Emerging Destinations: Elizabeth, New Jersey
For something old and something new, check out Elizabeth. The birthplace of the state of New Jersey, this 350-year-old city is a great destination for history buffs—yet Elizabeth is also a hotspot for entertainment, shopping and nightlife. Just minutes from New York City, Elizabeth boasts a lively atmosphere of its own. It's no wonder tourists are demanding to visit this emerging destination. Here's what you should know before you go.
1. Stay close to the action.
"Elizabeth is the gateway to the state of New Jersey," said Jennifer Costa, Elizabeth DMO. The city is centrally located and easily accessible by plane, train and car. Even better? Elizabeth is a 27-minute drive to New York City. If city driving isn't for you, Elizabeth also has direct train access into NYC via the Elizabeth Station. With competitive hotel rates, it's possible to stay in Elizabeth for half the cost of hotels in the city.
2. Shop 'til you drop.
Elizabeth is home to the largest indoor premium outlet shopping mall, The Mills at Jersey Gardens. The retail value center is home to 200 stores all under one roof and offers zero percent tax on clothes and shoes.
Yup. You read that right.
3. Explore the globe—but stay in town.
"Travel the globe when visiting Elizabeth, no passport needed," said Costa. Elizabeth is a dining melting pot with more than 50 countries represented in its ethnic cuisine, including Portugal, Italy, Columbia and more.
4. Discover history's best kept secret.
At 350 years old, Elizabeth is one of the oldest cities in the United States with cemeteries and old homes and mansions. Take a walking tour or visit the Liberty Hall Museum to travel through time with tour guides dressed in clothing from specific eras.
5. Use your resources.
A recipient of the 2016 New Jersey Tourism Association Digital Outreach Excellence Award, Elizabeth offers great resources for planning your trip. In addition to a mobile app that allows tourists to stay informed on the latest things to do while in town, the Elizabeth DMO also offers a cutting-edge website complete with drone footage and videos as well as an inclusive tour of a tour operator headquarters with generalized information.
Give EDMO's office a call to take advantage of complimentary personalized service, complete customizations assistance and exclusive planning.
Visit www.goelizabethnj.com or call 908.355.9797 to learn more.
Written by Cassie Westrate, staff writer for Groups Today.
