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Picture of New Jersey, USA

Travel Guide for
New Jersey

United States

Humid subtropical, cold winters

Introduction

New Jersey, nestled between New York City and Philadelphia, is a vibrant state known for its beautiful beaches, bustling boardwalks, and diverse culture. Steeped in history, it played a key role in the American Revolution and offers many historical landmarks and museums, perfect for curious families.

In July, expect warm, sunny weather—ideal for visiting the iconic Jersey Shore or exploring state parks. Families can enjoy amusement rides at Point Pleasant Beach, stroll through Liberty Science Center, or picnic at Liberty State Park, all without breaking the bank. Friendly towns, outdoor fun, and plenty of kid-friendly dining make New Jersey a welcoming and budget-friendly summer destination.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates12-13 July 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesarts and cultureoutdoor adventuressightseeing and toursfestivals and events

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Picture of New Jersey, USA

Key Facts

Location

Northeastern USA

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Religion

Christianity (dominant)

Population

9,267,130

Language

English, Spanish

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Type A/B

Time zone

UTCEastern Time (UTC-5)

Country code

+1

Internet access

Broadband & 5G widely available

Climate

Humid subtropical, cold winters

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Map

Logistics

Reaching New Jersey is easy and family-friendly. Newark Liberty International Airport is the main gateway, with many affordable flights. Amtrak and NJ Transit trains connect New Jersey to nearby cities like New York and Philadelphia, making train travel convenient, especially with kids.

Buses such as Greyhound and Megabus provide budget-friendly options from major cities. You can also drive, as highways like I-95 and the Garden State Parkway run through the state. Ferries offer a scenic trip from New York City to Jersey City.

If you’re traveling July 12–13, check forecasts and transit updates, as summer storms may cause delays. Overall, New Jersey transportation is accessible for families and fits most budgets.

Weather

New Jersey experiences all four seasons. Winters are chilly with occasional snow, spring and fall are mild and pleasant, and summers are warm with high humidity. Temperatures in summer normally range from the upper 70s to mid-80s °F (25–30°C), making it ideal for outdoor adventures and family activities along the shore.

From July 12 to July 13, expect warm temperatures and a chance of afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in mid-summer. Extreme weather events like severe storms or heatwaves are possible but not always expected. It’s a great time to explore arts and culture, enjoy local festivals, or take sightseeing tours, while staying alert to weather updates.

Food & Drink

New Jersey’s cuisine features classics like pork roll (Taylor ham) sandwiches, tomato pies, and boardwalk treats such as saltwater taffy. Italian food is a local favorite—try a slice at Star Tavern in Orange or dine on fresh pasta at Arturo’s in Maplewood. Diners, like the Tick Tock Diner in Clifton, offer budget-friendly American comfort food with kid-friendly options.

Along the Jersey Shore, family-friendly spots like The Crab’s Claw Inn in Lavallette serve fresh seafood. Most restaurants expect a tip of 15–20%, which isn’t included in the bill. Many places cater to special diets and vegetarian options are widely available. Look for seasonal farmers’ markets in towns like Princeton for fresh, local fare.

A picture of Hamburger

Hamburger

The classic American hamburger is a grilled beef patty served in a soft bun, often topped with lettuce,...

A picture of Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue ribs are slow-cooked, tender cuts of pork or beef that are generously seasoned with a flavorful dry...

A picture of Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a creamy, indulgent dish made with elbow macaroni pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce....

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New York-style Pizza

New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin, hand-tossed crust, generous cheese topping, and a variety of classic...

A picture of Southern Fried Chicken

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken consists of juicy, tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a seasoned batter and...

Accommodation

For a family-friendly stay in New Jersey, look at hotels in popular areas like Atlantic City, Jersey City, and the Jersey Shore. Top options include the Tropicana and Hard Rock Hotel in Atlantic City, or the Hyatt Regency in Jersey City, all offering comfortable family amenities and easy access to attractions.

Consider booking through reliable sites like Booking.com or Expedia to find mid-range deals. Towns like Cape May and Ocean City have charming hotels with kid-friendly features. Since July is peak season, especially near the beach, book early to secure the best rates and ensure availability for your preferred dates.

Itinerary

Enjoy a day packed with family-friendly adventures, explore New Jersey’s vibrant arts and culture, and experience the beauty of the outdoors. Delight in memorable sightseeing, engaging local festivities, and fun-filled activities suitable for all ages.

Family Picnic and Paddle Boats at Liberty State Park

Relax with a family picnic and enjoy paddle boating at Liberty State Park. There are open fields for games, walking trails with city views, and a playground, making it perfect for both active and restful outdoor fun.

Private Walking Tour of Hoboken, Only Half a Mile from Manhattan!

Private Walking Tour of Hoboken, Only Half a Mile from Manhattan!

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

RECIPIENT OF TRIPADVISOR / VIATOR'S "BADGE OF EXCELLENCE" Join me on a private walking tour of Hoboken, a charming waterfront city only half-a-mile (0,8km) west of Manhattan, across the Hudson River. Look it up on Google Maps! Hoboken is an oft-overlooked gem whose skyline views, riverfront parks, industrial past, immigrant influences, brownstones, cafes, shops and food offer a unique look at local life and history. Accessible from Manhattan via ferry (5-10 mins), train (10-15 mins) or Uber/Lyft. Choose MEET IN HOBOKEN or MANHATTAN when booking. Step away from New York City's tourist crowds — feel like you're visiting a friend — leave with a better understanding of local life! This is a private tour - Only your group will participate Tours are in English - Parlo anche Italiano a livello intermedio

5.0 (24 reviews)

From $60 USD

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Attractions

4.7 (610 reviews)
New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

New York Helicopter Tour: New York City Skyline Tour

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Enjoy an unforgettable 25–30 minute flight from Linden Airport, New Jersey, offering breathtaking aerial views of New York City’s world-famous skyline. Choose from a daytime, sunset, or nighttime tour and capture breathtaking sights of the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Fly over the George Washington Bridge and cruise along the Hudson River, taking in landmarks like the Chrysler Building, the Vessel, Little Island, and Summit One Vanderbilt. This is the only sightseeing flight available on Sundays, departing exclusively from Linden New Jersey —just a short ride from Linden Station NJ. After sunset, watch the city light up beneath you, with Times Square glowing and Manhattan shimmering under the night sky. Whether you're a visitor or a local looking for a new perspective, this unique flight offers a one-of-a-kind New York City experience you won’t forget.

From $334 USD

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4.6 (257 reviews)
3-Day Best of Niagara Falls and Washington D.C. Tour from NYC

3-Day Best of Niagara Falls and Washington D.C. Tour from NYC

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Experience the best of the East Coast in just three unforgettable days, starting from New York City. Travel to iconic destinations like Philadelphia, Washington D.C., the Corning Museum of Glass, and breathtaking Niagara Falls. Dive into American history, witness natural wonders, and enhance your trip with optional add-ons like the Maid of the Mist boat ride or Cave of the Winds tour. With round-trip transfers from NYC and two nights of hotel accommodation included, this is the ultimate hassle-free way to explore four top destinations in one epic adventure.

From $328 USD

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4.8 (33 reviews)
5-day Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec City Tour

5-day Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec City Tour

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Visit four spectacular famous cities in Eastern Canada: Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec in five days! Experience an unforgettable waterfall view and enjoy the colorful night view of the Niagara Falls! Ride on the Hornblower Cruise to experience the waterfall views of Niagara Falls from multiple angles. Complimentary Skylon Tower ticket is included. You may enjoy authentic French food in Quebec at your own expense. The tour will not visit Thousand Island after 10/15/2022 since it will close. Room Details All hotel rooms are based on two Full / Double beds or one King/Queen bed depends on what hotel availiable on the day. The maximum occupancy per room is four travelers. One Room Selection If you are a party of more than four guests or desire to have separate rooms, please provide a separate booking. Avoid traveling in a different bus? If you have more than one booking, please provide all confirmation numbers once your bookings are complete.

From $1174 USD

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4.4 (29 reviews)
Washington D.C.& Philadelphia 2-Day Tour from New York City

Washington D.C.& Philadelphia 2-Day Tour from New York City

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL

Explore the heart of American history and democracy on a full-day tour of Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.This tour takes you from New York to visit the birthplace of American independence and iconic national landmarks,offering a comprehensive experience of the country’s historical and political heritage.From the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia to the famous memorials and monuments of Washington, D.C.,this journey promises a deep dive into the rich tapestry of U.S. history. 2025 Buy 2 Get 2 Free Promotion(3rd and 4th guest free) ensuring that all participants share accommodations in a single room. Promotion price as what you see. Please note that additional charges, including admission fees and other expenses, will apply to all participants. Take advantage of our 2025 Buy 2 Get 2 Free offer (3rd/4th guest free), ensuring all participants share accommodations in a single room. Exclusive tour rates apply only when booking for 3 or 4 travelers at once.

From $348 USD

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5.0 (19 reviews)
New York Skyline Magic - The Real Skyline With a Real Local

New York Skyline Magic - The Real Skyline With a Real Local

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Unique private tour for up to four people in which you'll enjoy the real New York Skyline, not the partial views you get in Dumbo, observatories, rooftop bars, and helicopters. Only from across the Hudson River you get unobstructed panoramic views of the entire New York City skyline. No lines, no waiting, no meeting points hard to find, no headaches if you need to cancel, and no crowds! Just you and Paolo in a comfortable electric car. I'm a local who will take you to the best viewing spots, provide information about what we're seeing, and share personal stories and experiences acquired as a New Jersey Waterfront resident and while working for years in Hudson Yards and the World Trade Center, the skyline's two dominant forces. A fellow traveler who knows the value of an authentic experience, away from tourist traps, I love to show New York's #1 attraction and see the wonder on visitors' faces when they encounter the stunning New York Skyline panoramic views from New Jersey.

From $60 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
Half Day New York City Private Tour

Half Day New York City Private Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the Best of New York City: Your Ultimate Private Tour Experience! Welcome to the city that never sleeps, the iconic New York City! Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Big Apple's most iconic landmarks? Look no further! We are thrilled to offer you an exclusive opportunity to discover the vibrant heart of New York City through our private tour tailored for small groups and families. Sit back, relax, and allow us to take you on an extraordinary adventure through the bustling streets of this magnificent metropolis! With our private tour, you won't have to worry about crowded buses or fixed schedules. Instead, enjoy the freedom of a tailored itinerary that suits your preferences and pace. We will pick you up directly from your chosen address, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable journey.

From $580 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
 90 Minute Scenic Back Bay Cruise

90 Minute Scenic Back Bay Cruise

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Private, scenic pontoon cruises with wildlife, history and optional onboard brunch—book your adventure today!

From $435 USD

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