In the minds of potential visitors, New Jersey may have less shine and luster than its neighbor, New York.
The fact is that when you know who to talk to and where to look, Jersey is a place for those who love to indulge in luxury and embrace all the finer things in life. It is a state of tastemakers, artists, artisans and unique experiences that make it more than worth a visit, no matter the time of year.
Read on to find luxury and exclusivity in New Jersey in 2024.
A.C. is one of the best-known New Jersey experiences, and for good reason. This glittering, neon palace of a city brings in thousands of tourists a year, most of whom are here to indulge in a bit of gambling, a show or two, some shopping, or just generally living the high life. Atlantic City doesn't do things halfway — once you’re here, it's go big or go home.
The famous Atlantic City Boardwalk is open to everyone and anyone who'd like to see it. It offers a particularly great view at night when the sky darkens and the neon lights shine bright.
It's easy to party like a rock star in AC. You’ll want to start your experience with a charter airplane trip into the city (you can land at Atlantic City International, which is outside the city) and then move on to your next destination in style by booking the BLADE experience in your own chopper. Helipads are plentiful in AC, so your chopper will be able to land at many distinguished hotels and casinos. All of the best casinos in town have VIP programs that offer different packages to their high-rolling clients, so enquire about those before you book your stay, and you may get access to better rooms and entertainment. You can skip the velvet rope at the HQ2 club (Ocean Casino) when you book a VIP table. You’ll get plush seating and tableside service from a model cocktail server — the perfect night out.
If you prefer the luxury of quietly contemplating some captivating art, spend some time at Grounds for Sculpture instead. This exquisitely maintained 42-acre park is also a museum and arboretum on the former New Jersey Fairgrounds. It has been open to the public in its current iteration since 1992, but being open to the public doesn't make it any less of a luxury, as is experiencing any art. Grounds for Sculpture is, without a doubt, one of the premier cultural destinations that the state has to offer and is something you don't see every day. Thanks to artist and philanthropist Seward Johnson’s vision, this NPO curates a collection of contemporary sculptures of the highest quality. The program also rotates its exhibitions in indoor galleries with outdoor pieces on display.
The gardens offer an escape from the bustling cities of New Jersey and are a place where you can experience another luxury — unspoiled and safeguarded nature. The 42 acres of land here hold meadows overflowing with wildflowers and butterflies, a beautiful pond with its flourishing ecosystem, manicured pathways, reflecting pools, and a wealth of native and exotic flora.
In contrast to Atlantic City, Cape May is quaint and charming in that classic all-American small-town way.
The town is known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and stunning, pristine beaches, and life is lived at a far slower pace here than in the city. Just because this place can be described as charming doesn't mean it is devoid of luxurious and exclusive experiences! Quite the opposite.
Book your accommodation at Congress Hall, and you’ll sleep in what was once known as “the summer White House,” thanks to its well-known guests.
The hotel is in the heart of the lovely Victorian district, so there's lots to see and do on your doorstep. The linen is hand-dyed, the brass is antique, and the Sea Spa is second to none.
There's also The Virginia and Cottages, an exquisitely restored 1897 building in the historic district. Valet parking isavailable, as is a pool and a delicious continental breakfast.
If you want luxury and exclusivity but also a high-class experience in a high-class location, it doesn't get better than this: Trump National Golf Club is a refined and beautifully landscaped establishment in the serene and picturesque Somerset Hills.
There is a world-class, award-winning 36-hole golf course and a selection of amenities to entertain anyone in your party who is less golf-mad than you. You can definitely bring your golf carry bag that perfectly matches this prime location. The clubhouse, an expertly maintained and exquisite 1939 Georgian Revival marvel, is home to an Olympic-sized pool, tennis and paddle courts for burning off a bit of excess energy, social events that run all year, five-star service, and lavish accommodations as well as a fitness center.
General, corporate, junior, and non-resident member packages are available. What's not to love?
New Jersey has luxury down to the tee. Whatever your tastes, there's something to tempt you here in Jersey. Who knows — you might want to stay.
