TRENTON, N.J, March 1, 2021 /VisitNJ.org/ — The New Jersey Department of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) today announced that four of the state’s scenic byways have earned 2021’s highly distinguished designation of National Scenic Byway (NSB) by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.
New Jersey’s four newly designated NSBs represent the depth and breadth of scenery in America and include the following: Bayshore Heritage, Pine Barrens, Palisades and Western Highlands Scenic Byways. The 2021 designees join New Jersey’s Delaware River and Millstone Valley NSBs, bringing the state’s total federal recognition from two to six roadways. Updated and detailed New Jersey Scenic Byway itineraries for five 3-day trips are now available for download at VisitNJ.org.
“New Jersey’s four newly designated NSBs invite travelers to set off on outdoor adventures, explore historical treasures, and support our state’s local communities with the ease, comfort and safety offered by our advanced roadways,” said New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “Whether you’re driving the dramatic cliffs of the Palisades, the pristine coastline of the Bayshore, the vast wilderness of the Pinelands, or the mountains of our western Highlands, a trip on one of our national scenic byways will leave you inspired and delighted. Plan a drive soon!”
“Each of our NSBs serve as drivers of regional economies, bolstering an array of small businesses, from Main Street storefronts and neighborhoods to world-class destinations and attractions, further promoting, developing and strengthening the Garden State’s tourism industry,” said NJTT Executive Director Jeff Vasser.
Created in 1991, America’s Byways® program recognizes, preserves and enhances selected roads throughout the United States, each one cohesively weaving together the national story of America’s roadways. The “Reviving America's Scenic Byways Act of 2019” requires the U.S. Transportation Secretary to solicit nominations for designation of All-American Roads and National Scenic Byways.
Subject-matter experts on historic preservation, design, cultural resources, visual impact, tourism, economic development, highway safety, federal lands and Native American culture reviewed each of the 63 nominations for 2021. New Jersey shares this year’s honor alongside 30 NSBs representing 27 states across the country, including 15 new All-American Roads (AAR), bringing the total America’s Byway® collection of NSBs and AARs to 184 in 48 states.
To experience New Jersey’s four 2021 NSBs, highlighted in detail below, as well venture out on all eight of the state’s scenic byways, download NJTT’s Scenic Byways Trip Itineraries, showcasing journey points of interest, culinary stops and shopping grounds. For turn-by-turn directions and more information on all of the state’s scenic byways, please visit the New Jersey Scenic Byways section of the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s website. Learn more about the 2021 National Scenic Byways Program at U.S. FHWA.
Visitors and residents are encouraged to explore New Jersey safely and responsibly, in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance on safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before embarking on any journey, please first check with the state’s most up-to-date COVID-19 guidelines, restrictions and re-opening statuses for businesses found on New Jersey’s COVID-19 Info Hub.
Bayshore Heritage: 142 miles
This voyage spans nautical and wildlife highlights, colonial and Black Heritage Sites, and much more. Discover splendid shoreline habitats, crossing over rivers and tributaries and passing through rolling farmland and historic villages. Anchor in Pennsville, Salem, Hancock’s Bridge, Bridgeton, Fortescue, Port Norris, Maurice River Township, Cape May Point and Cape May.
Download the Itinerary.
Pine Barrens: 130 miles
Trek through the 1.1 million-acres of the New Jersey Pinelands, comprising most of the Pine Barrens, which offers a unique ecosystem to explore. Discover five counties’ worth of pristine wilderness, picturesque waterfronts and surprisingly diverse habitats and species. Stop in Hammonton, Tuckerton, Port Republic, Galloway, Mays Landing, Woodbine and Delmont.
Download the Itinerary.
Palisades: 19.1 miles
Along Palisades Interstate Parkway and Henry Hudson Drive, wind your way through wild Hudson River shorefront, woodlands and cliffs, facing New York City. Access 2,500 acres of Palisades Interstate Park—plus stellar skyline views from lofty lookout points. Stop in Fort Lee, Englewood Cliffs, Tenafly and Alpine.
Download the Itinerary.
Western Highlands: 23 miles
Captivating country meets mountain escape in the Western Highlands. Head north through Sussex County to the New York border. Stop in Hamburg, Franklin, Stockholm, Sussex, Hewitt, Vernon and Highland Lakes; along the way, view distinctive mountain ridges and venture onto the Appalachian Trail.
Download the Itinerary.
About New Jersey
New Jersey provides a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax-free shopping, historic sites, museums and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers picturesque escape opportunities for all ages. For more information, explore VisitNJ.org. Follow the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for more events and news throughout the state.
