New Jersey is well known for its beaches, casinos, entertaining boardwalks, and untouched nature. It has a crucial role in American history and a distinctive culture today.
New York City is just across the Hudson River from New Jersey. The state has about 130 miles of Atlantic coast. Jersey City, the state capital, is the home of Liberty State Park, where ferries leave for Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Atlantic City has many fun beachfront attractions, including the Steel Pier amusement park, which features a Ferris wheel and a carousel.
The state is also known for its thriving seafood industry. The coast is rich in oysters, clams, and crabs. Inland, the state produces more than 50 kinds of wines.
One of the most famous towns in the state is Cape May, which has many preserved Victorian buildings. Another popular attraction is the Wildwoods boardwalk, which offers rides and games. New Jersey is also home to the music legend Bruce Springsteen, who grew up in Freehold and Asbury Park.
In the past, New Jersey was a major center of industry and manufacturing. Now the state is home to many research centers and has more than 20,000 companies. Its top manufactured goods include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, instruments, machinery, electrical products, and apparel. Productive farmland covers nearly 790,000 acres in the state. New Jersey is a leading producer of garden vegetables, blueberries, and cranberries. Poultry and dairy products are also important commodities.
Some of the state’s most spectacular natural sights are found in the Pine Barrens, a vast area of forested wetlands in southern New Jersey. These pristine habitats are home to many endangered and rare species of plant and animal. They are also popular with hikers, campers, and canoeists.
The Passaic River is one of the largest rivers in New Jersey. It is surrounded by some of the most densely populated areas of the state, but it also has several pristine waterways and beautiful waterfalls, including the Great Falls of the Passaic, which is the biggest waterfall in the state.
The state is also known for its food scene, with many restaurants and cafes featuring cuisines from around the world. One of the most popular dishes is the hoagie, a sub sandwich that originated in New Jersey. This tasty sandwich is usually made with meat, cheese, and vegetables, and is served on a roll.