It's 170 miles long and 70 miles wide, yet it's one of the most visited states on the east coast. New Jersey is a stone's throw away from the capital city of Washington D.C., and it borders New York as well as the largest city of the state of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. It's also often used as the bridge to get from the cold northern states of Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts. However, it's developed quite a character of its own over the years. The most notable aspect of the state has been it's legendary hosting of The Sopranos television show which followed a modern mafia family's daily life and the largest party city on the east coast besides New York, i.e. Atlantic City. The three main cities offer a unique perspective of the 'Garden State'.
Brick Township
With over 75,000 people living in the city of Brick Township, this the perfect place to begin your group road trip. Make your first stop at the Barnegat Bay where you have an open view of the Atlantic Ocean. People often forget that New Jersey is one of the first states that any cargo and or cruise ship will see. It's a great place to relax during summer, but also great if you want to explore the coast in a chartered boat ride. As you would expect, they have great seaside ice cream vendors dotted around the Jersey Shore area. Hot fudge chocolate, banana sundae or salted caramel, take you to pick.
Edison
Offering large expansive space to roam and stroll, Edison is a city that lays smack in the middle of the state. You're nearing New York City, and the change in architecture, as well as foliage, distinctly shows you this occurrence. With around 101,000 people, this is a city in which you will find plenty of parks. In fact, it's one of the main reasons why New Jersey is called the Garden State, because you have Rutgers Gardens, Roosevelt Park, Washington Rock State Park and Washing Rock as places to explore without restriction. There are plenty of recreational sports played in the parks and all of them offer unique views to your lunchtime picnic.
Newark
Your final stop is Newark, the largest city in the state with a population of 282,000. Here you will find the famous Cathedral Basilica which is well over 100 years old. Its foundational bricks were laid in 1898. The NJPAC hosts music concerts for the industry's biggest names. Visit the Newark Museum which has art galleries showcasing Asian, American and African artists and pieces. Branch Brook Park is the best place to be during the late afternoon as you'll find street food carts offering roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, and hot pastries.
New Jersey is more than a bridge linking the north to the south on the east coast. It's a humble 170-mile stretch of parks, ocean views and history you won't find anywhere else.
MORE ON THE FLASH LIST
