10 Historical Places In New Jersey

historical places in nj
Hemasudha
Hemasudha 
Updated
| 3 min read

New Jersey is a scenic state located in the northeastern part of the US. Popularly known as the ‘Diner Capital of the Country,’ New Jersey can amaze its visitors with over 525 diners. The presence of picturesque parks, ancient museums, exceptional historical sites, and marvelous entertainment options make the state of New Jersey a popular tourist attraction in the US. When you are in this state, you can chill out in Ellis Island, admire the splendid Statue of Liberty, stroll through the boardwalk at Atlantic City, kayak the rivers of Princeton, hang out in the beaches of Wildwoods, marvel the green spaces of Elizabeth, and visit the world-class casino at Seaside Heights. Here is a guide to the top 10 historical places in New Jersey, USA.

1. Fort Mott State Park


Fort Mott was initially established in the late 1800s as a coastal defense system for Delaware River. Now, the site stands tall as a recreation park. Many love to stroll through the park and enjoy its green spaces. Many families enjoy picnicking with kids in this lovely park. Activities like cross-country skiing, fishing, and sledding can also be enjoyed here.

Fort Mott State Park

Address: 454 Fort Mott Rd, Pennsville, NJ 08070, USA

Website: Fort Mott State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)

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2. Hunterdon Historical Museum


Hunterdon Historical Museum was started in 1885 to collect and preserve the valuable history of Hunterdon County in New Jersey. The organization hosts plenty of research, educational programs, and publications to achieve its goal. You can explore various historical documents, photographs, and maps in this magnificent museum.

Hunterdon Historical Museum

Address: 114 Main St, 08822 Flemington, New Jersey

Website: Hunterdon Historical Museum

Opening hours: Thu: 10am - 4pm (closed the rest of the week)

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3. Whitesbog Village


If you love to admire nature in the purest form, visit the beautiful Whitesbog Village in New Jersey. The town includes 25 ancient buildings, cranberry farms, blueberry farm fields, exciting hiking trails, pristine streams, a picnic spot, and the renowned Elizabeth White Gardens. When it comes to cranberry and blueberry cultivation, Whitesbog Village plays a vital role in the history of New Jersey.

Whitesbog Village

Website: Whitesbog Village

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4. Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum


Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum was built in the 1690s. The museum was named after Dr. William Robinson who built this ancient monument. The visitors can marvel at the 17th-century architecture in this remarkable structure. There are a lovely herb garden and a display of farm tools on the premises.

Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum

Address: 593 Madison Hill Rd, Clark, NJ 07066, USA

Website: Dr. William Robinson Plantation Museum

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5. Princeton Battlefield State Park


The Battle of Princeton held in 1777 is an important occurrence in the history of America. Princeton Battlefield Society preserves the historical site and the park surrounding the battlefield. The park is mainly explored to enjoy activities like bird-watching and cross-country skiing. Many visit the long hiking trail in the Princeton Battlefield State Park to be captivated by the beauty of nature.

Princeton Battlefield

Address: 500 Mercer Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA

Website: Princeton Battlefield

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6. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

historical places in nj | thomas edison national historical park
Source: instagram

Thomas Edison National Historical Park maintains the laboratory and residence of the great scientist Thomas Edison. The site is exactly where the scientist lived from 1886 till 1931. In the laboratory of this park, Edison invented a storage battery, phonograph, and motion picture camera. The visitors can check out the artifacts and instruments used by the scientist in the exhibition hall.

Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Address: 211 Main St, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA

Website: Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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7. Cape May Lighthouse

Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May, New Jersey, USA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Didier Moïse used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Cape May Lighthouse was built in 1859 and continues to operate even today. The lighthouse was opened to the public in the year of 1988. The effort taken to climb the 199 steps of the lighthouse will be well rewarded by the breathtaking views of the ocean and bay on the top. There is a museum with a gift shop on the site which sells souvenirs, maritime items, and books.

Cape May Lighthouse

Address: 215 Light House Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA

Website: Cape May Lighthouse

Opening hours: 9am - 8pm (daily)

Price: 10 USD for adults and 5 USD for children (ages 3 - 12)

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8. Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse


Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse was constructed in 1908. Initially, the powerhouse was used to generate electricity for trolleys, tunnels, terminals, and stations. Later it was used as a subway connection between New Jersey and New York. In 1929, the powerhouse was closed and used to store railroad equipment. Due to its historical significance, the powerhouse was renovated between 2009 and 2010.

Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse

Address: Jersey City, NJ 07302, USA

Website: Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse

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9. Speedwell

historical places in nj | speedwell
Source: instagram

Speedwell Iron Works plays an important role in the Industrial Revolution. The proprietor of the site was Stephen Vail. Stephen’s son, Alfred, along with Samuel F.B. Morse developed the telegraph in this site in 1838. The historical site is today preserved with exhibits and artifacts used during that time. You can find Ironworks exhibits, a wheelhouse, a granary, and a gift shop on the premises. The hands-on exhibit is also available to amuse the visitors.

Speedwell

Address: 333 Speedwell Ave A, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA

Website: Speedwell

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun - Tue)

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10. William Trent House Museum

William Trent House, Trenton, NJ
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Zeete used under CC BY-SA 4.0

1719 William Trent House is a historic brick house built for William Trent, the founder of the eponymous town. Beautiful English cherry trees can be found at the entrance of the house. The ferry landing is also located in the close vicinity of the house. In 1939, the house was renovated into a museum and made open to the public. Visitors can participate in the events and lectures that are hosted at the museum.

1719 William Trent House Museum

Address: 15 Market St, Trenton, NJ 08611, United States

Website: 1719 William Trent House Museum

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12.30pm - 4pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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New Jersey: a bundle of surprises

2018-10-09 08 20 53 The Cape May Lighthouse in Cape May State Park, Lower Township, Cape May County, New Jersey
Source: Photo by user Famartin used under CC BY-SA 4.0

New Jersey is an alluring state in the US with different types of wonders. Each of its cities includes a unique attraction to astound its visitors. Visiting the historical places of New Jersey gives a glimpse of the overall state. Go through our above list and enjoy the best historical vacation in New Jersey.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Hemasudha is a dedicated travel writer whose true passion lies in exploring the world. Traveling, for her, is not just a hobby but a profound spiritual experience that she is deeply passionate...Read more

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