Visit Old Victorian Cape May
The many attractions of Cape May, at the southernmost tip of New Jersey on Delaware Bay, were largely discovered by the wealthy during the 18th and 19th centuries when it enjoyed its heyday as a fashionable resort town. It was so popular that six US Presidents had summer homes here.
Tourists today are attracted by the very things that first attracted so many American Presidents: endless fine beaches, the beautiful Cape May Point Lighthouse , and the many handsome Victorian-style holiday homes located here.
Of the latter, one of the best examples is Emlen Physick Estate. Now a museum, this 18-room mansion was built in 1879 and is a fine example of the American Stick Style of architecture. Also of interest is the Yankee, an 80-foot-tall schooner offering a variety of harbor tours, as well as dolphin and whale-sighting cruises.
Address: 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, New Jersey
Union City The Best Place To Enjoy The Manhattan Skyline From Nj
Union City is the 2nd-most densely populated city in the U.S. and has a rich history of German and Cuban immigrants. Its even nicknamed Little Havana on the Hudson because of this.
Besides, its one of the top places in New Jersey for culture and sightseeing. Some of the most popular sites here include the .
The city is minutes from two other exciting towns: Hoboken and Weehawken, where you can get the most beautiful views of the Manhattan Skyline.
30. Union City, a cool place to go in New Jersey
In Hoboken, check out Frank Sinatra Park, named for the famous singer who was born here. There, I recommend taking a stroll along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway for stunning views. In Weehawken, one of the most scenic places is Hamilton Park.
However, if you want to see Manhattan from the air, I recommend this helicopter tour, one of the most spectacular things to do in New Jersey.
And these are the top attractions in NJ that I recommend! Are you ready to start planning your trip or weekend getaway? Just check out this map of the best places to go in New Jersey in case you dont know where to start.
Its easy to think this small state is boring, but as you now know, there are plenty of cool things to do in New Jersey, so shoot me a message below if you still have any questions!
Sterling Hill Mining Museum
If youre looking for a novel place to visit today, this old iron and zinc mine in New Jersey is one of many fun places to visit.
While at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum youll be guided through underground tunnels, along which youll learn about the mines abundant history.
Youll learn about the equipment used to mine zinc and iron, the working conditions the miners faced, and the mines geology.
Additionally, youll see artifacts from the mines working days dating back as far as the 1830s.
One of the museums best-loved exhibits is The Rainbow Tunnel lets just say it will truly illuminate your experience.
To prepare for your visit to the mine youll want to dress appropriately.
Keep in mind that the mine will be damp and cold, and you will undoubtedly do lots of walking, so dress comfortably.
Of the many wonderful places to go in New Jersey, Sterling Hill Mining Museum is highly recommended.
Address: 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439, United States
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Paterson Great Falls Something You Cant Miss In New Jersey
Northern NJ has other impressive waterfalls, such as the Paterson Great Falls on the Passaic River. Towering 77 feet high and 260 feet wide, the falls are part of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. This NJ attraction is also a National Natural Landmark.
You can watch the falls cascade over the basalt cliffs from Haines Overlook Park or. Alternatively, you can cross the footbridge over the falls gorge for spectacular views of these falls formed during the last ice age.
11. Paterson Great Falls, another attraction in New Jersey
Nearby is the Garret Mountain Reservation, a major recreational hub for jogging, running, basketball, fishing, birdwatching, and horseback riding. Its a cool place to go in NJ for all ages, and it offers respite from the more industrial areas of northern New Jersey.
I suggest stopping by Lambert Castle while youre here. Constructed in 1892, the castle was the home of a silk mill owner named Catholina Lambert. The medieval-style building is now a museum complete with an art gallery and a 70-foot observation tower.
If youre in this part of the state, you should spend a few hours exploring Garret Mountain and visiting the Paterson Great Falls. Also, if youd like more time in nature, Rifle Camp Park isnt far away and offers hiking trails, an observatory, and birdwatching areas.
Shop At A Flea Market
Whether you’re looking for a new top or some fresh food, head over to The New Meadowlands Market on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. With more than 400 vendors, you can shop ’til you drop while enjoying the summer air.
Parking and admission are free. No animals except service animals are allowed.
Go: Metlife Stadium Lot J, East Rutherford 201-355-5919, New Meadowlands Market
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Wheaton Arts And Cultural Center
This place was submitted by Pamela W. While there is an admission price, the admission is free during the months of January, February and March. Last year, the Center received a grant from PNC that will allow them to have free admission on select three day weekends from July to December, so make sure to call them ahead to find out more about which days have the free admission. Also, if you choose to go on the day that the admission is full price, there is a coupon available on their website!
HERE is their website, and here is the info Pamela shared :
Take A Stroll Along Atlantic City’s Famous Boardwalk
One of the most popular coastal resort towns on the northeastern coast of the United States, Atlantic City is best known for its famous Boardwalk. This four-mile-long promenade was constructed in 1870 and to this day remains the place where the majority of the city’s sightseeing opportunities are found.
Among its most popular tourist spots is the iconic Steel Pier. This carnival-style amusement park has rides for all ages, including a massive observation wheel with climate-controlled gondolas that give riders amazing views over the city and the ocean year-round. Bike rentals, the historic electric tram, or traditional rickshaw-like rolling chairs make a fun alternative to walking the Boardwalk.
While strolling the Boardwalk, be sure to check out the Entrance to the Stars. This famous landmark features the handprints of celebrities such as Frank Sinatra. Atlantic city is also home to several historic and cultural attractions, including Absecon Lighthouse an aquarium and the huge Boardwalk Hall, a venue that hosts concerts and events like the Miss America finals.
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Diggerland Construction Theme Park
100 Pinedge Ct, West Berlin
Have a little one in your life that loves digging, dirt, and construction cars? Then take them to the amazing Diggerland. You can drive and ride in actual machinery that is diesel-powered, full-sized pieces of equipment. However, they are modified a bit to make them safe for the general public. When you are finished driving the construction machinery, you can take a ride on their military vehicles, play arcade games, climb a rock wall, or one of the biggest rope courses.
Garden State Discovery Museum
Garden State Discovery Museum
One of South Jerseys greatest tourist attractions for small children, the Garden State Discovery Museum is one of many wonderful places to visit in New Jersey.
With dozens of interactive galleries, exhibitions, and activities for children ages infant through 10 years old, your children will have a blast at Garden State Discovery Museum.
Some favorite attractions include a Dinosaurium, mini-model pro ice skating rink, an interactive news and weather station, digger land, an interactive veterinarian clinic, a mock diner, an auto body shop, and so much more.
Each of these interactive exhibitions included pint-size, realistic props perfect for your little ones.
Additionally, there are many amenities available at Garden State Discovery Museum, including a nursing area, family restrooms, a coat room, a snack area, and a restaurant.
Garden State Discovery Museum is a great place to visit with children during your stay in New Jersey.
Address: 2040 Springdale Rd #100, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003, United States
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Uss New Jersey Another Attraction To Visit In New Jersey
The USS New Jersey, also known as the Battleship New Jersey, is a museum ship docked in Camden, and a top tourist attraction in New Jersey among history buffs.
This battleship was first launched in 1942 on the first anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Along with its participation in World War II, the ship was also involved in raids during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
The USS New Jersey is especially commendable because it has earned more battle stars for combat than any ship in its class. Its the largest Navy battleship and was also the only U.S. ship to provide gunfire support during the Vietnam War.
8. USS New Jersey, a top landmark in NJ
It docked for good in 2000 when it arrived at the Camden Waterfront across the river from Philadelphia. The Waterfront is a hub for cultural things to do in New Jersey, and the battleship is one of the most popular attractions.
The museum exhibits feature anti-aircraft weapons, missiles, and other Navy-related relics. Visitors can take a tour of the ships mess hall, communications room, gun turret, and more.
Even if you have a short visit to the USS New Jersey, the Waterfront offers other attractions including the BB& T Pavilion, Camden Childrens Garden, the marina, and the Benjamin Franklin Bridge that crosses over to Philadelphia.
Learn About Bees And Beekeepers
Ever wanted to learn anything and everything about bees? Nows your chance. Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills is hosting an event called Bee Life at Greenwood with beekeeper Joe Lelinho of Hilltop Honey on Friday from 9 to 10 a.m.
Lelinho will offer insights into Greenwoods beehives and describe the roles of worker bees, drones, nurse bees and queens. He will also explain how their behavior contributes to the success of the community. Among other topics discussed will be bee nomenclature, the steps required for beekeeping and how people can help keep bees safe.
The tour will take place at Greenwoods barnyard, which is home to six beehives. It is $10 for members and $15 for non-members and will include admission to the Gardens. It is available to ages 13 and up and limited to only eight participants. Registration is required.
Go: 274 Short Hills Road, Short Hills 973-258-4026 greenwoodgardens.org/bee-life-at-greenwood/
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The Wildwoods An Area With More Things To Do In New Jersey
You might consider The Wildwoods to be Cape Mays rowdier younger sibling. Visiting this area is one of the most popular things to do in South Jersey during the summer. This family resort is about 30 minutes north of Cape May and offers free beaches. Its famous for its 1.8-mile boardwalk and Doo-Wop-style hotels.
Something youll notice about Wildwood is the wide distance between the boardwalk and the ocean. The wide beaches are often venues for many events throughout the year, such as concerts, movie nights, and monster truck rallies.
2. The Wildwoods, a fun place to go in New Jersey
From the beach, youll have a nice view of Moreys Piers, the three amusement piers that extend from the boardwalk. Spend the night enjoying the rides, which range from kid-friendly to extreme, as well as arcade games and classic boardwalk foods. Moreys Piers also features two large waterparks and artBOX, repurposed shipping containers that feature local artists works.
Take some time to step away from the boardwalk and explore the other New Jersey attractions in Wildwood. The Naval Air Station Wildwoods Aviation Museum has over 20 aircraft on display, mostly vintage models from World War II.
Another little-known attraction is the Hereford Inlet Light in North Wildwood. This 50-foot lighthouse started operating in 1874 and offers pleasant views of the beach. Both these sites are fun things to do in New Jersey with kids, although adults will love them, too.
Nj Attractions: Where To Go For Family Fun All Year
You dont have to have perfect weather to seek out family fun there are plenty of kid-friendly NJ attractions throughout the state to entertain everyone in your family all year long. Whether its seeing lions roar at the Turtle Back Zoo to spending time on a real wartime battleship to hitting the snowy, year-round ski slope inside at American Dream, you can find a new place to explore or hit again with your crew. Read on to find New Jersey attractions for tons of family fun in any season.
Featured Photo Credit: @mymoments.jackie
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Johnson Park In Highland Park Nj
We have recently discovered Johnson Park. Located in Middlesex County, it is a sprawling, 473 acre park and home to Johnson Park Zoo. The zoo is an animal haven. You can purchase animal feed, feed the animals, walk along the promenade, play in the park, and more. Lots to explore there! I would combine it with a visit to the Zimmerli Museum . I wasnt able to find a website for this park, but you can read more about our visit HERE.
Drumthwacket Mansion In Princeton
While you are in Princeton, make sure to visit the Drumthwacket Mansion. It is more of a historical stop, and not so much a fun, kid friendly spot, but if you are in the area, it is certainly interesting to see. You can read about our visit to Drumthwacket here. You can also see information about visiting Drumthwacket on their official website. Princeton itself has so much to offer, and so many places to see, that you wont be amiss in visiting the town. Check out number 25 for more information on what is around that area.
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Here Are Some Great Indoor Spots To Explore In These Cold Temps
Published:
Here are 50 things to do indoors around the state to keep the brood busy when the weather keeps you inside. Many of these indoor spots require advanced online reservations due to space restrictions. Please make sure to call before heading out on your next family adventure.
Instead of climbing the walls at home, get them in a harness and have them do some rock climbing.
Enjoy the comforts of a heated pool at an indoor water park.
Learn to skate or show off your triple lutz at an ice skating rink.
Dont like the cold? Get your skate on at one of these great roller rinks. Most will let you choose between in-line or four-wheel skates.
Even in the cold months, you can go stargazing at one of NJs many planetariums and observatories ents.
Dont let the weather strike you out: go bowling!
Let the kids try for a hole in one at glow-in-the-dark mini golf. Dont forget to dress them in whites or neons so they can get the full effect.
Paintball isnt an option for really little kids, but they can get some target practice by playing laser tag. Book your tickets in advance for most spots.
Climb, jump, run and have a blast at any of these indoor play places.
Spend a day underwater at Adventure Aquarium. Advanced tickets are required.
Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream
Combine learning and fun at a Jersey museum . Looking for something new? Visit these off-the-beaten-path museums.
Get their hands dirty with some super fun DIY projects
Hacklebarney State Park A Breathtaking Place To Visit In New Jersey
Visiting Hacklebarney State Park is one of the best free things to do in New Jersey, especially if you love the outdoors!
This 978-acre park is cut by the Black River, creating two brooks where you can find huge boulders along the riverbank. The magnificent geology of this park creates a few lovely waterfalls too, which you can find along the hiking paths.
Throughout your hike, youll come across tons of critters. The park has over 100 species of flora and fauna, including black bears, woodchucks, foxes, rainbow trout, American ginseng, leatherwood, and Virginia pennywort. A few of the trails end at a pond as well as a picnic area and playground. The entire natural scene makes it one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey.
24. Hacklebarney State Park, a gorgeous place to visit in New Jersey
The park is especially stunning in autumn when the leaves change color. Plus, you can go to the Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill across from the park and enjoy the fall festivities. The farm is family owned and operated and is a fun thing to do in NJ with your partner or friends. Explore the corn maze or treat yourself to a cider donut or warm apple cider.
Five minutes north of the state park is the Black River County Park, a glacial valley where youll also find the Willowwood Arboretum and the Nathan Cooper Gristmill.
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See A Devils Hockey Game
Named for the creature thatas legend has itroams the Pine Barrens, these hockey-playing Devils call Newarks Prudential Center home. The team has been playing in the Garden State since 1982 and is the only major professional sports team that proudly features New Jersey in its name . Rivalry matchups with the New York Rangers, New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers are always a treat, as are the many Jersey Shoreinspired concessions available at The Boardwalk in Section 126. Gary Phillips
