Who says you need to travel far to have a fantastic time? Sometimes, the best adventures are right in your backyard. Whether you’re planning a relaxing staycation or a quick day trip, selecting the ideal destination can make all the difference in your experience.
However, not every city offers the same level of entertainment, relaxation, and excitement. In fact, according to a recent report by WalletHub, two North Jersey cities found themselves among the least favorable options for a staycation in the nation.
WalletHub’s comprehensive study ranked 182 cities across the United States based on 42 key metrics, encompassing three essential factors: recreation, food and entertainment, and rest and relaxation. Their findings revealed that Jersey City and Newark ranked among the bottom 20 cities for a staycation in 2024.
Newark, with an overall ranking of 167th and a score of 31.93, showcased its highest performance in recreation, ranking 119th. However, it fell short in the categories of food and entertainment (132nd) and rest and relaxation (165th).
Similarly, Jersey City secured the 168th spot with a score of 30.90, boasting its strongest presence in food and entertainment (127th) but lagging behind in recreation (137th) and rest and relaxation (170th).
Despite these findings, there are plenty of excellent alternatives for New Jersey residents seeking an unforgettable staycation experience. WalletHub crowned Orlando, Florida, as the ultimate staycation destination for 2024, citing its abundance of amusement parks, water parks, nightlife venues, festivals, zoos, and arcades.
With a score of 61.85, Orlando claimed the top spot for food and entertainment and ranked impressively in rest and relaxation (18th) and recreation (24th).
If Orlando isn’t your cup of tea, fear not—there are numerous other cities across the country that offer exceptional staycation opportunities. Honolulu, Hawaii; Cincinnati, Ohio; Las Vegas, Nevada; Tampa, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; San Diego, California; Atlanta, Georgia; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Tucson, Arizona, round out the top 10 best cities for a staycation in 2024.
On the flip side, WalletHub also identified the least favorable staycation destinations for 2024. Fremont, California, claimed the undesirable title of the worst city for a staycation, followed by Irving, Texas; Pearl City, Hawaii; Chula Vista, California; Yonkers, New York; Santa Clarita, California; Laredo, Texas; Hialeah, Florida; Santa Ana, California; Moreno Valley, California; and Fontana, California.
So, if you’re contemplating a staycation, choose your destination wisely. Whether you opt for the lively streets of Orlando or the serene shores of Honolulu, make sure your staycation is filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.
Blue & Gold NLR Team is a dedicated journalist at blueandgoldnlr.com, where he provides insightful and up-to-date news coverage. With a passion for uncovering the truth and a commitment to delivering accurate information, Blue & Gold NLR Team brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. His work ensures readers stay informed about the latest events and developments.