15 Unbelievable Facts About New Jersey That Will Make You Say "Whaaat?"

New Jersey, often regarded as the "Garden State," is a land of surprises. From its quirky history to its diverse culture, the state has plenty to offer. Here's a deep dive into 15 fascinating facts about New Jersey:

1. The Birthplace of the Drive-In Theater

In 1933, the world's first drive-in theater opened in Camden. Today, New Jersey still boasts the most drive-in theaters per capita in the country.

2. The Home of Thomas Edison's Laboratory

West Orange was the site of Thomas Edison's famed laboratory, where he invented the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph, and the motion picture camera.

3. The "Diner Capital of the World"

New Jersey has the highest number of diners per capita in the world. These classic eateries serve up all-day breakfast, mouthwatering sandwiches, and "blue plate specials."

4. The Garden State Parkway: The Second Most Traveled Highway in the US

With an average daily traffic volume of over 600,000 vehicles, the Garden State Parkway is one of the busiest highways in the country.

5. The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Spanning 7,800 acres, the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for migratory birds and wildlife. It's a popular destination for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

6. The Cape May Lighthouse: The Second Oldest Lighthouse in the US

Built in 1823, the Cape May Lighthouse has guided mariners for nearly 200 years. Visitors can climb the iconic spiral staircase to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

7. The Birthplace of Baseball's First Professional Team

In 1869, the Cincinnati Red Stockings were founded in New Jersey. They later became the first professional baseball team in the US.

8. The Sopranos Effect

The HBO series "The Sopranos" has had a significant impact on New Jersey's tourism industry. Fans from around the world visit the state to see the show's iconic locations.

9. The Home of the "Jersey Shore"

With its famous beaches and boardwalk, Seaside Heights is known as the "Jersey Shore." It's a popular destination for summer vacations and nightlife.

10. The Invention of the Traffic Light

In 1912, New Jersey inventor William Phelps Eno installed the first traffic light in Detroit. It was a three-color signal with red, amber, and green.

11. The First State to Legalize Gambling

In 1976, New Jersey became the first state to legalize casino-style gambling outside of Nevada. Atlantic City is now home to several world-class casinos and resorts.

12. The Most Diverse State in the US

New Jersey has the second-highest foreign-born population in the US. The state is home to people from over 140 countries, making it a melting pot of cultures and languages.

13. The Home of the First Woman to Serve on the US Supreme Court

Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a native of Brooklyn, New York, graduated from Columbia Law School in 1959 and was the first woman to serve on the US Supreme Court, from 1993 to 2020.

14. The Most Pharmaceutically Productive State in the US

New Jersey is home to many of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. In fact, 75% of all prescription drugs sold in the US are manufactured in New Jersey.

15. The Crossroads of the Northeast

New Jersey's strategic location at the crossroads of the Northeast makes it a major hub for transportation and commerce. The state has three major airports, two major seaports, and a vast network of highways and railways.

FAQs

1. What is New Jersey's state bird?

• American goldfinch

2. What is the state motto of New Jersey?

• "Liberty and Prosperity"

3. What is the state flower of New Jersey?

• Violet

4. What is the nickname of New Jersey?

• The Garden State

5. What is the capital of New Jersey?

• Trenton

6. What is the largest city in New Jersey?

• Newark

7. What are the three largest industries in New Jersey?

• Pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and finance

8. What is the population of New Jersey?

• Approximately 9.3 million (2023 estimate)

Tables

1. Top 10 Most Populous Cities in New Jersey

2. New Jersey's Economic Profile

3. New Jersey's Transportation System

4. New Jersey's Cultural Diversity