No, Route 287 isn't the Garden State Parkway.
What number route is Garden State Parkway?
The Garden State Parkway is officially Route 444, though you won’t see that number posted on any road signs.
It’s a north-south highway stretching from Cape May all the way to Exit 163 in Mahwah, where it meets the New York State Thruway. Route 287 runs a completely different path through northern Jersey, so they’re easy to mix up—especially since both see heavy regional traffic. They’re managed by separate systems too, which doesn’t help matters.
What vehicles are allowed on the Garden State Parkway?
Passenger cars, campers, RVs under 62 feet, and trailers up to 45 feet are all good to go on the Parkway.
That means sedans, pickup trucks, and non-commercial tow rigs are welcome. Just keep your RV under 62 feet total length, and you’re set. Truckers? They’re only allowed north of Exit 105, so check those signs before you roll in. Fines aren’t fun.
What is the difference between Garden State Parkway and NJ Turnpike?
Both run north-south, but the Turnpike links the Delaware Memorial Bridge to the George Washington Bridge, while the Parkway runs from Cape May to Mahwah.
The Turnpike’s your classic toll-heavy interstate with multiple lanes and big service plazas. The Parkway? More scenic, with lower speed limits (usually 55–65 mph) and way more rest stops. It’s also got tighter commercial rules. If you’re hauling freight, the Turnpike’s your better bet—it handles way more through-traffic between Newark and Jersey City.
Where does the Garden State Parkway begin and end?
It starts in Cape May at Exit 0 (U.S. Route 9 / Route 109) and ends at Exit 163 in Mahwah, where it hooks up with the New York State Thruway.
This 173-mile route hugs the Jersey Shore before cutting through central Jersey. You’ll hit Atlantic City, the Pinelands, and a ton of shore towns along the way. The northern end sits just south of the state line in Mahwah, giving you a straight shot into Rockland County, New York. Locals know it like the back of their hand.
Does Garden State Parkway have tolls?
Most of it does—mainline plazas and some ramps charge tolls.
By 2026, mainline tolls for cars usually run $1.50 to $1.90 per plaza. A few sections stay free, like parts of Atlantic County and the stretch between Exits 129 and 140. E-ZPass is king here, but cash works at select spots—just be ready to handle it safely.
Does the Garden State Parkway have rest stops?
Yep, it’s got plenty of rest stops with fuel, food, and facilities spaced along the way.
Some are named after Jersey legends—like the Vince Lombardi Service Area. They’re lifesavers for Shore-bound traffic, especially in summer when the roads are packed. Clean restrooms, visitor centers, and quick bites? Check. A place to stretch your legs? Absolutely.
How do I pay my Garden State Parkway toll?
Online at www.ezpassnj.com, by phone at 973-368-1425, or by mail with a check or money order to NJ E-ZPass, P.O. Box 4971, Trenton, NJ 08650.
E-ZPass is your fastest option through the plazas. Got a Toll-By-Mail bill? Pay it online, by phone, or by mail before the deadline hits. Cash works at some booths too, and staff are geared up with protective gear these days.
Are semi trucks allowed on the Garden State Parkway?
Only north of Exit 105 (Tinton Falls)—south of there, they’re banned.
Commercial rigs over 10,000 pounds GVWR can’t go south of Exit 105. It’s all about keeping traffic moving smoothly, especially when summer tourists clog the roads. Need to haul big freight? The Turnpike’s your smoother ride.
How many exits are on the Garden State Parkway?
There are 365 exits and entrances, with tolls at 49 of them.
That breaks down to 11 mainline plazas and 38 ramp tolls. Exits are numbered from south to north, starting at Exit 0 in Cape May and ending at Exit 163 in Mahwah. All those exits make sense—this road serves shore towns, inland communities, and everyone in between.
Can you drive an RV on the Garden State Parkway?
Sure, as long as your total rig doesn’t top 62 feet.
RVs and campers are treated like passenger vehicles here, so they’re welcome the whole way—even north of Exit 105. Just measure your setup carefully. And when you’re cruising slower than traffic, stick to the right lane so faster drivers can pass safely.
What size trucks are allowed on the Garden State Parkway?
Only smaller commercial vans (like a cargo van or a 10-foot U-Haul) are allowed south of Exit 105.
Anything bigger gets ticketed if it rolls south of Exit 105. The Parkway’s not built for big rigs, and the state enforces it. Renting a monster moving truck? Plan to use the Turnpike instead.
Why are trucks not allowed on parkways?
Parkways were designed for scenic, low-speed travel—not commercial freight, and that tradition stuck.
Back in the 1920s–1950s, these roads were all about landscaping and easy driving. Big trucks didn’t fit that vision. Some parkways now allow lighter commercial traffic (like north of Exit 105 on the Parkway), but the old-school rules hang on elsewhere.
What is the busiest highway in New Jersey?
Interstate 95 (I-95) takes the crown, carrying about 20% of all vehicle travel in the state.
It’s the backbone of New Jersey’s urban corridor, running from Philadelphia through Newark, NYC, and beyond. Freight trucks, commuters, and interstate traffic all pile onto I-95 daily. Rush hour near the George Washington Bridge or Middlesex County? Pure chaos.
Is the Garden State Parkway free?
Nope—most of it costs tolls, though parts of Atlantic County and the stretch between Exits 129 and 140 are free.
You’ll hit 11 mainline plazas and 38 ramp tolls along the way. The free sections are mostly in central Jersey, which is nice for quick local trips. Always double-check signs or the NJ Turnpike Authority’s site before you go—nobody likes surprise charges.
Does Garden State Parkway take cash?
Yes, select locations still take cash as of 2026.
Cash booths have protective shields and staff in masks and gloves. E-ZPass is faster, but cash works if you’re not set up electronically. Bring exact change or bills, and follow the posted instructions to keep things moving at the booth.
