It's no secret that New Jersey is judged and hated by many other states throughout America. Maybe it's because of the TV shows such as "Jersey Shore" or "The Sopranos" that makes us looking like Italians who party too much or Italians who are apart of the mafia. But no matter where the prejudices stem from, I'm here to tell you that New Jersey is a great place to live. We have a great educational system, excellent food and a rich history.
But most of all, New Jersey is amazing in the summertime. Here's all the reasons the next time you plan your summer vacation, you should book the Garden State.
1. The weather is perfect
Unlike the sweltering heat of the South or the too-cold temperatures of the upper North, New Jersey is both hot enough to take a swim and cool enough not to make you melt the second you walk outside.
2. The best beach in America
Ocean City, NJ was voted the "Best Beach in America" in a poll taken by Coastal Living. But New Jersey is famous for all of its shores across its coastline, with great beaches including Avalon, Cape May, Sea Isle and Seaside Heights.
3. Wawa
Alright, I'm going to be honest, Wawa is perfect any time of the year, but it still is another reason being in NJ for the summer is exciting. From handmade smoothies and sandwiches (hoagies) for beach trips to late night snack runs to grab your favorite bag of chips or a couple cartons of Ben & Jerry's, Wawa has it all to add to your summer experience.
4. HoagieFest
Speaking of Wawa, the annual HoagieFest is celebrated by all NJ residents every summer. The cheap, customizable sandwiches are reason enough to say New Jersey is one of the best states in the summer.
5. Fresh produce
It isn't called the "Garden State" for nothing. I know at least three family-owned farms that grow fresh produce such as corn, blueberries, strawberries and more just a mile or so from my town. Have you ever had a Jersey tomato? They're life-changing.
I know it's hard to believe the location of where something is grown doesn't seem that important, but it is. The summer in NJ is prime time for growing the most delicious fruits and vegetables.
6. Hot air balloon festival
The festival is held in Warren County, NJ. It's a week-long festival where you are able to take a hot air balloon ride with your friends or family. There are also races and contests throughout the week. There is no age restriction and they are willing to accommodate big groups of people!
7. A variety of activities
It's hard to get bored in NJ. There are miles of beaches, hundreds of trails to hike, and lots of interesting camp grounds to explore. Want to spend an evening with the Jersey Devil or explore a "Weird New Jersey" site? It'll actually be hard to experience every aspect of NJ in just one summer.
8. Lighthouses
Lighthouses guided mariners back safely through the Atlantic Ocean. They're also great locations to go sightseeing. The fact that you have to climb hundreds of step to reach the top will make the view that much more satisfying. Lighthouses can be found both in North and South Jersey at beach such as Cape May, Sandy Hook, and more.
9. Sunrises and sunsets
What's better than watching the sunrise over the ocean in the mornings and watching the sunset over the bay in the evenings? New Jersey is the place for both early risers and evening dwellers.
10. Six Flags
I didn't realize Six Flags wasn't a national thing until I got to college. Apparently there are only a few locations throughout America, including New Jersey. As a matter of fact, NJ's Six Flags has the tallest and fastest roller coaster in North America, called Kingda Ka (I've been on it, and it's equally terrifying and thrilling).
11. Endless day trips
Because of New Jersey's location, you could take so many day trips. If you're a city-lover, Philadelphia, New York City, Baltimore and Washington D.C. are all close enough to drive to. If you're more into scenic views, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and the Poconos are also a highway away from any town in the state.
