Standing as a towering emblem of American naval history, the Battleship New Jersey has earned its place as the most decorated battleship in U.S. history, having served with distinction in conflicts spanning from World War II through the Middle East. Today, she is more than a ship; she is a living museum and memorial that draws over 70,000 visitors each year, offering a unique window into naval life while honoring the sailors who served aboard her.
Docked along the Delaware River at Camden Waterfront, the Battleship New Jersey is an impressive 45,000-ton vessel that requires over $10,000 a day to maintain safely. This massive ship serves as a tangible reminder of the country’s military legacy, with preserved decks, weaponry, and living quarters that allow visitors to step directly into history. The museum offers multiple ways to explore its storied past, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone curious about naval life.
Located at 62 Battleship Place, Camden, the museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the last boarding at 4:00 p.m. Tickets are available at the Visitors Center with a range of options. Self-guided tours, recommended to last two to three hours, allow visitors to follow a color-coded route through the ship, giving flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Adults can expect to pay $30, seniors $25, and veterans $20. For a more structured experience, guided tours are offered daily at noon, providing a 90-minute in-depth journey through the ship’s key areas, including the deck, control rooms, and living quarters. Guided tours are priced at $40 for adults and $35 for veterans, children under 12, and seniors.
For visitors seeking specialized insights, the Battleship New Jersey offers specialty tours, such as the Turret II Tour and Engine Room Tour, giving guests exclusive access to critical areas not included in the standard route. Additionally, the ship hosts unique experiences including overnight encampments, where participants can sleep in sailor bunks, and seasonal events like fireworks shows and Breakfast with Santa, offering families and groups interactive ways to engage with history.
In 2024, the battleship underwent a major dry-docking renovation at the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, restoring her wooden deck and ensuring her continued preservation for future generations. While the ship temporarily closed in September 2024 due to Hurricane Helene, it reopened to the public, fully operational and ready to welcome visitors eager to experience naval history firsthand. The museum’s dedication to education and preservation has earned it recognition as the top attraction in Camden on TripAdvisor.
Accessible to a wide range of visitors, key areas of the ship, including the main deck, anti-aircraft guns, and officer’s wardroom, are wheelchair-friendly, though certain spaces remain limited due to the ship’s design. Beyond the standard tours, the Battleship New Jersey is a hub for educational programming and historical engagement, making it an ideal destination for school groups, veterans, and anyone interested in exploring the legacy of America’s naval power.
For anyone planning a visit, the Battleship New Jersey offers a deeply immersive experience that combines history, heroism, and hands-on exploration. Whether navigating the massive decks, learning about the ship’s role in five decades of conflict, or participating in specialty tours and events, visitors leave with a renewed appreciation for the courage and dedication of the men and women who served aboard this iconic vessel. This landmark continues to stand as one of South Jersey’s premier attractions, offering history, education, and a one-of-a-kind perspective on naval life to residents and tourists alike.
The Battleship New Jersey is a cornerstone of South Jersey heritage and a testament to the enduring legacy of those who defended the nation from sea to shore.
