There are some experiences that every New Jerseyan should have. Whether you've lived here all your life or are new to our state, you're going to want to make the most of what we have to offer. It's impossible to see everything, but these 17 things are a wonderful place to start.

1. Climb to the top of one of our stunning lighthouses.

You'll be afforded with epic waterfront views and a side of history. We're even home to the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States - Sandy Hook Light, pictured.

2. Marvel at the beauty and power of Paterson's Great Falls.

The park isn't perfect, but the magnificence of these falls is undeniable. They are most breathtaking after a storm or nearly frozen in the winter.

3. Head down to Cowtown.

A rodeo may not seem like a very New Jersey thing to do, but Cowtown Rodeo is actually the oldest running weekly rodeo in the United States. If rodeos aren't your thing, check out the year-round flea market next door.

4. Watch for whales and dolphins down in Cape May.

Head to the Cape for some primo sea mammal spotting. Cape May, not Cape Cod - you don't need to travel out of state! Ca[e May Whale Watcher offers unforgettable tours.

5. Ferry on over to a few world class attractions.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are both accessible from Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

6. Summer at the shore.

A day trip is nice, but there's nothing like spending a night, or two, or three... Waking up to this is absolutely magical. If you already live on the beach... lucky you!

7. Take a tour of Lucy.

The giant elephant is a New Jersey icon and a truly unique piece of history. Seeing her from the outside is always fun, but if you haven't taken a tour yet, I highly recommend that you do.

8. Hunt for the Jersey Devil in the beautiful Pine Barrens.

Enjoy the sights during the day and stay the night if you're feeling brave. There are plenty of places to camp in the Pine Barrens - tell some scary stories while you're at it.

9. Spend a day in Princeton.

I was initially going to put Trenton on this list, but Princeton has just as much history and twice the charm. While the state capitol is worth a visit, you can see the United States' former capitol in Princeton - Nassau Hall.

10. Enjoy a blast from the past at Delsea Drive-In Theater.

Did you know that America's first drive-in theater was right here in New Jersey? On June 6th, 1933, Park-In Theaters opened in Camden. While the peak era of drive-ins may be over, we still have one left in the Garden State. Delsea offers double features and a fantastic snack bar.

11. Then, head indoors for an epic 3-D show at the IMAX Theater.

A totally immersive experience, Liberty Science Center is home to the world's largest IMAX dome theater. It's a whopping 88 feet in diameter.

12. Take an easy Appalachian Trail hike along the Pochuck Boardwalk.

Flat and scenic, this hike is shorter and manageable for most. Plus, you can say you hiked (part of) the Appalachian Trail.

13. Have a boardwalk adventure.

We have so many incredible boardwalks in New Jersey, and I truly think that all of them are worth a trip. However, a visit to at least one is essential. If you're not sure where to start, Jenkinson's Boardwalk has an aquarium, amusement park and awesome arcade.

14. Score sublime views from High Point monument.

Climb to the top for views from three states. You can hike to the monument if you wish, or you can drive and park in the adjacent lot.

15. Dance the night away at one of New Jersey's most well-known music venues.

Many musicians got their start at Asbury Park's Stone Pony, with Bon Jovi and Bruce Springsteen performing here early in their careers.

16. Walk in George Washington's footprints.

That's pretty easy to do here in New Jersey. We're called the Crossroads of the Revolution for a reason! Pictured is Washington Crossing State Park, but you could also head to the Ford Mansion in Morristown, Wallace House in Somerville, Zabriskie Mansion in Hackensack and many more.

17. And, of course, a late night diner run.

Are you even a New Jerseyan if you haven't had cheese fries at 2 a.m.? Probably, but I wouldn't risk it. Grab a taylor ham (or pork roll), egg and cheese sandwich on a hard roll while you're there.

What other quintessential New Jersey attractions would you add to this list? For more of New Jersey's best, check out this Garden State Dining Bucket List.