Battleship New Jersey Camden
Explore the most decorated battleship in US Navy history, a floating museum offering a deep dive into naval power and sailor life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Battleship New Jersey Camden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the most decorated battleship in US Navy history, a floating museum offering a deep dive into naval power and sailor life.
"An amazing piece of history and machinery; budget several hours to truly appreciate its vastness."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Plenty of Time
3-4 hours minimum to see everything. Don't rush this historic giant! :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mighty 16-inch Guns
Main Deck
Witness the colossal 16-inch guns that defined naval power, capable of firing 2,700-pound shells.
Sailor's Living Quarters
Below Decks
Experience a stark glimpse into the daily lives of sailors aboard this massive vessel.
The Bridge and Control Center
Superstructure
Imagine commanding this historic warship from its strategic vantage point.
Firing Demonstration (Occasional)
Main Deck
See the 80-year-old 5-inch guns fire a reduced charge for a thrilling, albeit donation-based, spectacle .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Allocate Ample Time
Prepare for Physicality
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Plenty of Time
3-4 hours minimum to see everything. Don't rush this historic giant! :clock1:
Stay Hydrated!
Bring water, especially on warm days. It gets warm below decks. :droplet:
Consider a Guided Tour
Guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, offering deeper insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs! :athletic_shoe:
Allow Plenty of Time
3-4 hours minimum to see everything. Don't rush this historic giant! :clock1:
Stay Hydrated!
Bring water, especially on warm days. It gets warm below decks. :droplet:
Consider a Guided Tour
Guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, offering deeper insights. :bustsinsilhouette:
Check for Special Events
Homecoming 250 and other events offer unique experiences. :tada:
Self-Guided Routes
Follow the color-coded lines to navigate the ship easily. :red_car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Battleship New Jersey as an awe-inspiring historical experience, highlighting its immense scale and the wealth of information available. The knowledgeable staff and engaging tours are frequently mentioned positives, though some note the physical demands of navigating the ship and limited onboard food options.
"A decommissioned battle ship of the US Navy is now a museum piece for the public.
In its heyday, it is the largest battle ship of the fleet. Thus, it is a very large museum now, and it requires hours to see and examine what it has to show. The self walk-throughs are well designed. You simply follow the color line to walk from the front to the back of the ship. You will see where the sailors lived and worked. You would see the huge anchor system, the big cannons, the huge projectiles, and the workshop. In short, this tour will require at least 4 hours of your time.
We learned a lot walking through this battle ship. It is a big machine of destruction, and we are glad that the US owned and operated this beast in the last half of the twentieth century.
Staff were friendly and helpful. The museum is well run. A must stop in the Camden waterfront."
Credible Critic
"This was a fabulous experience. We took the guided tour at noon. The guides were very knowledgeable and entertaining. The size and scope of the ship is amazing. For example, the large guns are in turrets that are 5 stories tall and took 70 men to operate.
The tour is 90 minutes and requires going up and down steep stairs. It's a bit physically demanding. But it is very educational and inspiring. The guides were great to talk to. After the tour it seems most people leave so you can explore a lot. The ship is partially air conditioned.
The gift shop has some small snacks but not much to eat. We got cheese and crackers. Sometimes they have sandwiches but not when we were there.The gifts themselves were pretty good quality."
Douglas Cogan
"The staff were super friendly and helpful, they were knowledgeable and passionate about the upkeep and history of the ship. It was an awesome experience getting to explore the ship and just plain get to see everything. I felt like I could have spent forever looking at things below decks. A warning though! Stay hydrated! I had a full day, but I would still love to come another day and see more. I'm looking forward to a guided tour on my second go around.
I got loads of pictures but part of the fun will be getting to see it all yourself, just the sense of scale of everything is not done justice through a review."
Chaosie Chaos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Battleship New Jersey is located on the Camden waterfront. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options, including PATCO train and bus routes, also serve Camden. Many visitors arrive via the Delaware River ferry from Philadelphia, offering scenic views of the ship.
Yes, there are parking lots and street parking options available near the Battleship New Jersey in Camden. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current parking information and any associated fees.
Absolutely! The Delaware River ferry offers a fantastic way to reach the Battleship New Jersey from Philadelphia. It provides a unique perspective of the ship as you approach the Camden waterfront.
Many visitors find driving or taking public transit convenient. If coming from Philadelphia, the ferry is a highly recommended and scenic option. Consider traffic patterns, especially during peak hours.
Yes, Camden is served by various public transportation options, including PATCO trains and local buses, which can get you close to the Battleship New Jersey. Check local transit schedules for routes and times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but generally start around $25 for kids and $30 for adults for self-guided tours. Guided tours may have different pricing. It's best to check the official Battleship New Jersey website for the most up-to-date admission fees.
While walk-up tickets are often available, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment.
The Battleship New Jersey is typically open year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Yes, you can opt for self-guided tours using color-coded routes or join a guided tour led by knowledgeable staff. Guided tours offer a more in-depth historical perspective.
You can walk around the exterior of the ship and enjoy the waterfront views without a ticket. However, to explore the interior and decks, an admission ticket is required.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to thoroughly explore the ship using the self-guided routes. Guided tours are typically around 90 minutes, but you can spend more time exploring afterward.
You'll see the massive 16-inch guns, sailor living quarters, the engine room, control center, and much more. The ship is vast, with multiple decks and areas to discover.
Yes, it can be. There are steep stairs and narrow passages. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it's advisable to stay hydrated. It's not recommended for those with significant mobility issues.
Absolutely! The Battleship New Jersey offers incredible photo opportunities. The sheer scale of the ship and its historical artifacts make for stunning shots.
Parts of the ship are air-conditioned, which offers some relief during warmer months. However, not all areas are climate-controlled, so be prepared for varying temperatures.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The gift shop sometimes offers small snacks like cheese and crackers. For more substantial meals, you'll find various dining options along the Camden waterfront or in nearby Philadelphia.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the museum areas. It's best to consume any personal snacks or meals before boarding or after disembarking.
The onboard offerings are limited to snacks and light refreshments from the gift shop. Don't expect a full-service restaurant on the ship itself.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! From the massive guns to the intricate details of the bridge and the vastness of the decks, the photo opportunities are endless. Capture the scale and history.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash in sensitive areas. Professional photography may require special permits.
A versatile lens, like a wide-angle to a mid-range zoom, is ideal for capturing both the grand scale and the intricate details. A tripod can be useful for low-light interior shots, but check for restrictions.
Drone usage is typically prohibited over military installations and historic sites like the Battleship New Jersey due to safety and security regulations. Always check with the venue for specific rules.
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for exterior shots. For interiors, be prepared for varied lighting conditions and consider bringing a camera with good low-light performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ship can be physically demanding with steep stairs, many families find it manageable, especially if they take their time and stay hydrated. The opportunity to see real naval equipment up close provides a unique educational experience that goes beyond textbooks. Consider booking a guided tour for more engaging storytelling that can captivate younger audiences.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own snacks and water, as onboard food options are limited and can add up. Consider visiting during off-peak times to potentially avoid higher ticket prices or special event surcharges. The self-guided tours are included with admission, offering a full experience without the added cost of a premium guided tour.
💑 Couples
Consider a guided tour for a more intimate historical narrative, or enjoy a leisurely self-guided exploration, stopping to take photos and discuss the fascinating details. Afterward, enjoy a stroll along the Camden waterfront or cross the river to Philadelphia for a romantic dinner.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
Visitors can explore the ship's various decks, from the imposing gun turrets to the cramped living quarters of the sailors. The self-guided tours, marked by color-coded paths, allow you to delve into the ship's operational areas, including the engine room and control center. The sheer scale of the ship and its weaponry, like the 16-inch guns that could fire shells weighing 2,700 pounds, is awe-inspiring and offers a tangible connection to naval warfare history.
Beyond its military might, the Battleship New Jersey offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the thousands of sailors who called it home. Understanding the daily routines, the camaraderie, and the sacrifices made aboard provides a human element to the historical narrative. The ship's ongoing preservation ensures that future generations can learn from and appreciate its storied past.
Experiencing the Battleship: Tours and Accessibility
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the ship features color-coded routes (red, blue, green, yellow) that guide visitors through different sections, ensuring you don't miss key areas. This self-guided approach allows for flexibility, enabling you to spend more time in areas that capture your interest. However, it's important to note that the ship's layout involves numerous steep staircases and confined spaces, making it a physically demanding experience.
While the Battleship New Jersey is a remarkable historical site, accessibility can be a challenge. Visitors with mobility issues should be aware of the physical demands. The ship is partially air-conditioned, offering some respite, but it's crucial to stay hydrated and wear comfortable footwear. The staff are generally friendly and helpful, ready to assist visitors where possible.
Capturing the Might: Photography on the Battleship
When photographing the ship's exterior, consider the time of day for optimal lighting. Early mornings and late afternoons can cast a warm glow on the vessel, enhancing its historical presence. For interior shots, be prepared for varied lighting conditions. While some areas are well-lit, others are more dimly lit, requiring a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod for steadier shots.
Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the historical integrity of the ship. While personal photography is generally encouraged, professional shoots may require prior arrangements. The Battleship New Jersey is a photographer's dream, offering endless possibilities to document a powerful piece of American history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit