3 Iconic Places in New Jersey That Look Way Cooler on Instagram

Sometimes, when you visit a spot you've only seen in photos or on social media, the reality doesn't match the images. This, of course, can lead to disappointment when you expect the IRL version of the destination to look like the pictures you've seen. For example, these three spots in New Jersey, while iconic attractions, don't usually look like the photos people post online.

1. Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park - Paterson

Paterson Great Falls, on the Passaic River within its namesake national historic park, is a majestic, roaring 77-foot high waterfall that looks like it belongs in the Pacific Northwest. The water crashes into a rocky gorge, often framed by a rainbow and a historic metal bridge, giving the impression of a wild, protected natural wonder. In reality, though, the waterfall is located in the middle of a gritty, industrial city.

Photos, however, usually crop out the surrounding context. The falls are located in downtown Paterson, surrounded by old factories, chain link fences, and urban traffic. While the waterfall itself is powerful (the second-largest by volume east of the Mississippi), visitors are often surprised to find trash along the riverbanks and to discover that the "nature hike" is largely paved paths in a city park. If you visit during a dry spell, the "roar" can also turn into a trickle.

2. Atlantic City Boardwalk - Atlantic City

Photos of the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk—the longest boardwalk in the world—usually depict glitz and glamor, often with neon lights reflecting off the ocean, high-end casino interiors, and a vibrant beach scene that looks like the "Las Vegas of the East." The contrast between the boardwalk and the city blocks just behind it, however, can be jarring.

What isn't apparent from the images is that influencers and marketing materials focus exclusively on the ocean-facing side of the casinos. Once you leave the boardwalk, within a block or two, you'll run into vacant lots, poverty, and urban decay. Even on the boardwalk, the "glamor" can feel dated, and the casinos can be smoky and worn compared to the polished images you're likely to see online.

3. Red Mill - Clinton

Online images of the Red Mill in Clinton often depict the quintessential idyllic image of rural New Jersey: a bright red mill sitting peacefully on a riverbank, reflected in the water, looking like a scene from the 1800s. In reality, the mill is located right next to a busy highway bridge and within view and earshot of traffic.

Photos of the mill—which is purportedly haunted—rely heavily on framing. Photographers stand in a specific spot across the river to capture the mill's reflection. What the frame excludes is the modern bridge traffic rumbling just feet away and the fact that the mill is part of a relatively small museum complex in the middle of Clinton. It is a beautiful town, but the "isolated rural solitude" suggested by the photo is an illusion.

You should definitely visit these iconic, but a bit overhyped, destinations in New Jersey. Please just be sure to manage your expectations and not put too much faith in the images you see online before you go. What are some other spots in New Jersey that look different online than in real life? We'd love to hear your suggestions over on our Nomination page.

Ready to plan your next adventure to some of the Garden State's iconic spots? Check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for a boost of inspiration.