Top 10 Historic Landmarks in New Jersey

New Jersey was one of the original 13 colonies and saw many battles during the American Revolution. This state has the highest population density of all the United States.

With more than 50 seaside resort towns, this state is a popular destination for vacationers.

It is also the leading producer of cranberries, blueberries, and tomatoes and boasts the nickname the “Garden State.” However, it is also known as an industrial center.

Today, New Jersey is home to many ghost towns that have become tourist destinations. Although it is now a historic ghost town, Feltville, New Jersey was once a booming mill town, religious community, and coveted mountain resort.

Even with its many transformations, it seems that Feltville’s final fate is to remain a ghost town. Popular Jersey Shore attractions and its natural beauty seemed to have put the final nail in the coffin for Feltville.

If you’re looking to tour any historic sites in New Jersey, compare at least three to four policies today to get the best auto insurance rates before hitting the road! Enter your ZIP code above to begin!

Top 10 Historic Landmarks in New Jersey

New Jersey has plenty to offer for any history buff, but we narrowed it down to the top 10 historic landmarks you might want to check out in New Jersey.

#1 – Grounds for Sculpture

Grounds for Sculpture is an ever-changing collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures located in Hamilton. The sculptures sit on 42-acres that are meticulously landscaped for your enjoyment.

Construction began on the Grounds for Sculpture in 1989 on the former site of the New Jersey State Fairgrounds. J. Seward Johnson was the sculptor and philanthropist who helped conceived this one-of-a-kind garden.

Currently, there are more than 270 works on display.

This attraction also has year-round performing arts events and tours. Due to the popularity of the Grounds of Sculpture, you must have a timed ticket for entry. Tickets run between $10 and $18 and are for self-guided general admission.

#2 – Cape May Lighthouse

The Cape May Lighthouse is an iconic lighthouse that has welcomed over 2.5 million visitors since 1988. Built in 1859, this lighthouse is the third to be built at the southern tip of New Jersey.

The lighthouse features many activities for family fun, including a Saturday storytime during the summer. Visiting hours vary by season. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children and can be purchased online or upon arrival.

#3 – Thomas Edison National Historic Park

Step back in time into the home and laboratory of Thomas Edison and learn how our country’s greatest inventor changed our lives forever. This unique attraction is located in the city of West Orange.

At the Thomas Edison National Historic Park, your children can play and explore and find out if they might be America’s next great adventure. They could also become a junior ranger. Ranger talks are given throughout the day, and audio-guided tours are also available.

Hours and ticket prices vary, so contact the Thomas Edison National Historic Park directly for more information.

#4 – Navesink Twin Lights

Since 1828, the Twin Lights Lighthouse has stood 200 feet above sea level on the Navesink Highlands. For generations, this light was the brightest light along the treacherous coast of northern New Jersey.

The Highlands is a unique town in that it is one of the few towns in New Jersey that you don’t have to travel through to get to somewhere else. This insulated town has been home to the same families for generations.

A trip to the Twin Lights Lighthouse is both entertaining and educational. Here you can learn about what it is like to run a lighthouse and how life was back in the 1800s.

In April of 1893, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited for the very first time in the most eagerly anticipated flag raising ceremony in our nation’s history.

Hours vary by season and weather conditions. Admission is free.

#5 – Absecon Lighthouse

The tallest lighthouse in the state was built in 1857 and can be found in Atlantic City. The Absecon Lighthouse ascends 228 steps and is also one of the oldest in the nation.

It offers fantastic views of the Atlantic City Skyline, a replica of the original light keeper’s dwelling, a quaint gift shop, and an educational museum. Guests of all ages can appreciate the beauty and history that the Absecon Lighthouse provides.

Admission runs between $3 and $7.

#6 – Liberty Science Center

Although the Liberty Science Center is geared toward children, there is fun and learning to be had for people of all ages here.

Located in Jersey City, this interactive museum has rotating and permanent exhibits that make learning fun.

Your children can build with giant blocks, learn more about explosives in the Mythbusters Exhibit, or take in a move at their IMAX theater. Tickets can be purchased for $11.75-$31.75 depending on ticket type.

#7 – Emlen Physick Estate

The Emlen Physick Estate is the only Victorian house museum located in New Jersey. Here you can experience the Victorian past through architecture, customs, and decorative arts.

The home was completed in 1879 and housed:

• Emlen Physick Jr.
• His mother, Frances Ralston
• His aunt, Emilie Parmentier

Emlen’s grandfather was Dr. Philip Syng Physick and was known for being the father of American surgery. Many of his medical instruments and procedures are still being used in medicine in current day practices.

Emlen followed his grandfather’s footsteps by graduating from medical school but stopped short of ever practicing medicine. Instead, he became a farmer in Cape May.

The Emlen Physick Estate also makes a perfect backdrop for a real-life game of Clue. Ticket prices vary by season.

#8 – Adventure Aquarium

If animals and sea life are more your thing, you won’t want to miss the Adventure Aquarium located only minutes from downtown Philadelphia on the Camden Waterfront.

Here you can see more than 8,500 aquatic species in two million gallons of water.

This aquarium houses the largest collection of sharks on the east coast. Penguins and hippos are other popular animals that can be seen here.

Admission is $28 for adults and $21 for children.

#9 – Boardwalk Hall

Boardwalk Hall can be found in the famous Atlantic City, among many other popular attractions.

This showplace for world class entertainment is located at the center of the world famous boardwalk and hosts family shows, concerts, and sporting events. Going to a show here is the opportunity of a lifetime.

Nearby you will find:

• Free beaches
• Casinos
• Historic attractions
• Luxurious hotels
• Restaurants

#10 – Casino Pier

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iYl5sXns3Q

In 1932, the Casino Pier was opened by Linus Gilbert. Throughout the years, owners and attractions have come and gone.

This area suffered a lot of damage during October of 2013 with Hurricane Sandy. Several attractions were lost into the ocean. Amazingly, with much dedication and hard work, the Casino Pier was able to open on a limited basis in June of the following year.

Casino Pier has now been restored to being the perfect place to celebrate summer with your family.

Cool off in the Breakwater Beach Waterpark, find some thrills in the Casino Pier attractions, play around in the arcade, or get serious about your game of golf. The possibilities of fun for people of all ages are endless at Casino Pier.

Prices and admission vary with a children’s admission starting at under $30.

Traveling Safely in New Jersey

No matter where you are headed in this state, it is important to be prepared and to drive safely. Being prepared with the right auto insurance also includes these steps:

• Have the right coverage – Before getting on the road, have the right auto insurance coverage, not only in the state of New Jersey, but also other coverages that may be right for your situation, such as collision and comprehensive.
• Review policy every six months – About every six months, you should review your auto insurance policy to ensure you are getting the best rates and the most appropriate coverage for you.
• Compare three to four policies – When reviewing your policy, compare three to four different policies to ensure you are paying the best rights and getting the best service.
• Don’t make a decision solely on cost – Although it can be tempting, don’t select your auto insurance coverage based on cost alone. You will also want to consider other factors such as customer service or how claims are handled.

Other tips to be prepared for your road trip include:

• Know the landmarks you want to see – Do your research and decide which landmarks or attractions you want to see the most.
• Map your trip ahead of time – Take the time to plan out your journey and consider how much travel time you will need.
• Tune-up your car ahead of time – Get a tune-up for your vehicle before leaving. A check-up can reduce the chances of anything unexpected happening while you are on the road.
• Travel with an emergency kit – It is always wise to travel with an emergency kit. This kit should include a flashlight, road flares, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, water, non-perishable snacks, and blankets.

Looking to travel to New Jersey soon? Enter your ZIP code below first and start comparison shopping for the best coverage before hitting the road!