Toms River, New Jersey, is a popular location for both visitors and residents, offering a mix of suburban charm, natural beauty, and recreational activities.
### Visiting Toms River
**Attractions:**
1. **Beaches and Waterfronts:**
– **Seaside Heights:** Located nearby, it’s famous for its boardwalk, amusement rides, and vibrant nightlife.
– **Ocean County Park:** Offers scenic views, picnic areas, and a beach on a freshwater lake.
2. **Cultural and Historical Sites:**
– **Ocean County Historical Society Museum:** Provides insights into the area’s history and heritage.
– **Toms River Seaport Society Maritime Museum:** Showcases the maritime history of the region.
3. **Recreational Activities:**
– **Cattus Island County Park:** Features trails, a nature center, and beautiful views of Barnegat Bay.
– **River Lady Cruise:** A paddleboat tour offering scenic views of Toms River and Barnegat Bay.
4. **Family-Friendly Activities:**
– **Insectropolis:** A fun and educational insect museum.
– **Jenkinson’s Aquarium:** Located in nearby Point Pleasant Beach, it offers marine exhibits and animal encounters.
**Events:**
– **Toms River Halloween Parade:** One of the largest Halloween parades in the world.
– **Downtown Toms River Farmers Market:** Offers fresh produce, local goods, and live music during the warmer months.
### Living in Toms River
**Quality of Life:**
1. **Community and Education:**
– **Schools:** Toms River boasts a well-regarded school system with a variety of public and private school options.
– **Community:** The town has a strong sense of community with numerous local events, sports leagues, and community organizations.
2. **Housing:**
– A variety of housing options are available, ranging from historic homes to modern developments, making it suitable for families, retirees, and young professionals.
3. **Healthcare:**
– **Community Medical Center:** A large, well-equipped hospital providing comprehensive healthcare services.
4. **Safety:**
– Toms River has a relatively low crime rate, contributing to its reputation as a safe and family-friendly town.
**Economy and Employment:**
1. **Local Economy:** The economy is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, education, retail, and professional services.
2. **Commuting:** For those working in larger cities, Toms River offers reasonable commuting options to New York City and Philadelphia, with access to major highways and public transportation.
**Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities:**
1. **Parks and Recreation:** Numerous parks, nature preserves, and recreational facilities are available for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
2. **Proximity to the Shore:** Easy access to the Jersey Shore for beach activities, fishing, and boating.
### Conclusion
Toms River, NJ, offers a blend of suburban living with access to natural beauty and recreational activities, making it an attractive place to visit or live. Its community-oriented atmosphere, good schools, and family-friendly environment make it a desirable location for many. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family, enjoy retirement, or simply explore as a tourist, Toms River has a lot to offer.