Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Avalon, New Jersey and Haddonfield, New Jersey
By the time summer rolls around, people living in Avalon, New Jersey, and Haddonfield, New Jersey, are known for making a break from their routine of daily life and hitting the open road. If you're looking for a fun and fulfilling road trip, this is the one to embark on. This route is dotted with several small towns and charming attractions, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. The halfway point of the journey and an attraction in its own right is Egg Harbor City, NJ, where visitors can take a step back to the Victorian era. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:
Cape May Lighthouse
The Cape May Lighthouse is an iconic landmark and one of the highlights of this trip. Located in Cape May Point, NJ, this beautifully restored 1859 lighthouse rises 157 feet above sea level and offers some of the best views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can climb the 199 steps to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
Interesting Fact:
The lighthouse was built to prevent shipwrecks and still functions as a navigational aid, with a range of 24 nautical miles.
Lucy the Elephant
Lucy the Elephant is a unique and quirky attraction located in Margate City, NJ. This six-story elephant-shaped building was built in 1881 and has become a beloved symbol of the Jersey Shore. Visitors can take a guided tour of the interior of the building and learn about its fascinating history, or simply admire the impressive architecture from the outside.
Interesting Fact:
Lucy the Elephant is one of the oldest surviving roadside attractions in America and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
Atlantic City Boardwalk
The historic Atlantic City Boardwalk is a must-see destination on any road trip to the New Jersey Shore. The 4-mile boardwalk is home to a variety of attractions, including casinos, restaurants, shops, and amusement parks. Visitors can take a ride on the iconic rolling chairs that traverse the boardwalk or simply stroll along and soak up the ocean views.
Interesting Fact:
The Atlantic City Boardwalk was the first boardwalk in the United States, built in 1870. Today, it is a popular destination that attracts millions of visitors each year.
Battleship New Jersey
Located in Camden, NJ, the Battleship New Jersey is a must-visit for history buffs and military enthusiasts. This impressive battleship is the most decorated battleship in U.S. Navy history and served in active duty for more than 50 years. Visitors can take a guided tour of the ship and explore the various decks, including the captain's quarters, gun turrets, and mess hall.
Interesting Fact:
The Battleship New Jersey has an impressive service record, having served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Gulf War before being decommissioned in 1991.
Grounds for Sculpture
Grounds for Sculpture is a world-renowned sculpture park and is located in Hamilton Township, NJ. This 42-acre park is home to more than 270 sculptures, many of which are scattered throughout the beautifully manicured gardens. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park and learn about the various sculptures and their creators, or simply stroll around and enjoy the beauty of the park.
Interesting Fact:
Grounds for Sculpture was founded by J. Seward Johnson Jr., an artist and philanthropist who wanted to create a public space where people could enjoy and appreciate art in a natural environment.
Conclusion
This road trip from Avalon, New Jersey, to Haddonfield, New Jersey, is a must-do for anyone looking for a fun and fulfilling weekend getaway. Taking this route, visitors are treated to a range of attractions, from historic landmarks like the Cape May Lighthouse and the Atlantic City Boardwalk to unique and quirky destinations like Lucy the Elephant and Grounds for Sculpture. This trip takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes without stopping, but visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy each of these fantastic attractions at their own pace.