10 Best Things To Do Near Trenton, New Jersey (Mercer County)

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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Trenton, New Jersey (Mercer County)

Looking for fun things to do in Trenton, New Jersey and the surrounding Mercer County area? You’re in the right place. Trenton may be the capital of New Jersey, but it still feels like a down‑to‑earth, real American city. It’s historic, walkable in many areas, and just a short drive from Princeton, Hamilton, and Lawrence. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, passing through on I‑95, or visiting family, there’s plenty to see and do. Below are 10 things to do near Trenton, NJ that combine history, art, food, and the outdoors.

1. Step Back in Time at the New Jersey State House

If you’re in Trenton, you can’t miss the gleaming gold dome of the New Jersey State House. It’s one of the oldest state capitol buildings still in use in the United States. Inside, you’ll find:
  • Beautiful stained glass and marble halls
  • Historic legislative chambers
  • Guided tours that explain how New Jersey’s government works
Tours are usually free, but it’s smart to check hours ahead of time, especially if the legislature is in session. If you’re visiting with kids or teens, this can be a quick, eye‑opening stop. It turns “boring civics” into real life. Seeing where laws are actually debated hits a little different than reading about it in a textbook.

2. Explore the Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion

Inside lovely Cadwalader Park, you’ll find the Trenton City Museum at Ellarslie Mansion, a stately 19th‑century house that looks like something out of a movie. This small but charming museum offers:
  • Exhibits on Trenton’s industrial and cultural history
  • Local and regional artwork
  • Rotating shows featuring New Jersey artists
The museum doesn’t take long to walk through, which makes it a great low‑stress stop. While you’re there, take a little time to wander Cadwalader Park itself. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the same landscape architect behind Central Park in New York City.

3. Walk Through American History at the Old Barracks Museum

If you’re a history buff—or even just mildly curious—the Old Barracks Museum in downtown Trenton is a must‑see. Dating back to the French and Indian War, this stone barracks played a big role during the American Revolution, especially in the famous Battle of Trenton. Today, costumed interpreters bring the 1700s to life. Expect to see:
  • Recreated soldiers’ quarters
  • Demonstrations of colonial life
  • Stories about Washington’s daring crossing of the Delaware River
If you’ve ever seen that painting of George Washington standing tall in a boat on an icy river, this museum gives you the real‑world backstory. Tip: Combine this with a stroll to nearby historic sites like Mill Hill Park and the Trenton Battle Monument to connect all the dots.

4. Enjoy the Outdoors at Mercer County Park

About 15–20 minutes from downtown Trenton, Mercer County Park in West Windsor and Hamilton is one of the area’s best spots for fresh air and wide‑open space. This huge park includes:
  • A large lake with rowing and boat rentals in season
  • Walking, running, and biking paths
  • Playgrounds and picnic spots
  • Sports fields and tennis courts
On a sunny weekend, you’ll see everyone—from serious runners to families with strollers—out enjoying the park. It’s also home to concerts, festivals, and special events throughout the year. If you’re driving through the Trenton area and just need to stretch your legs for 30–60 minutes, this is an easy and relaxing choice.

5. Experience Art and Nature at Grounds For Sculpture

Just a short drive from Trenton in Hamilton, Grounds For Sculpture is one of the most unique attractions in Mercer County—and honestly, in all of New Jersey. Think of it as a cross between:
  • An art museum
  • A botanical garden
  • A whimsical outdoor playground (for adults and kids)
Over 270 sculptures are spread out over 42 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. You’ll see everything from massive modern pieces to realistic figures that feel like they might start walking any second. Some tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a lot.
  • Bring a camera; there are photo spots everywhere.
  • Check out on‑site dining like Rat’s Restaurant if you want a memorable meal.
If you only do one big attraction near Trenton, many locals would tell you: make it Grounds For Sculpture.

6. Discover Princeton’s Ivy League Charm

Just 20–25 minutes north of Trenton, the town of Princeton is one of Mercer County’s gems. It’s home to Princeton University, cozy streets, and a classic college‑town feel. Here’s how to spend a half day or more in Princeton:
  • Stroll the Princeton University campus and admire the stone buildings
  • Visit the Princeton University Art Museum (check current reopening status)
  • Grab coffee or ice cream in town along Nassau Street or Palmer Square
  • Walk a section of the nearby D&R Canal towpath
If you like charming college towns with bookstores, leafy sidewalks, and historic churches, this is your spot. It’s an easy day trip from Trenton and pairs well with dinner back in the capital or nearby suburbs.

7. Walk or Bike the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath

For a peaceful break from traffic and screens, head to the Delaware & Raritan (D&R) Canal State Park, which runs right through the Trenton area. The towpath trail is mostly flat and great for:
  • Walking
  • Jogging
  • Biking
  • Bird‑watching
You can hop on the trail in several places near Trenton and ride or walk for miles along the water. On a quiet day, it’s easy to imagine the old canal boats that once moved goods through this same route. If you bring a bike, this is one of the best low‑cost things to do near Trenton, NJ.

8. Catch a Trenton Thunder Baseball Game

Love baseball or just the vibe of a ballpark on a summer night? Check out the Trenton Thunder, who now play as a collegiate summer team in the MLB Draft League. Games are held at Trenton Thunder Ballpark (just across the river from downtown), and they’re:
  • Family‑friendly
  • Affordable compared to major league games
  • Full of fun promotions, fireworks, and theme nights
Grabbing a hot dog, sitting in the stands, and watching the sun set over the Delaware River is such a classic American experience. You don’t have to be a hardcore baseball fan to enjoy a night here.

9. Browse Local Culture at Artworks Trenton & Downtown Murals

Trenton isn’t just about government and history—it also has a growing arts scene. Stop by Artworks Trenton, a visual arts center downtown that offers:
  • Rotating art exhibits
  • Workshops and classes
  • Events featuring local artists and makers
While you’re downtown, take some time to wander and look for street art and murals. Parts of Trenton are like an open‑air gallery, with bright, bold pieces that reflect the city’s personality and grit. If you enjoy photography, this area can easily turn into a half‑day of exploring, snapping pictures, and picking up a coffee or snack at a local café.

10. Taste the Local Flavor: Trenton Tomato Pie & More

You can’t talk about things to do in Trenton without mentioning food—especially the region’s famous Trenton tomato pie. What’s that? It’s similar to pizza, but the cheese goes on first and the sauce is spooned on top. The result is crispy, tangy, and seriously addictive. Around Trenton and nearby Hamilton you’ll find classic spots serving:
  • Tomato pie and thin‑crust pizza
  • Italian sandwiches and cheesesteaks
  • Old‑school bakeries with fresh bread and pastries
If you’re road‑tripping on I‑95 or Route 1, ducking into a local pizzeria for a slice of Trenton tomato pie is both an easy meal and a little taste of local culture.

Final Tips for Visiting Trenton, New Jersey

A few quick pointers to make your trip smoother:
  • Getting around: Having a car makes it easier to explore Mercer County, especially places like Grounds For Sculpture and Mercer County Park.
  • Timing: Spring and fall are especially nice for walking tours and outdoor activities.
  • Pair your stops: You can easily combine several of these in one day—for example, Old Barracks Museum, State House, and downtown art, or Princeton in the morning and Grounds For Sculpture in the afternoon.
Whether you’re into history, nature, art, or food, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do in and around Trenton, NJ. The city and greater Mercer County area are underrated, but that’s part of what makes exploring them so satisfying.

Share Your Trenton Experience

Have you visited Trenton or anywhere else in Mercer County?
  • Which spot was your favorite?
  • Did you try a real Trenton tomato pie?
  • Any hidden gems I should add next time?
Drop a comment with your tips, stories, or questions—I’d love to hear how your trip went. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a visit to New Jersey’s capital. It might just inspire their next weekend getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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