TRENTON, NJ, July 10, 2020: New Jersey’s tourism industry experienced signs of hope for a recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic over the Fourth of July holiday with destinations around the Garden State providing positive indicators.
Helped by beautiful weather, The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism is reporting high consumer interest with businesses and communities enjoying unprecedented success.
“We were pleased that people were outside and enjoying the state’s offerings in a safe and responsible manner,” said Jeffrey Vasser, executive director, New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism. “The feedback we’ve been getting from industry partners indicates that interest and desire for what we have to offer, especially our outdoor activities and dining, remains strong.”
“Hats off to the businesses and workers who serve the New Jersey tourism industry,” said Vasser. “They’ve worked so hard during this unprecedented time and have done so cooperatively throughout the pandemic to ensure the health and safety of our visitors, residents and industry workers. There is no doubt in my mind that those who take advantage of what we have to offer here will continue to be very pleased.”
Some examples of July Fourth business feedback from the New Jersey tourism industry include:
Atlantic City
Casinos reported very strong occupancy overall for the weekend after reopening.
Campgrounds
The campgrounds in New Jersey had a very good holiday weekend; reservations were high, and they continue to receive visitor inquiries.
Cape May
Cape May County had robust visitation. Rental numbers were very good, and visitors flocked to the resort towns. Reports show that July Fourth was the best weekend so far this season for industry establishments, and restaurants were busy with outdoor dining protocols in place, and most compiled a wait list. The beaches were busy, and the boardwalks in Wildwood and Ocean City drew in many visitors and residents, alike.
Long Beach Island
Many hotels were either fully booked or only had Sunday reservations available for the weekend. Vacation rentals continue to be make strides on pace with 2019.
Meadowlands
Restaurants with outdoor dining were very busy throughout the weekend.
Monmouth County
The county saw abundant out-of-state visitors at the beaches and outdoor dining establishments. Several beaches, including Monmouth Beach and Bradley Beach, sold out of daily passes early every day during the holiday weekend. Local staff and volunteer ambassadors worked with guests to ensure social distancing guidelines were followed.
Newark
Tourism officials expressed overwhelming satisfaction with the city, not only during the holiday weekend, but throughout the pandemic. Restaurants quickly adapted to dining al fresco and the city, including parks, are continuing to reopen.
“As we continue our phased statewide reopening, we expect New Jersey’s appeal to visitors to continue to grow steadily and solidly,” said Vasser. “Our proximity, accessibility, abundant natural offerings and, of course, our fantastic industry partners all position us well for recovery.”
About New Jersey
New Jersey offers a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Visitors 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.
