Budgeting isn’t easy, but South Jersey’s many free museums, events, parks and beaches make it a little easier. Start with these!
Hopewell
Watch history come to life at Howell Farm – literally. The farm hosts events each week where re-enactors demonstrate how the farm’s former residents and workers lived. Like the hog-weighing demonstration on May 24 and the old fashioned baseball game on June 7. Plus, there are plenty of regular exhibits and demonstrations to see around the farm.
Moorestown
Two of our favorite things: coffee and music. Oh, and a free event! Check out some South Jersey sounds as Perkins Center for the Arts hosts its monthly Coffee and Classics concert series in Moorestown. This month, check out singer-songwriter Nathalie ‘Talie’ Cerin perform on May 15 from 2 to 3 pm.
Cape May
Walk on the wild side with giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers and bears…oh my. The Cape May County Zoo is not only free, but it’s also open year-round and packed with plenty of furry, crawly and scaley friends. Spend the day, and check out one of the zoo eateries for a quick lunch or head to the park across the parking lot to dig into your packed lunch.
Princeton
Have you ever wondered where the NJ governor lives? Well, it turns out you don’t have to. Free tours of Drumthwacket Mansion (the designated home of NJ’s governor and family) are offered (most) Wednesdays at 1 pm. You’ll see six rooms used for meetings and receptions, learn about the history and architecture of the mansion on the 45-minute tour. Advanced registration is required.
Hamilton
Now that the temperature is back up where it should be, it’s time to take advantage of the gorgeous backdrops South Jersey has to offer – like the intricate Sayen House & Gardens. Explore the tree-lined paths, fish ponds, gardens, gazebo, fountains, streams and rolling fields while keeping an eye out for wildlife and birds. We especially recommend snapping a picture on the picturesque footbridge.
Wildwood Beaches
Get a head start on beach season on Wildwood’s beaches – no beach tag required (even when the summer season starts). Take a walk, build a sandcastle, read in the sand or even brave the cold water temps.
Hammonton
Out in the Pinelands, there’s a village that used to be a thriving source of iron and glass but now serves as a look at history. Take a free walking tour of the village – complete with post office, blacksmith, iron furnace, glass works site, mansion and more – with a volunteer guide (call ahead, tours are only given on days when volunteers are available). And if you’d like to explore the mansion, guided tours are available for $3 for ages 12 and up, $1 for ages 6 to 11.
