As the first capital of New Jersey, established in 1664, the city of Elizabeth invites visitors to experience where one of America’s stories began. As the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary throughout 2026, the newly opened Elizabeth Welcome Station serves as the gateway to the living history of the city’s Revolutionary heritage. Beyond this rich history, Elizabeth offers something for every traveler, all in a convenient location just minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport and New York City—making it the perfect destination for both day trips and overnight group itineraries.
Elizabeth offers an America 250 experience unlike any other. Located in the historic Elizabeth Train Station, the Elizabeth Welcome Station connects groups to historic landmarks, guided tours, cultural attractions, dining, and shopping. Throughout the commemorative year, visitors can enjoy special exhibitions presented in partnership with the Elizabeth Public Library’s Local History & Special Collections Department, heritage and diverse ethnic programming, and Four Centuries in a Weekend. Groups can also enhance their itinerary with a visit to Liberty Hall Museum, home of the 1st governor of New Jersey and where Alexander Hamilton lived, which offers a robust year-round calendar of guided tours, exhibitions, seasonal programs, and special events. Tour operators are encouraged to visit goelizabethnj.com for the latest America 250 events, itineraries, and seasonal programming.
One of the most popular stops for group tours is The Mills at Jersey Gardens, New Jersey’s largest indoor outlet and value retail destination. With more than 200 stores, tax-free shopping on clothing and shoes, and a wide variety of dining options, it’s a favorite addition to many itineraries. The mall also features a movie theater and the Round1 bowling arcade.
Elizabeth is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering everything from Portuguese, Colombian, Peruvian, and Brazilian cuisine to American favorites and other international flavors. The destination features numerous restaurants that can accommodate motorcoach groups and customized dining experiences, making it easy to pair great food with a day of sightseeing. Many groups spend a full day exploring the city’s Revolutionary sites, dining at vibrant and cultural local restaurants, and tax-free shopping at The Mills at Jersey Gardens.
Elizabeth regularly welcomes motorcoach tours, student groups, heritage organizations, and leisure travelers. Because itineraries are customized, the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization team can accommodate both small groups and large motorcoach tours by coordinating visits across multiple attractions, restaurants, and venues throughout the city. Advanced planning allows the team to provide the best possible experience and tailor recommendations based on each group’s interests and schedule.
Elizabeth is more than a detour along the way—it’s a destination where history comes alive! With the opening of the Elizabeth Welcome Station, immersive America 250 programming, exceptional accessibility, diverse dining, tax-free outlet shopping, and customizable itineraries, Elizabeth offers tour operators a unique opportunity to provide travelers with an authentic and memorable experience. Whether visiting for a day or an extended stay, it all starts here. Experience Elizabeth–she’ll surprise you!
Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization
goelizabethnj.com
For more information on tours, contact us at 908-906-3713 or Email: tours@goelizabethnj.com
Lead Photo:
Revolutionary reenactment, Snyder Academy
Photo courtesy of GoElizabethNJ
