As the school year comes to an end and finals approach it seems like the only thing I can think about is summer vacation. The weather is getting warmer and instead of being on the beach relaxing, I’m still stuck in classrooms studying. Unfortunately, I won’t be going anywhere extraordinary this year for summer vacation. Some of my past summer vacations have included going to Italy, Universal Studios, the Bahamas, Cape Cod and even Disney World. However this summer I’ll be spending most of my time in New Jersey, and to be honest, I have no problems with that at all. This summer I’ll find out that the best place to spend summer vacation is right in my home state.
To start off, New Jersey is best known for their beaches. There are nearly seventy beaches in Jersey and each one stands out from the other. Each beach has something unique to offer and makes each one worth going to. However, my two favorites are Wildwood and Cape May. Both of these locations are a bit of a ride for me considering that they are off of the last few exists of the Garden State Parkway. But if I’m looking for somewhere to spend a couple of days with my friends or a nice family vacation, you cannot go wrong with these two. Wildwood is best known for their award-winning Boardwalk which features thirty-eight blocks packed with stores, water parks, live entertainment, arcades and over 100 rides and attractions. Cape May also offers tons of restaurants, stores and attractions that are worth exploring. Both offer different experiences but also compliment each other as well.
The Jersey shore maybe the main attraction to New Jersey but there are so many other things to do as well. A major one is spending the day at Six Flags Great Adventure. Six Flags Park is located in Jackson and is situated between New York City and Philadelphia; the park also contains the Hurricane Harbor water park. As well as Six Flags, Jersey has what’s known as the PNC Bank Arts Canter. Approximately 17,500 people can occupy the amphitheater; there are 7,000 seats and the grass area holds almost 11,000 people. Concerts are from May though September featuring almost forty different events of many types of musical styles. The PNC Bank Arts Center is ranked among the top five most successful amphitheaters in the country and is an amazing experience.
Another great activity is to take a ride with your friends down to Atlantic City. Gambling is the main attraction when you’re down there but if you’re under age there are tons of restaurants to try and it’s right by Ocean City. In addition to this, taking the train into Hoboken is another fantastic idea. If you’re looking for a good night out with your friends at the bar and want to go to some top-notch restaurants by the water, Hoboken is the place to go.
Even though I wish I were going to some extravagant island for the summer, I’m completely content with staying in New Jersey. In addition to all of my friends and family being around, there are so many different things to do. New Jersey is packed with plenty to explore and so many new activities to experience.
