Not just Newark: What’s new in Jersey?

 

If you are planning an east-coast visit, chances are you could be flying into Newark airport. It always seems slightly ironic that the transport hub, which serves one of the most famous cities in the world, New York, is not even in that city. Not only is the airport not in New York City, but it is not even in New York state. Newark is in New Jersey. Because of its proximity to the Big Apple, it can be easy to overlook the Garden State and head off for the big city lights. However, New Jersey has much to offer visitors, and it is worth hanging around for a while. New Jersey has some fabulous stuff going down and is worthy of a visit all to itself.

New Jersey may not be as famous as its glamorous neighbor. However, it does have lots to offer visitors. New Jersey and Atlantic City have lively nightlife, and the state has some of the best coastlines on the Eastern Seaboard. New Jersey is dripping in history, but some cool new stuff is also happening here. If you fancy visiting some of the area’s most iconic landmarks, it is worth noting that the Statue of Liberty is in New Jersey and not New York. Liberty Island and Ellis Island are within New York’s territorial jurisdiction but in New Jersey’s waters. Jersey is not so much about finding new things; it is more about enjoying what has been there for quite some time.

Atlantic City

Nothing stands still in Atlantic City, and there is always something new on offer. The casinos here look for new ways to attract visitors and offer various games and entertainment. Sometimes called the Las Vegas of the east coast, Atlantic City can also provide visitors a walk on the boardwalk, fantastic sea views, and a chance to catch the swell.

The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is having a facelift. Renovations include upgrades to suites, a new Starbucks, additional slots and table games, new dining rooms, and refreshed beachfront amenities. In addition, it has an exciting program of events, including a club night, Sushi Rolling, and a Jazz Festival.

However, you do not need to go to a casino to have a wager in New Jersey. Wherever you are in the state, you can play exciting casino games, from slots to blackjack and roulette. That is because online gambling is legal for visitors and residents alike. This NJ online casinos list is a complete rundown of the newest online casinos, offers, and up-to-date games.

Jersey City

Jersey City is where to get the best views of Manhattan. Sitting on the banks of the Hudson River, you can gaze out at the incredible architecture on the other side. Jersey City has fantastic grassy parks, bars, and restaurants. Stuffed full of fabulous eateries, try something new in the Old Town. Refreshingly it is excellent to explore on foot, and Newark Avenue is partly pedestrianized. New places are popping up all the time, so be adventurous.

Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park is not a new park; it is an old park and a great place to be. You can visit the Statue of Liberty and stroll along the old riverside. A new addition to the park is that temporary stages are erected on July 4^th and Juneteenth for music acts. The place has a wonderful party vibe. While you are here, visiting the ferry and train terminals is a must. Again, they are not new; they date back to 1889. If you visit the Immigration Museum, you might look at them with very different eyes. There is a Family History Center where you can connect with your ancestors’ experiences and relive what it was like for them to be new on the continent.

Seaport Museum Tuckerton

This living museum of maritime history and artistry has some new twists. While it aims to interpret the lives of the baymen and women working as boat builders and clam collectors, it is not a time capsule. You can engage in thoroughly 21st-century activities like taking a yoga class on the side of the dock. Climb the lighthouse for fabulous views or take a ferry ride and get a new perspective on the Jersey shore.

Craft beer and surfing

Up to the moment, pastimes include paddle boarding, surfing, and enjoying the shoreline. The sea is new every day, and you never quite know what to expect. Add to that a craft beer trail, and you have something memorable on your hands. The Surf and Sip Brew Trail combines these leisure pursuits to create a new experience.

Long Beach Island is now home to surfers, artisans, and a rising number of brewers. The trail is paired with an app on your phone, allowing you to explore the future of this shoreline. The app will guide you to new bars and taprooms with stops to look at shore-inspired art and a ubiquitous surf museum.

The Liberty Science Center

Opened in 1993, The Liberty Science Center always has new exhibitions happening. Pompei, The Immortal City exhibition takes you to the city the moment Vesuvius erupted. This will be open to the public until May, so do not hang around to experience the blast. Permanent exhibitions include Skyscraper! Achievement and Impact which is the world’s most comprehensive exhibition on the subject. The Dynamic Earth galleries allow visitors to explore earthquakes and tsunamis.