The New Jersey Turnpike is one of the most iconic and heavily trafficked highways in the United States. Stretching over 147 miles, it connects the Delaware River in the south to the George Washington Bridge in the north, passing through some of the most densely populated areas of New Jersey. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist exploring the Garden State, knowing the key exits on the NJ Turnpike can make all the difference in navigating your journey efficiently. Here's a comprehensive guide to 18 essential exits on the NJ Turnpike that you should know.
Understanding the NJ Turnpike Exit System
Before we dive into the specific exits, it's helpful to understand how the NJ Turnpike's exit system works. The turnpike is divided into two main sections: the Southern Section and the Northern Section, also known as the Eastern and Western Spur. The exits are numbered from south to north, starting from 1 in the south and increasing as you move north.
Essential Exits for Local Commuters and Travelers
Whether you're heading to work, the beach, or a major city, here are 18 key exits to remember:
Exits 1-5: Southern Section
- Exit 1: Delaware Memorial Bridge (I-295/I-95) - The southernmost exit on the NJ Turnpike, providing access to Delaware and Pennsylvania.
- Exit 2: US-322/Swedesboro - Connecting to US-322, this exit is ideal for those heading towards Swedesboro and areas in Gloucester County.
- Exit 3: NJ-168/Black Horse Pike - Providing access to Camden and Atlantic City via the Black Horse Pike.
- Exit 4: NJ-73/Camden/Philadelphia - For those traveling to Camden and Philadelphia.
- Exit 5: I-295/US-130 - Ideal for connecting to the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge and the Delaware River.
Exits 6-11: Central and Northern Section
- Exit 6: I-76/Pennsylvania - For those heading towards Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
- Exit 7A: I-195/I-295/Shore Points - Connecting to the Jersey Shore.
- Exit 8: NJ-33/Hightstown/East Windsor - Providing access to Hightstown and East Windsor.
- Exit 9: US-1/New Brunswick/Rutgers University - For those heading towards New Brunswick and Rutgers University.
- Exit 10: I-287/Morristown/Montgomery - Connecting to Morristown and Montgomery.
- Exit 11: Garden State Parkway - A critical connection to the Garden State Parkway.
Exits 12-18: Northern Section and the Eastern/Western Spur
- Exit 12: Carteret/Rahway - Ideal for accessing Carteret and Rahway.
- Exit 13A: Elizabeth/Airport/Newark - For those traveling to Elizabeth, Newark Airport, and the City of Newark.
- Exit 14: Bayonne/Jersey City - Connecting to Bayonne and Jersey City.
- Exit 15E: US-1&9/Lincoln Tunnel - For access to the Lincoln Tunnel and New York City.
- Exit 16E: I-95/US-46/Lincoln Tunnel - A direct connection to the Lincoln Tunnel and I-95.
- Exit 17: NJ-3/Lincoln Tunnel - Connecting to NJ-3 and the Lincoln Tunnel.
- Exit 18: George Washington Bridge - The northernmost exit, leading to the George Washington Bridge and New York City.
Gallery of NJ Turnpike
How long is the New Jersey Turnpike?
+The New Jersey Turnpike is approximately 147 miles long, stretching from the Delaware River in the south to the George Washington Bridge in the north.
How many exits are on the New Jersey Turnpike?
+The New Jersey Turnpike has a total of 18 main exits, not including the numerous interchanges and service areas along the route.
Can I use my EZ-Pass on the New Jersey Turnpike?
+Yes, the New Jersey Turnpike accepts EZ-Pass for toll payment, making it convenient for frequent users.
Whether you're a frequent commuter, a tourist, or just passing through, understanding the layout and key exits of the New Jersey Turnpike can make a significant difference in your travel experience. By knowing the exits mentioned in this guide, you'll be better equipped to navigate one of the busiest highways in the United States efficiently.