Top 10 SHOCKING Things I Learned Traveling to NEW JERSEY For the FIRST Time

New Jersey is quite the interesting state. In this video I'll go over 10 shocking things I learned the first time I traveled there in the Fall of 2022.
Cities Explored: www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mi...
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New Jersey Jughandle Video:
• Why You CANNOT Turn Le...
Driving Tours around New Jersey Cities:
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Sources and other Info:
Image Credit
Armand85 at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 creativecommons.org/licenses/..., via Wikimedia Commons
Rutgers Poll on Gas Pumping:
eagletonpoll.rutgers.edu/wp-c...
Fairleigh Dickenson Poll:
publicmind.fdu.edu/2012/pumpedup/
2012 US Census Map:
www2.census.gov/geo/maps/econ...
NJ Municipal Boundaries Map:
www.state.nj.us/transportatio...

[@__hjg__2123]

As someone from New Jersey who now lives in North Carolina - this may be the nicest things anyone has ever said about Jersey :).........

[@sasz2107]

I fully agree!

[@cmans79tr7]

One big oversight in the top ten list is the heavy stop and go traffic getting to work,😢.

[@sonnypruitt6639]

Look at that! Unbelievable! Right there at 8:27! Stop the video ! Look at the billboard! Breast Reduction Covered by Insurance!!! Amazing!!!

[@TimothyHester77NJ]

Newark born and raised. Live in Texas now. This video actually brought a little tear of pride to my eyes. Nice job.

[@rickysig]

It’s really a good state but the politicians have f-d it hard in the @ss over the years, which is why a lot of folks eventually leave.

[@beaniez3061]

As a Jersey girl, I want to point out that Jersey’s three regions are actually North, Central, and South. :)

[@robant5578]

Which i still don’t understand, why western parts , such as Newton , Wantage , are called north if they are clearly on the west ))

[@oscarwinner2034]

The regions are easy to figure out. Get Philly television stations? You're south. NYC tv = north. The areas that get a mix of both = central.

[@kristianlolo2677]

"Central Jersey" is a lie told by people that live in the most northern parts of South Jersey so they don't have to associate with them. Central Jersey doesn't exist. North Jersey is North of the Driscoll, South Jersey is south of the Driscoll. These are the facts.

[@robant5578]

@@kristianlolo2677 and what the hell, or where the hell : "Driscoll" is????

[@kristianlolo2677]

@@robant5578 Driscoll bridge, on the pkwy. Crosses over the Raritan River. That is "What the hell" and "Where the hell" the Driscoll is.

[@capitanbob7143]

Coming from a Jersey resident I couldn't be more pleased with finally hearing someone who enjoyed our state that is often overlooked.

[@jerseydrillmovement8235]

Same

[@poopshoes7579]

It’s overlooked because outside of the food it sucks. I should’ve left the overpriced dump years before I did

[@jerseydrillmovement8235]

@@poopshoes7579 your mind state sucks if you toughen enough to live here just say that 😭🤣

[@stevehicks8944]

I enjoy Cape May; the rest of Jersey you can keep!

[@LSCBTHEWAVY]

I just seen a random ass youtube reel and the guy was like "im staying in jersey for a week BUT THIS THE BEST STATE IVE EVER BEEN TO YA SKYS LOOK NICE EVERY DAY ITS LIKE GOD PUT FRUITY PEBBLES IN THE SKY AND CALLED IT ART" to then be like " YEA IM COMING BACK TO JERSEY CUZ I LOVE IT HERE" Context the sky was setting ona summer night and if u from jersey uno how that sky be hittin

[@dj4everplaychillertheater584]

I am a 53 year old man and I’ve lived in New Jersey all my life. I visit other cities and other states, but I find New Jersey is a state of convenience. You have everything in the states from the mountain areas the country areas, urban areas and the ocean property fronts. Basically, I love New Jersey, L O L.

[@kathym6603]

That's the spirit!!

[@jerzeeguy9093]

Here's one for you: I'm almost 67, retired from the government, and have been all over this great country of ours. But I came to realize that Jersey's like every place else - but NO PLACE IS LIKE JERSEY! And I'm glad I'm still here after all these many years.🗽

[@lscales6131]

I hate the taxes though. It’s way too high.

[@jerzeeguy9093]

@@lscales6131 Taxes are high. Jersey's not the place for those without means. Nonetheless, you do get what you pay for...

[@lscales6131]

@@jerzeeguy9093 tell that to people in places in Camden. They still have pretty high taxes and it all goes to their city council. Sorry I don’t mind living in NJ but for the amount we pay for taxes we don’t get a lot in return sure our schools are better than most but not much after that.

[@jerz7657]

As a proud New Jersian, my favorite part about this state is that you can drive to NYC, Philly, Go to the Jersey shore , the boardwalk, the Pocono mountains, and farms out west, all routes are between a half hour to an hour and a half drive. Its very convenient in the summer. there is never nothing to do in NJ in the summer fr.

[@LoneLee2022]

That's what makes Jersey Special.

[@ZombieBacon13]

My problem living in jersey is the winters. During winter it feels like nobody does anything and I don't blame them.

[@LoneLee2022]

@@ZombieBacon13 We had a relatively mild winter. Only 3/10ths of an inch of snow.

[@Jerry16776]

It’s perfectly located for sports fans between NY teams & Philly teams.

[@pbear216]

You're out of your mind if you think you can drive 40 miles or more in an hour in Jersey. I lived in Moorestown and it took me an hour to drive to my job in Mt Laurel 5 miles away. I could literally walk faster to work than drive!

[@keving1318]

As someone who has lived in New Jersey for the vast majority of my life, it was very nice to hear someone talk nice about the state. Honestly you spoke better of it than most residents do! Thanks so much and enjoy your travels. Ps: Hope you had a chance to experience an Italian Hotdog and Taylor Ham while you were here.

[@michaelbiehl4562]

Everyone knows it Pork Roll, not Taylor Ham, my friend.

[@l00k4tstuff]

Former residents of the Garden State call it a nice place to be _from_. ;) I still cherish having grown up in Hunterdon County.

[@michaelmcmanus5196]

He speaks nice about Jersey cuz he gets to leave. Lol

[@MileageMike485]

@@michaelmcmanus5196 😂

[@sweariefaerie9621]

​@@MileageMike485You laugh, but we're not even joking.

[@amaliacoyarzun9953]

Never ever dreamed or think of moving to NJ. But life landed me here, and after leaving FL for good, I found myself in NJ. And God, how much I love this state. It's a gem. Diversity, great food, great pizza, great bagels, great delis, great people, great neighbors, beautiful towns, they call it the Garden State for a reason. I know one day I will move back to my country for retirement, but I find it hard to leave this state. It's got four seasons, great parks, lots of wild animals in your backyard, people love their wildlife: foxes, geese, turkeys, deer, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, birds, and the occasional bear. People stop for animal crossings, and you dont want to hear how many cat colonies are taken care of. A dog on the lose? A whole town trying to find it's owner, even cops commit to help. No wonder it's so highly populated.

[@ClebyHerris]

It’s just a bit expensive

[@amaliacoyarzun9953]

@@ClebyHerris but you can make the money to live here.

[@JonathanAllen0379]

I'm extremely interested in knowing where exactly in New Jersey this is, since I've never experienced this anywhere I've ever been in the state, though I admit I was only ever there for work and was forced to spend an inordinate amount of time in the crappier areas in the northeast.

[@Cape-Dweller]

😮police lieutenant in my town said he wasn’t looking for MY dog, but that’s exactly why the neighbors called.

[@boattune0411]

diversity is a reason?

[@joannemeller9126]

I've lived in NJ all of my life, and enjoyed your perspective. But I was hoping to see you highlight some of the beauty of our state; rural areas, historical sites, pinelands, waterways and other natural areas, since so many people view us as just a pass-through to New York...turnpike, etc. And I do believe you can find a diner at least every couple of miles!

[@newtoncooper4085]

As a New Jersey native, who lived 15 years in the rural South, then returned, it was like coming back to 3D, color enhanced, high definition, sensory overloaded everything. We're crazy, eccentric, neurotic, energetic, colorful and sometimes annoying characters, but NEVER BORING, and neither is the food, ahh, the food. Also the world's best bars.

[@joeyg29jgjg]

yup thats exactly how id describe us lmao

[@gardenvariety9957]

I always tell people, "if ya wanna eat good, ya gotta come to New Jersey"

[@stoneEdshot]

Fukin A, yous guys know!!!

[@dhorubaPRIME]

Jersey food rocks! That is the best thing about my home state!

[@jerseydrillmovement8235]

💯🤣😭

[@pissupehelwan]

I am from NJ. About the gas thing - it is actually quite nice to have the gas pumped for you in the freezing cold days of winter. We don't envy the "freedom" to pump your own gas that people from other states "enjoy". On top of this free service, our gas is consistently cheaper than most other states where they make you pump your own gas. Also, we are kinda tired of being subjects of nasty stereotypes (not your video though - this one is a rare objective exception), most of which are either outdated or just outright nonsense. Been in NJ for 24 years - love it.

[@kathym6603]

Good points.

[@julietteoscaralphanovember2223]

Been here 60 years, can't wait to leave once my husband retires, property taxes are killing us!!

[@jpbaley2016]

Gas used to be cheaper until we were hit with the 30 cent increase on gas taxes as Christie was exiting.

[@nickhudd2011]

@@julietteoscaralphanovember2223 I would say it's a great place to grow up, live, have a family, etc, but not a great place to retire. My parent's retired to FL and it's just so much cheaper if you're on a fixed income like that.

[@julietteoscaralphanovember2223]

@@nickhudd2011 that's our plan as soon as my husband retires in a few years. We want to find a small home in the keys! Idk if I'd want to live on the mainland of Florida, but definitely moving south!!

[@JonSudano]

Bonus of not pumping your own gas: you can run inside Wawa and get a pretzel and a coffee and your tank is full by the time you get back

[@MyDigitalCult]

wawa pretzels are the best

[@oriolesfan7807]

I can do the same w/o someone else pumping the gas for me. The handle has auto shutoff when the tank is filled.

[@mortsnerd5100]

I hate when people do that when I'm waiting for the pump and they're still in the store. It's very rude.

[@mortsnerd5100]

@@oriolesfan7807 Some states like New York won't let you lock the pump handle on.

[@isaiah5654]

As someone from Philly who goes into New Jersey a lot. I’m nervous I’ll get my car stolen that way

[@allicat140]

As a former NC resident who’s lived in NJ for 18 years, you brought back many of the first impressions I had about NJ. They are now part of the life I love in the Garden State (another surprise-it’s beautiful when you get off the turnpike or parkway)

[@corriemayo2715]

The thing about the vistas from the turnpike around Elizabeth and northward is that what you see largely is the ‚ugly‘ side of a capitalist, consumer society. The smokestacks, tangle of highways, abandoned warehouses and factories, etc tell of the history of the industrial boom that made the US the orenuer economic and military and scientific powerhouse it became and still is today to a large extent, all of it centered immediately outside of NYC. There‘s beauty and truth in its ugliness

[@redrick7369]

If you never made the trip, head north and west, near High Point. Around fall is best, it's a sight.

[@manfredmann2766]

@@redrick7369Totally agree, it is as nice as Vermont. Lived in NJ for 6 years (first 4 in Middlesex County and the last 2 in Hunterdon) and driving the 206 was very scenic to get there. I really enjoyed the towns along the Delaware River from Lambertville all the way to the NY state line. Enjoyed the towns along the shore too, but it was less crowded and more relaxing for me to visit the western part of the state when I had vacations from school or work. Miss the weather in NJ as I write this, because it hit 115 today where I live in Arizona.

[@frankmerrill2366]

@@manfredmann2766 Middlesex County? I LOVE Metuchen! It doesn't hurt at all that my best friend lives there. (I live in Chicago, so it's a trek to visit him and his partner, because I never fly in.)

[@Thommadura]

Did you know that the worlds leading Heirloom Tomatoes are Grown in New Jersey- and they constantly win International Competitions. The best seeds for Tomatoes were developed by Rutgers University Agriculture department as well. WE also grow leading Blueberries and Peaches too.

[@CoffeeCatsKPop]

Ocean Spray pays RU for the cranberry varieties! Also, NJ hazelnuts are amazing and I hope they grow more (I work for NJAES research lol)

[@toadofsteel]

I've lived in NJ my whole life. I knew about how attended gas stations, jughandles, and our ridiculously tiny municipalities were a Jersey novelty, but I never realized that assigning police to road construction wasn't something practiced across at least the densely populated areas of the country. It just seems like a good idea.

[@eyepicyou]

That was something that I first came across a few years ago myself. It surprised me when they had both ends of a street shut down for some work done on the street.

[@diezel5267]

Jersey b&r here. I never knew this either. It's like learning that jughandles aren't everywhere all over again.

[@actuary33]

Who could forget those circles. Every week someone got killed in a car wreck

[@samanthab1923]

Having grown up in NJ I’m use to it all. Moved across the river to PA & it’s like stepping back in time. Bridges out, roads closed & no detours! Insanity. At least in Jersey the traffic might be bad but they get you there. Here, you’re on your own. State liquor stores? The gas thing. Thank god I only have to cross a bridge to my old friend NJ to get things done 😆

[@actuary33]

@@samanthab1923 grew up in jersey too. Had friends in pa its like the stone age there. Never would move there.

[@Phobophobia03]

As someone who's lived here my entire life, I feel like it's the northeast's best kept secret. Despite the constant flack it catches as the armpit of the country it's the most developed state with tons of variety. From rolling mountains to beaches on the coast it's an awesome little state.

[@blueskiesflyer]

As a New Jerseyan, sometimes you take for granted the quirks of this state, the "all turns from right lane", pumping your own gas and so on... it''s always fun to watch a video like that and see how people are surprised by something you find so normal.

[@lesyankee6129]

Thanks so much for the positive review of our "Garden" state. I've been living here for over 50 years. If you get off the big highways there's still lots of rural areas of farms, forests, hills and state parks for camping, hiking and and nature to enjoy (and of course the beaches). And no, I wasn't paid to say that and don't work for the NJ Division of Tourism. Honest! 😊

[@lesyankee6129]

@@user-yy4ux9zf4r I'm glad you're skeptical. That's a good quality. But I honestly don't work for the state. I felt the need to say that in my last comment because as I reviewed my words it sounded so much like a commercial that i didn't want it to sound insincere. Full disclosure: I DID ONCE work in Trenton for the state as an intern in 1987, but not for tourism or parks.

[@Thommadura]

@@lesyankee6129 Did you know that the National Radio Broadcasters Hall of Fame is in NJ? Did you know that the original Rainbow Room Wurlitzer pipe organ is installed in the Rahway Senior Center and there are free concerts most months.? DiD you know that NEW JERSEY was the FIRST STATE to allow women to vote for President - it was legal from the beginning for ALL land owners including women. I live in rural NJ - have a Large Property which is a Pumpkin and Tomato farm - and have no houses on the South side of the street where my farm is. And yet I live within commuting distance of NYC.

[@lesyankee6129]

@@Thommadura No, I did not know those things. Thanks! 🙂

[@andrehowlen7493]

the versatility in Jerseys geography is endless

[@Jean-ni6of]

@@andrehowlen7493 So are the taxes.

[@DG-fe4ht]

Lifetime Jersey resident here and retired trooper… you nailed it bro! Everything in your video was spot on!

[@adessachui7777]

Now that is something good about N.J! The police are excellent! However, I would never live there again. EVER

[@matthewcimorelli4002]

I love living in Jersey. We’ve got great beaches, mountains, major cities, farmland with superb fresh produce (especially tomatoes, corn, and peaches) all within a couple hour drive from pretty much anywhere in the state. The only thing you missed was our other major toll road - The Garden State Parkway which runs along the Eastern Shore from Cape May all the way up past NYC.

[@evinramos]

I live 3 minutes from Stella's farms. DELICIOUS WATERMELON AND CORN, AND THE STRAWBERRIES OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@AltimusPrimeG1]

Good take from someone visiting the state. It is good to hear positivity towards NJ as in movies and TV all you hear is people talking down about NJ. I have lived in NJ for the entirety of my life with the exception of being born in a Philadelphia hospital, 49 years ago. It is unfortunate that much of our farm land is disappearing to make way for more developed land, but that is what happens when you are a very densely populated state. The farm land land that remains though is quite beautiful. Our beaches can be quite nice as well, it does cost to go on to our beaches, but that price helps keep our beaches maintained.

[@sharoncirillo2978]

I was born and raised in NJ and recently moved despite my better judgment. EVERY state has its issues, deficiencies, and strengths. NJ has so much to offer: NYC and PA access, great medical care, job opportunities and unemployment benefits, lakes, beaches, streams, forests, hiking, four beautiful seasons, Taylor Ham 😂, and so much more. I never took it for granted when living there, and I eventually see myself in a quiet, rural, NJ town again. Yes, there is snow. But NJ knows how to handle it. Yes, it’s not cheap, but you get what you pay for. Even the work ethic trumps that of other states. And while I was always team north-even South Jersey has more to offer (and less snow) than many coastal southern states. I make the best of where I am at-but I will never forget from where I come. Nice video and well depicted.

[@markkotulich8401]

In the other half of the state, we call it "pork roll." 😁

[@gabrielhoran4525]

​@markkotulich8401 the correct half of the state

[@jerseythedog]

Taylor ham! Fugeddaboudit!

[@indeck77]

Thanks for using the correct term "Taylor Ham".

[@NathanSimonGottemer]

@@gabrielhoran4525 no, no, it’s just the other half

[@LessDougDeMuro]

I’m a New Yorker (from NYC) and I’ve driven halfway across the country, and I’ve always thought New Jersey honestly has some of the most interesting and unusual roads, despite them being a bit confusing when i was a new driver 😂

[@TenguTalks]

Route 22 from Somerset-95 is my second favorite "scenic" road in the country, because it doesn't look like it should exist that close to NYC. But its like driving the mountains without driving the mountains. Local flavor for days, and The Flagship as you leave it. I go out of my way to drive that road whenever I can.

[@vietnamvet4533]

And some of the worst drivers for sure when they were flying up RT87 in NY. But got to say the state pretty much blows.

[@paulgould1820]

Born and raised in Charlotte - lived there 35 years. Job took me for 12 years to New Jersey. Mostly LOVED it … sometimes hated it … but it was a great experience. You CAN pump some gas - apparently diesel (they think those folks know more about pumping gas) and if you are filling up a container for something like your lawnmower or snowblower. Turnpike is AWESOME since the remodeling of it but it did used to be terrible. Garden State Parkway is also nice, but not quite as awesome as the NJT. Thank you for the video … now missing my 2nd home!

[@vietnamvet4533]

@@paulgould1820 How you like those wall to wall Dumbocrats? And all who took a portion of your hard earned money to pay for those greedy K-12 union teacher, cops, firemen etc like them? And how about at shore, yea what shore!

[@pogo9876]

@@vietnamvet4533 I'm sure blowing is something you know A LOT about. Smh. Good for you, little guy!

[@billr8564]

As a person who was born, raised, and spent 65 years in NJ before moving to another state, I appreciate the video and the nostalgia of seeing many of my old haunts! Nice job!

[@MillerMeteor74]

In my 59 years I've only lived outside of NJ for 18 months. Most of those things are what I grew up with, though I've never had a reason to drive the Turnpike or US 1. I thought you might mention how rural most of the southern counties are. I love NJ, except for the cost of living, and the ban on bags in the stores.

[@jim6584]

Funny I hated the Bag Ban too but came to the realization I don't buy as much in the grocery store as I used to. It cut down on the impulse buying of junk. Also there aren't as many empty plastic bags in the parking lots. Some people also were rather lazy with the plastic bags only putting 1 or 2 things in each bag and leaving the store with 10 bags for 25 thing they just purchased.

[@jacktion1546]

I grew up in NJ. I haven’t lived there for the last fifteen years, but I will always consider myself a Jersey boy. We take major pride in our home state (although the North Jersey - South Jersey rivalry is pretty intense). A lot of people like to make fun of NJ and think it’s a terrible place to live, but to paraphrase Don Draper: We don’t think about you at all.

[@shawn_530]

Once a Jersey boy, always! Come back home to visit us soon!

[@jacktion1546]

@@shawn_530 I was just there on Sunday. I only live about an hour away.

[@davidfrischknecht8261]

What about central Jersey? I live in New Brunswick, so I don't consider myself to be in North Jersey or South Jersey.

[@davidratte1959]

Proud left handed young man from NJ!

[@jacktion1546]

@@davidfrischknecht8261 People from North and South Jersey will tell you there is no Central Jersey. They will lump you into either North or South based on your sports team of choice and/or your stance on the Taylor ham vs pork roll debate.

[@laurarivera5875]

I live in NJ and was actually surprised by your perspective. I never really thought about jughandles being unique or how efficiently the NJ TPK was constructed. Interesting to see it from an outsider's perspective. I love not having to pump my own gas! 😊 The one thing I would have liked to see in your video is the beautiful rural areas (where I live). People tend to think of NJ as one megalopolis along with the Jersey shore. It really is more than that

[@raphael9783]

What's with the reluctance to pump your own gas? I'm really asking? Is it just historical (it's always been this way/ afraid of change)? It just seems like a really small thing to be against. I liken it to bagging your own groceries at a grocery store. I'm from Minnesota so the very thought of having someone waiting outside in the winter to do something I can do myself just seems crazy. I'd feel lazy and guilty. I'm not saying this to come at you, I'm just brain vomiting on the situation. But why though?

[@janellynn2769]

@@raphael9783 I suppose its sort of a luxury. Its nice not having to get out of your car when its snowy/rainy, or you're tired. The employees usually have a small shack at the gas station to sit in and scroll on their phones, or read between cars, not usually the convenience store attendant (unless its a very small store). I never pumped my own gas, its just something you've grown up seeing. Hope this answers your question!

[@raphael9783]

@@janellynn2769 It does. I hope he does more of these about different places. I'd be interested to see/know what's normal here in Minnesota that's weird everywhere else, I'm sure there's something. I guess you get caught up in your own way of life that you think it's normal and is done everywhere. Here's one thing. Here in Minnesota, we apologize for almost everything.

[@janellynn2769]

@@raphael9783 For sure, I always took for granted some of the things mentioned in this video!

[@Thommadura]

@@raphael9783 It has been my experience that once they remove the need to have attendants, then even though they are supposed to have a person to aid handicapped they generally only have ONE person in a Locked cage who will not come out. (I am disabled and have only one leg). I take note that Gasoline in NJ is less expensive than in most states around NJ - like NY and PA.

[@augustacorns]

I moved out of NJ to Georgia 8 months ago, and I never realized how great NJ is until now. I miss it so much. There are so many things there that can't compare anywhere else. The food, the diversity, the gorgeous trees, the produce, the seasons, the beach, the history, the gas stations, the stores, the proximity to NYC and Philly. I want to go back to my home, and I'll never complain about it again.

[@tomofwc]

Bread and circuses...

[@castroh19]

Its nostalgia. I am the sameway. I moved from IL to WI same feeling.

[@VinicioLiquey]

I’m in the boat as you. I moved to Tampa, my wife and kids love it here but I’m miserable here, I miss my Garden State!!!

[@CFPVideoProductions]

Excellent view point from an out of stater. I was born, raised and have spent all but 5 years in the state. This is the nicest view and analysis of life in NJ. Normally "we get no respect." I wish you could come back and report on other benefits of life in NJ. You did an excellent job on the more populated regions. We do have some wonderful farm and country like areas. It is said we have more cows than people. I don't know if that is still true. Thanks for your hard work.

[@benjaminserino6611]

I know we have more horses than people per square mile

[@dcseain]

New Jersey is also beautiful as you explore beyond the highways and larger cities.

[@jerzeeguy9093]

Mos def!

[@msenecal]

As a resident here it is nice to hear some positive points about New Jersey. My wife was born and raised in NJ. She is now retired an can proudly say she has never pumped gas in her life.

[@LoneLee2022]

During bad weather it's a plus.

[@rrjt1011]

That’s really not something to be proud of. Guess she can never leave the state now. Before we got married, my GF at the time didn’t know how to pump her own gas until she came down to Maryland to visit me. Had to show her more than once how to do something the rest of the country learns as a rite of passage alongside learning how to drive.

[@LoneLee2022]

@@rrjt1011 Good! Get wet and cold when you have to step out of your car to do it!

[@rrjt1011]

@@LoneLee2022 idk what gas stations you’re going to, but most modern ones have canopies that protect you from precipitation

[@LoneLee2022]

@@rrjt1011 They do?

[@blueb4829]

I lived in NYC for 23 years and in PA for 8 years. With NJ being so close to these two states, I'm always there and do agree that it's a wonderful state.

[@BryanCarthell]

I’ve lived in the Philly region of NJ my whole life. It’s refreshing to hear someone not treat NJ as a joke. Something else I often have to explain to people is that in spite of its dense population, you don’t have to go far to find less dense rural areas either. Thank you for this video.

[@larry4111]

Exactly! I lived in Philly for 36 years and spent a lot of time in Jersey. Whenever anyone commented to me about density, I told them to take a look at South Jersey on Google Earth and zoom in on all the farmland - not to mention the Pine Barrens.

[@laundryroom9002]

@@larry4111 south jersey is best jersey

[@larry4111]

@@laundryroom9002 Yup! Totally.

[@uzin0s256]

@@laundryroom9002central jersey is better. Although Princeton is amazing

[@robgelfand2414]

I grew up in Brooklyn NY and eventually moved to NJ 27 years ago. The thing that floored me at first was that when walking in my neighborhood people would stop and say hello and if I was outside the house and the police drove by they would wave - that was culture shock for me. The other thing that totally shocked me was when I was planning my daughters first birthday party. I ordered several different types of food from different places - not one place even asked for a deposit. Reading the police blotter was a hoot! A typical item was one such as "harassing phone calls with tones and beeps" - this was obviously someone who dialed the wrong fax number, but it was reported and published in the local paper.

[@chazzx1018]

Not the whole state. Certain regions have alot of hostility and anger. See Newark and other outlying cities. Just as brutal as any other cities.

[@jerseydrillmovement8235]

💯

[@reh303]

Native born New Jerseyan (and still living here). When I started college in Florida, pumping my own gas and making u-turns at intersections was a bit of a culture shock.

[@frankdenardo8684]

Saw a grade z cop film that took place in Newark, New Jersey, but was actually filmed in either Montreal or Toronto, Canada Big flub was the gas station scene. New Jersey, like Oregon, does not allow motorists to pump your own gas. Military installations and bases are exempt.

[@tommidakota37]

omg, the u-turns still freak me out

[@colin_henry1]

As a central/south Jerseyian, was fun to see which photos I knew of! Was surprised I recognized more things than I expected, even my favorite Chinese takeout spot 😂

[@bkslippy1]

As someone who has only lived in my little New Jersey box, it is fascinating hearing a what someone from elsewhere thinks is remarkable about our state. I didn’t know it’s unusual to have the entire state incorporated. I do want to add that you must have gotten lucky or not been on the turnpike during rush hour because it gets atrocious.

[@gjd8849]

I was born & raised in NJ and returned here after 17 years of living elsewhere. While expensive, the quality of life is better here than in many states. Many of my neighbors are from other states (NC, VA, IL, PA, NY ) and they are pleasantly surprised with NJ

[@DialloMoore503]

I’m moving there.

[@vietnamvet4533]

Yea ex NY here and the only thing that surprised me about NJ is how much of a ghetto state it is, the Oranges, Newark, AC to name a few. And the way you drive man, plus a toll every 10 feet on the Garbage State parkway. Oh and PS to your neighbors they need to get out of those big blue states and try some red ones, like here in Florida the difference is amazing!

[@gjd8849]

@@vietnamvet4533 NJ has more than 550 municipalities and you have judged all of them from the few towns that you’ve named. I’ve seen many Red States including FL and they all have bad areas. I’m inclined to say that FL is the trailer park capital of the US and there are certainly more homeless and more crime per capital there than in NJ. Glad you like it there. You can have it. BTW, I’m a conservative and Navy vet myself.

[@vietnamvet4533]

@@gjd8849 Yea well lived in NY for 60 years and I can tell you couldn't stand those Jersey plates in my rear view mirror, ruddest drivers i have ever seen. Plus been to AC a million time, dump, stayed at the shore bigger dump compared to CA, and here in Florida. Just my opinion, but I dislike any big Blue state, to many rules, to many do nothing K-12 union teachers, cops etc, too high cost of living and way to many Dumbocrats voters and the leeches that live of their taxing of the middle class.. But if you like it stay, oh and thanks for serving this once great country of our.

[@LoneLee2022]

Zoo Jersey is Special. Just the most ignorant people.

[@georgepeterson9696]

I was stuck in South Florida for 27 years. Moved back to NJ in 2016 and have never regretted it. It's really a great state.

[@krisone63]

Just when the housing crisis was in effect, good luck with the highest property taxes in the country and an income tax that goes where? Everything is taxed to support the infrastructure yet you still pay income tax? why?

[@barodrinksbeer7484]

@@krisone63 NJ is ranked 19th in overall tax burdens, so its not the worst or best. But, it definitely has its impacts.

[@JafferManiar]

Hey Mileage Mike, Your videos on New Jersey and the Jug-handles prepared me well for what to expect when visiting the state from Ontario last month. New Jersey is really interesting. While it doesn't have the wow factor but there are so many ways you can explore and discover new things in everyt region of the state.

[@vishnumuralidharan9858]

Thank you for posting this video , talking positively about NJ. Me and my wife still miss it, 4 years after moving to the west coast. The gas station part is the most convenient and Wawa is an emotion. The hassles of living in NJ are primarily related to taxes and the unreliability of NJ transit if you have to commute to New York for work, especially in winter.

[@majorsynthqed7374]

The New Jersey of today is not the New Jersey I grew up in. Finally moved out of the state at retirement. I lived in Mt. Laurel and Marlton, right next to Cherry Hill. Spent summers in Brigantine (Next to AC) and Stone Harbor. South Jersey is a different vibe from the NE part of the state. Better have millions if you want beachfront property.

[@mmnj6963]

I grew up and lived in NJ for more than 50 years. It was so nice to see someone take an objective view from an outsider’s perspective, instead of recycling the normal cliches. Also, I was impressed by the level of detail, all the way down to forms of municipal government. Well done, and thank you! (BTW-this may be the only time that I’ve heard someone give a positive view of the Turnpike).

[@gregsmith4817]

He also had a positive review of Route 1! 😅🤣

[@marionsforza6543]

Absolutely agree!

[@mmnj6963]

@@gregsmith4817 yeah, that was a big surprise.

[@rainbowrhodes261]

I’m 14 years in Jersey City and I love it. We are literally “chill town”. Good music, good food, good people, and sooo easy to get around. I haven’t had a car since 2017! I rent one to go out of town. Lol.

[@lizzybennett2590]

45 year old NJ resident here. When I went on vacation to Florida a few years back, a retired New Jerseyan and new Floridian came to my hapless rescue by explaining how to pump gas. He said he recognized a fellow NJ resident by my puzzled face as I looked around for a gas attendant! LOL

[@yinzerwx]

Moved to NJ 3 years ago from PA and honestly never looked back; I had a blast my first 2 years along the Raritan, and though to a slightly lesser extent, I'm still loving it in the Philly suburbs... I used to crack all sorts of jokes about Jersey when I was living back home in Pittsburgh, but I'm gladly eating my own words

[@jerzeeguy9093]

😊

[@CrytpoCompass]

Respect.

[@patdonnelly9392]

Thanks for giving Jersey a 'thumbs up'! We are a much maligned state. I've lived in Ca. and Wyoming (Wyoming was cool), but came back to Hackensack. Now I live in beautiful Cape May. I don't know why people make fun of us. I see no reason to leave here. I'm dug in!

[@dougadkins7006]

Once a Comet, always a Comet.

[@jerzeeguy9093]

Amen!!!

[@LoneLee2022]

I lived in 3 other states. Always came back. Jersey is Special.

[@adessachui7777]

It's not the people, it's the corruption

[@TemporaryParticipant]

They make fun of us because they want to be us! 🤣

[@richb4099]

Born and raised in the Newark area and I live near RT 80 50 miles west from the GWB 75 years old....NJ is still a great place to live. Probably never live anywhere else....

[@helterskelter171717]

This is all so interesting to see from an outside perspective! I grew up in Connecticut but with the majority of extended family in SE Pennsylvania, so I spent a LOT of time driving through NJ. The NJ Turnpike is indeed amazing and worth every penny of the tolls, plus it provided the most exciting part of every single road-trip as a kid since a section runs right next to the tarmac of Newark airport. You can almost guarantee something will always be taking off or landing as you drive by on clear days. I'm always sad I can't just stare at the airport action on the way by anymore since I'm usually the one driving these days hahaha.

[@user-jr2pe2og2u]

Not sure if you were able to go on the Palisades Parkway but that road and it's rest areas along the Hudson river are beautiful.

[@robant5578]

Unless you are Alpine resident , you don’t go on palisade ))

[@MileageMike485]

I did. It was pretty nice. Didn't have time to stop at the rest areas though.

[@arlenegomes5520]

Hi I live in Kearny, New Jersey. Thanks for the positive video you made about my state! We always hear all the bad stuff that people say about New Jersey so it was nice to hear you say you liked it. Too bad you didn't see how pretty some areas are and how great the farms are. The shore towns are nice, especially Cape May which I am very fond of. Thanks again for your positivity!

[@melissak6238]

I was born in Belleville and grew up in Kearny!

[@kjmwired]

In 1950 I was born & raised in Essex Co,NJ; though we spent every July thru August with grandparents & family on St Pete Beach, Fl. It was wonderful & I can't tell you how blessed I feel that experiencing both of these states. I now reside full-time in St Petersburg, Fl. Over the years, though, I've come to learn that living in New Jersey had so many benefits that I was unaware of at the time. I'm definitely a warm weather person, though at heart. That being said, all the positive things you stated about NJ are so true & fresh in my memories. My parents moved to Seminole, Florida in 1979 & wanted us to come also. One of the main reasons we didn't relocate was because of the educational systems. My husband , from Fort Wayne, In still always pumps my gas . 😂 My girlfriend's laugh, but then they say they point out I really spoil him other ways, so I guess it all works out in for the best. I love to hear stories about my brith state because, usually, they're really good. I think the things that makes Jersian's the most upset is when people are unknowledgeable & assume that we're all just like New Yorkers which is a total misconception. Anyway, I'm delighted you got to see an enjoy NJ but mostly to shed light on it for others who have never been there. ❤🏖Kj in Tampa Bay 🥰

[@GardenStatePusher]

Great video that made me appreciate Jersey a lil bit more

[@stevenwilgus5422]

I spend the first half of my life in New Jersey. For a small State, The variety in the State makes it seem much larger that it's geography would have one believe. Southwest is marshland, Southeast if beautiful Atlantic beaches, Northeast is the population center, Northwest is rural mountains. In the center, there is pine forest. A traveler would be shocked to experience a trip about 35 miles apart. The path from the Rural Northwest and NYC is special.

[@javierclyburn5688]

You described it perfectly. What a lot of people don't know is that NJ is very diverse geographically. They just assume it's all cities and factories from seeing it at Newark airport or riding through on the highway. It's much more to the state.👍🏾

[@stevenwilgus5422]

@@javierclyburn5688 Thank you Javi. I love my home State and our people.

[@srsykes]

I am a Jersey-Guy all the way. I have lived in other places and there is doubt in my mind this is the place for me. We don't get winters like the Dakotas or Minnesota but it does get COLD and snowy in the dead of winter. Our summers of high temperature and high humidity (we call it a 90 and 90) can be very uncomfortable too. That's why the politicians know to leave our "No-Self-Service" law alone. I open the window just enough to get the credit card out and then relax in my car in the comfort of my car whether it's 98 or 6 degrees outside. And where I am, right across the river from Philly, the gas is cheaper too. Thanks for you kind words about the Garden State; but PLEASE DO ME A FAVOR...STOP IT. We got a good thing going here and many of us know it too. We don't want outsiders moving in and changing things. We pay lots taxes in NJ and we get lots back for our taxes. We have good roads, decent transportation, and take relative good care of our elderly and poor. And we have some good schools too. We are not perfect, far from it. I have travelled to many states and in lived in several. I will take New Jersey over any of them. You did not get to see what gives us our name. Garden State is not some outdated moniker. We have the best white sweet corn and our tomatoes rank supreme. With just over nine million people, we don't need any more. Let them keep it up the "joisee" jokes and the stupid stereotypes.

[@DaisyG33]

My husband and I served, and now one of our daughters serves, in NJ government agencies. Many of the comments herein praise NJ, but yours is the first to acknowledge the services the NJ public, and those passing through NJ, benefit from by virtue of the taxes collected. While I may overhear ugly remarks about "lazy" state workers, speaking for my own family, many of my coworkers, and myself, our dedication to serving the people of NJ extended to hours well and above our salaried hours (in my case, sometimes working overnight, even if overtime could not be approved, to make sure our attorneys were trial-ready, just because it mattered to me). NJ has problems, sure, but it's a probem-solving state with hard-working, problem-solving employees.

[@TemporaryParticipant]

This was a great video. They _say_ it's illegal to pump your own gas here, but no one has ever stopped me or said anything. In fact, the attendants are usually appreciative. Also, thanks for not showing too much of South Jersey, it's a hidden gem that I hope stays hidden.

[@LISE_NR]

born and raised in nj and i love it here! my parents were too, and i grew up in the nyc suburbs about an hour out. currently am living in the trenton area like 40 mins from philly. most of my friends/folks i know from jersey have a strong appreciation for their home state, even those who’ve moved away. yet the rest of the country LOVES to rag on it. i’ve never understood the reasoning. i long for little living here and find it hard to imagine a region of the states that would have more to offer me in comparison.

[@rakshaandreassen5472]

Thank you for the positive review of NJ!! I have lived in NJ since 1972 and love it here!! Yes it is expensive but that’s what you pay for good schools, educated people, good jobs and moderate politicians!! We care about healthcare, women’s rights, voting rights, environment, civil rights etc etc Those who don’t like NJ are welcome to live wherever else they want to live!!

[@jerzeeguy9093]

💯

[@workingrich8464]

Voting rights? One must provide ID to register and subsequently signature verification. What about all the poor people who don’t have ID?they can’t register to vote!What about illegals who don’t have acceptable ID? Must remember that with mail in voting the Paterson elections were thrown out. Every legitimate vote must count. Women’s rights? Abortion? Legal.

[@mizaqenyad4269]

@@workingrich8464why should non citizens be allowed to vote though?

[@workingrich8464]

@@mizaqenyad4269 because they will vote for the democrats who will give them more free stuff in exchange for their votes.

[@vincentperratore4395]

The narrator was well spoken and was very informative. As a New Jerseyan myself, I'd be happy to extend a warm welcome to him if he ever decides to take up his residence here!

[@chrystal723]

Just happened by your channel. Nice video! Very good civil engineering perspective of our state roadways. As a NJDOT administrator, our transportation commissioner, engineers and planners would be pleased with this video! Thanks😊

[@NathanSimonGottemer]

I was born in Boston but have lived in NJ since I was 2. As others have commented it’s nice to hear an actual serious perspective on the state (and it ended up being far more positive since NJ is often the butt of people’s jokes). One thing I was surprised by was the comment on police officers accompanying road work - wasn’t aware that other states didn’t do this. One thing you didn’t talk about was the fact that NJ has great pizza and bagels - basically every town has a pizza place and a bagel place and the only area I can think of that can consistently match it is the Long Island / NYC area in NY. As for cost of living, I’ve found that food and groceries are actually a tad cheaper due to port proximity, but rents / property costs are higher. I mean, I was born too late to ever own a home but I hear people talking about their taxes lol

[@richardmansfield5324]

You missed the best part of New Jersey. The Jersey shore. The beaches, ocean, boardwalks and resorts. You have to come back and check it out. Thanks for the complements.

[@iangianna]

It's nice to hear New Jersey described in a positive way for a change.

[@LoneLee2022]

Zoo Jersey & you perfect together.

[@adessachui7777]

He's never lived there. I enjoyed how they tried to get $2000 for tolls not being paid on time during the "plandemic" for a cumulative $85 in tolls. Joke was on them, I sent it certified.

[@queenbeedat8726]

Enjoyed your video. I lived in NJ for 50 years and miss it terribly. I lived in Bergen County and 15 min from the George Washington Bridge. I miss my monthly trips to New York City and the many things to do in North East Jersey. Hoboken is very expensive but a great place for nightlife. There are many more affordable towns 15-20 min from Hoboken and NYC. I'm so homesick......

[@RedsoxNets5]

Thanks for making such a nice video about New Jersey. I'm 32 and have lived here my whole life, in Trenton, Hamilton, Mahwah, Fair Lawn, Fanwood, and now Hoboken. As a professional poker player I've also spent a ton of time in Atlantic City. New Jersey is one of only a few states that's legalized and regulated online poker (they did this in 2013), allowing me to make a living from the comfort of my own home!

[@jmarkb92]

South Carolinian living in New Jersey here. It’s actually not a bad place to live outside of the cities. I live in the northwest part of the state which is the most rural part and it reminds me of home in some ways.

[@tomreingold4024]

Thank you for this. New Jersey was my home for 26 years. I grew up in NYC and now live in NYC again, but NJ still feels like a second home. Outside the area, people don’t know how great NJ is. You didn’t speak much of the landscapes, but it is diverse, interesting, and beautiful. Also, it has a lot of well educated people. Thank you NJ schools. So the arts and literature are well appreciated, and there are all kinds of concerts to attend and art to see. You can join or form a band or vocal ensemble with some very accomplished musicians. It’s funny how shocked you are about full service gas. It does take a little longer, but I just don’t mind. It’s really not a problem. I dislike the jug handles, though. They make many areas entirely car-dependent, because you can’t walk across those intersections, and the roads are hostile to bicycles. I prefer to go places on bike whenever possible, and this is one reason I’m glad I left NJ. Thanks for pointing out that NJ is interesting and has a lot to offer.

[@DialloMoore503]

I love the women from that area. They have this reputation for being tough, but they’re actually really sweet.

[@timothydarnell2757]

You should also add that Jersey is the most localized state in administration. The police departments in the towns & cities have major pull. There are way too many school districts.There are over 500 school districts where there are no schools,shared accommodations & multiple districts in the same town.Maryland has about the same student population, yet they have about 15 districts. I Have lived in California,NY,Pa & I now reside in SC. Jersey is unique & still has the best pizza.

[@jeannettezinai3213]

I went to Sweetwater nj for Christmas a couple years ago. Pleasantly surprised. Took family out to eat as a treat for dinner. Walking through town Christmas musis on speakers. Praying Nat King Cole. WOW in the barber shop people waved as you walked by. Thought I was in Mayberry back in the 50's cant explain the love and joy i felt. Kinda felt like i walked back in time. Wish all of America could experience that one.

[@AutumnBosco]

Great high quality video! As a New Yorker I do my fair share of talking trash about NJ with my other city friends, but that is just what we do as NYers. I am not actually blind to the positive aspects of the state; I would rather live in New Jersey than Staten Island, I can tell you that.

[@MileageMike485]

Funny thing about Staten Island is I heard some people say it should be a part of NJ rather than NYC.

[@AutumnBosco]

@@MileageMike485 If NYC does indeed have a 5th borough, it’s Hudson County.

[@jasonreed7522]

​@@MileageMike485from a legal standpoint it honestly should be a part of NJ, but NY had better lawyers.

[@robant5578]

@@MileageMike485 it was NJ, it is Nj, just NY took it over, Ellis island where Statue of Liberty stands is NJ as well. SI did vote few decades ago to be part of NJ but missed few votes or NY did not let that pass..

[@navsubtorpfac]

I call the "rest stops" on the Turnpike a "travel plaza" as opposed to a "rest stop". A rest stop is a state owned operation without commercial facilities, a travel plaza is a commercial enterprise. At least that's the way in looks in my experience. MD has two travel plazas on I-95, DE has one on I-95., WV has two on I-64, and I've seen several in PA. Also, another reason that NJ won't repeal the gas pumping law is that it would put a lot of people out of work. I live in VA and when we travel through NJ, my wife always likes to tip the pump attendant. They certainly appreciate it.

[@gcvrsa]

I'm about halfway through the video, so far, and I have to say, you have really covered a lot of ground in NJ. I've lived most of my life in NJ, although I no longer live there, but it's a lot of fun seeing so many familiar sights from all over the state, from Camden to Atlantic City and Ocean City, and even places in North Jersey that I know. I saw Cherry Hill and Collingswood in there, too! I've lived in the Atlantic City area, the Cherry Hill area, and have family in North Jersey, as well as having travelled all over the state for my former consulting business.

[@dhyde153]

I lived in NJ for 22 years of my adult life (1989-2010) and loved it, although financially it was often a struggle. My only frustration was being surrounded by so many interesting things to see and do, but only a fraction of the money or time to take it all in. Incidentally, if you crave pumping your own fuel, you CAN do it...if you drive a Diesel!

[@carkpop]

I'm from Baltimore, and MY GOSH I LOVE driving up to NYC through the TurnPike. It's genuinely one of my favorite parts of the trip. I always have to stop at the rest stops too, it's impossible not to stop for Lunch or dinner there ....

[@MERCURYSUNSET]

How long is the drive from Baltimore to NYC ?

[@bunpeishiratori5849]

Probably about three hours, maybe two and a half with good traffic.

[@MrSloika]

@@bunpeishiratori5849 Yup, that's about right. From where I live...Bergen County...it takes 3.5 average to drive to DC.

[@MERCURYSUNSET]

@@bunpeishiratori5849 Thanks .

[@allie-b-608]

I love everything about NJ except the cost of living. We have such diversity of not only people, but geography too. Beaches, mountains, farms, etc. We've got it all and the proximity to two major cities is perfect!

[@docjc9465]

Gotta tell ya, great summary, even better place to live!! We are on a small farm in “South Joisey”, minutes from everything. Services great. It’s a big small town. And I grew up in another state.

[@jamesleung2450]

As someone born and raised in NJ, thanks for the kind words. Now keep it down we don’t want to attract too many people to our tiny state

[@deanchapman1824]

That was an excellent video. One thing though, people are often surprised at the rolling countryside of Hunterdon County, the Delaware Water Gap, and the mountains in the northwest part.

[@fighter-of-foo]

That Moe's restaurant screwed you over - restaurants are allowed to give you a bag in NJ for take out. Most have been using paper, but some are still allowed to give you a plastic bag

[@LoneLee2022]

To put over your head!

[@adessachui7777]

@@LoneLee2022 😂 exactly

[@NateNakao]

This video made me proud to be a born-and-raised Jerseyan. Thanks so much for all of the amazing things you've said about my home!

[@edbonez7189]

Great video, very comprehensive. Subscribed

[@traceyxxrose7454]

I live in Toms River New Jersey and I love it here. I love an hour from NYC, 45 mins to Atlantic City, an hour to Philly and I live at a vacation destination at the jersey shore. I love our great schools and there’s always something to do. Yeah property taxes suck but I guess that’s what you get when the schools etc are so great.

[@traceyxxrose7454]

Oh yeah, and we like not pumping our own gas but it also creates an immense amount of jobs. So many friends in HS had a job pumping gas and liked it. It would suck if those jobs just disappeared overnight.

[@DialloMoore503]

Public transit?

[@clairekessler626]

I grew up in Atlantic City in the '50s and '60s. It was fantastic! I've been saying for years that we spread the bad rumors ourselves to keep outsiders from moving to NJ.

[@shawngibbons596]

Growing up I spent summers in New Jersey living with my uncle. Even now when I travel through the state, I think about those great times. No doubt it is a place I would love to live at some point in my life. The Turnpike is undoubtedly my favorite roadway to travel in the country.

[@christophermollan1684]

Hello from the NJ pinelands!!!!! Thank you for such a great video!!!!!

[@Mapmaker1559]

I loved the NJ Turnpike when driving on it for the first time. It does have a great design.

[@DTD110865]

I was a fan of it before I learned to drive. And even the rest areas in other parts of the country, which Mileage Mike finds so inferior compared to those on the New Jersey Turnpike are way better than any of the crap we've had on Long Island.

[@Crenga]

@@DTD110865 toronto-born former long islander of nearly twenty years, and i second this sentiment

[@organrick]

I think it took me a little while to get used to it, but it is a good design that other cities should adopt.

[@donst.pierre2283]

The Turnpike drive is much better south of exit 14 (the airport area). The northern part still seems to be "work in progress" to me, plus it's much tougher on my car's "sports" suspension.

[@LoneLee2022]

And you can do 115 mph and not get pulled over.

[@dontarguewithidiots7459]

Thank you for appreciating some the positives in our state. Taxes/cost of living are INSANE here but it's not a bad place to live overall.

[@gcvrsa]

Having finished the video, I think you did a good job summing up the pros and cons of living in NJ. It's an affluent state, and with that comes great schools, robust government services, and a wide range of amenities, but relatively high costs of living, and relatively strict governance that you might expect when you pack so many people so closely together. The best part though, is having easy access to two of the nation's greatest cities. Even living down in the Atlantic and Cape May county areas, you can be in Philadelphia in less than two hours by car, or New York City in less than three hours. If you want to catch a show or a concert, you don't even have to book a hotel room, if you don't want to. My family is originally from NYC, but my parents moved to the Atlantic City area when I was a child, so we did a lot of travelling back to NYC for holiday visits with family.

[@stevesmith775]

I came to the comments to thank you for the nice things said about my home state but I see a lot of people already have done so. I enjoyed this video Mike! Safe travels my friend

[@hollydemuro1]

I am a life-long Jersey girl and appreciate your review so much. So many people make fun of NJ. its nice to hear a fairly positive review. Next, you need to learn about some of the interesting cultural nuances that make NJ unique such as the pork roll vs. taylor ham debate. And speaking of that, next time you are in NJ - be sure to try a porkroll, egg, and cheese sandwich. Porkroll is truly the most delicious mystery meat in the world!

[@georgetabback9084]

PS: It's taylor ham.

[@bobettenger4182]

Pork roll all the way.

[@michael7324]

As a CNJ 732 guy. I have to say, I still love my state. People often give us crap but we are still the Garden State. We have access to just about everything. Beeches? Hell yes. NYC yup. The mountains for a hike on the Appalachian trail? we have that too. And with regards to the gas pumping? It produces jobs. Initially intended for youth to have a part time job. I love it and think every state should have attendants.

[@jimmybs]

As a lifelong NJ resident, I was surprised that I actually learned a few things.😊

[@zipalooie]

I learned that out of staters think we have a good rail system. Shows how backwards the rest of the country is

[@TROllingNINJA2031]

The young adult here living in Jersey born and raised it's nice to hear someone talk nice about our state 😇

[@flyewr1907]

Welcome to my state. I love being from New Jersey and living here. U will never catch me anywhere else

[@bartcranston6982]

I’ve lived in NJ most of my life. I like it a lot. I grew up in Ocean City on the Jersey Shore and have spent my adult life in Haddon Township,a suburb of Philadelphia. We don’t pump our own gas and we have fairly sane politics. It’s a great place to live.

[@BrianCollier]

This was an awesome video. I love New Jersey and I'm glad to see such a positive review. Thanks for making this video. About the gas, the best thing is not having to get out of the car when it is 20 degrees. I'm surprised you didn't hit any traffic circles.

[@NachoDog3]

I just recently discovered your channel. Great videos. Very informative and well put together. Subscribed right away.

[@MileageMike485]

Thanks

[@jacksonfox2434]

Wawa is a mainstay. Leave ur car and get something to eat, come back and ur gas is pumped. Any hour of the day, there is people. Wawa is home for South Jersey. Also, didn’t mention but 295 southbound from exit 32 to 76 is always backed up Because of the construction project they are doing with 1-76,295, and Route 42 in Camden county

[@JimAllen-Persona]

I wish we had Wawa on Long Island. I love Wawa… just bought 2 boxes of Wawa K-cups for $10.99 ea. Its insane but I don’t drink that much coffee and I like Wawa coffee. 7-11 is close but not quite as good.

[@organrick]

They have them up in the New York City area as well.

[@scottlyttle5586]

Wawa is headquartered in Pennsylvania, but they are in fact, pretty awesome.

[@skidmark316]

When are they going to finish, they've been doing that construction for like 20 years now.

[@pghrpg4065]

Pennsylvania is also completely incorporated (56 cities, hundreds of boroughs, hundreds of townships, and one town). I'm old enough to remember gas stations having self serve and full serve islands in the Pittsburgh area. My grandmother, who died in 2005, never learned to pump her own gas. While the rest stop pictured looks quite modern, it isn't unlike most of the rest areas on the toll roads of the Northeast and Midwest. Ohio and Pennsylvania have remodeled/rebuilt all of theirs in the past 20 years. Angola on the NY Thruway is notable because you have to walk over the road to get to the rest area in the middle. The Illinois Tollway Oases are interesting as they are built over the roads so you can sit and watch the traffic go by underneath.

[@zoicon5]

Connecticut is also completely incorporated and no longer has county government.

[@LiveFreeOrDieDH]

Being completely incorporated is pretty common in the Northeast. Most of New England has done away with county governments completely.

[@nlpnt]

@@LiveFreeOrDieDH Vermont has only four unincorporated areas (called "gores"), at least one of which has zero residents.

[@nlpnt]

NY is currently rebuilding the Thruway rest areas and switched food vendors from Marriott to Applegreen. Things are in a sort of awkward interim now with half of them closed for construction (except gas) and the other half having all the branded restaurants shut down since their contracts were with Marriott while the ones licensed by Applegreen aren't going in until the new facilities are built.

[@jamesurtekar1657]

You made me appreciate my state, thanks for this video!

[@bridgetmclaughlin609]

Thank you for your beautiful commentary ❤️ NJ is a beautiful state and we welcome you! It's a hidden gem