«Jersey Therapy»: How to take a breath away from New York in 45 minutes without breaking the bank on rentals
You love Brooklyn. We do, too. But let’s be honest: as soon as Friday hits, the city starts to suffocate you.
Parking is a quest. The Belt Parkway is a trap. The Hamptons is a mirage that takes longer to reach than the time you'll actually spend resting.
And that’s where New Jersey comes in.
Brooklyn lifestyle vs reality
A raw fact: a Brooklyn resident spends dozens of hours a year just searching for parking.
Now, here is a different picture.
You hop on the PATH or NJ Transit.
40 minutes — and you’re in Newark.
You pick up a car. And in an hour, you are surrounded by forest, open road, and silence.
Meanwhile, your neighbor is still circling the block near Whole Foods.
The thesis is simple:
New Jersey is not a backup plan. It is the ultimate hack if you want to get away quickly, affordably, and without the nerves.
Why renting in NJ is a system hack
Let’s break it down without the romance.
Owning a car in NYC:
- Higher insurance.
- Parking is a lottery.
- Tickets are only a matter of time.
Renting in Manhattan:
- NY State taxes.
- Location surcharges.
- Tolls starting from the very first exit.
Renting in Newark or Jersey City:
- The final check is often lower.
- You start on the "right" side of the Hudson.
- You get the car you actually need for the trip.
And most importantly:
You don’t have to squeeze a full-size SUV through Bushwick.
You pick it up where the normal roads begin.
Top 5 Secret Spots: Where to Hit the Gas Without the Tourist Crowds
1. Delaware Water Gap — Highway Therapy
This isn’t just a park. It’s a road worth driving for the sake of the drive itself.
Mountains, a river, and long, sweeping turns. It’s the feeling that New York was left somewhere far, far behind.
Which car to take:
- Midsize or Full-size SUV.
- Unpaved access roads to the best trails are a common occurrence.
Local tip:
In winter and early spring, some access points are closed. Check conditions in advance to keep things stress-free.
2. Frenchtown / Lambertville — The Anti-Hamptons
Small towns along the Delaware River. Antiques, wine bars, excellent food, and zero "show-off" vibes.
Which car to take:
- Economy or Compact.
- Narrow streets and historic centers make parking much easier.
The mood:
Slow, beautiful, and unhurried.
3. Grounds For Sculpture — Surrealism on 42 Acres
An open-air contemporary art park. Statues. Space. And the feeling that you’ve accidentally ended up in a European museum.
Important to know:
- Entry is by time slots.
- It’s best to book tickets in advance.
Which car to take:
- Any compact or midsize — the main goal is just to get there and walk around.
4. Cape May — Victorian Chic
One of the most atmospheric resorts on the East Coast. Old houses, the ocean, a lighthouse, and the feeling that you’ve truly traveled far away.
Which car to take:
- Full-size Sedan.
- Ideal for the highway. Quiet, smooth, and comfortable.
Honestly:
A convertible looks great, but only if the weather is on your side.
5. High Point State Park — A View of Three States
The highest point in New Jersey. On a clear day, you can see New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Which car to take:
Bonus:
Gas is usually cheaper in New Jersey, and a gas station attendant will do everything for you. Just stand there and relax.
Drivo: Your Personal Garage in Key NJ Locations
You’re already in Newark or Jersey City. You need a car that:
- Won’t let you down outside the city.
- Won’t look worn out.
- Won’t bring surprises in the final bill.
How do we solve this?
- We have convenient pick-up points in Newark and Jersey City.
- Fresh fleet of vehicles.
- Simple rules: return it clean and with fuel — that’s it, we’re good.
See you!
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