New Jersey’s Best Drives to Keep Your Sanity During COVID-19

The current COVID-19 pandemic has us self-isolated at home. What better way to treat yourself and your family to some sanity than going on a pleasant road trip or just a short drive through the state. So, when it comes to cruising on road trips and long drives, New Jersey offers a generous range of scenic roads. These incredible roads stretch over beautiful landscapes, allowing you to explore the beautiful mountains, enchanting towns, and calm rivers the state is home to.

We have compiled a list of our favorite roads in New Jersey for you to drive through your new car or spend a weekend driving with family and friends.

 

1. Old Mine Road

Stretched over 104 miles, the Old Mine Road is the country’s most widely used old road. It runs from Delaware Water Gap to Kingston, New York. Set in historic times, this road narrates tales from the 17^th century when Dutch settlers moved to New Jersey.

A drive along the Old Mine Road welcomes you with the charming beauty of gushing streams and a magnificent view of wildlife. The route across the Delaware River is host to a beautiful oasis, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful drive close to flora and fauna. Treat yourself to a scenic drive through this rural road while going back in time as you get to visit historic sites on your way.

 

2. State Route 49

Drive through Route 49 for breathtaking views of the Delaware River and The Delaware Memorial Bridge. The suspension bridge gleams with stunning lights at night, providing an enlightened route for travelers to cross the bridge safely during late hours. Explore the southern region of New Jersey via this scenic route as you come across country churches, crab shacks and abandoned stone buildings as you drive along. If you are traveling with photography enthusiasts or are one yourself, then stop by at Elsinboro Point at Hope Creek to capture some beautiful pictures of the landscape. The State Route 49 is also home to coastal wildlife and a wide range of seabird species at the Cape May National Wildlife Range. You can also enjoy views of wetlands and tidal marsh with chirping birds at the Cohanzick Zoo on your way.

3. Palisades Interstate Parkway

The Palisades Interstate Parkway, with its spectacular views, is one of the most scenic roads in New Jersey. It stretches from George Washington Bridge to the Bear Mount Bridge, connecting the two states of New Jersey and New York. Offering beautiful views of the Hudson River as well, this route was opened to traffic back in the late 1950s. It is limited mostly to motorcycles and passenger cars only, prohibiting the commute of heavy trailers and commercial trucks.

This scenic highway drive features opposing roadways that host stone-faced bridges. To enjoy the long drive with some spectacular views, you should make a stop at Alpine Lookout and Rockefeller Lookout. You can also treat your family to a picnic at the Alpine Grove and hike at the Palisades Interstate Park. The route also gives you an opportunity to have an exhilarating bike ride experience at the Henry Hudson Drive.

4. Secret Backway to the Shore

The secret backway to the Shore breathes in the fantastic views of the Atlantic. As evident by its name, this extensive ocean-lined route was once a prized possession only known to locals. However, over the years, this route was discovered by travelers and eventually increased the traffic flow. But the scenic beauty it sits in still blossoms along the coast as you pass by small towns.

One of the leading favorite spots at the Secret Backway to the Shore is Emery’s Berry Farm in New Egypt. This bakery is famous for its legendary pie, served fresh right out of the oven to help you energize for the remaining journey ahead.  The calm views of Atlantic crown this scenic road as one of the best-loved routes in New Jersey.

5. The Pulaski Skyway

This 3,502 miles long four-lane bridge stretches from Newark to Jersey City. It extends over a series of old warehouses, power lines, meandering train tracks, and a shadowy jail. If you drive through the Pulaski Skyway, you are sure to enjoy the mesmerizing city views from over the bridge with skylights elevating the experience of your scenic drive further.

6. Batsto Wilderness Route

Another one on the list is the calm Batsto Wilderness Route. The route is 21 miles long and runs along with New Jersey’s Route 542. It stretches from New Gretna to Hammonton with scenic views to please your eyes along the way. Moreover, to add a heritage feel to your drive, stop at the Batsto Village to enjoy the vintage views of historical buildings and pavements. The Batsto Wilderness Route is not a common route taken by motorists. So, if you find yourself alone on the road, don’t panic, instead enjoy the peaceful drive as you feel the simpler vibes of the route.

7. Garden State Parkway

This last route on our list is known to be the backbone of New Jersey as it forms one of the longest routes in the state It originates from Montvale (on the NJ/NY line) and ends at Cape May. Towards the East of this route, you will get to enjoy some breathtaking views of the Atlantic. And if you wish to capture some artistic content for your Instagram stories, be sure to enjoy the 29-mile strip between Ocean City and North Wildwood. This part of Garden State Parkway is host to magnificent views of blue waters of Atlantic. You can also stop by at the Corson’s Inlet State Park for a picnic during summertime.

The diverse landscapes and beautiful flora and fauna of New Jersey are sure to be enjoyed through long drives on scenic roads. But for a hassle-free road trip that is both extensive and potentially tiring, you need a car that makes your traveling experience worth-while. Our 2020 Kia Telluride with a robust capability is the perfect SUV for your family trip around New Jersey.

 

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