Top 100 best museums in New Jersey

Ellis Island, a small islet nestled in the port of New York, near New Jersey, is a significant historical site. Its strategic location in the upper area of the bay made it a crucial point of entry for millions of immigrants coming to the United States.

The Adventure Aquarium, previously known as the Thomas H Kean New Jersey State Aquarium, is a for-profit educational entertainment attraction. It is situated in Camden, New Jersey, on the Delaware River Camden Waterfront. The aquarium is operated by Herschend Family Entertainment and was originally opened in 1992. It was reopened in its current form on May 25, 2005.

The Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial is situated at 62 Battleship Place, Camden, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and serves as the home to the USS New Jersey, the most decorated battleship in the U.S. Navy's history. The museum not only preserves this historic ship but also provides an opportunity for visitors to explore and learn about its rich history.

The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is situated at the Cape May Airport in Lower Township, in Cape May County, New Jersey, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of aviation in the region.

The Ripley collection is vast and diverse, including 20,000 photographs, 30,000 artifacts, and more than 100,000 cartoon panels. This extensive collection provides a wide range of exhibits for visitors to explore, ensuring that there is something of interest for everyone.

A great place to chill out off the huge amount of gambling or go in with your family. Small, but worth visiting!

The Hoboken Historical Museum, established in 1986, is situated in Hoboken, New Jersey. The museum offers a variety of rotating exhibitions and activities that provide insights into the city's history, culture, architecture, and historic landmarks. It serves as a platform for visitors to explore and understand the rich heritage of Hoboken.

The Emlen Physick Estate, a Victorian house museum, is situated in Cape May, New Jersey. The estate can be found at 1048 Washington Street. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the Victorian era, with its 18-room mansion designed by renowned American architect Frank Furness in 1879.

The Old Barracks Museum is a significant historic site located at 101 Barracks Street in Trenton, Mercer County, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of American history.

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, New Jersey, is a preserved site that includes Thomas Edison's laboratory and his residence, known as Glenmont. This park offers a unique opportunity to explore the spaces where Edison lived and worked, providing a glimpse into the life of one of the world's most renowned inventors.

The Liberty Science Center is an interactive science museum and learning center situated in Liberty State Park, Jersey City, New Jersey. It offers a variety of science exhibits and educational resources, making it an ideal destination for those interested in science and learning. The center is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity to engage with science in a hands-on and interactive way.

Geology Hall, located on the Queens Campus of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, is a historic building that was constructed between April 1871 and June 1872. The building was initially designed to accommodate various science classes and the Rutgers Geology Museum. This makes it a significant location for those interested in the history of science education and geology.

The Walt Whitman House, located in Camden, New Jersey, is a historic building that served as the final residence of the renowned American poet Walt Whitman. This house holds significant historical value as it was the place where Whitman spent his last years before his death.

The Newark Museum of Art, located in Newark, Essex County, New Jersey, is the largest museum in the state. Formerly known as the Newark Museum, it has undergone a name change to better reflect its focus on art.

The Jane Voorhees Zimmerli Art Museum, popularly known as the Zimmerli Art Museum, is situated on the Voorhees Mall of Rutgers University's campus in New Brunswick, New Jersey. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are interested in exploring the rich collection of art that the museum houses.

Grounds For Sculpture (GFS) is a significant sculpture park and museum that spans across 42 acres in Hamilton, New Jersey. The establishment was founded in 1992 by John Seward Johnson II, with the aim of promoting an understanding and appreciation for contemporary sculpture.

The Barnegat Lighthouse, affectionately known as Old Barney, is a historic lighthouse located in Barnegat Light, on the east coast of New Jersey. It stands on the northern end of Long Beach Island, serving as a beacon for ships and a popular tourist attraction.

Allaire Village is a historic district nestled within the Allaire State Park in Wall Township, New Jersey. Established in 1804 by James P. Allaire, the village was once a thriving ironworks community. Today, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, with its preserved buildings and structures that tell the story of a bygone era.

The Church of the Presidents, originally known as St. James Episcopal Church, is a site of historical significance located in Long Branch, New Jersey. This church has been visited by at least six sitting American presidents, earning it its current name. It was inaugurated in 1879 and has been listed in the National Register of Historic Places since 1976.

The Duke Gardens, located in Somerset County, New Jersey, were recognized as one of the most significant glass house collections in America. These gardens were the creation of Doris Duke, a prominent philanthropist and horticulturist. The gardens were larger than the New York Botanical Garden's Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, showcasing the grandeur and scale of Duke's vision.

The Cape May Lighthouse is a significant landmark located in the U.S. state of New Jersey. Specifically, it can be found in Lower Township's Cape May Point State Park. This location is not only picturesque but also easily accessible, making it a convenient destination for tourists.

Mana Contemporary is a cultural center located in Jersey City, New Jersey, with affiliated centers in Chicago and Miami. Established in May 2011, it was founded by entrepreneur Moishe Mana. The center offers services, spaces, and programs to artists, collectors, curators, students, and the artistic community.

Rutgers Gardens is the official botanical garden of Rutgers University. It is situated at 112 Log Cabin Road, North Brunswick, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy the beauty of nature.

The Perth Amboy Ferry Slip, situated on the Arthur Kill in Perth Amboy, Middlesex County, New Jersey, United States, was once a crucial ferry slip for boats in New York Harbor. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the importance of waterways in the transportation system of the United States.

The Bamboo Brook Outdoor Education Center is a sprawling arboretum and botanical garden that spans 100 acres. It is located in the scenic town of Gladstone, New Jersey. This vast expanse of greenery offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Turtle Back Zoo is located in West Orange, New Jersey. It is part of the South Mountain Recreation Complex and is managed as part of the Essex County Park System. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from all continents except Antarctica and is open year-round, weather permitting.

The A.J. Meerwald, a restored oyster schooner, is a significant part of New Jersey's maritime heritage. It is based in the Bivalve section of Commercial Township in Cumberland County, New Jersey. This historic ship offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the state's rich maritime history and the importance of oyster dredging in the region's past.

The Sea Girt Light, located in Sea Girt, New Jersey, is a decommissioned lighthouse that once marked the inlet leading to the Wreck Pond. This historic structure is a significant part of the local landscape and offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the region.

The East Point Lighthouse, also known as Maurice River Light, is a significant landmark located in Heislerville, New Jersey. It is situated at the mouth of the Maurice River, where it meets the Delaware Bay. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it an interesting spot for visitors.

The Absecon Lighthouse is a significant landmark located at the northern end of Atlantic City in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city. The lighthouse offers a unique opportunity to explore a piece of New Jersey's maritime history.

Lambert Castle, originally known as Belle Vista, is situated within the Garret Mountain Reservation in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey. This historic building offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and industry, making it a significant landmark in the region.

The Willowwood Arboretum is a sprawling 130-acre arboretum and botanical garden situated in Chester Township, New Jersey. This vast expanse of greenery offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing visitors with a serene environment to explore and enjoy.

The Princeton Battlefield is a historic site located in Princeton, Mercer County, New Jersey, United States. It is known for being the location where American and British troops clashed on January 3, 1777, during the Battle of Princeton in the American Revolutionary War. This battle was a significant event in American history, marking a turning point in the war.

The Reeves-Reed Arboretum, located at 165 Hobart Avenue in Summit, Union County, New Jersey, is a unique destination as it is the only arboretum in Union County. This nonprofit arboretum and garden offers a unique opportunity to explore a variety of plant species in a serene environment.

The Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center, located in Millville, New Jersey, is a non-profit arts education organization. The center's primary focus is on the medium of glass, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and appreciate this versatile material. The center's mission is to engage artists and audiences in an evolving exploration of creativity, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.

Sayen Park Botanical Garden, also known as Sayen House and Gardens, is a municipal park and botanical garden situated in Hamilton Square, within Hamilton Township, New Jersey. This beautiful location is a perfect spot for nature lovers and those who appreciate the beauty of botanical gardens. It offers a serene environment for relaxation and exploration.

Rutherfurd Hall, located in Allamuchy Township, Warren County, New Jersey, is a historic house that holds significant value in architecture and social history. Recognized for its importance, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places on April 24, 2013. This recognition not only highlights the architectural beauty of the house but also its rich social history.

The Indian King Tavern holds a special place in the history of New Jersey. In 1777, it was the site of a significant meeting of the New Jersey Legislature, where the Great Seal of the state was adopted. Recognizing its historical importance, it was designated as the first State Historic Site in 1903. The original structure of the tavern has been preserved and remains largely intact, allowing visitors to experience the site as it was during the colonial era.

Waterloo Village, located in Byram Township, Sussex County in northwestern New Jersey, is a restored 19th-century canal town. This historic site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the lifestyle and architecture of a typical canal town during the 19th century. Visitors can explore the various buildings and structures that have been carefully preserved and restored, providing a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience history firsthand.

The John Ballantine House, located at 49 Washington Street in Newark, New Jersey, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. Constructed in 1884 and remaining largely unchanged since 1900, the house provides a unique opportunity to explore the architectural and cultural history of the period. The house was the residence of Jeannette Boyd and John Holme Ballantine, the son of Peter Ballantine, founder of the Ballantine beer brewery. Today, it stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time and the rich history of the Ballantine family.

The Dey Mansion, also known as Bloomsburg Manor, is a historic site located in Wayne, Passaic County, New Jersey. This mansion played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as George Washington's Headquarters on several occasions. The mansion's rich history and its connection to pivotal moments in American history make it a fascinating destination for those interested in the Revolutionary War era.

Long Pond Ironworks State Park, situated in Hewitt, West Milford, New Jersey, is a site of historical significance. The park is recognized for its old stone walls, furnaces, and other remnants of a once thriving ironworking community. These remnants serve as a testament to the industrious past of the area, providing visitors with a glimpse into the history of ironworking in the United States.

The United States Golf Association Museum and Arnold Palmer Center for Golf History is a significant destination for golf enthusiasts. It houses a vast collection of golf artifacts and memorabilia. The museum is conveniently located in Liberty Corner, New Jersey, adjacent to the United States Golf Association’s headquarters.

The Sterling Hill Mining Museum, formerly known as the Sterling Hill Mine, is located in Ogdensburg, Sussex County, New Jersey, United States. This former zinc mine has a rich history and is now a museum that showcases the mining industry's past and its impact on the region.

Liberty Hall, also known as the Governor William Livingston House, is a historic home that has housed many influential figures. It was recognized for its significance in politics and government and was added to the National Register of Historic Places as a National Historic Landmark in 1972. Today, it serves as the Liberty Hall Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past and the lives of those who once resided there.

The Red Mill Museum Village, previously known as the Clinton Historical Museum, is an open-air museum situated along the South Branch Raritan River at 56 Main Street in Clinton, New Jersey. This location offers a unique blend of history and nature, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience.

Fort Lee Historic Park is a significant historical site located on the Hudson Palisades' bluff, overlooking Burdett's Landing, also known as Mount Constitution, in Fort Lee, New Jersey. This location offers a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty and historical significance.

Washington Crossing State Park, located in New Jersey, is a vast 3,575-acre park that forms part of the U.S. National Historic Landmark area known as Washington's Crossing. This park is a significant part of American history and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a site of national importance.

Monmouth Battlefield State Park is a significant historical site located in New Jersey, United States. Spanning 1,818 acres, the park is situated on the border of Manalapan and Freehold Township in Monmouth County. This location is easily accessible and offers a vast area for exploration, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history and nature.

Drumthwacket, located at 354 Stockton Street in Princeton, New Jersey, is the official residence of the governor of the U.S. state of New Jersey. This historic mansion, built in 1835 and expanded in 1893 and 1900, is not only a place of political significance but also a site of architectural and historical interest.

Rockingham is a historic house that holds significant importance in American history. It served as the home of John Berrien and was also the final headquarters of George Washington during the Revolutionary War. The house is located at 84 Laurel Avenue, Franklin Township in Somerset County, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the past, making it a worthwhile visit for tourists interested in history.

The New Jersey Museum of Transportation is a unique institution that focuses on the collection, preservation, and operation of historic railroad equipment. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits that showcase the rich history and evolution of railroad technology. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the world of transportation, making it an interesting destination for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike.

The Cornelius Low House, also known as Ivy Hall, is a significant historical site located in Piscataway, Middlesex County, New Jersey. This Georgian manor was constructed in 1741 and stands as a testament to the architectural style and craftsmanship of the period. The house is listed on both the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places, further emphasizing its historical significance.

The Crane House and Historic YWCA is a significant historical site located at 110 Orange Road in Montclair, Essex County, New Jersey. This federal-style home has been recognized for its architectural, conservation, and industrial significance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 14, 1973. It offers a unique glimpse into the past and is a valuable destination for those interested in history and architecture.

The Red Bank Battlefield, situated along the Delaware River in National Park, Gloucester County, New Jersey, holds historical significance as the site of the Battle of Red Bank during the American Revolutionary War on October 22, 1777. This location was a strategic point during the war, where American soldiers defended against British and Hessian forces. Today, visitors can explore this historic battlefield and gain a deeper understanding of the events that unfolded here.

The Camden Shipyard & Maritime Museum is located in the Waterfront South neighborhood of Camden, New Jersey. It is situated across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting either city. The museum offers a unique insight into the maritime history of the region.

The Metlar House, also known as the Knapp House, the Bodine House, or the Metlar–Bodine House, is a historic house that has been converted into a museum. It is located along River Road in Piscataway, New Jersey. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the area and the people who lived there.

Garretson Forge and Farm is a historic site that has been owned by the Garretson Family since 1719. It is located in Fair Lawn, Bergen County, New Jersey, United States. This site is one of the oldest in the county and offers a unique glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the property and learn about its rich history.

Historical Speedwell, previously known as Speedwell Ironworks, is open to the public and features seven buildings on display. It is a historic site managed by the Morris County Park Commission and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1974. Visitors can explore the site and learn about its significant role in history.

The Brick Academy, a Federal-style brick building, was constructed in 1809. It was built to accommodate the Basking Ridge Classical School, located in Bernards Township, Somerset County, New Jersey. This historical building stands as a testament to the educational history of the region.

The Captain Edward Compton House is a significant historical site located in Mauricetown, New Jersey. This 2-story, brick-and-frame house is a prime example of High Victorian styled Italianate architecture. The house is situated at 1229 Front Street, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Ringwood Manor, situated in Passaic County, New Jersey, has a rich history dating back to the 1740s. It served as an ironworks site and was the residence of several prominent ironmasters until the late 19th century. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the manor, making it an interesting destination for those interested in industrial history.

The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens is a unique botanical garden that spans across 7.8 acres and specializes in Iris flowers. It is managed by a non-profit organization consisting of dedicated volunteers. This garden is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those who appreciate the beauty of Iris flowers.

The Leonard J. Buck Garden is a unique botanical garden located in Far Hills, New Jersey. It spans across 33 acres and is known for its rock garden. The garden is a blend of naturalistic settings, streams, and rocky outcrops, making it a unique destination for nature lovers.

The Pietro and Maria Botto House, located at 83 Norwood Street, Haledon in Passaic County, New Jersey, is a significant historical site. It was here that leaders of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) union addressed the 25,000 workers involved in the Paterson Silk Strike of 1913. This event was a pivotal moment in the history of labor rights in the United States.

The Hancock House is a significant historical site located in the Hancock's Bridge section of Lower Alloways Creek Township, Salem County, New Jersey, United States. This historic structure offers a glimpse into the past and is a key part of the region's history.

The Stoutsburg Sourland African American Museum (SSAAM) is a historical institution situated in the Skillman area of Montgomery Township, New Jersey. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of African Americans in the region.

The Morris Museum, which has been in operation since 1913, is a significant cultural landmark in New Jersey. It is the second largest museum in the state, spanning an impressive 75,524 square feet. This expansive space allows the museum to house a wide variety of exhibits and collections, offering visitors a comprehensive and diverse cultural experience.

The Colonial Park Arboretum and Gardens is a vast expanse of 144 acres, nestled within the larger 651-acre Colonial Park. Located in Franklin Township, New Jersey, this arboretum and botanical garden offers a serene and lush environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Jewish Museum of New Jersey is situated at 145 Broadway in Newark, Essex County, New Jersey, United States. This location is easily accessible and serves as a significant landmark in the city.

The East Jersey Old Town Village is an open-air museum situated in the scenic Johnson Park in Piscataway, New Jersey. This unique museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the architecture and lifestyle of the 18th and 19th centuries in Central Jersey.

The Jacobus Vanderveer House, also known as the Knox House, is a historic site located in Bedminster Township, Somerset County, New Jersey. This U.S. Federal style house is a significant part of the local history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. It is conveniently located at the junction of US 202 and 206 north of River Road, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The Bayonne Community Museum is situated in the Bergen Point section of Bayonne, Hudson County, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of the area. The museum is housed in a building that is an excellent example of Beaux-Arts architecture, designed by architect Lansing C. Holden Sr.

The Grover Cleveland Birthplace is a significant historic site situated at 207 Bloomfield Avenue in Caldwell, Essex County, New Jersey, United States. This location is of great importance as it is the birthplace of U.S. President Grover Cleveland, making it a unique destination for those interested in American history.

The Wallace House, located at 38 Washington Place, Somerville, Somerset County, New Jersey, United States, is a Georgian style historic house. It served as the headquarters of General George Washington during the second Middlebrook encampment (1778–79). This significant historical site offers a glimpse into the past, particularly the Revolutionary War period.

The Howell Living History Farm, also known as the Joseph Phillips Farm, is a significant historical site located in the Pleasant Valley section of Hopewell Township, Mercer County, New Jersey. This 130-acre open-air museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich agricultural history of the region.

The Dirck Gulick House is a significant historical site located at 506 County Route 601, in the Dutchtown section of Montgomery Township, Somerset County, New Jersey. This stone house, built in 1752, stands as a testament to the architectural style of the period and offers a glimpse into the past. Its location is easily accessible, making it a convenient stop for those interested in history and architecture.

The Old Dutch Parsonage, a historical house built in 1751, is now located at 65 Washington Place, Somerville, Somerset County, New Jersey, United States. The house was moved in 1913 and has since been a significant historical site in the area.

The John Holmes House, also known as the Cresse–Holmes House, is a significant historical site located at 504 U.S. Route 9 North in the Cape May Court House section of Middle Township in Cape May County, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of the area.

The Isaac Watson House is conveniently located just outside the state capital of Trenton, in Hamilton Township, Mercer County, New Jersey. Its location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the state capital and offers a glimpse into the state's historical past.

The Samuel Fleming House, also known as Flemington Castle, is a historic home located in Flemington, in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. This house was built in 1756 and is the oldest surviving house in the borough. It is part of the Flemington Historic District and is now operated as a museum.

The Blackledge-Kearney House, also known as Cornwallis' Headquarters, is a historic site located within the Palisades Interstate Park in Alpine, Bergen County, New Jersey. This location offers visitors a chance to explore a piece of American history in a beautiful park setting.

The West End Hose Company Number 3 building was added to the National Register of Historic Places on July 17, 2002. This recognition underlines its significance in architecture and social history. Tourists interested in historical sites will find this information relevant as it adds to the prestige and historical importance of the building.

Buccleuch Mansion is situated in Buccleuch Park, New Brunswick, Middlesex County, New Jersey, along the Raritan River. This location offers a scenic view of the river and the surrounding park, making it a pleasant destination for tourists.

Greenfield Hall, situated in Haddonfield, Camden County, New Jersey, is a historic building that dates back to 1747. It was recognized for its historical significance and added to the National Register of Historic Places on June 5, 1974. This location offers a unique opportunity for visitors to step back in time and experience a piece of American history.

The Bayonne Truck House No. 1, also known as the Chief John T. Brennan Fire Museum, is a historic site located in Bayonne, Hudson County, New Jersey, United States. This museum offers visitors a glimpse into the history of firefighting in the region, with its building itself being a part of that history.

New Bridge Landing, once a prosperous mill hamlet, is centered around a strategically placed bridge at the narrows of the Hackensack River. This location was of significant importance during the American Revolution, serving as a strategic crossing point for General George Washington and his troops. Today, visitors can explore this historic site and learn about its rich past.

The Wortendyke Barn, a historic Dutch barn, is situated at 13 Pascack Road in Park Ridge, Bergen County, New Jersey, United States. This barn, which was constructed in 1770, was recognized for its historical significance and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 2, 1972.

The Millville Executive Airport holds a significant place in history as it was dubbed "America's First Defense Airport". This title was earned due to the nearly 1,500 pilots who trained in gunnery practice at the airport with the Republic P-47 "Thunderbolt" plane during World War II.

The Princeton University Art Museum is an art gallery that is situated within the grounds of Princeton University in New Jersey. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors who are touring the university or the surrounding area. The museum is a significant cultural institution that offers a wide range of art exhibits for public viewing.

Boxwood Hall State Historic Site is a historic house museum situated at 1073 East Jersey Street in Elizabeth, New Jersey. The museum is operated by the state of New Jersey and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The house was built around 1750 and has been preserved to maintain its historical significance.

The Cape May County Park & Zoo offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore a diverse collection of animals. With free admission throughout the year, guests can encounter over 550 animals from 250 different species, all housed within 85 acres of carefully designed exhibits. This makes it an ideal destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in wildlife.

Craftsman Farms is a significant historical site located in Parsippany-Troy Hills, Morris County, New Jersey. The property was established by renowned designer Gustav Stickley in the early 20th century. Stickley, a key figure in the Arts and Crafts movement, intended the site to serve as both a farm and a school for the movement. Today, the property stands as a testament to Stickley's vision and his impact on American design.

The Perkins Center for the Arts has been a regional arts center serving southern New Jersey and beyond since 1977. It offers a variety of arts programs that promote participation and understanding, making it a great place for tourists interested in the arts to visit.

The Kearny Museum, situated on the upper floor of the main library, is a history museum that showcases local displays about the town. The collection comprises photographs, articles of clothing, and war memorabilia from the town's history. This museum provides a unique insight into the local history and culture of Kearny.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center, located in Brigantine, New Jersey, is a private non-profit organization that was established in 1978. It is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of stranded marine mammals and sea turtles.