New Jersey

Everything you've seen on TV, from the McMansions of Real Housewives of New Jersey to the thick accents of The Sopranos, is at least partially true. But Jersey (natives lose the 'New') is at least as well defined by its high-tech and banking headquarters, and a quarter of it is lush farmland (hence the Garden State nickname) and pine forests. And on the 127 miles of beautiful beaches, you'll find, yes, the guidos and guidettes of Jersey Shore, but also many other oceanfront towns, each with a distinct character.