If you’re looking to experience some fascinating history on your next vacation, you’ve come to the right place. From American Revolutionary War stories to farming history to unique architecture, New Jersey is rich in historic places and sites. Pick your favorite time period and plan a visit to these attractions, courtesy of the NJ Department of Tourism.
1700s – American Revolutionary War
Experience the American Revolutionary War at the 33-acre Fort Lee Historic Park and Visitor Center in Fort Lee, where gorgeous overlooks along the Hudson River and a reconstructed Revolutionary War encampment will give you a first-hand look into American history. Or visit Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Manalapan, where you can explore the battlefield and see a restored 1700s farmhouse. At the Hancock House in Hancock’s Bridge, see the 1734 house, which also was the site of a British-led massacre during the war.
1800s – Architecture & Farm Life
Explore the grandeur of the 1800s at Cape May’s Emlen Physick Estate, an 18-room mansion built by famed architect Frank Furness. Take the house tour to see how the wealthy lived during this time period. Or, see how the working class lived when you visit the Historic Village at Allaire in Farmingdale, a living history museum featuring a pattern-making shop, blacksmith shop, mills and more. Millbrook Village in Hardwick also showcases the life of local farmers during the 1800s, with a recreated village in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.
1900s – Agriculture, Aviation & Pop Culture
During the early 20th century, Whitesbog Village in Browns Mills was the largest cranberry farm in New Jersey. Today is it a National and State Historic Site offering a historic village, nature tours and special events. At NASW Aviation Museum in Wildwood, learn about the advancement in aviation during this era as you see WWII aircraft and engines, learn about the science of flight, and interact with hands-on exhibits. Or, learn about the iconic, all-American pastime at the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center in Little Falls. It highlights not only important moments in baseball history, but also the extraordinary life of one of America’s most beloved sports figures.
Today – Contemporary Art & Design
Get a glimpse into the minds of modern-day artists at New Jersey’s contemporary art museums, where you can view cutting-edge ideas, new artistic processes and unique materials. From photography to painting to sculpture, appreciate modern art in all its forms at the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey in Summit, or explore contemporary artwork and design inside a historic space at the Hunterdon Art Museum in Clinton.
Find even more historic sites for your next New Jersey vacation.
READ MORE: Monmouth County history grants available
