Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cape May, New Jersey and Jackson Township, New Jersey
Cape May, New Jersey, is a historic seaside town known for its beaches, Victorian architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Jackson Township, located in the heart of Ocean County, is home to the famous Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park. If you're planning a road trip between these two destinations, there are several must-see attractions along the way. The halfway point of this road trip is Leeds Point, NJ, a small community that was once home to the famous American pirate, Captain Kidd.
Top 5 Things to Do
- Visit the Lucy the Elephant National Historic Landmark
One of the most unique landmarks in New Jersey is Lucy the Elephant, a six-story wooden elephant that was built in 1881. Located in Margate City, just outside Atlantic City, Lucy the Elephant has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is open for tours. Visitors can climb to the top of Lucy and take in panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.
Interesting Fact: Lucy the Elephant is the oldest surviving roadside attraction in America.
- Explore the Boardwalk in Ocean City, NJ
Ocean City, NJ, is another popular beach town along the Jersey Shore. The boardwalk in Ocean City is one of the most iconic attractions in the state, featuring amusement park rides, games, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can also take a bike ride or a morning run on the boardwalk, which stretches for over two miles.
Interesting Fact: The Ocean City boardwalk was featured in the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things."
- Take a Safari at Six Flags Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township is one of the largest amusement parks on the East Coast. While many visitors come for the roller coasters, there is also a unique safari experience available. The safari takes visitors on a 350-acre tour of wildlife habitats from around the world. Visitors can see tigers, lions, giraffes, elephants, and many other animals.
Interesting Fact: Six Flags Great Adventure was once home to the world's largest roller coaster, Kingda Ka.
- Visit the Historic Smithville Village
Smithville Village is a historic community located just outside of Atlantic City that was founded in 1787. Visitors can take a walking tour of the village, which features over 60 shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings. The village also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including an Oktoberfest celebration in the fall.
Interesting Fact: Smithville Village was once the site of a bustling glass factory and later became a popular tourist destination in the 20th century.
- Hike the Batona Trail in Wharton State Forest
For nature lovers, the Batona Trail in Wharton State Forest is a must-visit destination. The trail is over 50 miles long and takes hikers through some of the most beautiful landscapes in New Jersey. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, including deer, hawks, and foxes.
Interesting Fact: Wharton State Forest is the largest single tract of land within the New Jersey State Park System.
Conclusion
This road trip from Cape May to Jackson Township offers visitors a diverse range of experiences, from historic landmarks to thrilling roller coasters. Along the way, visitors can stop at attractions such as Lucy the Elephant, the Ocean City boardwalk, Six Flags Great Adventure, Smithville Village, and Wharton State Forest. The trip route takes approximately two hours, and the halfway point is Leeds Point, NJ, where visitors can learn about the history of piracy in America.