Explore The Battleship New Jersey

Step aboard the legendary Battleship New Jersey—America’s most decorated battleship—now permanently docked along the Camden, NJ waterfront and open as an interactive museum for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history buff, family with kids, or simply looking for a unique experience near Philadelphia, a visit to this floating museum is one of the best things to do in the region, offering an immersive look at the nation’s military and maritime heritage .

Explore America’s Most Decorated Battleship

At the Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial, you’ll walk the decks of the 887-foot, 45,000-ton USS New Jersey (BB-62), a massive ship that served from World War II through the Vietnam War and into the 1980s . The ship itself is an exhibit, allowing you to:

Climb inside the massive 16-inch gun turrets to see how they worked
Sit in the Admiral’s chair from which strategies were directed
Explore the bridge, crew’s quarters, and engineering spaces
Stretch out on sailors’ bunks and imagine life at sea
Experience interactive exhibits and hands-on displays that bring naval history to life

Professional guides and staff are on deck to answer questions and provide a deeper understanding of what it was like serving aboard this legendary vessel.

Guided and Self-Guided Tours

Choose from a wide range of tour options:

Self-guided tours let you explore at your own pace, perfect for those who want to linger in favorite areas or dive deep into specific exhibits .
Guided tours (for up to 15 people per group) generally last 90–120 minutes and take guests through seven decks of the ship, revealing stories of battle, bravery, and innovation .
For history enthusiasts, special tours like the evening Turret II experience or an in-depth Engine Room tour are available for an extra fee.

Unique Hands-On Activities

The museum stands out for its interactive offerings. Visitors can:

Try firing a 40mm or 5-inch gun in a controlled, safe environment
Participate in scavenger hunts and educational programs tailored for school groups and scouts
Book overnight encampments for a true sailor’s experience, sleeping in the same bunks as crew members and enjoying meals in the mess

The Battleship New Jersey also offers event spaces, making it a memorable venue for birthdays, proms, retirements, and even weddings.

A Prime Location: Easy Access From Philadelphia

Located at 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ, the museum is just across the Delaware River from Center City Philadelphia. Its proximity makes it a “top attraction” on lists like 30 Things to Do in Philly, and it’s regularly mentioned among the best Philadelphia attractions as well as other top area attractions.

A Must-See for Locals and Visitors

Open seven days a week (10:00am–5:30pm, last entry at 4:00pm), the Battleship New Jersey welcomes guests nearly year-round. Whether your interest is hands-on history, powerful exhibits on military service, or you’re simply searching for a can’t-miss activity in the Philadelphia/Camden region, this is a museum destination with broad appeal.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 62 Battleship Place, Camden, NJ 08103
Parking: Onsite and nearby lots; easily accessible via PATCO or the RiverLink Ferry from Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia
Duration: Most visits take 1.5–2.5 hours, but enthusiasts can spend longer exploring
Tickets and Events: Tickets can be purchased online or onsite; check the museum’s website for special events, overnight stays, and group rates

Make It Part of Your Philly Adventure

Pair your battleship visit with some of the region’s other highlights. Whether you are building a full day exploring Philadelphia attractions or checking off unique things to do in Philly, the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial provides a memorable and educational stop for all ages.

Step into history, walk where generations of sailors served, and discover one of the most engaging museums in the greater Philadelphia area—the Battleship New Jersey is a living tribute to courage, service, and America’s maritime legacy.