Dan Zarrow’s Guide to ‘Revolutionary’ WOWs in New Jersey

Think back to elementary school, when you learned about the American Revolution. How exciting! Not only because the Revolution served as the dawn of the United States of America, but also because so much of that incredibly important history happened right here in our backyard — in New Jersey.

Our nation has a big birthday coming up, with the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026. You can salute New Jersey's role as the "Crossroads of the American Revolution," by exploring some of our countless 1770s era historic landmarks. We have everything from "Washington slept here" locales, to fascinating battlefield vistas, to solemn cemeteries representing those who made the ultimate sacrifice fighting the British.

You probably took field trips to some of those places as a kid. And guess what — you can totally go as an adult too! There are so many historic sights to see and interesting things to do across the great Garden State. Many are featured in VisitNJ.org's comprehensive 3-day and 4-day American Revolution itineraries.

I have compiled a few of my favorite historic highlights from those tours that are great for families and Revolutionary War buffs alike. (For the record, I may just be writing this while listening to the Hamilton soundtrack...)

This article is part of a special series brought to you by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism.

1) Monmouth Battlefield State Park — Manalapan/Freehold

Let's start with the big one, home to one of the largest battles of the Revolutionary War during the blazing hot summer of 1778. The legend of Molly Pitcher — water-carrier Mary Ludwig Hays, who took her husband's place on the front lines when he fell in battle — stems from here.

Things to Do: Hike the scenic trails, visit the restored 18th-century Craig House, and explore interactive exhibits at the Visitor Center. Keep an eye out for living history events with reenactors in full gear.

Hot Tip: Summer gets toasty, just like it did in 1778. Bring water and comfy shoes for walking the wide open fields.

2) Princeton Battlefield State Park — Princeton

George Washington's victory here in January 1777, after the infamous success at the Battle of Trenton just after Christmas, really started to turn the tide of the war. The future of this site has been contentious in recent years, due to nearby developments encroaching on protected lands. (Which has been settled.)

Things to Do: Check out the large stone Princeton Battle Monument, walk the now-peaceful battlefield, and explore nearby Clarke House Museum, where wounded soldiers were treated.

Hot Tip: Pair a visit with nearby Princeton University, also steeped in history and colonial charm.

3) Fort Lee Historic Park — Fort Lee

Yes, the town on the Jersey side of the George Washington Bridge was once home to a bluff-top fort. Critical for defending the Hudson River, Fort Lee was responsible for slowing down the British as Washington pulled off a strategic retreat in 1776.

Things to Do: Enjoy panoramic views of the GWB and the NYC skyline, stroll the replica 1776 encampment, and check out the educational museum.

Hot Tip: Arrive early for parking and stunning photo ops as the Hudson comes alive at sunrise.

4) Ford Mansion — Morristown

Washington made this stately home his headquarters during the brutal winter of 1779-1780.

Things to Do: Tour the preserved mansion with National Park guides and explore the nearby Washington's Headquarters Museum, full of original artifacts.

Hot Tip: Combine with a walk or picnic in Jockey Hollow just minutes away, which is also rich in Revolutionary history.

5) Hancock House — Hancocks Bridge

It represents a tragic chapter in New Jersey history. In 1778, British loyalist troops massacred sleeping Patriot militiamen here, an event that shocked and angered the entire region.

Things to Do: Tour the preserved 1734 brick home, known for its stunning patterned brickwork and rich colonial interior.

Hot Tip: Tour hours are limited, so call ahead. The storytelling and atmosphere are worth it.

6) Old Barracks Museum — Trenton

These 1758 barracks housed British troops, Hessians, and later Continental soldiers. Of course, most of us are also familiar with the surprise Battle of Trenton (the day after Christmas 1776) that gave Americans a much-needed morale boost.

Things to Do: Take a guided tour with costumed interpreters, see musket demos, and learn about colonial medicine and military life.

Hot Tip: As of 2025, this site is under renovation. Be sure to check operating hours before going for a visit.

7) Washington Crossing State Park — Titusville

This is where Washington famously crossed the icy Delaware River on Christmas night 1776, launching a surprise attack on Trenton that changed the war’s momentum.

Things to Do: Walk the grounds, visit the museum and Johnson Ferry House, and check out hiking trails along the river.

Hot Tip: Don’t miss the annual Christmas Day reenactment. (Yes, they actually row across the Delaware in full uniform!) The reenactment draws a crowd, so arrive early and dress warm for a tradition worth braving the cold for.