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Best places to visit in new jersey.

Located between the cultural hubs of Philadelphia and New York City, New Jersey often gets overlooked. But with roughly 130 miles of coastline, impressive national historical parks, recreation areas and trails, and a fascinating past, the Garden State has a lot to offer. To help you decide which destination is right for you, U.S. News considered factors like unique attractions, historical sites and beautiful scenery to determine the best places to visit in New Jersey. Cast your vote below to have a say in next year's ranking.

Long Beach Island

Ocean city, nj, the wildwoods, delaware water gap, jersey city, atlantic city, seaside heights.

Located on the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May is the oldest seaside resort in America. Although it receives praise from travelers thanks to its pristine beaches (The Cove and Sunset Beach are two highly recommended spots), this charming coastal town is also home to more than 600 colorful Victorian-style buildings and one of the largest collections of 19th-century framed buildings in the country. When you're not touring the elegant Emlen Physick Estate or climbing to the top of the historic Cape May Lighthouse, check out the retail stores at Washington Street Mall, an outdoor shopping center that's lined with restaurants, boutiques and art galleries.

Accessible by boat or car, this island spans 18 miles and has no shortage of attractions to explore. Watch a live performance at the Surflight Theatre, learn about New Jersey's maritime history at the New Jersey Maritime Museum or catch some sun at Ship Bottom Beach. For panoramic views of Barnegat Bay, head to Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and climb "Old Barney," a famous red and white structure located on the northern tip of the island. If you're looking for something the whole family will love, consider spending a day at Thundering Surf Waterpark or Fantasy Island Amusement Park.

Known for its 8 miles of Jersey Shore coastline, Ocean City touts itself as "America's Greatest Family Resort." The bustling boardwalk is the area's focal point, boasting rides, gift shops and tasty restaurants where visitors can refuel after a day at the beach. If you're looking for a break from the sand, stroll past the storefronts along Asbury Avenue or check out Corson's Inlet State Park's numerous hiking trails. Just remember that Ocean City is a "dry" resort town, meaning that alcohol cannot be sold or purchased within town limits.

This family-friendly resort town on New Jersey's southern shore is perfect for travelers who prefer a lot of activity on their beach vacations. Head to the coast for a variety of water sports such as surfing, boogie boarding and jet skiing, or take in the lively atmosphere at the Wildwoods Boardwalk. Here, visitors can grab a bite to eat, pick up a souvenir or ride the iconic Sightseer Tramcar. Opt instead for the Splash Zone Waterpark or Morey's Piers and Water Parks if waterslides and thrilling roller coaster rides are on your agenda.

Straddling the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area covers more than 70,000 acres of forested mountains, small beaches and historic villages. Hikers, hunters and beachgoers flock to this park for its scenic landscapes and ample recreational opportunities. Stay overnight in one park's numerous campsites, then spend the day chasing waterfalls or swimming in the Middle Delaware River. Just remember – the currents are strong and the drop-off is sharp, so a lifejacket is recommended whenever you're getting in the water.

Often referred to as the "sixth borough" of New York City, this metropolitan city is a popular jumping-off point for those wanting to explore the Big Apple. However, savvy travelers know that Jersey City's cultural attractions, ample green space and charming brownstones make it a destination worth exploring all on its own. Check out the exhibits at the Liberty Science Center, stroll the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway or pay your respects at the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial. Save time for a picnic at Liberty State Park, where you can catch a ferry to must-visit sights such as Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Bordering the Hudson River, this tiny city spans less than 2 square miles. But don't let its small size fool you – Hoboken's wide range of activities offer something for everyone. Eat your way through Washington Street's trendy restaurants, then grab a drink at one of the city's numerous bars. Meanwhile, fans of the hit TLC show "Cake Boss" can satisfy their sweet tooth at the original Carlo's Bakery, and history buffs will enjoy perusing the Hoboken Historical Museum. Before you leave, soak up some sun at Pier A Park or paddle the Hudson River in a kayak rental (free on select weekends throughout the summer) from the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse.

Although best known for its eponymous Ivy League university, the town of Princeton offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Take a walking tour of Princeton University's historic campus, past famous sights like Nassau Hall and the Princeton University Chapel, then peruse the shops at Palmer Square. For an extra dose of history, pay a visit to the Morven Museum & Garden or check out the site of the Battle of Princeton at Princeton Battlefield State Park.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, Atlantic City is best known for its energetic beaches and wide array of casinos. Soak up some sun at Atlantic City Beach or hit the slot machines at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa . Just don't miss an opportunity to stroll along the city's roughly 4-mile-long boardwalk – this famous walkway is brimming with saltwater taffy shops, arcade games and glitzy hotels. When you're ready for a change of pace, Atlantic City boasts several championship golf courses where you can work on your swing.

This tiny town north of Long Beach Island draws travelers for its lively atmosphere, friendly beaches and action-packed boardwalk. When you're not watching the sun set over Barnegat Bay or riding go-karts at the Casino Pier & Breakwater Beach Waterpark, stop in one of Seaside Heights' many arcades. Ample dining and shopping options are available along the boardwalk, and the town is home to a variety of low-key beach bars. Meanwhile, fans of MTV's hit reality television show "Jersey Shore" won't want to miss a visit to the legendary Shore Store and can even tour the original house where cast members stayed during filming.

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New Brunswick

Asbury Park

Clinton, NJ

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Manville is a town in Somerset County , New Jersey . with a small city feel. It is home to many shops and restaurants. It was once an industrial town with a major Johns Manville factory.

Manville is accessible from Interstate 287 (exit 17), U.S. Route 22, U.S. Route 202, U.S. Route 206 and NJ-28. Several taxi services operate in and around the town.

The NJ Transit Raritan Valley Line stops at the Bridgewater train station, conveniently located a few miles east of downtown. http://www.njtransit.com/

NJ Transit route #65 or #114 stop here. http://www.njtransit.com/

There is a small Hillsborough airport ( JVI  IATA ), but it services private jets only.

Most of the attractions in Manville are located along North Main Street and South Main Street. The areas surrounding Main Street is largely residential with not much to see.

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Weston Mill

Heinrich/Henry Schenck built a grist mill on the Millstone here, probably in the 1740s. The second owner of the mill was Abraham Van Neste, from 1771-1797.

When William Rodgers owned the mill between 1823 and 1843, he changed the name to Weston, purportedly to reflect the name used at the time for an area across the river from the mill.

Wilbur Smith was the last owner of the original mill from 1925 until 1982 when it fell into the river. He had worked for many years in an attempt to save the old mill but, after it collapsed, it was determined that it was beyond repair and now considered a flood hazard. There were plans to salvage parts of the historic structure but before the group had a chance to do much work, vandals set the mill on fire, destroying it.

All that remains in the area once known as Weston are a few residences and several roads bearing the name.

Reading Cinemas a large movie theater complex on North Main Street.

On North Main Street there is the Marketplace at Manville where a Wal-Mart, A & P, and other minor chains, as well as a large amount of mom-and-pop businesses on South Main Street.

The nearest mall is the Bridgewater Commons along U.S. Highway 22, about 10 minutes away. There is a large food court and many stores.

There is an abundance of restaurants in Manville serving pretty much every taste. Several local pizza restaurants, Chinese take out and other fast food franchises (Arby's, MacDonalds, Subway) are found along North Main Street and South Main Street.

Manville is known for its many bars and has a good amount of night life. Many walk to the nearest bars so parking near some might be a bit spotty.

There are no hotels or Motels in town. Nearby on US Route 22, US Route 202 and US Route 206 are several local and chain options.

• Residence Inn by Marriott Somerset , 37 Worlds Fair Drive , ☏ +1 732-627-0881 . Extended stay hotel.  
• Ramada Inn Somerset , 60 Cottontail Lane ( at I-287 exit 12 ), ☏ +1 732 560-9880 .  
• CVS Pharmacy , 321 South Main Street , ☏ +1 908 725-8088 .  
• New York City and Philadelphia are both about an hour away.

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