Domestic travel has become a popular choice for many, as 57% of respondents indicated plans to explore the United States in the summer of 2024, The Vacationer’s summer travel and trends survey revealed. With advantages such as flexibility and a lower cost when compared to an international trip, the East Coast presents an array of options for an impromptu road trip. For Pennsylvanians who aim to plan a short summer trip for 2025, a world of wonder can be found just hours away in New Jersey, from Princeton to Jersey City.
Plenty to do in Princeton
Located about an hour from Philadelphia, Princeton is a great choice for those who wish to embark on a day-long trip. Although Princeton is well-known for the prestigious Ivy League university by the same name, the area has plenty to offer tourists beyond the famous campus. Those in search of outdoor adventures, for example, can find a variety of activities to do at Carnegie Lake, where visitors are able to kayak, canoe, and hike. The historic Princeton Battlefield State Park is another location worth the visit, especially for those who want to experience a part of local history. The park preserves the location of the Battle of Princeton, which took place in January of 1777, which resulted in a victory for the American Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Today, visitors to the park can appreciate local wildlife via birdwatching, visit the battlefield, and spend time on a variety of hiking trails found adjacent to the park.
Palmer Square is another popular Princeton attraction. The Palmer Square website highlights several options when it comes to activities, especially since the location boasts a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene that travelers can indulge in. This includes the Yankee Doodle Tap Room (located in the Nassau Inn) that features 16 craft beers, as well as Teresa Caffe, an Italian-style restaurant with plenty of wine, pizza, and pasta. Other attractions found here include Music on The Green, which takes place throughout the year, in addition to tasting events at Corkscrew and classes about cheese with Olsson’s, the Palmer Square site highlights.
From Jersey City to NYC
Located in Hudson County, Jersey City has plenty to offer tourists, from natural landscapes to activities. While the trip from Pennsylvania can vary greatly based on the city you’re coming from, Jersey City is a little over two and a half hours from Forest City. Liberty State Park is just one place to visit, where visitors can become immersed in remarkable views of the Hudson River and Manhattan, visit the Liberty Science Center, and have a picnic lunch outdoors. Visitors to Jersey City can also take advantage of Ellis Island tours, visit the Museum of Russian Art, and enjoy the Skyway Golf Course.
An extended stay in Jersey City is the perfect way to visit other neighboring locations that have an abundance to offer, like New York City. The Liberty Landing Ferry is just one option that operates between the World Financial Center in NYC and Jersey City. According to the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), the ferry stops at Liberty Landing Marina (located in Liberty State Park) as well as Warren Street in New Jersey before returning to NYC. The New York Waterway is noted to be another option, which runs “a number of routes” between Manhattan and New Jersey as well.
For Pennsylvanians who wish to extend their trip to Jersey City, an overnight stay can be a great way to explore the area to the fullest extent possible — especially when the goal is to spend time in both Jersey and NYC. Thankfully, Jersey City hotels bring a range of reputable and comfortable options to the table, whether the goal is a scenic view or easy access to tourist hot-spots. For example, while the Hyatt Regency Jersey City is located right by the Hudson river and features easy access to downtown Manhattan (via ferry), other options such as the Courtyard Jersey City Newport feature modern rooms, views of the skyline (in addition to NYC access nearby). With an overnight stay booked in advance, a trip to New Jersey can become less stressful and more relaxed, and ultimately provides a no-pressure experience.
Short trips are a flexible and convenient option for Pennsylvanians who wish to explore their backyard in a convenient way, and there are no shortage of fantastic destinations nearby. In New Jersey, locations like Princeton and Jersey City have plenty to offer for those who wish to explore the Garden State.
