The Most Fascinating Day Trip Drives Around The Garden State

An open road and a spark for a fun-filled historical adventure will get you far into one of the top day trips around New Jersey.

In the list provided by WorldAtlas, the hustle and bustle of large metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia provide perfect bookends to the 130-mile Atlantic coastline and American history that await you throughout the Garden State.

"These day trips not only provide a refreshing escape from everyday life but also offer a chance to dive deep into the state's layers of history and natural wonders," says WorldAtlas.

Starting us off on this list of the "most fascinating day trips...that are sure to enrich your knowledge and leave lasting memories" is a natural wonder of aquatic aesthetic found right in North Jersey:

Paterson Great Falls

At 77 feet high, Paterson's waterfall is the second-largest by volume east of the Mississippi River. Up to two billion gallons of water cascade down the 300-foot-wide site each day.

During the American Revolution, Alexander Hamilton harnessed the waterpower for manufacturing, leading to the Paterson area establishing itself as an industrial powerhouse. There is now a national park that surrounds the waterfall and covers 119 acres.

Liberty State Park

Easily accessible from Jersey City, Liberty State Park is a more tranquil way to enjoy the beauty of New York City's views. The Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Manhattan skyline are all able to be enjoyed on full display while enjoying one of the park's green spaces and scenic walkways.

The proximity to Jersey City offers a host of restaurants and shops that are just a short ride away on the Hudson River.

Princeton

The storied Princeton University's Ivy League prowess is surrounded by a small, but vibrant downtown walkable area that is filled with history and modern culture.

Whether you are a fan of architecture or boutique shopping, there is plenty to explore before heading over to the historic Nassau Inn's Yankee Doodle Tap Room or other watering holes for a nightcap.

Those looking to explore the creative arts in the area that was once home to the minds of Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison can feast their curiosity with a show at the Princeton Garden Theatre or Labyrinth Books.

Morristown

Take it from George Washington: Morristown is where it's at.

The "military capital of the American Revolution" was once the general's headquarters.

The center of the town, Morristown Green, was a military base in 1777, and is now a historic park bordered by restaurants and modern-day fun like a Topgolf Swing Suite. The walkable nature of the variety of options to enjoy a day, and night, out make Morristown an easy place to revisit.

The Mayo Performing Arts Center has housed some of the biggest names in entertainment over the years, and brings theater, concerts and comedy to the area year-round.

Smithville

The bright lights of nearby Atlantic City shine just as much as the thousands of lights that line the streets and lake in Smithville around the winter holidays. Make no mistake though, this cozy getaway from the fast-paced gambling staple is a year-round destination.

The historic Smithville Inn and the Lakeside Grill are only steps away from a bevy of handcrafted gifts and artisanal foods that can be enjoyed along plenty of walkable grounds.

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