New Jersey Hidden Gems: Best Places to Drive

Jun 18, 2024

New Jersey is a state brimming with scenic beauty, rich history, and charming towns. While many may think of the Garden State as a land of highways and industrial areas, it’s also home to some hidden gems that make for delightful driving destinations. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, here are some of the best places to drive in New Jersey, showcasing the state’s hidden treasures.

1. The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning 70,000-acre park that straddles the Delaware River. Known for its beautiful hiking and biking trails, the area is home to numerous waterfalls, including the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, Raymondskill Falls.

Route 615: Start your journey on Route 615, which runs parallel to the river. This route offers breathtaking views of the water and the lush, surrounding forests. Along the way, you’ll find numerous spots to stop for a hike, picnic, or simply to take in the views.
Old Mine Road: This historic road runs along the New Jersey side of the Delaware River and offers a picturesque drive through the recreation area. It’s one of the oldest continually used roads in the United States, dating back to the 17th century.
Raymondskill Falls: Make sure to visit Raymondskill Falls, the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania, located just a short hike from the road. The falls are a series of cascading drops that provide stunning views and excellent photo opportunities.

2. The Palisades Interstate Parkway

Running along the Hudson River from Fort Lee, New Jersey, to Bear Mountain, New York, the Palisades Interstate Parkway is a beautiful stretch of road that offers stunning views and a serene driving experience.

Alpine Scenic Overlook: Stop at the Alpine Scenic Overlook for a panoramic view of the Hudson River and the New York skyline. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
State Line Lookout: Another must-visit spot along the parkway, the State Line Lookout offers breathtaking vistas and access to hiking trails.

3. The Pine Barrens

The Pine Barrens, a vast area of forests, rivers, and unique ecosystems, offers a different kind of driving experience. It’s an ideal destination for those who love the tranquility of nature and the thrill of exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.

Wharton State Forest: Drive through Wharton State Forest, the largest single tract of land in the New Jersey State Park System. The forest is crisscrossed with dirt roads and trails that lead to hidden lakes, historic sites, and the mysterious Batsto Village.
Batona Trail: For a more adventurous drive, take the roads that parallel the Batona Trail, a 50-mile hiking trail that runs through the heart of the Pine Barrens.

4. The Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore is not just about boardwalks and beaches; it also offers some scenic drives that showcase the Atlantic coastline’s beauty and charm.

Ocean Drive: Stretching from Cape May to Atlantic City, Ocean Drive is a picturesque route that takes you through quaint beach towns, over scenic bridges, and alongside beautiful beaches. Highlights include the historic Cape May Lighthouse and the Wildwoods with their famous boardwalk.
Route 35: Another fantastic coastal drive is Route 35, which runs through towns like Point Pleasant Beach, Seaside Heights, and Lavallette. This route offers stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the local attractions.

5. Skylands Region

The Skylands Region in northwest New Jersey is known for its rolling hills, lush forests, and charming small towns. It’s a perfect area for a leisurely drive, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.

Route 206: Take Route 206 through the Skylands to experience some of the most scenic drives in New Jersey. This route will take you past farms, forests, and historic sites. Stop in the town of Chester for a bite to eat and a stroll through its quaint downtown.
High Point State Park: Drive to High Point State Park, home to the highest elevation in New Jersey. The drive up to the park is beautiful, and once there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area from the High Point Monument.

6. Princeton and the Surrounding Countryside

Princeton, famous for its prestigious university, is also surrounded by scenic countryside that’s perfect for a leisurely drive.

Route 27: Drive along Route 27, which takes you through the heart of Princeton. You’ll pass by Princeton University with its stunning Gothic architecture, as well as charming shops and restaurants.
Hopewell Valley: Explore the rural roads around Hopewell Valley for a peaceful drive through farmland and rolling hills. Stop at one of the local wineries or farms for a taste of local produce.

7. Lambertville and New Hope

Lambertville, a charming town on the Delaware River, offers a picturesque setting for a scenic drive. Just across the river is New Hope, Pennsylvania, another delightful town that’s worth a visit.

River Road (Route 29): Drive along River Road (Route 29), which hugs the Delaware River and offers beautiful views of the water and the surrounding countryside. The drive between Lambertville and Frenchtown is particularly scenic.
The Bridge: Cross the bridge into New Hope and explore its eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The drive back and forth between these two towns offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and cultural experiences.

8. The Garden State Parkway

While the Garden State Parkway is often associated with traffic and commuting, parts of it offer surprisingly scenic drives, especially in the southern part of the state.

Cape May County: The stretch of the Parkway that runs through Cape May County is particularly beautiful, with views of wetlands, forests, and the occasional glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean. Exit at various points to explore the charming beach towns and natural areas along the way.

New Jersey’s hidden gems offer some of the best places to drive, revealing the state’s diverse landscapes and rich history. Whether you’re cruising along the scenic Delaware Water Gap, exploring the serene Pine Barrens, or enjoying the coastal charm of the Jersey Shore, there’s something for every driving enthusiast. So, next time you hit the road, consider these destinations for a memorable and scenic drive through the Garden State.