10 Best Road Trips to Take in New Jersey
Road trips are one of the many proven methods of relieving stress and improving one’s well-being. Whether you are looking to solo travel, go with a travel buddy, or go with your family members, swerving through the great outdoors is a great idea. Enjoy scenic views, discover new sites, try out new cuisines, and enjoy the majestic outdoors with picturesque landscapes in New Jersey, which has one of the best road trips on the East Coast. Explore the Nationally Recognized New Jersey Scenic Byways and routes with deep histories and legends. Participate in an array of activities, including kayaking, fishing, hiking scenic trails, traveling back in time, and exploring quaint stores. Sit back and browse through to discover your next road trip.
Route 29
Route 29 is a popular road trip route in New Jersey, stretching approximately 35 miles (56 km) along the scenic Delaware River. This north-south route starts in Trenton and winds its way to the charming town of Frenchtown. If you’re eager to explore the northwest region, consider taking Route 12 to Race Street or heading east to Interstate 95. This will guide you onto a two-lane National Scenic Byway in Delaware. The route offers breathtaking views and opportunities for fishing along the riverbanks.
Cyclists can enjoy the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail. History enthusiasts can visit Prallsville Mills or delve into Revolutionary War history at Washington Crossing State Park, where the Battle of Princeton is commemorated.
Delaware River Scenic Byway
If you are on the Route 29 highway, you can make this a joint road trip by taking the 34-mile (55 km) Delaware River Scenic Byway. This magnificent road route leads visitors to the scenic Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge. The bridge is a picturesque destination on a cool day, with the sun creating a beautiful backdrop where you can take keepsake pictures. You will pass through towns like Lambertville, Raven Rock, and Titusville. You should also look forward to seeing fields, farmers at work, and picturesque cliffs.
One of only two New Jersey Scenic Byways registered in 2009, this byway offers more than just scenery. Take a break at South Riverwalk Park, which offers seven acres of scenic outdoors with plenty of space for walking, picnics, and more. Also, don’t miss out on exploring the local shops and eateries that give these towns their unique charm.
Bayshore Heritage Scenic Byway
The Bayshore Heritage Byway offers a unique road trip experience, stretching 122 miles (196 km) from the Mannington Township to the historic Cape May Point State Park. This route takes you through the interconnected Bayshore communities, where you can witness the daily life of these small villages and towns. As you drive along, you’ll encounter numerous birding areas, thanks to Bayshore’s location within the Atlantic Flyway, a critical migration site for shorebirds.
For history buffs, the route is dotted with fascinating stops, including Mauricetown, Salem City, and Bridgeton, each offering intriguing stories from the past. Don’t miss a visit to the Bayshore Center at Bivalve and the East Point Lighthouse. These sites provide a glimpse into the maritime history of the region.
Millstone Valley Scenic Byway
For a shorter but equally captivating road trip, the 25-mile (40 km) Millstone Valley Byway is a great choice, especially if you find yourself in Middlesex County. This 30-to 40-minute drive offers a scenic journey through an area rich in history and natural beauty. The Millstone River, which runs parallel to the byway, played a significant role in the county’s history as a crossing trail for Indigenous peoples, including the Lenni Lenape.
As you travel along Canal Road, you’ll pass through charming landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. If you visit between April and October, make sure to stop at the Griggstown Bridgetender’s House, built in 1834, for a deeper dive into the area’s history. Furthermore, one can check out the Griggstown Causeway, a scenic and short bridge in town.
Pine Barrens Scenic Byway
The Pine Barrens has been a scenic route for outdoor lovers ever since it became a New Jersey Scenic Byway in 2005. It is 130 miles (209 km) long, and visitors can expect to see about five counties and 16 districts on their way. Many wildlife areas, such as the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and Belleplain State Forest, are accessible from this route, offering visitors a chance to explore New Jersey’s outdoor opportunities. Look out for pygmy pines, which are rare in places other than along this byway.
As you traverse this vast expanse of forests, you’ll enter from Batsto and eventually reach the Maurice River, where Port Elizabeth offers a stunning view. Along the way, stop in any of the small towns you pass through to enjoy local cuisine and hear tales of the legendary “Jersey Devil,” a mythical creature said to roam these woods. The Pine Barrens Byway is perfect for those seeking an ecological and geological adventure through New Jersey’s wilderness.
Upper Freehold Byway
The Upper Freehold Byway may be shorter, but it’s packed with historical and natural attractions. This 28-mile (45 km) route is located near Allentown Borough and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich past. Start your journey at Walnford Mill, a beautifully preserved historic site where visitors can tour the grounds and learn the work and process of turning grain into flour.
On your way, explore the historic Upper Freehold Township and the unincorporated community of Hamlet of Imlaystown. Don’t miss Clayton Park, where you can walk the trails of the old Union Transportation Railroad. The Upper Freehold Byway is a perfect blend of history, nature, and local lore, making it an ideal road trip for those who enjoy discovering hidden gems.
Warren Heritage Scenic Byway
The Warren Heritage Scenic Byway offers a picturesque journey through New Jersey’s Warren County, blending natural beauty with historical significance. This 19-mile (30 km) route primarily follows Route 57, stretching from Greenwich to Hackettstown. As you drive along, you’ll encounter rolling hills, charming small towns, and the lush landscapes of the Musconetcong River Valley. Highlights include the historic district of Beattystown, where remnants of the 19th-century iron industry still stand, and Mansfield Township, where you can find one of New Jersey's oldest continuously operating mills. In Hackettstown, you can explore the quaint downtown area with its unique shops and eateries. The byway also offers access to several parks and trails, making it a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Palisades Interstate Parkway
The Palisades Interstate Parkway is a road trip that promises unforgettable memories. This 42-mile (21 km) journey begins in New Jersey, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and its line of cliffs known as Palisades. As you travel north, you’ll reach Bergen County, where the Parkway intersects with the iconic George Washington Bridge. The views from the Rockefeller Lookout and the State Line Lookout atop the 532-foot Palisades cliffs are nothing short of breathtaking.
For those looking to take a break, the Ross Dock and Englewood Picnic Area offer great spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. As you continue your journey, you’ll eventually cross into New York, but the memories of the stunning views and the peaceful drive along the Palisades will stay with you long after the trip is over.
Western Highlands Scenic Byway
Those seeking an outdoor escape from their vehicle will appreciate the peaceful 23 miles (37 km) of the Western Highlands Scenic Byway. Drive along the Newark Pequanock Watershed for a wildlife adventure. If interested, visit Hamburg Mountain Wildlife Management Area, a haven for hikers with unmarked trails winding through dense forests, hills, and lakes for a peaceful experience. Along the way, you'll pass through counties like Sussex and Hunterdon. Explore the historic Black Creek Indian Site for historical tales and scenic views suitable for all. For camping, Wawayanda State Park is an excellent choice, offering birdwatching, hiking, and fishing. End your road trip from Sussex County, New Jersey, by crossing into New York via Route 94.
Route 1/9
Route 1/9 is a key highway offering a scenic drive through urban and industrial scenery. This 31-mile (50 km) route connects North New Jersey to New York City, passing through towns like Woodbridge and Newark. A notable feature is the 3.5-mile Pulaski Skyway, a structural marvel with impressive views. Trucks have been prohibited on the Skyway since 1934, yet it remains an essential connection between New Jersey and New York.
Along the way, visitors can explore vibrant cities such as Jersey City and North Bergen, where activities range from visiting the historic 1910 White Eagle Hall to taking photos in front of the large Colgate Clock.
In conclusion, as you plan your trip through New Jersey's scenic routes, remember that each journey offers more than just a drive — it’s an exploration of the state’s history, landscapes, and local culture. Whether navigating the Pine Barrens, strolling along the Delaware River, or uncovering quiet spots in Warren County, these routes provide an immersive way to experience the Garden State. Pack your gear, start your adventure, and let New Jersey’s scenic byways reveal its secrets.
