TRENTON, NJ, July 17, 2024 – New Jersey’s tourism industry looks to be on its way to a strong summer ahead on the heels of a banner Independence Day weekend.
Jersey Shore regions including Monmouth County, Ocean County and Cape May County reported a noticeable uptick in visitor arrivals throughout the weekend, with Monmouth and Ocean counties seeing up to 95% hotel occupancy and 100% Airbnb occupancy. Cape May reported their best 4th of July weekend since 2021, while the Wildwoods, Stone Harbor, Sea Isle City and Avalon all drew better than anticipated crowds of happy visitors.
Beyond the Shore, the Meadowlands in Bergen County was busy with MetLife Stadium’s Copa America games and the Meadowlands State Fair taking place. Additionally, American Dream Mall hosted the Gotham Roller Derby, bringing in even more excitement to the retail and entertainment complex. Up north, Sussex County reported major visitation increases year-over-year, including Mountain Creek (150%+) and St. Moritz Grill & Bar (20%+), with surrounding resorts and campgrounds reporting almost full occupancies.
New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism Executive Director Jeff Vasser expressed his pride in the state’s offerings as well as commending tourism industry workers.
“We witnessed an incredible turnout of visitors who came to experience all our state has to offer over July 4th weekend,” said Vasser. “With the continued hard work of our businesses and partners who go above and beyond to serve our community and visitors, we are optimistic for a strong summer season ahead.”
The positive numbers received over the holiday weekend aligns with recent data compiled by the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, which reported that 2023 saw a 5% increase in visitation year-over-year and a 4% visitation increase compared to 2019.
“With Labor Day weekend on the horizon as well as popular state and county festivals,” Vasser continued, “we expect to keep the momentum going right through fall.”
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About New Jersey
New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers and residents 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 a picturesque escape and dynamic opportunities for visitors from near and far. For more information, visit www.visitnj.org.
Media Contacts:
Lou Hammond Group
newjerseygroup@louhammond.com
N.J. Department of State
Emel Crawford
609.292.7138
emel.crawford@sos.nj.gov
