10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Camden, New Jersey
If you’re looking for a quick getaway or day trip near Philadelphia,
Camden, New Jersey, in
Camden County, is a surprisingly fun spot to explore. This waterfront city is packed with family attractions, hands-on museums, and great views of the Philly skyline.
Whether you’re planning a weekend in South Jersey or just crossing the bridge for the day, here are
10 things to do near Camden, NJ that are worth your time.
1. Explore the Adventure Aquarium on the Camden Waterfront
Let’s start with the star of the show: the
Adventure Aquarium, right on the
Camden Waterfront overlooking the Delaware River.
This isn’t your average small-town aquarium. It’s one of the top attractions in New Jersey and a favorite for families from all over the East Coast.
- Walk through huge shark tunnels and see them swimming right over your head.
- Visit the hippos, penguins, turtles, and jellyfish exhibits.
- Try the touch tanks where you can gently feel stingrays and other sea creatures.
Plan to spend at least
2–3 hours here, especially if you’re visiting with kids. Parking is easy, and you can walk along the river afterward for great skyline photos.
Looking for an easy date idea? Grab tickets to the aquarium, then walk the waterfront at sunset. Simple, but it works.
2. Tour the Battleship New Jersey (USS New Jersey)
Just a short walk from the aquarium, you’ll find the massive
Battleship New Jersey, one of the most decorated battleships in U.S. history.
You can:
- Climb aboard and wander through narrow passageways.
- Step inside the captain’s quarters.
- Stand on the deck and see the huge guns up close.
Guided tours share stories from
World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the Cold War. If you’re into history, the military, or just cool machines, this is a must-do.
They even offer overnight programs for groups and scouts where you can sleep in the crew bunks. If you’ve ever wondered what life at sea was like, this experience brings it to life.
3. Stroll the Camden Waterfront and Take in the Philly Skyline
The
Camden Waterfront itself is one of the best free things to do in Camden.
Walk along the river, grab a bench, and enjoy the view of:
- The Philadelphia skyline
- The Ben Franklin Bridge
- Boats and ships passing along the Delaware River
On a clear day, the view is postcard-worthy. You can bring a coffee, take photos, or just sit and people-watch.
If you’re visiting Camden with kids, there’s enough space to let them run around a bit and burn off some energy.
4. Catch a Show at Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
Love live music? The
Freedom Mortgage Pavilion (locals still call it the Camden waterfront concert venue) is one of the best outdoor music spots in the region.
In the summer, you’ll find:
- Big-name concerts across rock, pop, country, hip-hop, and more
- Great sound and a big lawn area for relaxed seating
- Nighttime views of the lit-up Philly skyline behind the stage
If you’ve never seen a concert with a city skyline as the backdrop, this venue is worth checking out. Just remember to arrive a bit early for parking and traffic.
5. Learn and Play at the Camden Children’s Garden
Right near the aquarium, you’ll find the
Camden Children’s Garden, a sweet little spot that’s perfect if you’re visiting Camden with younger kids.
This garden is designed for children to explore and learn:
- Whimsical themed gardens and play spaces
- Butterfly house (seasonal)
- Hands-on activities and family events
It’s not huge, but that’s part of the charm. You can mix it into your waterfront day, especially if you’re already doing the aquarium.
If your kids need a break from screens and want to touch, see, and smell something real and living, this place is ideal.
6. Visit the Rutgers–Camden Campus and Wiggins Waterfront Park
The
Rutgers University–Camden campus brings a college-town vibe to part of the city. You can take a quiet walk among the academic buildings and green spaces.
Close by,
Wiggins Waterfront Park offers:
- Paved riverfront paths
- Grassy areas for picnics
- Benches with river and skyline views
This is a peaceful spot to unwind after a full day at the bigger attractions. On nice evenings, you’ll often find locals walking, jogging, or just hanging out.
If you like to travel on a budget, parks like this give you a relaxing break without spending a dime.
7. Cross the River to Explore Old City Philadelphia
One of the best things about Camden is how close it is to
Philadelphia. You’re literally right across the river from some of America’s most famous historic sites.
From Camden, you can drive, take the
PATCO Speedline, or hop on a ferry (seasonal) and be in
Old City in no time.
Once you’re in Philly, you can:
- See the Liberty Bell
- Tour Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed
- Walk along cobblestone streets and explore historic neighborhoods
- Try a classic Philly cheesesteak
If you’re basing yourself in New Jersey but still want that big-city experience, pairing Camden with a quick Philly visit is a smart move.
8. Stop by the Walt Whitman House
Literature fans will want to visit the
Walt Whitman House in Camden, where the famous American poet spent his final years.
Though it’s smaller and more low-key than the waterfront attractions, it’s a meaningful stop if you enjoy history and writing.
You can:
- See the home where Whitman lived and wrote.
- Learn about his life, health struggles, and late years in Camden.
- Get a sense of what the city was like in the late 1800s.
It’s best to check hours in advance, as tours may be limited. This is one of those quiet, thoughtful stops that balances out the more high-energy activities.
9. Head Out into Camden County: Cooper River Park
If you’re ready to branch out beyond the city itself, the rest of
Camden County has plenty to offer. A local favorite is
Cooper River Park, just a short drive from downtown Camden.
This long, scenic park runs along the Cooper River and is perfect for:
- Walking or jogging along paved paths
- Biking
- Kayaking or rowing (you’ll often see crews practicing)
- Picnics with river views
On a sunny weekend, this is one of the best free outdoor things to do near Camden, NJ. If you like easy nature access without a long drive, it fits the bill.
10. Explore Downtown Collingswood for Food and Shopping
Another great Camden County side trip is
Collingswood, a charming small town just a short ride from Camden.
Its downtown stretch along Haddon Avenue is known for:
- Plenty of restaurants and cafes (Italian, Mexican, diners, bakeries, and more)
- Unique boutiques and local shops
- Seasonal events and farmers’ markets
If you want to end your Camden day with a cozy dinner, Collingswood is a solid option. It has that walkable, small-town main street feel that many travelers love.
Tips for Visiting Camden, New Jersey
To make the most of your trip to Camden and Camden County, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Plan your day around the waterfront. The aquarium, battleship, garden, and concerts are all close together.
- Check hours and tickets ahead of time. Popular spots like the aquarium and battleship can sell out, especially on weekends.
- Consider a combo day with Philly. It’s very easy to visit both cities in one trip.
- Mix indoor and outdoor stops. Do an attraction, then relax in a park or along the river.
Is Camden, NJ Worth Visiting?
If you’re wondering, “Is Camden actually worth a stop?” the answer is:
yes—especially if you’re already in the Philadelphia or South Jersey area.
You get:
- Big-name attractions (Adventure Aquarium, Battleship New Jersey)
- Awesome skyline and river views
- Easy access to parks, small towns, and historic sites
You might come for one main attraction, but it’s easy to turn it into a full, fun day around the waterfront and nearby Camden County.
Share Your Camden Experience
Have you visited
Camden, New Jersey or anywhere else in
Camden County?
- Which attraction was your favorite?
- Did you find a great local restaurant or hidden gem?
Drop your thoughts, tips, and questions in the comments below. Your experience can help other travelers plan their own trip.
If you found this guide to
things to do near Camden, NJ helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media. It might inspire someone’s next day trip across the river.
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