There are many obvious great attractions in the Garden State: mountains, beaches, rivers, historic sites, nightlife, restaurants and nightlife. New Jersey has it all. But the state also offers many lesser-known places that offer visitors some of the most memorable experiences.
These are New Jersey’s best-kept secrets. Here are ten very special places in New Jersey that offer some of the most different and fun things to see and do in the world.
Paterson Great Falls National Park
Tucked away on the Passaic River just outside the suburbs of Paterson New Jersey, it is a natural wonder in itself. The Paterson Great Falls are among the largest waterfalls in the United States. The views at the mouth of the river and the entire area surrounding the falls are incredible.
A charming pedestrian bridge crosses the river, treating visitors to an over-the-top experience of the natural spectacle. This unusual and captivating series of waterfalls has inspired poets and Hollywood producers. It is a must-see for visitors to the area.
The Luna Parc house
In the Sandyston Township of Sussex County, New Jersey, lies this fascinating private home that is only open to the public twice a year for just a few days. For the $5 entrance fee, visitors get a unique experience.
A lush forest frames the property and within the special home there is a world of exciting visual stimuli. The interior is full of curious and communal objects, original works of art and more than a million hand-laid mosaic tiles in a spectacular display.
Watchung Reservation Area
It extends over nearly 2,000 acres of Union County, NJ To look reserve is a world apart and offers everything outdoor adventurers visiting the Northeast could wish for. This includes exciting hiking trails, some of which have beautiful waterfalls next to them. There is also plenty of camping and picnic space.
The Trailside Nature and Science Center educates visitors about wildlife in the preserve. There are recommended activities for children during the spring and summer seasons.
Vintage warehouse from Udelco
Hawthorne, NJ is home to the amazing Udelco, Inc. warehouse, where all the great vintage fashion can be rediscovered. The immense building is filled with a dizzying amount of large boxes of vintage clothing, organized by decades and styles.
Looking for wide leg pants? Embroidered treasures? Fashion from different decades gone by? This is the place. Bring cash and browse through the day. Things are well organized, but there is a huge amount of items. Everything is under $20.
South Mountain Reservation Area
This 2,100-acre pristine natural area spans some of the most beautiful areas of four New Jersey counties. The preserve offers abundant hiking, waterfall views, and serene picnic areas. For the quietest visitors, wildlife can sometimes wander past.
Southern mountain is a local favorite because it offers so many areas for nature lovers to explore. Check the reserve maps in advance to choose your favorite sights.
The Kings Spa
If you want the perfect escape from the stress of daily responsibilities, treat yourself to a day at the ultimate spa. The Kings Spa in Palisades Park, NJ is the largest spa of its kind on the East Coast. It offers several floors of saunas, lounges, an exceptional restaurant and an extensive menu of spa treatments.
Available spa sessions include a wide range of skin treatments, massages and even the ultra-luxe 24-carat gold Egyptian sauna. This room is ideal for groups to share the best spa experiences.
The White Manna
Perhaps the world’s best burger joint, this is a favorite of New Jersey locals, world-renowned chefs and food critics alike. Founded in 1946, this small restaurant is one of Americana’s most precious gems. The burgers here are so delicious that they have been featured in several famous news publications and kitchen shows, including Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations.
Visitors enjoy delicious sliders and old-fashioned milkshakes at this quaint little burger joint located in a beautiful natural setting near the Hackensack River.
The Pine Barrens
The Pine Barrens is a peaceful area of natural beauty. It is known by some as the setting for an infamous Sopranos episode and by others as the place where the mythical New Jersey Devil lurks. Aside from the folklore, the area is especially popular for kayaking on the river, walking in the beautiful forest and taking part in nature tours.
This special natural area stretches across seven New Jersey counties, with stone cliffs, waterfalls and many other beautiful scenic views.
Princeton University
Princeton University, located in Princeton, New Jersey, is a prestigious Ivy League institution known for its academic excellence and historic campus. It was founded in 1746 and is one of the oldest universities in the United States. Princeton’s picturesque campus features iconic architecture and beautiful gardens, providing an inspiring environment for learning and research. With a strong commitment to scholarship and a rich tradition of producing influential alumni, Princeton University remains a world leader in higher education.
Madam Marie’s Temple of Knowledge
This unique and fun entertainment recommendation is to visit the little stand on the Asbury Park Boardwalk where the famous Marie Castello opened her shop in 1932 and offered her fortune-telling services until her death in 2008. Dainzie Costell, Marie’s granddaughter, has continued her legacy .
Mrs. Marie was immortalized in Bruce Springsteen’s song and many famous artists visited her. She became known as the Gypsy Queen of the Boardwalk.
