There’s never a dull moment in New Jersey, thanks to the attractions and sights the state has to offer. This busy and popular state borders both New York City and Philadelphia and many of their suburbs cross over into New Jersey.

You’ll find that New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the US, and has one of the most comprehensive road networks too. In fact, the state has an incredible 36,000 miles of roads.

A few of them are worth mentioning: the I-287, I-95 and I-295 run north to south and the I-78 and I-80 link the west and east of the state. Also look out for State Route 9 that runs down the east coast. The roads are generally good quality but don’t expect them all to be straight grid patterns. Most of New Jersey’s roads bend and wiggle just like European roads. Traffic can be heavy at peak times but it is generally free-flowing relaxed. Note the lower-than-normal speed limits in New Jersey. The maximum speed limit, unless signed otherwise, is 25mph in school zones and business or residential districts; 50mph on all other roadways; 55mph on certain state highways and all interstates; and 65 mph on some clearly-signed state highways.

Also beware that you need to put your headlights on when you are using your windscreen wipers and you can’t have stickers on any of your windows, other than the legally required ones.

Find out more about New Jersey roads and driving rules at the official state website here.

From its university heritage to the beautiful shoreline, the state of New Jersey is urban sprawl of excitement and activity. To ensure you see all the sights, hire a car and add that sense of adventure to your stay. Be sure about the shore

The 130 miles of New Jersey’s Atlantic seaboard include some of America’s most popular beach resorts. Bohemian Asbury Park, for example, has a classic stretch of sand with great surfing opportunities, backed by a stylish boardwalk. Spring Lake is more genteel, with a quiet promenade, traditional B&Bs and upscale shopping village. Point Pleasant is one of the best family beaches in New Jersey thanks to its aquarium, arcades and child-friendly eateries, while the small town of Stone Harbour on Seven Mile Island is a quieter option, with a beach that’s often uncrowded.

Long Beach Island along the east coast is a popular beach area connected to the mainland by a single bridge. And look out for the scenic Liberty State Park on New York Bay facing Staten Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Bright lights and academic sights

This is the seaside capital of old-style American fun, and is famous for its casinos and glittering nightlife. It’s the home of the ‘Miss America Pageant’ and glossy high-rise hotels. But don’t neglect the famous boardwalk, originally built in 1870, lined with amusements, cafes and gift shops. The piers along the sandy beach are full of shops and amusements too. And look out for the six-storey wooden Victorian elephant now open as a museum.

As well as its historic pier, NJ is also home to some of the USA's finest educational establishments. Princeton has become one of the best-known college towns in the world, thanks to its university that dates back to 1746. It’s one of America’s top academic institutions and its alumni range from Scott Fitzgerald to Michelle Obama. It’s a charming old town and you’ll find it’s free to take a stroll through the college campus or book a tour.

A Walk in the Park

New Jersey is home a number of major theme parks, so you can set off in your hire car and enjoy them all at your leisure. Look out for Blackbeard’s Cave, a pirate themed collection of challenging games and water attractions; Six Flags Great Adventure that includes landmark white-knuckle rides, a water park and animal safari; Action Park, an amusement attraction centred around a massive waterpark; and Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks sited right on the boardwalk at Wildwood beach.

New York, New York

Of course, many New Jersey visitors will be unable to resist driving across the George Washington Bridge from Newark into New York City. NYC is a world-class attraction right on the doorstep. Little wonder then that the GW is one of the world’s busiest bridges. It’s quite a sight: with 14 lanes of traffic rushing to and fro. There are other ways into New York from New Jersey but this is the best-known route for reaching attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Times Square and Central Park.

A state well-worth a visit, hire a car in New Jersey and explore everything with picturesque hive of activity has to offer.