​The 43-Mile Scenic Drive In New Jersey You Will Want To Take As Soon As You Can

County Route 563 runs for 43.87 miles through South Jersey, from Margate City in Atlantic County to Woodland Township, Burlington County. ​It takes drivers from our beautiful beaches to our peaceful Pinelands in under an hour (depending on traffic) and offers scenic views along the way. Many readers have recommended this drive and we agree – you won’t want to miss it! While it’s not necessarily bucket list material, long drives are a way of life for many of us right now and this is one that’s worth checking out.

​Depending on your schedule and location, you can start or end your drive in Margate City. While there, be sure to visit Lucy. Educational tours of the iconic elephant are a blast for kids and adults alike. Be sure to bring your face covering.

If you think Lucy is incredible on the outside, you will absolutely love the inside! The staff and gift shop are fantastic, as well. You may also want to spend some time on the beach while you're here.

County Road 563 officially begins on Jerome Avenue in Margate, a 5-lane road that traverses residential areas.

It also offers limited bay views until you

Transition to Margate Boulevard and cross a toll bridge with fantastic views of Shelter Island Bay and Whirlpool Channel

This is one of my favorite sections of the drive.

Next, you'll pass through wetlands and marshland. Not seen in this photo is Atlantic City, which is visible in the distance.

​Marshes are similar to swamps but swampland is dominated by trees while marshland is home to tall grasses and other plants

Be on the lookout for Terrapin turtles while you're driving past the mars

​The entire area is rich with wildlife

You'll pass through a suburban stretch with shopping, dining, movie theaters, and more. You'll also be just minutes away from the beloved Storybook Land Amusement Park in Egg Harbor Township

​It's a 5-minute detour if you're interested in visiting. Reservations are strongly suggested. Face coverings (for those age 2 and up) are required

Next up is the Atlantic City International Airport and the 177th Fighter Wing of New Jersey's Air National Guard

Who doesn't love passing these planes?

After a brief merge with Route 30 and some residential/industrial areas, you'll cross the Mullica River.

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​If you didn't feel like you were in the Pinelands before, now you can be sure.

You'll enjoy woodlands for miles as you pass through the Pinelands National Reserve and Wharton State Forest.

This area offers a variety of hiking trails and is near the historic Batsto Village

There will be fields and farmland near Chatsworth.

​These red buildings sure stand out!

The last landscape you'll enjoy is the Garden State's stunning cranberry bogs

​They're not always so bright and vibrant (this photo was taken during the harvest season in early to mid-autumn) but they are always interesting.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope this articles inspire your future adventures! ​

​This article was originally Posted in New Jersey August 09, 2020 by Kristen