New Jersey is one of the most densely populated states in the United States. It has a reputation for high crime and taxes, but it also has some of the best schools in the nation, many parks, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Its transportation system is one of the busiest in the world and funnels goods and people to and from New York City and Philadelphia.
The state is known for its beaches and resort towns, including Atlantic City, Cape May, and Asbury Park. Other popular attractions include the Liberty State Park, which is home to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island; and the New Jersey Botanical Garden, which offers more than 130 acres of plants.
Before Europeans arrived, the land that is now New Jersey was inhabited by Native Americans called Lenape. In 1630, Henry Hudson explored the region and claimed it for the Dutch, who began settling in what they called New Netherland. Throughout the years, the state has accumulated an eclectic mix of cultures and races. Today, the state has more Asian residents than any other U.S. state, and many of its citizens are immigrants or descendants of immigrants.
In addition to the diverse population, New Jersey is a wealthy state with a low unemployment rate and high median household incomes. Its top industries include finance, pharmaceuticals, and telecommunications. The state is rich in natural resources, such as granite, sand, and gravel for mining, and it is a leader in seafood production, particularly clams.
A diverse culture thrives in the state, with a multitude of ethnic and religious groups represented in its arts, music, cuisine, and sports. It is a popular destination for tourists, and the state has numerous recreational activities, including shopping, dining, and nightlife. The New Jersey Performing Arts Center is an excellent venue for concerts, and the state has numerous museums and other cultural institutions.
As for education, the state’s public schools are ranked eighth in the country, and its higher learning institutions include Rutgers University, Princeton University, and the Stevens Institute of Technology. The state is also well-known for its medical research and pharmaceutical industry.
A wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities are available in New Jersey, from swimming and fishing to golfing and hiking. The state’s wildlife includes black bears, bobcats, and red foxes. Its forests are home to red-bellied woodpeckers, northern cardinals, and American goldfinches. Its reptiles and amphibians include spotted turtles, five-lined skinks, and the coastal plain milk snake. Its flowers include black-eyed Susans, orange daylilies, and Queen Anne’s lace. There are also numerous species of birds, such as sandpipers, wrens, and American robins.