“New Jersey City” (CC BY 2.0) by Dave Hamster
We all like to get out and about once in a while – but it can be expensive. This is especially true when you’re in a big city like New York for a visit. But by traveling a little way out of town it can be pretty easy to find some great days out that don’t have to cost a dime. Here are five of the very best that you’ll find in New Jersey.
Cape May County Park and Zoo
A trip to the zoo is always a big favorite, but it can be expensive especially if you’re bringing the whole family. That’s why heading for Cape May County Park and Zoo makes a great change. It’s open every day of the year, except for December 25th, and within its 85 beautiful acres, you’ll find well over 500 animals and 250 species. Special attractions include the Bald Eagle habitat and a super cute colony of ring-tailed lemurs.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk
“Atlantic City Boardwalk – New Jersey” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Dougtone
The legendary Jersey Shore boardwalk was the first ever to be built in the country. For a long time, it was the longest too at seven miles. Today it just stretches four miles, but it’s still a must-visit if you’re in the area. You’ll also have a great vantage point to admire Atlantic City’s famous casinos and that could even inspire you to try a little online gambling for yourself. It’s been legal in New Jersey since 2011 and, if your a new visitor to most online casinos, you’ll even qualify for free play and many other bonuses.
Drumthwacket
It might sound like a crazy name, but it makes for a really good day out. Built in the Grecian style, Drumthwacket is both a free museum open to the public and the official residence of the Governor of New Jersey. Open all year except for in August, there are organized tours each Wednesday where you can discover beautiful artifacts and learn about the history of the building, which stands on land once owned by William Penn.
Bridgeton Hall of Fame All Sports Museum
A must for all sports fans, the museum is located on the very aptly named Babe Buth Drive in Bridgeton and celebrates athletes of all kinds from South Jersey. Open all week except Sundays, it includes a huge number of items, scrapbooks and newspaper clippings with pride of place being given to a Hall of Famers’ Golden Glove once owned by the legendary Willie Mays.
“Empty Sky” 9/11 Memorial
Finally, a memorial to the 749 people from New Jersey who tragically lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. Set in Jersey City’s Liberty Park, the two, parallel 210 ft by 30 ft metal walls are inscribed with all of their names – this is a peaceful and reflective place to end the day. The sight of Manhattan’s rising towers in the distance makes it an even more poignant experience.
Of course, there are many more free places to visit in New Jersey so we promise you won’t be short of things to do. More importantly, you won’t be out of pocket either!
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