“Explore New Jersey is a leading independent news outlet and guide to events, lifestyle, arts, culture, and travel across the Garden State – Explore New Jersey is your source for everything happening in the Garden State including and not limited to live music year-round, theatre, stand-up comedy skiing, hiking, beaches, rivers, mountains”, says Don Lichterman, the founder and head of Explore New Jersey / Sunset.
Explore New Jersey, a leading cultural and travel guide across the Garden State, has reported on the state’s record-breaking tourism year in 2024, forecasted growth for 2025, and reaffirmed its place as a go-to platform for both locals and visitors.
Official figures reveal that New Jersey welcomed 123.7 million visitors in 2024, with spending surpassing $50.6 billion for the first time. The tourism sector generated $80.4 billion in total impact, sustained 507,833 jobs—8.3% of the state’s employment—and delivered $5.4 billion in tax contributions, equivalent to household savings of about $1,545.
Food and beverage emerged as the largest spending category at $14.2 billion, followed by accommodation at $13.45 billion and recreation at $6 billion. Atlantic and Cape May counties remained at the forefront of New Jersey’s attractions, while forecasts for 2025 predict 126.4 million visitors and $52.3 billion in expenditure.
The state’s international profile is set to grow further with upcoming milestones such as the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.
At the core of this story, ExploreNewJersey.org continues to connect audiences with the state’s cultural richness, from theatre, live music, and festivals to outdoor pursuits including skiing, beaches, rivers, and hiking trails. It also highlights New Jersey’s thriving craft drinks industry, with reviews and photography covering restaurants, bars, breweries, wineries, and festivals.
Distinct from traditional travel sites, Explore New Jersey integrates tourism coverage with updates on politics, sport, and lifestyle. Its extensive directory spans thousands of listings—from coffee shops and boutiques to gyms, studios, and entertainment spots—making it a complete one-stop guide.
As New Jersey’s most extensive and relevant tourism resource, Explore New Jersey delivers insights that often run ahead of mainstream outlets. Its independent coverage supports organisations such as the New Jersey Economic Development Authority by providing a wide-reaching perspective on the state’s cultural and economic vitality.
For further details, visit ExploreNewJersey.org.