The FIFA World Cup has officially arrived, and all eyes are on New Jersey. With MetLife Stadium hosting some of the tournament's biggest matches, including the Final, fans from every corner of the globe are making their way to the Garden State.
If you're one of them, don't spend your entire trip in traffic or packed tourist areas. South Jersey offers beautiful beaches, incredible restaurants, local breweries, charming downtowns, outdoor adventures, and easy day trips that make your World Cup experience even better.
Here's your ultimate guide to exploring South Jersey between matches.
Best Beach Towns to Visit
Ocean City
Perfect for families, Ocean City features one of America's best boardwalks, amusement rides, mini golf, fresh fudge shops, and miles of clean beaches. It's the perfect day trip before an evening match.
Cape May
America's oldest seaside resort is known for Victorian architecture, boutique shopping, award-winning restaurants, wineries, and beautiful sunsets. If you're looking for a relaxing escape, this is it.
Atlantic City
Want excitement after the match? Atlantic City offers casinos, nightlife, live entertainment, celebrity chef restaurants, shopping, and miles of beach all in one destination.
Brigantine
Just north of Atlantic City, Brigantine offers a quieter beach experience with fewer crowds, scenic dunes, and excellent fishing.
Best Downtowns to Explore
Haddonfield
Walk brick-lined streets filled with independent boutiques, coffee shops, bookstores, and outdoor dining.
Moorestown
A classic South Jersey downtown with local restaurants, specialty shops, and beautiful historic homes.
Collingswood
Known throughout the region for its incredible restaurant scene, Collingswood is perfect for food lovers.
Mullica Hill
Antique stores, wineries, farm markets, and charming historic buildings make Mullica Hill a favorite weekend destination.
Where to Eat
Fresh Seafood
Nothing says New Jersey like fresh seafood after a day at the beach. Cape May, Atlantic City, and the shore towns are packed with restaurants serving fresh local catches.
Italian Favorites
South Jersey is home to some of the best Italian restaurants in the Northeast, from family-owned pizzerias to upscale dining experiences.
Diners
No trip to New Jersey is complete without visiting one of the state's famous diners. Whether it's breakfast after a late match or a midnight meal, you'll never be far from one.
Local Breweries & Wineries
Take a break from the crowds and enjoy one of South Jersey's growing number of craft breweries or wineries, many offering outdoor seating and live music throughout the summer.
Outdoor Adventures
If you want a break from soccer, South Jersey has plenty to explore.
- Rent a kayak on the Mullica River.
- Bike through Wharton State Forest.
- Walk the Cape May Promenade.
- Visit Batsto Village.
- Explore Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge.
- Play a round at one of South Jersey's championship golf courses.
Easy Day Trips
Philadelphia
Only a short drive away, Philadelphia offers Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, Reading Terminal Market, museums, professional sports, and one of the country's best food scenes.
The Jersey Shore
From Long Beach Island to Cape May, every shore town has its own personality and charm.
Why Visitors Fall in Love with South Jersey
Many visitors arrive for the World Cup expecting only stadiums and city skylines. Instead, they discover beautiful neighborhoods, waterfront communities, highly rated schools, friendly small towns, and a quality of life that's hard to match.
South Jersey offers something for everyone, whether you're looking for a beach house, a family-friendly suburb, or easy access to both Philadelphia and New York City.
It's no surprise that so many people who visit end up coming back year after year, and many eventually decide to call South Jersey home.
Plan Your Perfect World Cup Trip
The World Cup is about more than the 90 minutes on the pitch. It's about experiencing a new place, creating unforgettable memories, and discovering destinations you never expected to love.
While you're in New Jersey cheering on your favorite team, make time to explore everything South Jersey has to offer. You may come for the soccer, but you'll leave with a new favorite destination.
