14 Quirky Facts About New Jersey That Sound Made Up, But Are 100% Accurate

Anyone who lives in the Garden State knows New Jersey is a quirky state - and that's exactly how we like it! New Jersey is one of the smallest states in the country, but it's densely populated and filled with culture. It's also filled with historic firsts, unique attractions, and record-setting sights and destinations. You might be surprised - even some things you thought belonged to our neighbors are actually New Jersey originals! These 14 quirky facts about New Jersey delve into the state's history - and may just give you a new destination or five for your next road trip!

1. New Jersey Is The Diner Capital Of The United States.

New Jersey has more diners per capita than anywhere else in the world - and many of them still look like they did when they were opened in the mid-20th century!

2. The Atlantic City Boardwalk Is The World's First - And Largest

The Atlantic City Boardwalk was built in 1854, and gives visitors a straight line down an epic strip of resorts and attractions. And in over 150 years, no one has made a longer one!

3. Square Dancing Is The Official State Dance

Designated the official state folk dance in 1983, this quirky old-fashioned dance no doubt brings back memories of gym class for many older residents.

4. New Jersey Has The World's Tallest Water Tower

Standing a whopping 212 feet tall, the Union Watersphere is one of northern New Jersey's most distinctive landmarks.

5. The Monopoly Street Names Come From New Jersey.

These names aren't fictional - they are actually taken from the real streets of Atlantic City!

6. The First Drive-In Movie Theater Was In Camden

Neither cars or movies were at their peak yet in 1933 when the first drive-in theater opened - and this New Jersey original continues to spread today.

7. The World's Largest Spoon Collection Is In Lambert Castle

This Paterson historic site has hundreds of spoons, many iof them with ornate carvings and designs that make them look more like a work of art.

8. New Jersey Is Home To The World's Largest Miniature Collection

This museum features miniature cities, landscapes, and a sprawling rail display that dazzles visitors with its incredible detail.

9. The First Submarine Ride Was In The Passaic River.

Submarines have come a long way since 1878 - but the very first model, the Holland Boat #1, was taken for a test ride right here in New Jersey!

10. There Actually Is An Answer To The Pork Roll vs. Taylor Ham Debate.

Is it Taylor Ham or Pork Roll? That depends on where you live - but the truth is that Taylor Ham is the most popular brand of the breakfast meat known as pork roll!

11. New Jersey Has A Year-Round Old-School Funhouse.

At Jenkinson's Boardwalk, this offbeat attraction takes you through a mirror maze into a surreal landscape of bizarre and hilarious characters.

12. There Is A Volcano In New Jersey.

Rutan Hill is a long-dormant volcano, and the area has become a hot hub for real estate development - which means everyone is very confident it'll stay dormant.

13. You Can Explore A Paranormal Museum In Asbury Park.

Located in a bookstore only minutes from the shore, this eerie destination is the perfect place to learn about famous New Jersey ghosts and cryptids like the Jersey Devil.

14. The Statue Of Liberty Is In...New Jersey?

It's a New York institution - or so they want you to think! Actually, a court case resolved that most of Ellis Island, including Lady Liberty, are part of the Garden State. And the Giants and Jets play here too!

How many of these quirky facts about New Jersey did you know? Do you have any unusual facts about New Jersey you can't wait to share? Let us know in the comments section. You can visit the websites of Northlandz, Jenkinson's Boardwalk, or Paranormal Books & Curiosities for more details on these unusual attractions. For another historic site in New Jersey, check out the state's World War II lookout tower.