New Jersey is a fascinating state that is often overlooked, partly because of its more famous neighbor in New York. It’s the most densely populated state in the country, and it’s home to some of the world’s most famous tourist destinations. But what is New Jersey known for? What makes this state worth a visit?
What Is New Jersey Known For?
New Jersey is known for its beautiful beaches, casinos, entertaining boardwalks, and untouched nature. With its crucial role in American history and distinctive culture today, there is much to discover. New Jersey is also famous for its food. From diners to pizzerias to Italian restaurants, the Garden State has something to offer for everyone who loves good food.
Here are a few of the things that New Jersey is known for and you can explore in this great state.
Famous Food In New Jersey
Jersey Taylor Ham/Pork Roll
New Jersey is home to several iconic foods, including the Taylor ham/pork roll. This sandwich meat is a staple of New Jersey cuisine, and it can be found in diners and delis all over the state.
The pork roll is made from pork that is ground, cured, and formed into a log shape. It is then sliced and grilled or fried. The Taylor ham/pork roll is usually served on a roll with egg and cheese. It can also be found in other dishes, such as the famed Jersey breakfast of Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel.
This tasty sandwich is one of the most famous foods in New Jersey, and extremely convenient for bringing along on your day trips.
Saltwater Taffy
New Jersey is known for being the birthplace of the Saltwater taffy. The candy is made from sugar, cornstarch, water, and flavorings. Saltwater taffy got its name from the fact that it was originally made with seawater from the Atlantic Ocean.
The first saltwater taffy shop opened in Atlantic City in the 1880s, and the candy quickly became a popular treat on the city’s boardwalk. Today, there are many different flavors of saltwater taffy, and it can be found all over New Jersey. Definitely give this sweet treat a try.
Hoagies and Subs
A hoagie is a type of sandwich that is popular in New Jersey. The sandwich is made with meat, cheese, and vegetables on a long roll. Hoagies are also known as subs or grinders in other parts of the country.
The term “hoagie” is believed to have originated in Philadelphia in the early 1900s. It is thought that the sandwich was first made for Italian immigrants who worked at the city’s shipyards. The workers would bring big sandwiches to work with them for their lunch breaks.
The popularity of the hoagie spread to other parts of the country, and today it is a popular sandwich all over the United States. When you’re in New Jersey, be sure to try one of these tasty sandwiches.
History, Culture, And Traditions
The Garden State
New Jersey is known by many nicknames, but perhaps the most popular is “The Garden State.” This moniker is fitting, as New Jersey is one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the country.
From fruits and vegetables to flowers and trees, New Jersey grows it all. In fact, the state is responsible for over 50 million pounds of the country’s cranberry production, and the Hammonton area is sometimes known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World.”
New Jersey is also known for its wine industry. There are more than 50 wineries in the state, producing everything from sparkling wines to fruit-based liqueurs.
New Jersey’s Native American History
New Jersey is home to a number of Native American tribes, and the state has a long history of Native American settlement. In fact, some of the first European settlers in New Jersey were of Native American descent.
The Lenape people are the most well-known of New Jersey’s Native American tribes. Also known as the Delaware Indians, the Lenape were the original inhabitants of the area that is now New Jersey.
Today, there are several Lenape communities still living in New Jersey. The Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Tribal Nation is based in Bridgeton, while the Ramapough Mountain Indians have communities in Mahwah and Ringwood.
Crossroads of the Revolution
Due to its location, New Jersey is known for being an important battleground during the American Revolution. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Crossroads of the Revolution.”
There are a number of Revolutionary War sites in New Jersey worth visiting, including Morristown National Historical Park, where George Washington and his troops camped during the winter of 1777-1778.
Other notable Revolutionary War sites in New Jersey include the Old Barracks Museum in Trenton, where Washington defeated the British in a pivotal battle, and Princeton Battlefield State Park, where American troops won another important victory.
Battle of Trenton
The Battle of Trenton was a pivotal moment in the American Revolutionary War. On December 26, 1776, General George Washington and his ragtag army of Continental soldiers crossed the Delaware River and surprised a group of Hessian mercenaries who were camped out in Trenton.
The victory at Trenton boosted morale among the beleaguered Patriots and helped turn the tide of the war. Today, the site of the battle is preserved as a national historical park. Visitors can explore the battlefield, visit the museum, and see reenactments of the famous battle.
Cities And Travel Destinations
Newark
Newark is the largest city in New Jersey and the cultural and economic center of the state. The city is known for its diverse population, its arts and culture scene, and its major airport.
Newark is also home to several historical sites, including the Newark Museum, the Prudential Center, and Branch Brook Park.
Branch Brook Park is especially notable as it is the first county park in the United States and has one of the largest collections of cherry blossoms in the United States.
Newark is also a major transportation hub, as it is served by Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the country.
Atlantic City
Atlantic City is one of New Jersey’s most popular tourist destinations. The city is famous for its beaches, casinos, hotels, and attractions. The beaches are beautiful and a major draw for tourists.
Atlantic City is also known for its boardwalk, which stretches for four miles along the coast. You will find lots of shops, restaurants, and amusement parks here for entertainment.
One of the most popular attractions in Atlantic City is Steel Pier, an amusement park that first opened in 1898. The pier offers plenty of fun rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and roller coaster.
The Pine Barrens
The Pine Barrens is a large area of forested wetlands in southern New Jersey. Covering more than 1.1 million acres (4,500 km2), the Pine Barrens is one of the largest tracts of undeveloped land on the East Coast of the United States.
The Pine Barrens is home to several rare and endangered plant and animal species, as well as some of the state’s most pristine waterways. The area is also popular with campers, hikers, and canoeists.
The Jersey Shore
No list of things New Jersey is known for would be complete without mention of the Jersey Shore. This stretch of coastline, made up of more than 100 towns and villages, is one of the most popular vacation destinations on the East Coast.
The Jersey Shore is famous for its sandy beaches, boardwalks, and amusement parks. But there’s also plenty of history and culture to be found in this part of New Jersey. Towns like Cape May, Asbury Park, and Atlantic City are all worth a visit.
Famous People From New Jersey
Bruce Springsteen
New Jersey is also famous for its native sons and daughters, including Bruce Springsteen. The “Boss” was born in Freehold and grew up in Asbury Park, two towns that have become synonymous with Springsteen and his music.
Springsteen is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, and he has won numerous awards, including 20 Grammy Awards. He is also a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Meryl Streep
Another New Jersey native who has made it big in Hollywood is Meryl Streep. Streep was born in Summit and grew up in Bernardsville. She is one of the most acclaimed actresses of all time, with three Academy Awards, eight Golden Globes, and numerous other accolades.
Architecture And Landmarks
High Point Monument
The highest peak in New Jersey, at 1,803 feet (550 m) above sea level, is not technically a mountain but rather the remains of an extinct volcano. But that doesn’t make it any less popular with tourists and nature lovers.
In fact, the state park that surrounds High Point is one of the most visited in New Jersey. And it’s easy to see why – with stunning panoramic views, more than 50 miles (80 km) of hiking trails, and several other outdoor activities on offer, High Point State Park is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park is also home to the High Point Monument, a 220-foot (67 m) obelisk that was built in 1930 to commemorate the soldiers of New Jersey who lost their lives in the war.
Passaic River Great Falls
The Passaic River is one of the top 5 longest rivers in New Jersey, and it runs through some of the most densely populated areas of the state. But despite its urban surroundings, the river is home to a few natural wonders, including the Great Falls of the Passaic.
At 77 feet (23 m) high, the Great Falls is the largest waterfall in New Jersey. And it’s not just the height that makes it impressive – the width of the falls is almost 260 feet, with over 2 billion gallons of water passing through every day.
The Great Falls of the Passaic is located in Paterson, which is also home to the Lambert Castle Museum. The museum is housed in a 19th-century Gothic Revival-style mansion that was once the home of one of Paterson’s most prominent citizens, Catholina Lambert.
Many More Things New Jersey Is Known And Famous For
These are just some of the things New Jersey is known for. If you’re looking for a vacation that offers something a little different, consider traveling to this underrated destination.
This diverse state has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches and nature reserves to charming small towns and world-famous cities. And don’t forget the history and culture – there are plenty of museums and historical sites to explore where you can learn more interesting facts about New Jersey.
