Newark, NJ Skyline

New Jersey, with the highest population density in the United States, as well as one of the highest median incomes, has no trouble catching peoples attention. Newark, well known as part of the New Jersey / New York megalopolis, is the largest city in the state. Newark's Liberty International Airport is one of the US's busiest, and the Garden State Parkway carries one of the highest densities of traffic and it is one of the nation's safest.

Sports fans know its basketball season and the New Jersey Nets have regular season games scheduled through April. Home games are played at the IZOD Center. Hockey is also in full swing and the New Jersey Devils play through April at Newark's Prudential Center. With the success of the USA Olympic Hockey team, these may be the games to see.

Essex County hosts the 2010 Cherry Blossom Festival in April. Held at the Branch Brook Park in Newark, the schedule is full of events. Enter a variety of cycling events, with various categories, or spend a day at the park amidst the excitement and beautiful surroundings. Runners can participate in a 10K, kids have a special fun run and there is a race for the disabled. The following weekend Bloomfest is held in the park, featuring live music, food, demonstrations and activities for the entire family.

One of the most exciting new sports events is coming to Jersey City in June 2010. The Red Bull Air Race, NYC Jersey City will be base in Liberty State Park. This unique event will be the only one of its kind in the US this year, and it is the 5th race in a world championship event that happens in a few cities across the globe. An air race features lightweight racing planes piloted by the worlds most skilled race pilots. The objective is to navigate the planes through a low-level aerial track made up of large air-filled pylons. Speeds reach 230mph giving spectators a thrilling action-packed experience. This is a rare opportunity to see the cutting edge of a new, innovative and exciting sport.

Fanning out from Newark, visitors quickly enter cities like West Orange where green spaces increase and are well maintained. East Orange was home to Thomas Edison and his laboratory, which are now a National Historic Park. Edison's home, Glenmont Estate, hosts Edison Day in June where you can tour the home or participate in activities on the grounds.

2010 is the 150th birthday of East Brunswick and there will be plenty to celebrate. The actual party in February, is followed throughout the year with events like the 2nd Annual Instrumental Solo and Ensemble Festival, a Relay for Life and the 8th Annual Fine Arts Festival. A great place to travel this spring and summer.

Best Western Hotels in New Jersey are ready to handle all your lodging needs. Whether you are passing through, on a weekend getaway or on vacation Best Western Hotels have convenient locations throughout the state. Convenient and with affordable rates, Best Western will make traveling easy.

New Jersey Shore

Atlantic City conjures images of bathing beauties, boardwalks and piers filled with shops and amusement rides, and the ever-present white sand beaches and rolling waves. Atlantic City and the Jersey Shore have always been popular playgrounds for vacations and residents.

Princeton University, located in Princeton, is New Jersey's only Ivy League University and is the nations fourth oldest University in the US. The University is perfect to see on foot and get up close to the details of buildings dating as far back as the 1700s.

The Princeton University Art Museum is a campus highlight. Current exhibitions include: The Question of Landscape featuring Chinese and Western landscape works dating from the 12th century to current times; The Artist Image with a focus on self portraits by well know current and historical artists; and The Making of a Masterpiece: Nostadella's Annunciation a rare exhibit featuring the sketches, drawings and modern infrared images exhibiting the artist's creative process.

Bordentown, south of Princeton is a delightful city with a variety of events and activities to liven up springtime. The Bordentown Education Foundation is sponsoring the 8th Annual St Paddy's Day 5K. In March this is a good chance to test your winter workout regime or start one for the summer. With winners in nine age groups stakes on winning are high. Bring the family, there is a walk and a kids run also on the schedule. May in Bordentown brings the 14th Annual Iris Festival and Art Show. The festival showcases the juried Iris growers competition, as well as fine art, authors and dining outdoors at many of the cities restaurants.

East of Bordentown is the city of Lakewood. Lakewood in the past was a small town retreat for the wealthy and some presidents. Today, while maintaining its grace and charm has grown as a business center including New Jersey's second largest industrial park. Home to minor league baseball's Lakewood BlueClaws, home games are played at GPU Energy Park. In addition to the baseball diamond, there are 3 picnic areas and a large area for grass seating. All you need for a terrific family outing. A Lakewood BlueClaws game is one of South Jersey's most popular day trips.

The BlueClaws partner with local running clubs to sponsor the BlueClaws 5K race in April. There is a fun run and 5K on the schedule all ending on the BlueClaws field, all participants get a ticket to the game that day. A fun way to spend the day with the family before enjoying a game.

New Jersey's Best Western Hotels are convenient to all the sight and travels of Southern Jersey. Locations close to the Garden State Parkway and I-95 make traveling easy, whether you are stopping for the night or taking the family to a BlueClaws game. BestWestern Hotels affordable rates make it your best bet for lodging along the way.