurants that serve fresh and delicious seafood. Maryland is home to a thriving arts scene, and there are many art galleries, and theaters to visit, including the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the Walters Art Museum.
Vermont
Vermont is known for its stunning natural beauty, quaint towns, and delicious local cuisine. During your trip, you can visit the historic town of Woodstock, take a scenic drive through the Green Mountains, or go apple-picking at one of the many local orchards. Your trip will be incomplete without stopping at Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, Green Mountain National Forest, and Stowe Mountain Resort. On the way to Vermont, make a stop in Massachusetts and visit the famous Salem Witch Trials Memorial.
It is located 416 miles from NJ, and a drive might take about 7 hours.
Niagara falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic destinations in the United States. It is located on the US and Canada border. A drive from New Jersey to Niagara falls is 410 miles and can take 7hr and 30mins. The falls are a breathtaking natural wonder and offer many activities, such as boat tours, helicopter rides, and scenic walks. Also, don’t forget to check out the Cave of the Winds and the Aquarium of Niagara.
The Albright-Knox Art Gallery and the Buffalo Zoo are famous stops you can check out on the way to Niagara Falls.
Toronto
Toronto, located in Ontario, Canada, is a vibrant and culturally diverse city with a lot to offer. The city is located 549.1 miles away and can be reached after a 9 hour drive. It is home to many attractions, including the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Art Gallery of Ontario. You can also visit the Toronto Zoo, Casa Loma and explore the St. Lawrence Market and Kensington Market. Hockey fans should not miss out on the hall of fame. On the way to Toronto, make a stop in Rochester, NY, and visit the Strong National Museum of Play or the Rochester Museum & Science Center.
Virginia
Virginia is a state full of historical places, museums, and national parks and is a major hub for art and culture. This state offers so much and appeals to all kinds of crowds. It is especially a haven for history buffs. Some must-visit spots are George Washington’s Mount Vernon, Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center, Monticello, Virginia Beach, and Natural Bridge State Park. There are also multiple museums and art centers and we’ve barely scratched the surface because there’s so much to do here. This area is known for its long sandy beaches, boardwalk, and seafood restaurants.
Virginia is located approximately 360 miles from New Jersey, and the drive might take close to seven hours.
Cincinnati
Cincinnati is a city with a rich history and a vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is located 400 miles or 7 hours away from New Jersey. It is home to many attractions like the Cincinnati Art Museum, Kings Island amusement park, and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Also, there is a historic neighborhood in Cincinnati called Over-The-Rhine, which is known for its arts and culture movement. The food in Cincinnati is unique and iconic, mainly Cincinnati-style chili, which is a must-try for foodies.
Maine
Maine is known for its stunning coastline, national parks, and rich maritime history, making it the best road trip destination from New Jersey. It is a 10-hour drive from NJ to Maine and spans 600 miles, depending on the traffic conditions and your stops along the way.
Some popular things to do in Maine are exploring Portland, and visiting the Portland Museum of Art.
Acadia National Park should definitely be on your list as it is one of the most stunning natural areas in the country, with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and dense forests. Try to hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views of the park and surrounding area.
Maine also has many well-known lighthouses, like the Portland Head Light and the Nubble Light, which are great spots to take in the brilliant views.
A trip to Maine is incomplete without trying some of their famous lobster. Many popular seafood restaurants here serve fresh lobster in many varieties.
Conclusion
Taking a road trip is a great way to experience the beauty and diversity that America has to offer. It is also a great cultural experience that goes through multiple landscapes like cities, beaches and forests. New Jersey’s central location makes it easy to access all of the amazing destinations nearby. So pack your bags, fill up the tank, and hit the road – your next road trip from New Jersey is waiting for you!
About the Author/s
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.
