Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania and Hawthorne, New Jersey
If you're embarking on a road trip between Cheltenham Township, PA, and Hawthorne, NJ, you're in for a treat. This 155-mile journey is packed with fantastic stops, making it an ideal vacation route for families, friends, and couples. Here are the top five places to visit on your journey, listed in order of appearance.
Halfway Point: Monroe Township, NJ
Monroe Township is approximately 76 miles from both Cheltenham Township and Hawthorne, making it the perfect halfway point for your trip. After driving for about two hours, you can stretch your legs in this bustling town and grab a bite to eat at one of its many restaurants. If you're visiting in summer, you can explore its picturesque parks or attend its annual farmers' market. If you're looking for golfing options, Monroe Township has ten excellent courses for beginners and experienced golfers.
Stop #1: Adventure Aquarium
Address: 1 Riverside Dr, Camden, NJ 08103
If you're traveling with kids, the Adventure Aquarium should be on the top of your itinerary. This 82,000-square-foot aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including exotic fish, penguins, and hippopotamuses. The aquarium's highlight is the Shark Realm exhibit, which features a 40-foot shark tunnel that offers stunning views of Sandtiger, Sandbar, and Nurse sharks swimming around you. Other exciting exhibits include the African Penguins, the Hippo Haven, and the Ocean Realm featuring sea turtles, stingrays, and giant octopuses.
Stop #2: Grounds for Sculpture
Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619
Art lovers should head down to Grounds for Sculpture, a 42-acre sculpture garden in Hamilton Township. This unique park boasts over 300 sculptures created by famous artists, including Seward Johnson, George Segal, and Magdalena Abakanowicz. You can easily spend an entire day wandering around its beautiful landscape, admiring its art pieces, and taking photos. The park's highlights include the Spring Lake, which features a stunning collection of flowers and plants, and the Domestic Arts Building, which houses a workshop and a gallery that showcases contemporary art.
Stop #3: Washington Crossing Historic Park
Address: 1112 River Rd, Washington Crossing, PA 18977
History buffs should make a pit stop at the Washington Crossing Historic Park. This destination marks the spot where George Washington and his army crossed the Delaware River in 1776, leading an attack that changed the course of the American Revolution. The park features several historical buildings, including the McConkey's Ferry Inn, where Washington planned his attack. You can also join a guided tour, watch a reenactment of the Crossing, and explore the park's hiking trails. The park hosts several events throughout the year, so check its calendar to see what's on during your visit.
Stop #4: Princeton University
Address: Princeton, NJ 08544
No visit to New Jersey would be complete without a visit to Princeton, a quaint town that's home to one of America's iconic universities. A stroll through Princeton University's campus is a must-do activity, with its Gothic-style buildings, manicured gardens, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can join a guided tour that covers the university's history, architecture, and traditions. Chris' Charcoal Pit and Hoagie Haven are two eateries nearby that students, locals, and visitors rave about. Another must-see destination is the Morven Museum & Garden, a historic house museum with a fantastic art collection.
Stop #5: Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
Address: 72 McBride Ave S, Paterson, NJ 07501
The final destination on your road trip is Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, a stunning natural wonder that will leave you in awe. The park features a 77-foot waterfall that cascades over a majestic rocky outcrop, creating a breathtaking scene. You can catch picturesque views of the waterfall from several viewing spots around the park, or join a guided tour to learn about its history and significance. The park has several hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for an outdoor adventure with family and friends.
Conclusion
That concludes our list of the top five places to visit on a trip between Cheltenham Township, Pennsylvania, and Hawthorne, New Jersey. From the Adventure Aquarium to the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, this route packs excitement, art, history, and natural beauty. Book your tickets and hit the road for a memorable journey!