Free 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

The James W. Marshall House, situated at 60 Bridge Street in Lambertville, holds historical significance as the boyhood home of James W. Marshall. Marshall is renowned for his discovery of gold in the American River in California in January 1848, which triggered the California Gold Rush. This house is a testament to the early life of a man who played a pivotal role in shaping American history.

The Hunter–Lawrence–Jessup House, now known as the Gloucester County Historical Society Museum, is a historic Second Empire style house located at 58 North Broad Street in the city of Woodbury, Gloucester County, New Jersey, United States. This house, built around 1765, is a significant landmark due to its architectural style and its historical importance in education, military history, and politics.

The Boonton Historical Society and Museum is situated at 210 Main Street in Boonton, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and serves as a significant landmark in the town. The museum is a hub of local history and culture, offering visitors a chance to delve into the past and understand the roots of Boonton.

Today, the Caldwell Parsonage functions as a historical museum, under the ownership and operation of the Union Township Historical Society. Visitors can explore the museum to gain insights into the Revolutionary War and the history of the building itself.

The Robinson Plantation House, located in Clark, New Jersey, is a historic site with a rich history dating back to around 1690. The house was built on land that was once part of the Elizabethtown Tract and Rahway, adding to its historical significance.

The Blackwells Mills Canal House is a historic site located in Franklin Township, Somerset County, New Jersey. It is situated on the Delaware and Raritan Canal, a significant waterway in the region. The house was originally built in the 1830s to accommodate the bridge tender, who was responsible for operating the swing bridge to allow boats to pass through the canal.

The Morristown National Historical Park, located in Morristown, New Jersey, is a significant site that played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War. The park comprises four key sites: Jockey Hollow, Ford Mansion, Fort Nonsense, and Washington's Headquarters Museum. Each of these sites holds a unique historical significance and offers a glimpse into the events of the Revolutionary War.

The Noyes Museum of Art, which opened its doors in 1983, is the only fine arts museum in southern New Jersey. Located in Galloway Township, the museum has been a significant cultural hub in the region, offering a unique blend of art and culture to its visitors.

The Hereford Inlet Light is a coastal lighthouse situated in North Wildwood, on the southwest shore of Hereford Inlet, in Cape May County, New Jersey. This historic lighthouse has been a part of the National Register of Historic Places since September 20, 1977. It was initially used by whalers in the 17th century and has since been a significant landmark in the region.

Historic Cold Spring Village is a unique living history museum located in the Cold Spring section of Lower Township in Cape May County, New Jersey. As a non-profit organization, it aims to preserve and present the historical heritage of the region. Visitors can experience a step back in time and learn about the area's past through the various exhibits and structures within the village.

The New Jersey State Museum is situated at 195-205 West State Street in Trenton, New Jersey. This location is easily accessible and serves as a central point for visitors who wish to explore the rich history, culture, and natural wonders that the museum has to offer.

The Mansion House, also referred to as Ellarslie and McCall House, is a historic residence situated in Trenton, Mercer County, New Jersey. This landmark is not just a piece of history but also a symbol of architectural significance in the United States.

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is a sprawling 127-acre arboretum and botanical garden situated in Morristown, 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 Kearny Cottage is open to the public as a historic house museum. It is operated by the Kearny Cottage Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of the house and the area. Visitors can explore the house and learn about its history through various exhibits and displays.

Holmdel Park offers a wide range of recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy fishing (with a permit), picnic areas for individuals and groups, tennis courts, playgrounds, and 10 miles of hiking trails. During the winter, when conditions are safe, ice skating and sledding are also permitted.

The Butler Museum is housed in a station depot built in 1888, featuring Stick-Eastlake architecture. As a local nonprofit historical entity, the museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of the area.

The Society of African Missions (SMA), also known as Lyoner Seminar, is a society of apostolic life. It is composed of ordained priests and lay brothers who have dedicated their lives to serving the people of Africa. The society works closely with the Dicastery for Evangelization and is not to be confused with the Order of African Missionaries, colloquially known as the 'White Fathers'.

The Maywood Station Museum is situated in the historic New York, Susquehanna and Western Railway station, which was built in 1872. This location is in Maywood, New Jersey, United States. The museum's setting in a historic railway station adds a unique charm and authenticity to the visitor experience.

The Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum is housed in the historic Atwood-Blauvelt mansion, which was built in 1897. This mansion is located on Kinderkamack Road in Oradell, Bergen County, New Jersey. The mansion is a significant example of shingle style architecture, which was popular in the United States in the late 19th century.

The National Guard Militia Museum of New Jersey is a significant institution that operates under the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. It has two locations, with the main headquarters in Sea Girt and a secondary museum in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. This provides visitors with two opportunities to explore the rich military history of New Jersey.

The Heritage Glass Museum, located in Glassboro, New Jersey, is a historical institution that documents the history of glass making and glass art in the region. The craft of glass making began in Glassboro in 1779, and the museum serves as a testament to this rich history. Visitors to the museum can learn about the evolution of glass making and glass art over the centuries.

The Barton Arboretum & Nature Preserve is a large, 168-acre arboretum and nature preserve located in Medford Township. This expansive area offers a variety of natural landscapes and collections for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Sister Mary Grace Burns Arboretum is a beautiful and serene location situated on the campus of Georgian Court University, in Lakewood Township, New Jersey, United States. It offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush greenery and diverse collection of plants and trees. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

Holmdel Arboretum, formally known as David C. Shaw Arboretum at Holmdel Park, is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans across 22 acres. It is situated in Holmdel Township, New Jersey. This expansive green space is a haven for nature lovers and those interested in botany, offering a diverse range of trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.

The Hunterdon County Arboretum is a vast green space located at 1020 Route 31 in Lebanon, New Jersey, United States. It spans over 73 acres, providing ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

The Griffith Morgan House is a historic site situated in Pennsauken Township, Camden County, New Jersey, United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting destination for history enthusiasts.

The Weston Museum is situated within the premises of the Van Houten Library at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. This location is in the University Heights section of Newark, New Jersey. This strategic location makes it easily accessible for tourists and visitors who are interested in exploring the museum.

Cohanzick Zoo, located in Bridgeton, New Jersey, has a rich history dating back to 1934. It holds the distinction of being the first zoo in New Jersey. This historical significance adds to the charm of the zoo and makes it a notable destination for tourists.

Interesting museum preserving and showcasing the life and culture of Hungarian immigrants - an interesting cultural detour.

Not your typical naval museum. Their creative presentation of all things related to the sea is well worth visiting.

The United States Army Quartermaster Museum is situated at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia. It is an AAM accredited museum, which is a significant recognition in the museum industry, indicating that it meets high standards of excellence. This accreditation is a testament to the quality of the museum's exhibits and its commitment to preserving and showcasing the history of the Quartermaster Corps.

The Hopewell Museum, located in Hopewell, New Jersey, is a dedicated space for American history. It provides a comprehensive view of the country's past, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and curious tourists alike.