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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to New Jersey

Museums with outdoor space

A museum that integrates its outdoor space into the visit rather than treating the grounds as a separate, disconnected area.

Based on 653 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Forked River Interpretive Center image 1
Forked River Interpretive Center image 2
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Small buildings contain informative exhibits about local wildlife and history, including whale jaw bones and live reptiles. The atmosphere is calm and kid-friendly, with touch and feel displays and short trails leading to beaches and bays. Paths and outdoor areas encourage exploration and connection to the peaceful landscape.

Small museum offers informative exhibits about the park's history. The interpretive center features touch and feel displays and provides detailed information on the surrounding area.

Peaceful surroundings connect visitors to the landscape. The nature building features small animals inside and 13-foot whale jaw bones outside. An outdoor kids area and trail add to the space.

People are saying

"The interpretive center's exhibits about the park are informative and kid-friendly."

"The interpretive center museum is informative and great for kids."

"The volunteers' passion for the Outdoor Space made it so memorable."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the park is free for pedestrians and cyclists.

2

The park's entrance fee is $5 per car.

3

The nature center features live animals, including fish, turtles, and reptiles.

02
New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame image 1

Small museum offers peaceful atmosphere with a courtyard filled with planes and an open cockpit experience for hands-on exploration. Exhibits highlight New Jersey's aviation history with diverse artifacts and interactive displays suitable for children and adults alike.

Small but packed with unique and diverse exhibits focused on New Jersey aviation history. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, highlighting achievements like the Tuskegee Airmen and accomplished women in aviation.

Outside features a courtyard filled with planes including airplanes and helicopters that attract kids. Information boards at the exhibits are present but could be clearer.

People are saying

"The museum staff are so friendly and knowledgeable about aviation history."

"The staff is so patient and kind with the little ones."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Open cockpit days allow kids to explore inside planes and helicopters.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy event days.

03
Lucy the Elephant image 1
Historical landmark

Elephant-shaped historical landmark offers narrow wooden spiral stairs leading to a 360Β° panoramic view including the beach and cityscape. Interior houses a small museum and a gift shop with collectible items. The atmosphere blends nostalgic roadside Americana with lively echoes from visiting families.

A unique historical museum exists inside a large elephant structure. Tours include a brief video and small exhibits that provide a clear history, supported by friendly staff.

Lovely sandy picnic area and a cafe sit just outside the gated structure. Views from the beach and around the outside offer a nice way to enjoy the spot without going inside.

People are saying

"I thought Lucy the Elephant was a super cool roadside attraction."

"You can explore the fascinating history inside this unique elephant museum."

"The outdoor space tour was amazing and full of history."

Good to know

1

Visitors on July 20th can witness her yearly manicure.

2

Tours are scheduled at specific times, every 45 minutes.

3

Parking is limited; expect only a few spaces available.

04
Cape May Lighthouse image 1
Historical landmark

Tall lighthouse offers 360-degree panoramic views of the sea and surrounding beach. The area maintains a peaceful, quiet atmosphere with fresh air and beautiful natural scenery. Facilities include birdwatching platforms, picnic tables, and a visitor center with a museum and gift shop.

A small, free museum sits at the base of the lighthouse with exhibits on maritime history. Staff engage visitors by showing animals, and nearby boardwalk trails offer birdwatching opportunities.

An impressive lighthouse exterior stands tall with a walking path nearby for birding. The top offers a 360-degree view with a narrow perimeter to walk around.

People are saying

"The views from the top are beautiful, especially of the ocean and coastline."

"Climbing the lighthouse offers a great view from the top."

"Climbing the 199 steps to the top offers spectacular views."

Good to know

1

Admission to the lighthouse is $12 for adults.

2

The lighthouse hosts special events like night climbs and interpretive programs.

3

Expect a unique view of the ocean and coastline from the top.

05
Tuckerton Seaport Museum image 1

Replica lighthouse anchors a quaint museum complex with hands-on displays and historical buildings. Free porch music and boat tours add lively, interactive elements. The setting offers picturesque views and a family-friendly atmosphere with craft stations and a playground.

Exhibits focus on New Jersey shore life with displays about fishing, boat building, and lighthouse heritage. Hands-on activities like typewriters and sandboxes engage kids while adults explore detailed historical artifacts and stories.

Walking paths connect several replica old buildings like a boathouse, surf shop, and clam and oyster shop. Outdoor exhibits include a boardwalk and vintage items scattered around the museum grounds.

People are saying

"This museum offers a rich look into New Jersey's maritime history."

"I found the history of the Seaport and New Jersey shore life really interesting."

"I loved walking around the outdoor space with all the vintage maritime artifacts."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter, making it accessible for all visitors.

2

There are craft classes available, such as decoy carving, for hands-on learning.

3

Kids can enjoy activities like coloring pages and trying a typewriter.

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