Money troubles push half of the nation (including New Jersey locals) to skip big trips this year. Instead, they’re finding fun close to home.
South Jersey’s free spots now buzz with visitors. Wildwood’s no-cost beaches pull in crowds, while Ocean City’s boardwalk games and sand keep kids busy all day.
The Cape May County Zoo is a top pick for those wanting to get out and save some dough, as it operates solely on donations. Families can pack picnics and spend hours watching tigers, monkeys, and bears romp around. Kids can race between animal exhibits and playground sets.
Away from the waves, state parks offer quiet escapes. Paddlers glide down Mullica River past old Batsto Village in Wharton Forest. Over at Belleplain, fishers cast lines into Lake Nummy while hikers wind through pine woods.
Each shore town shows off its own flair. Visitors in Cape May split time between sand and scanning the waves for dolphin fins. Ocean City’s wooden walkway fills with laughing families and sweet taffy smells.
Just outside Philadelphia, Haddonfield and Collingswood streets wind past small stores and art spots. Down by the coast, old-time Smithville pulls shoppers into its tiny stores.
Water views make meals special here. Restaurants dot the coast from the Shore to Delaware River banks, serving fresh catches as boats drift by.
From sand to forest trails, South Jersey has plenty to do. Beach lovers splash in waves while others hike shaded paths, all without breaking their budgets or driving for hours.
