New Jersey is built for day trips. Don’t believe us? Just take a look at what’s on offer.
Within a few hours, you can move from waterfalls to beaches, college towns to Revolutionary War battlefields, picturesque gardens to city skylines. WorldAtlas recently highlighted 10 destinations across the Garden State that are worth the drive. What you’ll find is just how much variety is packed into New Jersey’s borders.
These are the 10 NJ day trips WorldAtlas says you can’t miss.
1. Paterson Great Falls
One of the East Coast’s most powerful waterfalls sits in the heart of Paterson, New Jersey. The Great Falls drops a monstrous 77 feet, once fueling the Silk City’s rise as an industrial hub. Today, the surrounding national historical park offers well-kept paths, scenic overlooks, and a clear look at NJ’s rich industrial history.
2. Liberty State Park
Right on the Hudson, Liberty State Park delivers wide-open greenery with unrivaled views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty (which is in New Jersey!). It’s undoubtedly one of the Garden State’s most-scenic parks.
3. Princeton
Princeton blends gothic architecture, a history rife with academic excellence, and a charming, bustling downtown. The university campus anchors the town, while Nassau Street adds bookstores, restaurants, and more.
4. Morristown
History buffs must take a trip to Morristown—few towns come with as much Revolutionary War history as here. Sites like the Ford Mansion and Morristown National Historical Park tell that story, while the downtown offers top restaurants, plenty of shopping, bars, and more.
5. Historic Smithville
Perched just outside of Atlantic City, Smithville offers a true step back in time. Cobblestone paths, charming shops, and waterfront views make it a popular stop year-round—especially during the holidays, when the village transforms with lights and seasonal events.
6. Battleship New Jersey (Camden)
Did you know New Jersey is home to one of the most decorated naval vessels in U.S. history? Right on the Delaware River, history buffs can explore the Battleship New Jersey—strolling through decks, exhibits, and living quarters while taking in views of the Philadelphia skyline across the water.
7. Grounds For Sculpture (Hamilton)
Spread across former fairgrounds, this outdoor art park mixes large-scale contemporary sculptures with scenic gardens. Paths wind through the many installations, inviting exploration and creativity. Without a doubt, one of the most immersive cultural destinations in New Jersey.
8. Sandy Hook
Beaches, trails, and history all in one? Sandy Hook has it all. Preserved as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, it’s home to the oldest operating lighthouse in the country and miles of shoreline. Ocean views and unmatched history are just a short drive from the bustle of city living.
9. Cape May
Colorful Victorian homes line the Cape May streets, pairing historic charm with coastal scenery. Walking tours, sandy beaches, plenty of shopping, and nearby nature preserves make it an easy choice for a day trip that balances relaxation with exploration.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.