The historic Battleship New Jersey is one of the most iconic ships in U.S. Navy history, serving from World War II to the cold war. Constructed in Philadelphia in 1942, the New Jersey entered active duty in 1944 and immediately began an impressive career in naval operations. Having taken part in numerous battles, including Iwo Jima and Leyte Gulf, the ship experienced first-hand the most significant conflicts of the 20th century. From combat to award ceremonies, the Battleship New Jersey’s distinguished service could never be forgotten. Visit this link for more information.

Today, the Battleship New Jersey stands proudly in the Camden Waterfront, still bearing the power and distinction of years gone by. The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum and the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial invite curious visitors to explore the life of this great battleship. With over 270,000 square feet of onboard exhibits to explore, visiting the historic Battleship New Jersey will surely be an unforgettable experience. The exterior of the battleship presents visitors with an awe-inspiring view of the ship’s formidable size and power. Being an 1898-era battleship, the New Jersey contains no less than nine gun mounts, 16-inch guns, and a variety of other weapons. Wandering along the deck affords an excellent view of Philadelphia’s skyline, as well as various sections of the battleship, such as the Main Guns, boiler rooms, turbine room, and more. As New Jersey was built for battle, its interior has many features that highlight its wartime capabilities. The three-level main gallery of the museum provides visitors with a closer look at the ship’s expansive interior, with over 70 panels detailing the battleship's history, from its construction to its use in combat. The memorabilia exhibit of the museum allows visitors to immerse themselves in the battleship’s rich history. Items such as light switch plates, original uniforms, authentic photos, and detailed models of the battleship are only a few of the artifacts on display in the museum. Visitors can also experience the ship firsthand by visiting the sleeping quarters, mess hall, and sick bay of the battleship. The sleeping quarters are exciting, with original furniture, shelves, and storage lockers still intact, allowing visitors to pretend they are in the shoes of the battleship’s sailors. The battleship doesn’t forget its modern-day veteran visitors, with memorials honoring veterans and Gold Star families on board. This section of the museum acknowledges the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers and honors their memory and commitment to the United States. Read about Exploring Red Bank Battlefield Park: A Guided Tour of History here.

Overall, a visit to the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial is a remarkable opportunity to experience the powerful legacy of this great vessel. Whether one is a serious historian or simply a curious tourist, the exhibit and memorabilia of the battleship provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of a battleship. The permanent museum has numerous artifacts and exhibits to explore, recounting the tales of a bygone era with respect and admiration.  Therefore, there’s something for every visitor who wishes to learn more about the history of the Battleship New Jersey.