New Jersey is home to a collection of towns with names that can leave even the most advanced GPS scratching its virtual head.
Whether it’s due to unusual pronunciations, names that sound like they belong to other places, or just sheer oddness, these towns can easily lead to confusion—both for visitors and for your navigation system. Here are ten New Jersey town names that could send your GPS (and you) into a minor existential crisis.
1. Buttzville
Buttzville is one of those names that’s hard to forget—mostly because it’s amusing. Located in Warren County, it was named after its founder, Michael Robert Buttz. Whether you’re reading it for the first time or trying to explain it to others, Buttzville is a town that never fails to get a double-take.
2. Ho-Ho-Kus
Ho-Ho-Kus is a Bergen County borough that can baffle newcomers with its unusual name. Pronounced “ho–HO–kus,” it’s so perplexing that locals joke about calling it “Hocus Pocus.” Even lifelong residents admit that it’s a head-scratcher, and you might need a little practice to get the pronunciation just right.
3. Forked River
Don’t make the mistake of saying “Fork-ed” like it’s spelled. In New Jersey, Forked River is pronounced “FOR-kid.” Mispronouncing it is an easy way to reveal yourself as an outsider. Locals take their pronunciation seriously, so if you’re ever in the area, get it right to avoid a mix-up!
4. Moonachie
Another Bergen County town that can easily confuse travelers and GPS systems alike, Moonachie is pronounced “moo-NAH-key.” It’s one of those names that might make you second-guess yourself when you’re trying to get directions, and even locals are used to hearing mispronunciations.
5. Bogota
Bogota shares its spelling with the capital of Colombia, but don’t be fooled. In New Jersey, it’s pronounced “buh-GO-ta,” not “bo-go-TAH.” The difference can be subtle, but it’s enough to confuse both GPS systems and visitors alike. Make sure to say it right when you’re asking for directions!
6. Kearny
Kearny, a town in Hudson County, is one of those names that’s often mispronounced. Locals pronounce it “CAR-nee,” but many outsiders mistakenly say “KEER-nee” or “Kear-nee.” This discrepancy is common with GPS systems as well, making it another classic New Jersey pronunciation challenge.
7. Maurice River Township
Maurice River Township might seem straightforward at first, but locals say it “Morris River,” not “Maw-reece.” So, if you’re navigating through this township, trust the locals and forget any pronunciation instincts you might have picked up along the way.
8. National Park
This one’s a real puzzle. Despite the name, National Park is not actually a national park. This Gloucester County town has a misleading name that often confuses visitors and GPS systems. Don’t be fooled into thinking you’re about to enter an actual park—this is a small town, not a recreational area!
9. Bellmawr vs. Belmar
Bellmawr and Belmar are two towns that can cause a lot of confusion. While they sound almost identical, they’re located miles apart—Bellmawr in Camden County and Belmar in Monmouth County. The GPS might send you in the wrong direction if you’re not careful, and even locals sometimes mix them up.
10. Moorestown vs. Morristown
Moorestown and Morristown might seem like they’re easy to tell apart, but their similar names have caused many a wrong turn. Moorestown is located in Burlington County, while Morristown is in Morris County. Despite the slight difference in spelling, they’re far enough apart to throw off even seasoned travelers, and both towns are frequently confused by GPS systems.
Sources:
1. https://catcountry1073.com/new-jersey-town-names-that-make-you-go-hmmm/
2. https://wpgtalkradio.com/confusing-new-jersey-town-names/