8 NJ Towns Named Nicest In The State To Visit

I love seeing lists come out of supposed travel experts who claim to know the best of this or the nicest of that. Sometimes, they hit the nail on the head; other times, it leaves me questioning if these experts have ever even been to New Jersey.

8 Towns In NJ Named Among The Nicest For 2026

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One of those lists just came out, naming Jersey's 8 nicest towns, and I'll be honest, I think they did a pretty good job highlighting some pretty nice towns in the Garden State. And although I don't agree with every pick, the list has a nice variety of what New Jersey is all about.

According to World Atlas, what makes these towns special is that they feature everything that makes them great, in an easy-to-digest and visitable fashion.

What 8 NJ Towns Were Named Nicest For 2026?

So, here are Jersey's 8 nicest towns for 2026, according to the travel experts at World Atlas

8. Livingston

Livingston Township made the list for its great restaurants and fantastic live events that are scattered throughout the year.

7. Clinton

Clinton is a classic Jersey small town, known for its iconic red mill; ask anyone what their favorite small town is, and at least 50 percent of people would say, Clinton.

6. Morristown

They have a Laundromat speakeasy; what's not to love? Morristown is also regularly recognized as having one of Jersey's best downtown areas.

5. Cape May

Yes, we all love Cape May. It's the gem of the Jersey Shore, and its legendary Victorian homes are a gorgeous backdrop for this picturesque Jersey Shore town.

4. Frenchtown

Right on the Delaware River, Frenchtown has a vibrant arts culture that makes this a little town with a lot of personality. Perfect for a full weekend getaway.

3. Haddonfield

Not where the Halloween movies take place... Haddonfield, New Jersey, is known for its strong colonial history and fantastic restaurant scene.

2. Manasquan

I do love Manasquan; just on the other side of Point Pleasant Beach, this town packs a vibrant little downtown with upscale beach charm. The houses around here are jaw-dropping.

1. Woodcliff Lake

We'll wrap up in Bergen County; Woodcliff Lake sits on a reservoir and has a great restaurant scene. The town is incredibly family-friendly and super welcoming for a visit.

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What Town Or Towns Would You Add To The Nicest In NJ List?

I am a little bummed that Ocean Gate didn't make the list. Sure, I'm biased because it's my town, but I think it's the nicest little town near the Jersey Shore. What town would you add to the list?