Just across the river from Manhattan. New Jersey is a vastly under-appreciated travel destination. With kayaking, bird watching, and mouth-watering bagels. There’s a little something for everyone! Here are six of many reasons to consider New Jersey for your next trip:
1. It’s Right Across the River From Central Park, the High Line, and The Met
Have you always wanted to catch a show on Broadway or visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art? Have been turned off by outlandish hotel prices? Not only is booking a hotel in the Meadowlands area of New Jersey easy and affordable, but it’s also mere minutes from Manhattan and easily accessible by public transit.
Image via Flickr by szeke
2. You Can Experience a Giants/Jets Game Like Never Before
MetLife Stadium, home to the NFL’s New York Giants and the New York Jets, is a gigantic stadium (seating capacity: 82,500) that you need to see to believe. Locals will tell you that you’ve never truly experienced a football game until you’ve been there.
3. Gliding Along the Hackensack River is a Relaxing Way to Take in the Scenery
Paddle down the Hackensack River while being serenaded by the waterfowl and other creatures living in the New Jersey wetlands. Visitors can easily rent kayaks or canoes to independently explore the area, but there are also options to take a guided tour. For those of us who prefer sitting back and watching the scenery go by, take an Eco-Cruise aboard a pontoon boat. Learn all about the wetland preservation efforts, and keep an eye out for rare bird species!
4. There Are Over 3,400 Acres of Preserved Wetlands Waiting to Be Explored
With over 8 miles of walking trails and 21 parks, the Meadowlands District is enough to satiate the needs of any nature lover. Bird watchers will also rejoice at the prime location right along the Atlantic Flyway — one of the three main migratory routes in North America — and the opportunity to catch a glimpse of hundreds of different threatened or endangered bird species.
5. There Are Plenty of Opportunities for Bargain Hunting
The tantalizing prices at the Secaucus Outlets are enough to attract bargain seekers far and wide. Alternatively, for those of us who like to shop with a side of free entertainment, delicious food, and exciting games, look no further than the New Meadowlands Market — New Jersey’s premium outdoor flea market that is open every Saturday at the Meadowlands Sports Complex.
6. You Can Experience Some of the World’s Best Bagels, Pizza and Disco Fries
Anyone from New Jersey will tell you the state has the best bagels and pizza — and they might have a point. Start off your morning with the “Best Bagel in Town” from Bagel Supreme in Rutherford, grab a slice of pizza from Natoli’s Deli in Secaucus in the afternoon, and then make your way to the Meadowlands Diner in the evening for a classic New Jersey diner experience. Don’t forget to try a Jersey-style hot dog before you leave!
If you’re stuck on where to take your next vacation, maybe New Jersey is the place for you!
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