Explore New Jersey Celebrates Tourism Milestone and Expands Cultural Reach

“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 has spotlighted the state’s historic year for tourism in 2024, announced ambitious forecasts for 2025, and reaffirmed its role as an independent cultural and travel resource for the Garden State.

Figures reveal that tourism reached unprecedented levels, with spending topping $50.6 billion and visitor numbers climbing to 123.7 million. The industry generated $80.4 billion in economic impact, supported 507,833 jobs—8.3% of total employment—and contributed $5.4 billion in taxes, saving households approximately $1,545. Food and drink led spending growth at $14.2 billion, followed by lodging at $13.45 billion and recreation at $6 billion.

Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to welcome 126.4 million visitors and $52.3 billion in spending. With global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and America’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, New Jersey’s reputation as a world-class destination is set to rise further.

ExploreNewJersey.org has become the go-to platform for information, offering extensive coverage of cultural life from music and theatre to festivals and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and coastal recreation. The site also shines a spotlight on the state’s growing craft beverage industry through curated reviews and event photography.

Unlike traditional travel sites, Explore New Jersey integrates broader coverage of politics, sport, and lifestyle. Its vast directory spans thousands of venues and services, from shops and cafés to gyms and entertainment options, serving as a complete guide to what New Jersey has to offer.

By providing independent and wide-ranging insights, Explore New Jersey enhances the broader tourism ecosystem and delivers added value to organisations such as the New Jersey Economic Development Authority.

Full details and coverage can be found at ExploreNewJersey.org.