Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brick Township, NJ to Camden, NJ

If you're looking for an adventurous road trip from Brick Township, New Jersey to Camden, New Jersey, there are plenty of places to stop along the way that you may not have considered. With a driving distance of about 70 miles, the trip takes around an hour and a half without traffic. However, you can make the trip more interesting by stopping at unique and unexpected places along the way.

The halfway point of the trip, Hamilton, NJ, is a good place to take a break. As a town in Mercer County, Hamilton has a lot of amenities, including restaurants and gas stations. It’s also home to the Grounds for Sculpture, a stunning sculpture park and museum that features contemporary sculpture from local and international artists.

1. Lakehurst Naval Air Station Historic Hangar One

The first stop on the trip is the Lakehurst Naval Air Station Historic Hangar One in Toms River, NJ. The hangar, built in 1921, is one of the most unique landmarks in New Jersey. Now known as the Naval Air Engineering Station, the hangar is home to a museum that features the history of dirigibles and airships, including the famous Hindenburg disaster that occurred in 1937. Visitors can take a tour of the facility and learn about the advancements in aviation that have taken place since the first flight in 1903.

Food recommendation: For some classic American comfort food, head over to Aunt Jenny’s on West Water Street. They have an extensive menu of breakfast foods, sandwiches, and burgers that are sure to fill you up.

2. Pine Barrens

The Pine Barrens is a vast wilderness area located in southern New Jersey, extending from Toms River to Hammonton. The Pine Barrens have inspired many stories about ghosts, haunted houses, and creatures that live in the woods. It's also home to many endangered species, including the bald eagle, the pine snake, and the black bear. Visitors can hike through the pine trees, swim in the rivers, or take a guided tour to learn about the history and ecology of the region.

Food recommendation: Stop by the country store at Chatsworth Cranberry Farms to try their famous cranberry jelly and cranberry-apple sauce.

3. Rancocas Nature Center

The Rancocas Nature Center is a serene natural area located in Mount Holly, NJ. The center features a variety of habitats, including meadows, streams, and forests that support diverse wildlife. Visitors can take nature walks, birding tours, and participate in various environmental programs. The nature center is a perfect spot for a relaxing break from the busy road.

Food recommendation: The Robin’s Nest Restaurant is a cozy spot in Mount Holly that serves up gourmet sandwiches and salads. Be sure to try their famous Stuffed French Toast with strawberries and mascarpone cheese.

4. Adventure Aquarium

Located in Camden, NJ, the Adventure Aquarium is a fantastic destination for the whole family. The aquarium features over 8,500 sea creatures, including sharks, turtles, and stingrays. Visitors can also get up close and personal with penguins and hippos, and even touch some of the animals in the interactive exhibits. The aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life and have some fun.

Food recommendation: For a unique dining experience, visit the Camden Waterfront for the famous Philly Cheesesteak at Tony Luke’s.

5. Camden Children's Garden

The Camden Children's Garden is a beautiful destination for families with young children. The garden features a variety of gardens and exhibits, including a butterfly house, a storybook garden, and a dinosaur garden. The garden offers plenty of interactive activities for kids, including scavenger hunts and train rides. Visitors can also pack a picnic and enjoy the surroundings.

Food recommendation: Stop by the Camden Waterfront for a meal at Morgan's Pier, a riverside bar and restaurant that serves up casual American fare, including burgers, salads, and seafood.

Overall, the trip from Brick Township to Camden can be an exciting adventure, with plenty of unexpected places to stop along the way. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or family-friendly entertainment, this trip has something for everyone. Next time you're embarking on a road trip, consider taking this route and exploring some of these unique and exciting destinations.