Discover New Jersey Through Its Welcome & Visitor Information Centers
Traveling to a new destination often comes with questions, decisions, and the challenge of finding the best experiences. For visitors eager to make the most of their time, there is no resource more valuable than the knowledge and guidance of a local. That’s where New Jersey’s Welcome & Visitor Information Centers step in—offering insights, advice, and personalized recommendations that can transform a standard trip into an extraordinary experience.
New Jersey’s Welcome Centers serve as the perfect introduction to the Garden State, giving travelers a chance to immerse themselves in everything the state has to offer. Strategically located across major travel corridors and urban hubs, these centers ensure that visitors can access expert guidance no matter where their journey begins. Whether your focus is the arts, culinary adventures, outdoor exploration, or the state’s unique cultural and ecological offerings, the staffed centers provide firsthand knowledge that makes every visit richer and more rewarding.
At four of the key locations, personal travel concierges and trained specialists are available to answer questions, provide brochures, maps, and itineraries, and connect visitors with local attractions, events, and hidden gems. Their guidance ensures travelers not only see New Jersey’s well-known landmarks but also uncover the experiences that only locals would know. Visitors can plan scenic drives, explore historic sites, enjoy the best beaches, or dive into New Jersey’s thriving arts and entertainment scene.
For those planning a trip, stopping at a Welcome Center can enhance your journey from the very start. Each location is designed to make your visit seamless, enjoyable, and memorable, whether you’re exploring for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure.
Businesses and attractions looking to reach visitors through these centers can participate by providing tourism literature. The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism offers display and distribution space at no cost for approved tourism partners, ensuring your attraction or service reaches travelers who are actively seeking local experiences. Guidelines for submission and application review are available for prospective partners to ensure a smooth process.
Staffed Welcome & Visitor Information Centers
- Deepwater Welcome & Visitor Information Center
I-295 North, Exit 2B, Mile Marker 2.5, Deepwater, NJ 08069
Phone: 856-351-0194 - Liberty State Park Welcome & Visitor Information Center, Jersey City
CRRNJ Terminal, 1 Audrey Zapp Rd., Jersey City, NJ 07305
Phone: 201-915-3400 - Knowlton Welcome & Visitor Information Center
I-80 East, Mile Marker 7, Columbia, NJ 07832
Phone: 908-496-4994 - Bruce Willis Service Area, Ocean View
Garden State Parkway, Mile Marker 18.3, Ocean View, NJ 08230
Phone: 609-624-0918
Additional Visitor Information Locations
- The Mills at Jersey Gardens Information Center, Elizabeth
651 Kopkowski Rd., Lower Level, Entrance D, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Phone: 908-354-5900 - James Gandolfini Service Area, Montvale
Garden State Parkway, Mile Marker 172, Montvale, NJ 07645
Phone: 201-391-8509 - Rutgers University Visitor Information Center, Piscataway
Busch Campus, 100 Sutphen Rd., Piscataway, NJ 08854
Phone: 848-445-1000 - Somerset County Visitor & Information Center, Somerville
50 Division St., 4th Floor, Somerville, NJ 08876
Phone: 908-218-4300
Planning a visit to New Jersey? Start your journey at one of these centers to unlock a full spectrum of experiences—from historic towns and nature trails to cultural events and world-class entertainment. Let the Garden State’s experts guide you through a travel adventure that’s tailored to your interests and ensures every moment is memorable. For businesses and attractions interested in connecting with visitors, explore opportunities to feature your services and engage with travelers through these key visitor hubs.
Explore New Jersey: A Traveler’s Itinerary Starting at Welcome & Visitor Centers
New Jersey is a state full of diversity, culture, and experiences waiting to be discovered. From the scenic shores of the Jersey Coast to historic towns, bustling cities, and hidden nature escapes, planning a trip can feel overwhelming. The Garden State’s Welcome & Visitor Information Centers are ideal starting points to unlock the best of New Jersey, offering guidance, maps, and insider tips from local experts. Using these centers as anchors, you can explore the state with confidence and ease.
Day 1: South Jersey Adventures from Deepwater Welcome Center
Start your journey at the Deepwater Welcome & Visitor Information Center off I-295 North, Exit 2B. Here, visitors can pick up brochures about southern New Jersey attractions, local wineries, and coastal escapes. Begin your day with a visit to historic Salem County, or explore the Cape May Lighthouse and nearby beaches for stunning fall birding opportunities. For families, the nearby Storybook Land in Egg Harbor Township offers classic amusement park fun with hayrides, pumpkin patches, and seasonal activities perfect for children.
Day 2: Urban Excitement from Jersey City’s Liberty State Park Center
Travel north to Jersey City and stop at the Liberty State Park Welcome & Visitor Information Center. From here, the proximity to Manhattan and downtown Jersey City makes it easy to explore urban attractions. Enjoy waterfront walks, vibrant arts districts, and culinary hotspots. Visitors can also take a ferry to Ellis Island or the Statue of Liberty, blending culture, history, and scenic views. The staffed center provides maps and recommendations to help maximize your city exploration.
Day 3: Outdoor Exploration from Knowlton Welcome Center
For nature lovers, the Knowlton Welcome & Visitor Information Center off I-80 East is a gateway to northern New Jersey’s scenic beauty. From this hub, embark on hikes in Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, explore the rolling landscapes of Sussex County, or enjoy fall foliage drives that showcase the state’s vibrant autumn colors. The center can help plan birding excursions, fishing trips, or scenic rail journeys for a full outdoor adventure.
Day 4: Jersey Shore Fun from Ocean View Bruce Willis Service Area
The Garden State Parkway’s Bruce Willis Service Area near Ocean View serves as the perfect launch for a Jersey Shore experience. Spend the day exploring the southern coast, walking pristine beaches, or visiting charming towns such as Wildwood and Cape May. Don’t miss the Doo Wop architecture in Wildwood, local seafood delicacies, and seasonal festivals that bring communities together in the fall. This area is ideal for sunset views, beachcombing, and family-friendly activities.
Day 5: Central New Jersey Stops for Culture and History
Plan a stop at the Rutgers University Visitor Information Center in Piscataway or the Somerset County Visitor & Information Center in Somerville to access maps and cultural tips for central New Jersey. Explore historic sites, visit local breweries or wineries, and enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences. For a deeper dive into New Jersey’s artistic offerings, check out local theaters and music venues, which often feature live performances and cultural programming.
Bonus Stops for Shopping and Entertainment
The Mills at Jersey Gardens Information Center in Elizabeth and the James Gandolfini Service Area in Montvale provide resources for travelers interested in shopping and entertainment along the way. Plan a stop at Jersey Gardens for outlet shopping, or explore the northern regions near Montvale for hiking, dining, and family-friendly attractions.
Tips for Visiting New Jersey Welcome Centers
- Visit early to gather brochures, maps, and insider tips from staff who know the state best.
- Use the centers to discover seasonal events, festivals, and local entertainment.
- Businesses and attractions can display tourism literature at no cost through the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, reaching visitors actively exploring the state.
A Look at Welcome & Visitor Information Centers
For travelers exploring New Jersey, there’s nothing more valuable than local knowledge. Welcome & Visitor Information Centers across the state serve as the first point of contact for visitors, offering insights, resources, and guidance to ensure every trip in the Garden State is memorable. Beyond just maps and brochures, these centers represent decades of tourism history and a commitment to connecting travelers with the very best of New Jersey’s culture, attractions, and natural beauty.
The Origins of New Jersey’s Welcome Centers
New Jersey’s Welcome & Visitor Information Centers trace their roots back to the post-World War II era, when tourism began expanding rapidly along the state’s highways and coastal areas. Initially, these centers were simple roadside kiosks providing travelers with basic maps and local recommendations. As New Jersey’s tourism infrastructure grew in the 1960s and 1970s, the state recognized the importance of a more structured network to welcome visitors arriving from major urban centers like New York City and Philadelphia. Over time, the centers evolved into full-service facilities with staffed locations offering detailed information on lodging, attractions, dining, and cultural experiences.
The goal has always been twofold: to enhance the visitor experience and to support local tourism economies by driving traffic to attractions and businesses throughout the state. Today, New Jersey’s Welcome Centers combine this legacy with modern amenities, interactive technology, and expert staff ready to provide insider tips.
Staffed and Unstaffed Centers Across the State
New Jersey has strategically located Welcome Centers that cater to travelers across the northern, central, and southern regions. Four centers are staffed by knowledgeable travel concierges, while others provide self-serve resources. Each center is designed to give visitors a warm introduction to the area and to provide guidance tailored to their interests—whether it’s beaches, arts, dining, historic sites, or outdoor adventures.
Key Staffed Welcome Centers:
- Deepwater Welcome & Visitor Information Center
Location: I-295 N., Exit 2B, Mile Marker 2.5, Deepwater, NJ 08069
Phone: 856-351-0194
This center serves as a gateway to southern New Jersey, offering access to historic towns, riverfront attractions, and natural preserves. - Liberty State Park Welcome & Visitor Information Center
Location: CRRNJ Terminal, 1 Audrey Zapp Rd., Jersey City, NJ 07305
Phone: 201-915-3400
Positioned near the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, this center has long been a favorite stop for visitors seeking an introduction to northern New Jersey’s waterfront and cultural sites. - Knowlton Welcome & Visitor Information Center
Location: I-80 E., Mile Marker 7, Columbia, NJ 07832
Phone: 908-496-4994
Located in the Delaware Water Gap region, it offers guidance for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers exploring New Jersey’s mountainous northern region. - Bruce Willis Service Area (Ocean View)
Location: 18 Garden State Pkwy., Mile Marker 18.3, Ocean View, NJ 08230
Phone: 609-624-0918
A convenient stop along the Garden State Parkway for travelers heading to the Jersey Shore, offering rest, food, and tourism materials.
Additional Visitor Resources:
- Mills at Jersey Gardens Information Center, Elizabeth
- James Gandolfini Service Area, Montvale
- Rutgers University Visitor Information Center, Piscataway
- Somerset County Visitor & Information Center, Somerville
Each location provides a unique perspective on its region, from historic downtowns and vibrant cultural districts to scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Why Visit a Welcome Center?
Welcome Centers do more than just hand out brochures. They provide personalized travel advice, event calendars, and even insider tips that are not found online. Staff members are trained to help visitors plan itineraries, discover hidden gems, and connect with local businesses, cultural venues, and outdoor attractions. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Jersey traveler, stopping by a Welcome Center ensures you experience the state like a local.
Integrating Welcome Centers Into Your Travel
For a fully immersive experience, consider planning your trip around these centers. Start in southern New Jersey at Deepwater, make your way through central hubs like Piscataway and Somerville, and explore northern attractions via Liberty State Park and Montvale. Each stop can enhance your journey, whether it’s through discovering local festivals, sampling regional cuisine, or exploring natural landmarks.
Promoting Local Tourism
The centers also play a critical role in supporting the state’s tourism industry. Businesses and attractions can showcase their offerings at Welcome Centers at no cost, ensuring that visitors have access to the most up-to-date information about what New Jersey has to offer. For tourism partners, this is an opportunity to directly reach travelers who are actively planning their experiences.
By using New Jersey’s Welcome & Visitor Information Centers as your itinerary anchors, travelers can experience a seamless, well-rounded tour of the state—from the Jersey Shore to scenic mountains, historic towns, and bustling urban hubs. Each center provides a gateway to personalized adventures, helping you plan a trip tailored to your interests, whether it’s outdoor exploration, family fun, cultural enrichment, or culinary delights.
