People Live Their Whole Lives in New Jersey and Somehow Miss These 5 Places

Think about it: how long have you lived in New Jersey? Has it been a few years or your whole life? Now, think about all of the places around the state you have yet to visit. While the sheer number of attractions around the Garden State is overwhelming, you're not alone. You could be a lifelong resident and still not have seen it all, no matter how many day trips and staycations you take. If you'd like to discover just a few must-visit places in New Jersey that many locals miss, here are five you can start with:

1. The Pine Barrens

Also known as the Pinelands, the Pine Barrens encompass over 1.1 million acres in southern New Jersey, accounting for approximately 22% of the state's land mass. Its unique ecosystem consists mainly of forests, as well as underground freshwater aquifers that provide water for millions of people to drink and for agriculture. As one of the most unique places to visit in New Jersey, you can explore this natural wonder via hiking trails, canoeing or kayaking, cycling, or camping. Birdwatching is another popular activity here. You can also take a drive along the Pine Barrens Scenic Byway

2. Island Beach State Park

Island Beach State Park is a rugged and wild 10-mile barrier island between the Atlantic and Barnegat Bay. With wide sandy beaches, 3,000 acres of dunes, and diverse flora and fauna, it's like an untouched paradise right here in New Jersey. On the island, there are two historic lifeguard stations, over 400 species of plants, and the largest colony of ospreys in the state. There's a fee to enter this state park between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when families come to swim, but it's often quiet the remainder of the year.

3. Kip's Castle Park - Verona

Tucked away in an 11-acre park is a 9,000-square-foot mansion with 30 rooms known as Kip's Castle. Designed in the style of a medieval Norman castle, it sits on First Mountain, offering views of New York City from the property. Also on the property is a 6,000-square-foot carriage house, built with rock and sandstone, that's just as impressive as the castle. Like something out of a fairytale, Kip's Castle is one of the most stunning hidden gems in New Jersey. Best of all, there's no admission!

4. Millbrook Village Historic Site - Hardwick Township

Take a step into the past at this hidden spot in New Jersey. Built on the land where a grist mill was once located along Van Campens Mill Brook, and a community of 75 people lived in the 1800s, Millbrook is now a historic village with a mix of original and replica buildings. During the summer, many of the buildings are open on weekends for tours. Visit the National Park Service website for more

5. Historic Batsto Village - Hammonton

I must admit, I love historic villages, mainly because it's like taking a step back to simpler times, well before the digital world overtook our lives. Batsto Village is yet another historic site, located in the Pinelands of southern New Jersey. Dating back to 1766, Batsto Village offers a glimpse into the past 250 years with a landmark post office, iron furnace, general store, gristmill, and the 32-room Batsto Mansion at its center. Plan your visit by visiting the Batsto Village website.

If you're a lifelong resident of New Jersey, have you visited any of the locations mentioned above? If there's an attraction, whether man-made or natural, you've been waiting years to see, we'd love to hear from you! Please send us a note about it on our nomination page.

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