Got a history buff in the family? Wish you did? Consider visiting one of these reader-recommended NJ landmarks. While everyone seemed to have their own favorite, there were a few standouts. For a complete list of historic sites, including lighthouses, living history farms, historic houses, and more, click here.
Allaire State Park (Wall Township)
Allaire State Park is best known for its 19th-century iron-making town, Allaire Village, and its antique steam trains on the Pine Creek Railroad. Tour historic buildings to discover what life was like in an 1836 industrial town. In addition to tours, join villagers for activities such as 1830s games, chores, craft demonstrations, special presentations, and more!
Barnegat Light (Barnegat)
A panoramic view of Island Beach, Barnegat Bay, and Long Beach Island awaits at the top of Barnegat Light—the number-one reader pick in this category. “Old Barney’s” story from shipwreck to first-class seacoast light is showcased in the adjacent newly renovated Interpretive Center at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park.
Battleship New Jersey (Camden)
Visit America’s most decorated battleship, and let your little ones climb the original ladders, sit in the Admiral’s chair, and glimpse sailor life. Choose an audio tour (there’s a kids’ version) or the new Turret II Experience, a guided tour that takes guests five decks down. There’s even an overnight option on the Battleship New Jersey!
Howell Living History Farm (Lambertville)
Step back into turn-of-the-20th-century New Jersey—when farming still depended on equipment drawn by horses. See them at work and visit other animals, like sheep and oxen, along the way. There are activities every Saturday; arrive at 10 am for a chance to collect eggs in the chicken house.
Morristown National Historical Park (Morristown)
The Morristown National Historical Park was the first national historical park established in America, in 1933. It encompasses George Washington’s 1779–80 winter headquarters, Jockey Hollow, and Fort Nonsense. See the huts the Continental Army occupied during the Revolution, and at the visitors’ center, learn how the soldiers survived the frigid winter with little food and barely any clothing. Year-round events are held for all ages, and hiking trails lead through lush woods.
