Visitor Information and Guides to Elizabeth, NJ

GoElizabethNJ provides tourists with all the information they need for a successful trip to Elizabeth, NJ. Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, our tools will help you get the most out of your time in New Jersey’s premiere up and coming urban destination.

Fun Facts about Elizabeth

Established in 1664, Elizabeth is among the oldest cities in New Jersey. While many people believe it was named after Queen Elizabeth I, the city was actually named after the wife of Lord Phillip Carteret, one of the two original proprietors of the New Jersey colony. Although it’s currently the fourth-largest city in the state, Elizabeth offers big city charm with the hometown flare many locals were originally drawn to. In 2008, Elizabeth was named in Popular Science Magazine’s list of America’s 50 Greenest Cities thanks to local residents’ and businesses’ dedication to sustainability and green living.

Other fun facts about Elizabeth is that at the foot of Elizabeth Avenue, the first British ship was sunk after the Declaration of Independence was signed. Elizabeth also produced David Naar, the first Jewish mayor of any major American community. Other firsts Elizabeth produced includes the first ice cream soda, the first Singer sewing machine, the first submarine, and the first assembly line automobile producer in New Jersey!

Planning a Trip to Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a diverse tourist destination because there are endless opportunities to soak in the local history, culture, and community. Take a self-guided walking tour through the mid-town district, filled with historical monuments, museums, and New Jersey landmarks. Plan your visit around one of the many local events, like our Waterfront Festival over Memorial Day weekend, or catch a festival during each season. Fill the rest of your time exploring the many unique shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities offered year-round. Check out our online Trip Planner to start preparing for your visit!

Convenient Location

Located just a few minutes from New York City, Elizabeth offers a break from the fast pace of city life while still offering residents and visitors all the amenities of life in the big city, like world-class ethnically diverse restaurants, unique shops, arts, and cultural events. Elizabeth is a great side-trip destination for visitors to New York (at half the cost), and we’re only a short drive from major East Coast destinations like the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City, and Philadelphia. With easy access to most major highways and transportation hubs, Elizabeth is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a weeklong vacation!