Known as the Garden State, New Jersey has plenty to offer visitors and residents who are searching for a weekend getaway. From historical outdoor parks to quaint beach towns, New Jersey is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation and excitement.
Located in Farmingdale, Allaire State Park features a number of outdoor activities and amenities for weekend campers. In the historically preserved 19th-century ironmaking village, visitors can tour a general store, blacksmith workshop and church. Four different trails run through the park, providing hiking and biking routes for exploration. Campers can canoe or kayak down the Manasquan River, or fish for trout from the shore. Nearly 50 tent and trailer sites dot the park, all with fire pits, picnic tables and nearby shower and bathroom facilities. Several yurts--circular tents with wooden floors--are also available.
Six Flags Great Adventure and Wild Safari in Jackson offers thrill rides, family shows and exotic wildlife for families to enjoy. Six Flags boasts several award-winning rides voted by "Amusement Today." On El Toro, riders will experience the steepest fall of any wooden coaster in America. On Nitro, thrill seekers will drop almost 23 stories at 80 miles per hour. Kids can take pictures with Looney Tunes characters or play in the interactive Bugs Bunny Fun Factory. Wild Safari is a wildlife preserve that is home to over 1000 animals. Guests can ride on the auto trail and see giraffes, elephants and lions come right up to their vehicles. Several hotels in the area, including the Holiday Inn and Days Inn, offer packages that include tickets to the park.
Ocean City is a small coastal town that offers people their choice of relaxation or fun activities. Visitors can stroll up and down the boardwalk to eat at the beach cafes, including the uniquely delicious Mack & Manco Pizza, play miniature golf or dance in the nightclubs. On the beach, travelers can soak up the sun and rent waverunners, speed boats or parasails. The downtown area features a shopping district with many family-owned clothing shops and art galleries. Almost every lodging type is available in Ocean City, so depending on your comfort requirements, you can stay in a hotel, motel, guest house, bed and breakfast or campground.
