Top Things to do in New Jersey
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The 10 Best Nature & Wildlife Areas in New Jersey, United States
Whether you are looking for sun-drenched beaches or outdoor activities in beautiful countryside, New Jersey has plenty to offer. Those who love the great outdoors should head for the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, which runs along the Delaware River for forty miles. Here you can go rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking or fishing, or simply admire the stunning waterfalls. There is a huge range of hiking trails to choose from as well as historic sites to visit. In winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing near Blue Mountain Lakes, and birdwatchers might be lucky enough to catch sight of bald eagles. If you are looking for a change, visit one of New Jersey's eleven lighthouses that are open to public, such as the one in Cape May. For art and history enthusiasts, New Jersey State Museum in Trenton has historic artifacts and American fine art from the nineteenth century to the present day as well as a Planetarium.
Restaurants in New Jersey
1. South Cape May Meadows
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 105 reviews
Considered one of the most important stopovers for migratory birds, this undeveloped oceanfront land contains a bird refuge and freshwater wetlands.
Reviewed By bbbob84 - Staten Island, United States
The rain had ended it was just comfortable enough for a late afternoon hike through South Cape May Meadows. No real elevations so an easy hike. Beautiful swans, rabbits, flowers and water. You can step out to the beach for nice views of the Cape May Coast or take in the WWII bunker. Great photo ops for the Cape May Lighthouse too.
2. Garrett Family Preserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Reviewed By azbirder41 - Paradise Valley, United States
Just a calm, peaceful place to walk or hike and to watch birds, which is why we went there, Trails are easy and flat.
3. Nature Center of Cape May
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
Located on the Harbor in Cape May City, this learning center and exhibit aquaria is dedicated to providing environmental education for people of all ages.
Reviewed By diane184 - Cape May Court House, United States
The view from the top deck is amazing. Friendly and knowledgeable staff and interesting wildlife viewing and great programs for kids and adults.
4. Gateway National Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 448 reviews
Site of the oldest lighthouse in America.
Reviewed By richardpE7533VU - Easton, United States
This area, in my opinion, has some of the best beaches in America. Lots of history here too. Great place for bike riding along the miles of bike trails. It's a little more crowded this summer because the New York City beaches are closed so those who usually would stay closer to home are coming to Sandy Hook and other New Jersey beaches. I could tell you the least crowded beach on Sandy Hook, but if I did, it would just get crowded. I'm keeping this beach a secret.
5. Tulpehaking Nature Center
6. Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
This wilderness area consists of 3,660 acres in the state of New Jersey, and is a popular destination for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers and paddlers.
Reviewed By PaleoGypsy - Philadelphia, United States
Paved and unpaved roads exist. If keeping your car clean is important to you, don’t visit this NWR. The speed limit is 15 mph. Wear shoes that may get muddy. As you are hiking in a swamp, soft mud exists. Check yourself for ticks after the hike. If you enjoy birding, a zoom lens and binoculars may be helpful. Many trails exist and they are not all connected. Look at the map before you go, as your choice of trails determines where you park.
7. Lakota Wolf Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 444 reviews
Reviewed By chrissyc841 - Jersey City, United States
I've been here many times now and enjoy the experience every time! Jim gives a great presentation about the wolves and it's wonderful being able to get so close to these amazing and beautiful animals!
8. Island Beach State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 247 reviews
One of the few undeveloped barrier island covering 3,000 acres. Activities include fishing, swimming, sunbathing and surfing. The state's largest osprey colony, as well as peregrine falcons, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl and migrating songbirds, are found here.
9. Richard W. DeKorte Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By Ameluz2013
Nice surprise in the middle of the meadows- Gorgeous place for bird watching after a snowfall. Water freezes and it looks pretty
10. The Wetlands Institute
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 149 reviews
Nature center featuring an aquarium and other exhibits on local marine life and animals of the salt marsh. Open year round, The Wetlands Institute hosts interactive educational programs for all ages. Learn about the creatures that call the marsh and the coast their home with unparalleled access to the marsh and coastal ecosystems. Observe and get up close and personal with coastal animals and plants from an elevated marsh walkway and dock; by kayak, paddleboard or boat; from an observation tower; or from a lecture hall with panoramic marsh views. Take a naturalist-led walk down a salt marsh trail, the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, or on the dunes of Avalon. Attend special events featuring hands-on, feet-wet activities and get a glimpse of the work done by our research, conservation and education departments. Other offerings include school field trips, scout programs, public outreach, Science Education at Sea, Homeschool programs, summer camps, event rentals, and more.
Reviewed By nancyl401 - Stone Harbor, United States
A wonderful destination for all age groups including young children! It offers an array of exhibits and activities for all! The setting is beautiful and adds to the educational experience, the views from the tower are stunning and the staff is well informed and anxious to please! Be sure to put this on your to-do list! When done at The Wetlands Institute, cross the bridge into Stone Harbor for a bite to eat...lots of options available!
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