New Jersey Travel Guide - New Jersey 2025 Official Travel Guide
Delaware River
2024-12-16 06:56:12
Flowing Traditions & Rural Pursuits
Here, Revolutionary War history, scenic byways and protected nature flow together in perfect harmony. Stroll quaint main streets and historic villages of days gone by to shop antiques and art, then venture to berry farms and bucolic vineyards—all in the same day. The namesake river itself invites both lazy tube floats and paddling workouts, in addition to serene boat rides and fishing. Within its extensive wetlands and oak-pine forests, spot diverse species of plants and animals of the Atlantic coastal Pine Barrens. The Delaware River Region both surprises and enchants visitors with its pastoral beauty, timeless traditions and storied past.
WAKE UP HERE
For an overnight experience in Salem, check in to Salem River Inn, a rustic-modern B&B right on the banks of the Delaware River. A beautiful porch for rocking-chair conversations and a riverside deck for birdwatching bald eagles and ospreys make it a peacefully wholesome getaway.
REVISIT HISTORY
Time-travel to a historic mansion, sawmill, gristmill and workers’ homes in Batsto Village, a former bog iron and glassmaking industrial center—frozen in time from the 18th century.
ASCEND INTO AVIATION
Take flight through history in Lumberton at the Air Victory Museum, one of NJ’s largest collections of real warplanes, model airplanes, engines, memorabilia and rare books related to the history of aviation.
DIG, DRIVE & RIDE
Run, don’t walk, to the only construction-theme and water park in the U.S. Diggerland USA in West Berlin is where kids and adults can operate real machinery and hands-on attractions. Thrilling rides, rope courses, rock walls and tube slides are just an added bonus.
SHOP ANTIQUES
Step into the Historic Burlington Antiques & Art Emporium, where over 65 vendors showcase a diverse array of antiques, vintage treasures, artwork and unique collectibles.
UNEARTH FOSSILS
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through time! The highly anticipated Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University opens in March 2025, welcoming guests to an immersive exploration of dinosaurs and other prehistoric species.
STEP ABOARD
Explore the Battleship New Jersey in Camden, the most decorated battleship in American naval history, now a floating museum of fascinating exhibits and historical artifacts. USS New Jersey will be a key location during this year’s Homecoming 250, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy & Marine Corps’ founding.
DINE & DRINK
Savor “casual gourmet” American dishes like the famed black Angus meatloaf at the award-winning Braddock’s Tavern, tucked away in Historic Medford Village within a restored Colonial setting. Dispatch to Auburn Road Vineyard’s European-style wine bar, or “enoteca,” for a guided tasting flight, or share a wine-paired feast in the courtyard surrounded by grape vines in Pilesgrove.
Catch an Event
DELAWARE RIVER REGION
SPONSORED CONTENT
FIRE & ICE FESTIVAL
January 25
Downtown Mount Holly
fireandicefestival.com - Downtown Mount Holly comes alive with live ice carvings, delicious food and brews and a legendary chili cookoff.
DOWN DERBY WINE FESTIVAL
May 3
Veterans Island on Cooper River Park, Westmont
visitsouthjersey.com/2025-down-derby-wine-festival - Sample wines from South Jersey’s leading wine producers while immersing yourself in Derby-themed fashion and festivities.
COLLINGSWOOD MAY FAIR
May 24
Haddon Avenue, Collingswood
collingswood.com/things_to_do/arts_and_events/may_fair - From a “clothesline art exhibit” to now 1+ mile of the business district, it’s a festival of art, music and activities.
COWTOWN RODEO
Memorial Day - September
Pilesgrove
cowtownrodeo.com - The longest-running weekly professional rodeo in the U.S., with PBR and Xtreme Bull Riding nights, plus a flea market prior to the show.
XPONENTIAL MUSIC FESTIVAL, PRESENTED BY SUBARU
September
Wiggins Park, Camden
xpnfest.org - Hosted by WXPN and the Camden County Board of Commissioners, see established artists and discover new up-and-coming bands.
CHATSWORTH CRANBERRY FESTIVAL
October 18-19
Downtown Chatsworth
cranfest.info - Come for the juried craft show, car show, live music and delicious food vendors, including locally grown cranberries!
DISCOVER THE CHARM OF SOUTH JERSEY
How much do you know about South Jersey? In a state teeming with people and places to explore, the counties stretching from the Philadelphia suburbs to the Delaware Bay offer natural beauty, small-town charm and unique experiences that you don’t need to visit a big city to find.
South Jersey is home to some of America’s oldest communities, where its historic past blends seamlessly with its vibrant present. The bustling towns that played key roles in the American Revolution and the Underground Railroad still reflect the hardworking spirit of the farmers and visionaries who built this region. Five-star dining, eclectic shopping and the renowned Outer Coastal Plain Wine Region are all part of its contemporary identity.
Family-friendly and exciting adventures abound, whether you’re visiting a fossil dig site, exploring quaint Main Street communities or enjo ying the beautiful parks and farmlands. Beyond the famed Jersey Shore, the inland greenery of the Garden State is on full display in its cranberr y bogs, blueberry fields and acres of farmland.
Wherever you go, expect lively conversations and plenty of opinions. This is the heart of New Jersey, where hospitality meets passion.
WATERFRONT HISTORY & ADVENTURE
Along the banks of the Delaware River, the Camden City Waterfront is one of the most captivating destinations in New Jersey, offering a blend of history, entertainment and scenic views of Philadelphia. Whether you’re a history buff or adventure seeker, the Camden Waterfront has something for everyone.
Start your journey with a visit to the Battleship New Jersey, America’s most decorated battleship. Walk the decks that sailors from World War II to the Vietnam War, have and immerse yourself in a deep dive of U.S. Naval history. It’s an awe-inspiring experience amplified by the stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline.
For family-friendly fun, head to Adventure Aquarium, where you’ll encounter a variety of marine life up close, from hippos and penguins to the 40-foot shark tunnel — the longest in the state. Interactiv e exhibits delight visitors of all ages, whether petting a stingray in The Grotto or taking an undersea tour in the new Virtual Reality (VR) pods.
As you stroll along the waterfront, Wiggins Waterfront Park and Marina offers a serene spot to relax, picnic or catch a liv e outdoor concert during the summer months. And if you’re in the mood for music, the nearby Freedom Mortgage Pavilion hosts world-class concerts that draw fans from throughout the tri-state region.
NATURE CALLS IN THE PINELANDS
The New Jersey Pinelands, often called the Pine Barrens, is a sprawling natural wonder comprising a million acres of pristine forest, winding rivers and diverse wildlife. It’s a place where nature takes center stage, offering travelers a peaceful escape and a chance to explore one of the most ecologically distinct regions in the country.
Wander through the towering pine trees on countless trails that are perfect for hiking, birdwatching or simply soaking in the serenity. Along the way, you might spot rare species like the Pine Barrens tree frog or the endangered red-shouldered hawk. Pinelands’ rivers, like the Batsto and Mullica, invite travelers to glide through the tranquil waters by kayak or canoe, surrounded by lush landscapes.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Batsto Village, a well-preserved, 18th-century ironworks town nestled in the heart of the Pinelands. It’s a step back in time that offers a glimpse into the Colonial past, with events that draw contemporary connections to those bygone days.
For the complete Pinelands experience, try camping under the starfilled sky or visiting quaint, nearby communities, like Hammonton, the blueberry capital of the world. Whether you’re seeking an outdoorsy pursuit or a peaceful natural retreat, the Pine Barrens are a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
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