Best things to do in New Jersey

Atlantic City

Atlantic City had its heyday during the 1920s, as city dwellers flocked in their thousands to enjoy its lovely seaside. Originally the playground of the rich and famous, the holiday spot is one of oldest in the country and boasts the world's first boardwalk, which was built in 1870 and runs along an eight-mile (13km) stretch of beach. Amusement parks and nightclubs line the boardwalk, meaning visitors are always entertained, day or night. New Jersey instituted legal casino gambling in the 1970s, which has resulted in a collection of grand gambling halls and extravagant casino-hotels reminiscent of Las Vegas. Today Atlantic City is famous as a gambler's paradise with a vibrant nightlife. It also offers amusement rides, souvenir shops and children's entertainment in a bid to market itself as a family holiday destination and live up to its nickname as the 'The World's Playground'.

Cape May

Situated at the southernmost tip of the New Jersey Cape, the holiday favourite of Cape May is the jewel of the Atlantic Shore and the country's oldest seaside resort. It's known for its calm beaches, historic sites and many natural attractions that differ so very much from the selling points of the flashier Atlantic City. With a fairytale collection of authentically restored and beautifully preserved Victorian homes, the entire town of Cape May was designated a National Historic Landmark. It's internationally recognised as one of the best bed and breakfast inn resorts in the country. The ambience of gingerbread-trim inns, old gas lamps and colourful stained-glass windows offers visitors a peaceful change of pace from most other holiday resorts along the shore. Huge flocks of birds draw birdwatchers to the Cape May Point State Park during the spring and autumn migrations. Cape May offers modern as well as historic accommodations, fine dining and shopping, and lots of nature walks. It's laidback, easy-going atmosphere is apparent even at the height of the summer holiday season.

Six Flags Great Adventure Theme Park

Six Flags Great Adventure is the largest theme park in New Jersey, and one of the most popular on the east coast of the US. It has themed areas, with various rides and attractions for all ages. Much of the park is themed with DC superheroes such as Superman, Batman and the Green Lantern; there are also a number of restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. The attached Six Flags Wild Safari is a drive-through game park with lions, elephants, giraffes, kangaroos and bears. Next door is Hurricane Harbour, a waterpark with a wave pool, an adventure river and more than a dozen speed slides.

Website www.sixflags.com/greatAdventure

New Jersey

Attractions

Atlantic City

Cape May

Six Flags Great Adventure Theme Park

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Atlantic City

Cape May

Six Flags Great Adventure Theme Park