Colonial America played out much of its history on the stage that is New Jersey. Remnants of days gone by resound throughout the state, concentrated especially in Northern and Central New Jersey. This stretch of land includes the Gateway, Skyland, and portions of the eastern Shore and Delaware River Regions, four of New Jersey's six divisions. (Atlantic City and the Southern Shore are the other two.) All new homes in Northern and Central New Jersey reflect the lush elegance of "the Garden State," but because each individual region harbors its own rare finds, it is important to zero in on whichever area is the perfect fit for you.
The Gateway Region -- or as far as the thousands of immigrants who passed through Ellis Island are concerned, the "Gateway to Freedom" -- is home to the Statue of Liberty and Liberty State Park. The laboratory where Thomas Edison unveiled some of his most profound innovations, and even a bona fide "stop" along the historic Underground Railroad, are highlights of the Gateway Region. Particularly novel is the area's reputation for "firsts" -- the first organized baseball game, the first brewery_the first steam locomotive _ the first diner_
Less than 40 miles away from Manhattan, the Skyland Region is a mixture of nature at its finest and authentic rustic charm. Positioned in the rolling hills of northwest Jersey, this area of the state is known for its unmatched hot air balloon rides, but the ever-present assortment of fairs, festivals and flowers also claim their fair share of admirers.
The northern areas of the Shore share in the celebrity that is New Jersey's most popular vacation spot. Trenton, the state capital, is located in the Delaware River Region, where evidence of Jersey's role in American history is most visible. Meanwhile, this region also advocates the state's alternative form of "history," the bundle of ghostly legends and odd tales in widespread circulation. But not even the Pine Barrens' Jersey Devil, who has startled over 2,000 eye-witnesses with its glowing red eyes and cloven hooves, can diminish the hum of new home construction that is purring all over Northern and Central New Jersey.