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- Best Things To Do In Trenton
Trenton is tucked in the center of New Jersey, right on the banks of the Delaware River. This city plays an important role in the state; it’s New Jersey’s capital. Interestingly, Trenton once had a stint as the country’s capital city, but only for about two months in 1784 before being stripped of the title. Presently, this city remains a significant part of New Jersey as the headquarters of several state and federal government agencies, like the FBI Newark Field Office and the New Jersey Department of Transportation, among others.
Visitors are drawn to this destination because of its deep history, diverse culinary scene, and cultural attractions. Places like the Old Barracks Museum and the Trenton City Museum, are among this city’s main attractions that make this one of New Jersey's towns worth a vacation.
For anyone planning a trip to New Jersey’s capital, this article is a complete guide to the top things to do in Trenton plus everything else that a visitor needs to know about when planning a trip.
UPDATE: 2023/08/03 15:55 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA
Best Things To Do In Trenton
New Jersey's capital city treats newcomers to a string of historical treasures and exciting activities. Find more top attractions in Trenton in this updated travel guide.
Things To Do In Trenton, New Jersey
From exploring the city's treasure trove of historical sites to spending time in nature at the parks, Trenton has some of the best things to do in New Jersey.
1 Tour The New Jersey State House
The New Jersey State House was built in 1792, making it one of the oldest state capitols in the U.S. This building has elegant neoclassical architecture, and it’s marked by a golden dome at its crest. This grand building is open to the public for tours, allowing visitors to explore its historic interior.
Visitors get a chance to tour the Legislative chambers to view their ornate details and learn about the functions of the Legislature. The historic Supreme Court Room is also open for tours, as well as the Old Assembly Rooms and the Governor’s Office.
Tours are available by reservation
- Address: 125 W State St, Trenton, NJ 08608, United States
- Tour Times: Mon - Fri: 10 am - 3 pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
- Price: Free
2 Check Out The Trenton Battle Monument
Construction of this historic monument started at the end of 1891 and for the next 2 years, the Trenton Battle Monument slowly rose to take over the city’s skyline. Today, it is an important landmark that acts as a reminder of the state's role during the Revolutionary War.
This 148-foot column is a commemoration of the Battle of Trenton, which was a significant part of the American Revolution. At the top of the monument is a statue of George Washington, who lead the troops to victory in the Battle of Trenton.
The Trenton Battle Monument stands in the middle of a traffic circle, but it’s visible from miles away. Visitors can visit this site, take photos and check out the sculptures and engravings on the monument.
- Address: 348 North Warren Street Trenton, NJ 08638
- Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Price: Free
On certain days, visitors can even enter the monument and climb to the observation platform for a view of the streets below.
3 Visit The Old Barracks Museum
This historic site is located in old military barracks that were used by British soldiers in the 18th century. This site later hosted American soldiers during the Revolutionary War, with battles like the Battle of Trenton having taken place here as well.
The Old Barracks Museum has been preserved in its original condition and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The site features rooms like the soldiers’ quarters, the officer’s quarters, and the kitchen, all of which were used during the French and Indian Wars as well as the Revolutionary War.
There’s also a collection of weapons and uniforms used during these wars, including muskets, bayonets, swords, and a cannon.
- Address: 101 Barrack St, Trenton, NJ 08608, United States
- Hours: Wed-Sat: 10 am - 5 pm (closed form Sun - Tue)
- Price: Adults: $10; Students & Seniors: $8; Children under 5 yrs: Free
4 Learn About Trenton’s History At Trenton City Museum At Ellarslie
The historic Ellarslie Mansion, in which the Trenton City Museum is housed, was built back in 1848. It’s found within one of Trenton’s largest parks, Cadwalader Park. This museum was opened in 1978 as a venue for showcasing the region’s art and historical artifacts.
There are collections of paintings, sculptures, old furniture, and clothing worn in the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors who want to dive deeper into the history and culture of the area can opt to take part in educational programs or attend workshops.
- Address: 299 Parkside Ave., Trenton, NJ 08606, United States
- Hours: Fri & Sat: 12 pm - 4 pm; Sun: 1 pm - 4 pm (closed from Mon to Thu)
- Price: Free
For a small fee, the Trenton City Museum offers guided tours to groups of 5 to 15 adults.
5 Explore The Historic Cadwalader Park
Trenton City Museum listed above stands within the 100-acre Cadwalader Park. This city park’s history goes back over 130 years, and it was designed by the same person who designed the iconic Central Park in New York.
Cadwalader Park boasts a wide variety of flora and several species of birds and mammals. There are also facilities like golf and tennis courts, as well as a playground.
Several picnic areas are also dotted around Cadwalader. Plus, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail crosses through the park.
- Address: 36 Parkside, Trenton, NJ 08618, United States
- Hours: 8 am - 9 pm (daily)
6 Hike The Delaware And Raritan Canal State Park Trail
The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail stretches over 77 miles alongside the historic canal of the same name. This trail starts in Milford, north of Trenton, and runs to Bordentown located to the south of Trenton.
About 3.4 miles of this trail crosses through Trenton, passing by the Trenton Battle Monument and the Old Barracks Museum as well as Cadwalader Park and Trenton Country Club.
Visitors can visit the state park, hike the trail and enjoy views of the canal as well as visit the places of interest along the way.
- Length in Trenton: 3.4 miles
- Sites Along the Way: New Jersey State Museum, Trenton Battle Monument, Old Barracks Museum, Cadwalader Park
This is actually one of New Jersey's state parks that visitors can visit for free.
7 Spend A Day At Mercer County Park
Mercer County Park is found about eight miles outside of Trenton, in the township of West Windsor. This park spans more than 2,500 acres, in which there are features like a lake — Mercer Lake — forests, wetlands, and meadows.
This park is also home to various plants and animals, including white-tailed deer, great blue herons, raccoons, foxes, and red-tailed hawks.
Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake or ice skating at the ice skating center. There are also sporting facilities like tennis and basketball courts, as well as space for events.
- Address: 1638 Old Trenton Rd, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550, United States
- Hours: Sunrise - Sunset (daily)
8 Catch A Performance At CURE Insurance Arena
CURE Insurance Arena is an arena in downtown Trenton, and it was formerly known as the Sun National Bank Center. This venue boasts ample space for sporting events; there’s a hockey Sun National Bank Center and a basketball space. It’s also known as a premium concert location, with a theater capacity of 10,500.
Professional sports teams like the Trenton Titans call this home. Moreover, global entertainers like Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, and Taylor Swift have held their concerts right here. This is the perfect place to enjoy a live performance as there’s always a show scheduled.
- Address: 81 Hamilton Ave, Trenton, NJ 08611, United States
9 Go Shopping At One Of Trenton’s Markets
Trenton has several shopping spots where one can buy anything from vintage products to fresh produce. For the best souvenirs, the Trenton Punk Rock Flea Market is a good place to start. This market is typically held three times a year in spring, summer, and fall.
Visitors can also shop at the Trenton Farmers Market, which is open every Thursday to Sunday. There are about 50 vendors in the farmers’ market, with products like fresh farm produce sold here.
- Address: 81 Hamilton Ave, Trenton, NJ 08611, United States
- When: Spring, Summer, and Fall
- Address: 960 Spruce St, Lawrence Township, NJ 08648, United States
- When: Thu - Sat: 9 am - 6 pm Sun: 9 am - 3 pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
10 Catch A Show At Patriots Theater At The War Memorial
Trenton, NJ, USA: Trenton Patriots Theater at the War Memorial at day
Patriots Theater at the War Memorial is an important cultural attraction in Trenton that hosts live shows by various renowned performing arts groups in the city. It is home to the Trenton Symphony Orchestra, Trenton Ballet, and the Opera Festival of New Jersey.
The organizes a string of shows, concerts, and events throughout the year that attracts visitors and locals alike. Besides watching a live show, those interested in the historical significance of the venue can book a guided tour.
- Address: 1 Memorial Dr, Trenton, NJ 08608, United States
11 Get Inspired At The New Jersey State Museum
The New Jersey State Museum was launched in 1895 to inspire public knowledge in the fields of art, history, and science. It houses a vast collection of exhibits with over two million items on display, ranging from 17th-century cultural artifacts and prehistoric specimens to several pieces of fine art.
This leaves visitors with so much to inspect and appreciate at the museum. Alternatively, the venue offers guided tours for those wanting to better understand the history and purpose of the exhibits.
- Address: 205 W State St, Trenton, NJ 08608, United States
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9 am - 5 pm
- Price: Free
Target the weekend and school holidays to catch the exciting sky shows hosted by the New Jersey State Museum in its 140-seat planetarium; they are a sure hit with the kids.
12 Cross The Pennsylvania Bridge
The Pennsylvania Bridge, also known as the Trenton Makes Bridge, spans across the Deleware River to connect the states of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This iconic city landmark was built in 1928 and stands with its large "TRENTON MAKES THE WORLD TAKES" lettering on the side.
Crossing the bridge to neighboring Pennsylvania has become a popular activity for first-timers in New Jersey, especially at night when the neon lights illuminate the sign. Visitors also enjoy spectacular views of the Deleware River below, making it the perfect site for a romantic evening stroll.
Carry a camera to snap Instaworthy photos on the bridge at night with the lights reflecting on the river's surface
13 Admire The Exhibits At Grounds For Sculpture
TRENTON, NJ: Floating Arrangement by Joseph Howard at Grounds for Sculpture
Although it is located in Hamilton, Grounds for Sculpture is just eight minutes from the city and readily accessible to nature enthusiasts and art lovers in Trenton. This unique 42-acre public park boasts at least 270 sculptures by artists from all over the globe.
Visitors get to appreciate the world-class art on display while soaking in the serene atmosphere of the park.
Several gardens, ponds, and woodlands create an ideal setting for nature lovers and those who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere away from the city noise.
- Address: 80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619, United States
- Hours: Wednesday & Thursday (10 am - 5 pm), Friday to Tuesday (10 am - 5 pm)
- Price: Free
For a more immersive experience, guests can sign up for the unique moonlight tours or take a sculpturing lesson on the park grounds.
14 Where To Eat In Trenton
New Jersey is known for foods like Taylor Ham, pork rolls, hoagies, and the Trenton tomato pie. Below is a list of restaurants in Trenton where a visitor can sample these and other iconic New Jersey treats.
Breakfast
Lunch/Dinner
Drinks
15 Where To Stay In And Around Trenton, New Jersey
There are hardly any hotels within Trenton proper, but the towns within the metropolitan area, like Lawrence, Ewing, Hamilton, and Bordentown have a number of wonderful hotels and vacation rentals.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Mho Hotel Bordentown: $48/night, short drive to attractions
- Red Roof Inn Bordentown - McGuire AFB: $89/night, short drive to attractions
Mid-Range Hotels
- Home2 Suites By Hilton Bordentown: $131/night, pet-friendly, onsite dining
- Hilton Garden Inn Hamilton: $135/night, convenient to interstate, onsite dining
Higher-End Hotels
- Hilton Garden Inn Princeton Lawrenceville: $171/night, onsite restaurant & bar
- Courtyard by Marriott Ewing Princeton: $189/night, pet-friendly, onsite bar & bistro
16 Best Time To Visit Trenton, New Jersey
The best time to visit Trenton is during the warmer months, which are in summer, from June to August. During this time, the temperatures range from lows in the low 60s to highs in the mid-80s. Thanks to the pleasant weather, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer also has events like Art All Night in June, the Freedom Festival on July the 4th, and the New Jersey State Fair in August.
April and May, and the autumn months of September and October enjoy mild temperatures between the low 60s and the mid-70s. Those vising at this time also get the benefit of fewer tourists and lower prices. Still, events like the Trenton Porchfest, the Trenton Jazz Festival, and the Trenton Half Marathon are held in the fall.
Winter is normally chilly with temperatures dropping as low as the low 20s. This isn’t the best time to visit Trenton for those who want to spend time outdoors.
17 Getting Around Trenton, New Jersey
Trenton is served by the Trenton-Mercer Airport, which is about 6 miles from the heart of Trenton, roughly a 12-minute drive. Sadly, the only airline that serves this airport is Fly Frontier. Other major airports nearby are Philadelphia International Airport- 42 miles away, and Newark International Airport- 56 miles away.
Below is a look at the most convenient and affordable ways to get around Trenton.
Car
Renting a car gives visitors the freedom to travel on their own schedule. Car rental companies like Avis, Enterprise, National, and Budget are available at the airports as well as in Downtown Trenton.
Bus
The NJ Transit bus system serves Trenton as well as the wider New Jersey, which runs between the city and Lawrence Township, West Windsor, and Plainsboro. The bus service starts at about 5:30 am to after midnight on weekdays, and from around 8 am to 6 pm on weekends. The bus even reaches destinations like Newark Airport, Atlantic City, and Six Flags.
On Foot/ By Bike
Trenton is a small city that’s easy to explore on foot. Most attractions are within walking distance from each other and there are walking/biking paths around the downtown area.
18 Spending The Perfect Day In Trenton
After a morning meal at one of Trenton’s popular breakfast spots, start the day with a leisurely walk on the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail to the Trenton Battle Monument. Take some photos at this landmark then return on the trail and head to the Old Barracks Museum. Explore this site and learn about its history before following the Delaware and Raritan Canal trail to Cadwalader Park for a relaxing picnic lunch. Afterward, visit the Trenton City Museum within the park.
Then, head to Mercer County Park and spend the afternoon there at the lake or hiking the trails. Return to Downtown Trenton and enjoy dinner before catching an evening performance at the CURE Insurance Arena. Afterward, end the day with some drinks at a lively bar.