The 9 Best Museums in New Jersey!

Museums are an excellent way to provide an education outside of the classroom. They showcase history, art, science, and so much more. As one of the original thirteen colonies, New Jersey has a long and interesting history that is displayed in its museums. Some of its towns were part of the American Revolution, such as Morristown where George Washington visited. Hoboken was a gateway to European immigrants from Ellis Island. Princeton University is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. All of this and more can be explored in the state’s many museums. Here are our 9 favorites.

Montclair Art Museum, Montclair, NJ

Another university favorite in New Jersey, this museum in North Jersey houses several collections including modern, contemporary and Native American art. Special programs include adult, youth, and family events listed on their site. These events feature special exhibits, food options, entertainment, and more.

Old Barracks Museum, Trenton, NJ

The Old Barracks will suit museum-goers who enjoy local history in a more immersed setting. This museum sheds light on New Jersey’s involvement in wars such as the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. Group and family tours are available to accommodate groups of various sizes.

Hoboken Historical Museum, Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken is known for its hip restaurants and nightlife, but nestled away in this bustling city is a cultural preserve of New Jersey history. They offer self-guided tours of their rotating exhibits and provide information on local points of interest in the city. Information is available on the state’s history and Ellis Island.

The Stickley Museum, Morris Plains, NJ

Are you a fan of museums that give you the experience of going back in time? The Stickley Museum is the right place because of its carefully maintained structure. It is a historical home built for his own family by the well-known Gustav Stickley, a famous furniture manufacturer and designer, according to the Stickley Furniture website.

Morris Museum, Morristown, NJ

The Morris Museum provides exhibits and programs in multiple areas to entertain and educate audiences of all ages. With topics in science, art, and history, this historical museum is the second largest museum in New Jersey, according to the official website. It is also available for private rentals such as weddings.

Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, NJ

The Liberty Science Center is one of the most well-known educational fun spots in the state of New Jersey. Groups and families specially plan days to visit the many exhibits dedicated to science of subjects such as communication, animal life, and energy. Their IMAX dome provides memorable educational videos with unparalleled detail.

New Jersey State Museum, Trenton, NJ

This state museum showcases special exhibits such as a planetarium and toy manufacturing history in New Jersey. They aim to engage visitors in the state’s cultural and natural histories as there is much to offer. Archaeology and fine art are also among the collections.

Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey, Teterboro, NJ

Do you have any aviation enthusiasts in the family? Found in North Jersey, this spot provides the perfect learning experience for seeing model aircrafts and photographs of milestone moments. Their Hall of Fame recognize state natives who have contributed to the field of aviation.

Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers, New Brunswick, NJ

Founded in 1966, the Zimmerli has established its reputation as a university-based museum. Its permanent collection features ancient, modern, and cultural pieces that are actively studied by professors. They also rotate visiting exhibits to include diverse collections featured to specific artists or movements.

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4 Park Place East, Cranbury, NJ
History: Based on Middlesex County Records, Dr. Garret P. Voorhees probably built the original two-room house at 4 Park Place East in 1834. The ... Read More
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71 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick, NJ
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1225 River Road, Piscataway, NJ
Hours: Tuesday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Closed Monday, Saturday & Holidays About ​The Cornelius Low House was built ... Read More
McCormick Hall, Princeton, NJ
The primary mission of the Princeton University Art Museum is to effectively support and enhance the University’s goals of teaching, research... Read More
55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ
About Us: Home to one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and to five New Jersey governors, Morven has played a role in the history ... Read More
16 Maple Street, East Brunswick, NJ
Mission Statement The East Brunswick Museum collects, preserves and interprets the history of East Brunswick and the surrounding communities. ... Read More
705 Ginesi Drive, Morganville, NJ
Mission: To preserve artifacts relating to the history of Both Boy and Girl Scouting in New Jersey and to educate the public about Scouting&rsqu... Read More
77 Liberty Corner Road, Liberty Corner, NJ
2202 Kuser Road, Hamilton, NJ
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28 East Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ
The goal of the Hopewell Museum is to preserve and display what is most typical and interesting of village life in America from early Colonial days... Read More
602 West Front Street, Plainfield, NJ
THE DRAKE HOUSE, Plainfield’s historic link with its colonial past, was built in 1746 by Isaac Drake as a home for his son, Nathani... Read More
80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton, NJ
Mission:Grounds For Sculpture was established in 1992 to promote an understanding of and appreciation for contemporary sculpture for all people by:... Read More
310 Mounts Corner Drive, Freehold, NJ
The Jewish Heritage Museum of Monmouth County is dedicated to the promotion of public awareness of the County's Jewish heritage for the education a... Read More
37 Christie Street, Edison, NJ
Mission: The mission of the Edison Memorial Tower Corporation is to preserve, promote, and manage the Edison Memorial Tower and Museum in the Me... Read More
70 Court Street, Freehold, NJ
Our Mission: The Monmouth County Historical Association (MCHA) collects, preserves, and interprets its extensive museum, library, and archival coll... Read More
149 Kearny Avenue, Perth Amboy, NJ
About Us: Completed in 1764, Proprietary House has served as a residence to New Jersey's last royal governor, a stylish hotel, a private mansion, ... Read More
256 South Avenue, Fanwood, NJ
Located in the oldest remaining railroad station in Union County, the fanwood Museum houses artifacts documenting the Borough's historic ties to th... Read More
299 Parkside Avenue, Trenton, NJ
Museum History:Ellarslie, an Italianate villa, was built for Henry McCall Sr. of Philadelphia as a summer residence in 1848. The architect selected... Read More
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