The American Labor Museum, also known as the Botto House National Landmark, was the site where Industrial Workers of the World union leaders spoke to the crowds gathered beneath the balcony during the Paterson Silk Strike of 1913. Since that historic day, this house attraction has served as an educational museum meant to further American understanding of “the history of work, workers and the labor movement throughout the world.”
Learn more about the Garden State’s two-century aviation and space heritage at the Aviation Hall of Fame & Museum of New Jersey. Founded in 1972, this unique museum has collected, preserved and displayed aeronautical artifacts and attractions, and has honored men and women whose achievements brought global recognition to the state.
Located just minutes away from the heart of downtown and all of its attractions, Branch Brook Park is a gorgeous retreat in the middle of an urban landscape. Wander through its 360 acres of sprawling meadows and woodlands. Walk, jog, bike or birdwatch along the miles of undulating terrain, filled with streams and lakes and lined with 4,000 cherry blossom trees.
It’s hard to miss the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart as you explore downtown Newark. This French Gothic-styled cathedral features more than 200 stained glass windows and 14 giant bells imported from Italy. The fourth largest of its kind in North America, this cathedral is not only a beautiful architectural attraction but also a performance venue for several choirs and symphonies.
Since 1960 the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge has protected the New Jersey wildlife and its habitat. One of 553 refuges in the National Wildlife Refuge System, the Great Swamp has become a home and resting ground for fox, deer, muskrat, turtles, fish, frogs and more than 244 species of birds. Follow along the trails for a chance to see these creatures up close.
Meander through the dynamic contemporary gallery at the Hunterdon Art Museum, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists. This modern collection juxtaposes the design of the 19th century stone mill serving as the main museum building. The unique mesh of past and present creates a beautiful ambiance that anyone can appreciate.
Built and staffed by the NJ Youth Corps, the Jersey Explorer Children’s Museum allows children to “live” history and “play” science through a variety of excellent interactive exhibitions and attractions. The minute you and your kids walk through the door, everyone becomes an explorer! Search for an ancient mummy, journey through a distant galaxy, travel back to the Underground Railroad and much, much more!
Located in Liberty State Park, the Liberty Science Center is a fun, interactive science museum where children (and adults) can turn learning into an adventure! Explore the exhibits and attractions and learn about the local environment, ecosystem and the creatures that live there, as well as other topics like energy sources, global health and human communication.
Opposite the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is Liberty State Park. On this side of the Upper New York Bay, the enormous historic park commemorates Jersey’s industrial waterfront transportation hub and its connection to New York City. Inside the peninsula park, you will find a variety of walkways, bike paths, fields, monuments, the Liberty Science Center and other attractions, not to mention the best view of the Big Apple.
Feast upon a delightful four-course meal, which you shall eat like royalty. Medieval royalty, that is, which means with your hands. Children and children at heart will love the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, an attraction where the whole family can enjoy a unique twist on dinner and a show. Cheer for your knight as he fights with and against other knights, both on foot and on horseback.
View more than 12,000 works of art at the Montclair Art Museum, one of the only museums in the US dedicated to American and Native American art and artifacts. This distinctive collection includes paintings, prints, drawings, photographs and sculptures from way back in the 18th century up to today.
See everything from ancient Asian artifacts to contemporary African art at the Newark Museum. Known for its huge collection of art attractions from Asia, Africa, the Americas and the ancient world, the largest museum in New Jersey also doubles as a natural science museum. Little ones will especially love exploring the Memorial Garden behind the museum, as well as the small Fire Museum.
See the breathtaking Great Falls of the Passaic River, the second largest waterfall next to Niagara Falls and an intense force of nature. This National Historic Landmark played a vital role in New Jersey’s early industrial development and continues to draw in visitors wanting to see this spectacular sight.
Give family time a slightly competitive edge at Pole Position Raceway, an indoor go-kart racing attraction in Jersey City. This huge indoor track features two quarter-mile tracks and adult karts that can go all the way up to 45 mph. Kid’s karts, of course, are also available. Race each other or team up to beat your opponents on these fun, winding racetracks.
Walk the halls where the first president, George Washington, once roamed. The Hermitage House, a National Historic Landmark and museum, consists of a preserved and restored stone house from 1763. This lovely home features several stunning Gothic Revival architectural details, from the diamond-paned windows to the high Tudor arches and gabled roof, as well as a collection of period furniture, clothing, accessories and other attractions on display.
Bring your wild things out to see the really wild things at the Turtle Back Zoo, the #1 zoo in New Jersey. Over 700 animals call this 20-acre zoo home. Discover all sorts of new creatures as you explore, like the Filipino flying foxes. Little ones will love attractions like the train ride, carousel and playground, not to mention the petting zoo, reptile house and aquarium!