Cheap fun places to go near me

37 Totally Free Attractions in NJ That Are of Course Very Wallet-Friendly!

Rather than swiping your card and dishing out cash at every stop, save up for times when it really matters. On your day off, come by some free yet fun attractions. There's historical, artistic, nature-rich spots and more. Anyone can find something that interests them and it doesn't taking spending money to do it. A lot of these locations are consistently upholding their grounds so they can continue to be available to visitors, and accept donations to go towards these efforts.

Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Free Activities at Jenkinson's Boardwalk! Almost every day of the week there's lots of free things to do at Jenkinson's Boardwalk, Aquarium, and North Inlet Beach. Sundays at 7 pm, a New Jersey tradition continues with NJ 101.5's Big Joe Jersey Talent Show on the beach at Jenkinson's! Mondays at 6 pm, explore the shore... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Bridgeton, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

All Sports Museum is perfect for the sports fanatic in you! For no price, explore all sorts of memorabilia from famous Jersey athletes. There is even a fully-stocked trophy room! This museum mentions all sports and all athletes from the greatest of the greats to the locally renowned. Explore the athletic world in Bridgeton, N... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Bridgeton, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Cohanzick Zoo was the first zoo to open in the state and now house a number of animals from lemurs to bears! The zoo is small and has free admission. Come by at 2 p.m. for Tiger Talk to witness their tigers being fed! A number of educational programs and events are also offered throughout the year... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Cape May, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

One of the only free zoos in the state! Animal lovers will delight at the animals at the Cape May County Park & Zoo. See a lion, giraffe, camels, alligator, black bear and more animals from all around the world at this free zoo in NJ. After seeing all the fascinating animals, head to the Wildlife Carousel for a fun ride with the kids. Wh... Read More

Visit Website View Details

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Appreciate plant life Rutgers Gardens is a botanical garden tucked away behind the Rutgers University campus. It is a free attraction open to the public year-round. Stroll through beautiful agricultural collections such as the Rain Garden and the Bamboo Forest. There are many trees, flowers and various plant species to appreciate and lea... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Sea Girt, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

There are only 11 public original lighthouses in NJ that you can explore and the Sea Girt Lighthouse is one of them! It is filled with artifacts and displays about NJ history. Visit this lighthouse in Monmouth County to learn a bit about Jersey history and enjoy ocean views... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Tenafly, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Tenafly Nature Center is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural world around them. There are trails and places for bird watching and wildlife observation. There are also a variety of seasonal activities and programs for kids such as ice skating, nature camps, and themed adventures. For some outdoor fun, stop by and explore all the options you have f... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Hopewell, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Howell Living History Farm will take you back to the early 20th century to show you how a farm operates. This is an interactive experience where you will help out with tasks in the barn and help with baking fresh bread. Watch horses and buggies go by and explore the different farm animals on the property! This will be a fun and free day for the famil... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Brigantine, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Marine Mammal Stranding Center is dedicated to helping stranded sea animals. This is the perfect place to explore and learn all about different sea critters! You can learn about how they are being helped and how you can contribute. A variety of outreach programs and summer camps are offered as well for those who wish to get more involved with the process... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Oceanville, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

For a chance to explore the world of art on a budget, visit the Noyes Museum of Art in Oceanville. There are a variety of exhibits varying from photos to sculptures. Classes and events are also offered regularly to the public. Stop by and appeal to your artistic side... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Highlands, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Fort Hancock Historic District is located right by Sandy Hook and holds years of military history! It has many times been a vital site for defense and navigation. Come by to explore the history in the remains of the fort. Sandy Hook is also nearby for a potential second adventure... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Wildwood, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

If you're looking to enjoy a free day at the beach locally, stop by Wildwood, NJ. Unlike most beaches in the state, admission is free and there are a number of things to do. The boardwalk offers everything from arcade games to bars. You can also participate in water sports at some point during your day on the beach. There is surely something for everyone to ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Glassboro, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

The Heritage Glass Museum will teach you about the history and preservation of glass through a number of exhibits and events. It has figurines, bottles, as well as a variety of types of glass that have been used in southern Jersey for ages. For a unique experience in history and beauty, visit this museum in Glassboro, NJ. Admission is free and they are open ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Princeton, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Drumthwacket is a mansion will take you back in Jersey history to show you how past governors lived. Tours are held every Wednesday at 1 p.m. that educate you about the architecture and history of the property. The house also holds a number of antiques that will also be discussed by your guide. You can also wander the gardens following the tour. For no price... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Ocean City, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

If you're someone who loves to spend time collecting seashells by the shore, the Discovery Seashell Museum is the perfect place for you! With over 10,000 seashells of all different colors, patterns, and sizes, you are sure to find something you've never seen before. There are also a number of coral, air plants and more marine treasures. Come learn and explor... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Mays Landing, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Warren E. Fox Nature Center is perfect for nature lovers! It emphasizes environmental education and preservation and is a great place for kids to explore, too! There a number of free events offered such as craft classes, yoga, themed hikes, fishing challenges, and more! There is something for all ages and all interests... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Hackensack, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

The New Jersey Naval Museum is a great free museum for those interested in war history and travel. This is one of the best collections of war boats you will see. Find out all about how these machines were used and also take a look at other displays such as a torpedo and a submarine. They also host birthday parties. Feel free to ask questions and explore the ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Highlands, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Twin Lights Historic Site hold years of significant history in its infrastructure. Originally intended to navigate ships, it now stands as a free historical site for the public to explore. You can opt for a guided tour or just visit and explore yourself! Take in the unique design and the stories of its history here in Highlands, N... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Hammonton, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Visit Batsto Village as a getaway from the hustle of your everyday life. Spend a day surrounded by the nature of the Pinelands. You can take a tour of the village, go on a hike, bike, and so much more. There are many options for you to enjoy at Batso Village. Make a day out of it or visit for a short afternoon to have a picnic and take in the beauty and hist... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Princeton, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

See famous artwork. Visit the Princeton University Art Museum for an educational, culturally-rich and free day trip! The museum features an expansive collection of world art- the collection includes African Art, Asian art, modern and contemporary pieces, photography, prints and drawings, European art and more. You and the family can enj... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Celebrating 50 strong years of art and culture in Somerset County The Center for Contemporary Art brings the community together through art and community outreach programs!

Bedminster, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Founded in 1970 The Center for Contemporary Art has been offering residents of Somerset County and beyond with a number of programs to help bring art and culture to the area. With outreach programs for children and adults with disabilities and summer camps and unique rotating exhibitions, there is something for every aspiring artis... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Founded in 1971 with a focus on education and amusement this beautiful plot of land showcases their 127 acres of gorgeous preserved land to really get you in touch with Nature. 

Morristown, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is set on a 127-acre tract of beautiful rolling hills planted with gorgeous collections of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Focused on education and enjoyment for the Morristown community it also serves as the headquarters for the Morris County Park Commission... Read More

Visit Website View Details

The New Jersey Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation of New Jersey maritime history!

Beach Haven, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Established in 2007 The New Jersey Maritime Museum boasts an impressive collection of maritime artifacts and exhibits including shipwreck files and antique navigational equipment. Open Friday through Sunday all year long and all week during the summer, this is one of the most unique museums on the Jersey Shor... Read More

Visit Website View Details

The Falls is a natural "diamond in the rough" and the foundation of America’s economic development.

Paterson, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

This 35-acre state park located 12 miles from New York City has a 77 feet high waterfall that emerged 13,000 years ago. Here you will learn about the important role The Great Falls played in the American Industrial Revolutio... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Learn about and see the history of beautiful Lake Hopatcong! 

Landing, New Jersey

Free Attractions in NJ

Hopatcong Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the states largest lake. With exhibits that span local native tribes and early American history, this is a great educational choice for a free attraction... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey

Free Activities at Jenkinson's Boardwalk! Almost every day of the week there's lots of free things to do at Jenkinson's Boardwalk, Aquarium, and North Inlet Beach. Sundays at 7 pm, a New Jersey tradition continues with NJ 101.5's Big Joe Jersey Talent Show on the beach at Jenkinson's! Mondays at 6 pm, explore the shore... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Bridgeton, New Jersey

All Sports Museum is perfect for the sports fanatic in you! For no price, explore all sorts of memorabilia from famous Jersey athletes. There is even a fully-stocked trophy room! This museum mentions all sports and all athletes from the greatest of the greats to the locally renowned. Explore the athletic world in Bridgeton, N... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Bridgeton, New Jersey

Cohanzick Zoo was the first zoo to open in the state and now house a number of animals from lemurs to bears! The zoo is small and has free admission. Come by at 2 p.m. for Tiger Talk to witness their tigers being fed! A number of educational programs and events are also offered throughout the year... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Cape May, New Jersey

One of the only free zoos in the state! Animal lovers will delight at the animals at the Cape May County Park & Zoo. See a lion, giraffe, camels, alligator, black bear and more animals from all around the world at this free zoo in NJ. After seeing all the fascinating animals, head to the Wildlife Carousel for a fun ride with the kids. Wh... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

New Brunswick, New Jersey

Appreciate plant life Rutgers Gardens is a botanical garden tucked away behind the Rutgers University campus. It is a free attraction open to the public year-round. Stroll through beautiful agricultural collections such as the Rain Garden and the Bamboo Forest. There are many trees, flowers and various plant species to appreciate and lea... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Sea Girt, New Jersey

There are only 11 public original lighthouses in NJ that you can explore and the Sea Girt Lighthouse is one of them! It is filled with artifacts and displays about NJ history. Visit this lighthouse in Monmouth County to learn a bit about Jersey history and enjoy ocean views... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Tenafly, New Jersey

Tenafly Nature Center is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural world around them. There are trails and places for bird watching and wildlife observation. There are also a variety of seasonal activities and programs for kids such as ice skating, nature camps, and themed adventures. For some outdoor fun, stop by and explore all the options you have f... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Hopewell, New Jersey

Howell Living History Farm will take you back to the early 20th century to show you how a farm operates. This is an interactive experience where you will help out with tasks in the barn and help with baking fresh bread. Watch horses and buggies go by and explore the different farm animals on the property! This will be a fun and free day for the famil... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Brigantine, New Jersey

Marine Mammal Stranding Center is dedicated to helping stranded sea animals. This is the perfect place to explore and learn all about different sea critters! You can learn about how they are being helped and how you can contribute. A variety of outreach programs and summer camps are offered as well for those who wish to get more involved with the process... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Oceanville, New Jersey

For a chance to explore the world of art on a budget, visit the Noyes Museum of Art in Oceanville. There are a variety of exhibits varying from photos to sculptures. Classes and events are also offered regularly to the public. Stop by and appeal to your artistic side... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Highlands, New Jersey

Fort Hancock Historic District is located right by Sandy Hook and holds years of military history! It has many times been a vital site for defense and navigation. Come by to explore the history in the remains of the fort. Sandy Hook is also nearby for a potential second adventure... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Wildwood, New Jersey

If you're looking to enjoy a free day at the beach locally, stop by Wildwood, NJ. Unlike most beaches in the state, admission is free and there are a number of things to do. The boardwalk offers everything from arcade games to bars. You can also participate in water sports at some point during your day on the beach. There is surely something for everyone to ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Glassboro, New Jersey

The Heritage Glass Museum will teach you about the history and preservation of glass through a number of exhibits and events. It has figurines, bottles, as well as a variety of types of glass that have been used in southern Jersey for ages. For a unique experience in history and beauty, visit this museum in Glassboro, NJ. Admission is free and they are open ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Princeton, New Jersey

Drumthwacket is a mansion will take you back in Jersey history to show you how past governors lived. Tours are held every Wednesday at 1 p.m. that educate you about the architecture and history of the property. The house also holds a number of antiques that will also be discussed by your guide. You can also wander the gardens following the tour. For no price... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Ocean City, New Jersey

If you're someone who loves to spend time collecting seashells by the shore, the Discovery Seashell Museum is the perfect place for you! With over 10,000 seashells of all different colors, patterns, and sizes, you are sure to find something you've never seen before. There are also a number of coral, air plants and more marine treasures. Come learn and explor... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Mays Landing, New Jersey

Warren E. Fox Nature Center is perfect for nature lovers! It emphasizes environmental education and preservation and is a great place for kids to explore, too! There a number of free events offered such as craft classes, yoga, themed hikes, fishing challenges, and more! There is something for all ages and all interests... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Hackensack, New Jersey

The New Jersey Naval Museum is a great free museum for those interested in war history and travel. This is one of the best collections of war boats you will see. Find out all about how these machines were used and also take a look at other displays such as a torpedo and a submarine. They also host birthday parties. Feel free to ask questions and explore the ... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Highlands, New Jersey

Twin Lights Historic Site hold years of significant history in its infrastructure. Originally intended to navigate ships, it now stands as a free historical site for the public to explore. You can opt for a guided tour or just visit and explore yourself! Take in the unique design and the stories of its history here in Highlands, N... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Hammonton, New Jersey

Visit Batsto Village as a getaway from the hustle of your everyday life. Spend a day surrounded by the nature of the Pinelands. You can take a tour of the village, go on a hike, bike, and so much more. There are many options for you to enjoy at Batso Village. Make a day out of it or visit for a short afternoon to have a picnic and take in the beauty and hist... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Free Attractions in NJ

Princeton, New Jersey

See famous artwork. Visit the Princeton University Art Museum for an educational, culturally-rich and free day trip! The museum features an expansive collection of world art- the collection includes African Art, Asian art, modern and contemporary pieces, photography, prints and drawings, European art and more. You and the family can enj... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Celebrating 50 strong years of art and culture in Somerset County The Center for Contemporary Art brings the community together through art and community outreach programs!

Free Attractions in NJ

Bedminster, New Jersey

Founded in 1970 The Center for Contemporary Art has been offering residents of Somerset County and beyond with a number of programs to help bring art and culture to the area. With outreach programs for children and adults with disabilities and summer camps and unique rotating exhibitions, there is something for every aspiring artis... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Founded in 1971 with a focus on education and amusement this beautiful plot of land showcases their 127 acres of gorgeous preserved land to really get you in touch with Nature. 

Free Attractions in NJ

Morristown, New Jersey

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is set on a 127-acre tract of beautiful rolling hills planted with gorgeous collections of trees, shrubs, and flowers. Focused on education and enjoyment for the Morristown community it also serves as the headquarters for the Morris County Park Commission... Read More

Visit Website View Details

The New Jersey Maritime Museum is dedicated to the preservation of New Jersey maritime history!

Free Attractions in NJ

Beach Haven, New Jersey

Established in 2007 The New Jersey Maritime Museum boasts an impressive collection of maritime artifacts and exhibits including shipwreck files and antique navigational equipment. Open Friday through Sunday all year long and all week during the summer, this is one of the most unique museums on the Jersey Shor... Read More

Visit Website View Details

The Falls is a natural "diamond in the rough" and the foundation of America’s economic development.

Free Attractions in NJ

Paterson, New Jersey

This 35-acre state park located 12 miles from New York City has a 77 feet high waterfall that emerged 13,000 years ago. Here you will learn about the important role The Great Falls played in the American Industrial Revolutio... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Learn about and see the history of beautiful Lake Hopatcong! 

Free Attractions in NJ

Landing, New Jersey

Hopatcong Historical Museum showcases the rich history of the states largest lake. With exhibits that span local native tribes and early American history, this is a great educational choice for a free attraction... Read More

Visit Website View Details

Here are Some Free Museums to Check Out

African American Heritage Museum of Southern NJ


NOYES ARTS GARAGE
2200 Fairmount Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401
609-350-6662

With wide and varied exhibits showcasing African American history in the Atlantic City area The American Heritage Museum of Southern NJ is cutting a path in the cultural landscape of the area focusing on artwork from the African American community and Atlantic City history.




African American Heritage Museum of Southern NJ
661 Jackson Road. Newtonville, NJ 08346
609-704-5495

Founded by Ralph E. Hunter after retiring from a retail career, Ralph started collecting cultural treasures and opened up the museum in 2002. Now with two locations in Atlantic City and Newtonville you have more choices to view their beautiful exhibits.


African art Museum Tenafly
23 Bliss Avenue, Tenafly, New Jersey 07670
201-894-8611

One of five museums around the world founded and maintained by the Society of African Missions the museums consists of permanent collections, and rotating exhibits. Open seven days a week from 8am-5pm with free admission though donations are always welcome.


Cranbury Museum
4 Park Place East. Cranbury, NJ
609-655-2611

Built in 1834 The Cranbury Museum is a historic house that was turned into a time capsule museum that will teleport you directly into the past with its room by room exhibits. Open 1:00-4:00 on Sundays admission is always free.


Friar Mountain Railroad Museum
240 Demarest Rd Sparta, NJ 07871
973-579-9833

Started in 1976 the first few model buildings foundations were set and grew by 2000 and occupied in 2003 the display grew to a 50 by 50 feet area showcasing historical model trains and beautiful landscapes. The Friar Mountain Railroad Museum is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm Saturdays and Sundays.


Museum of the American Hungarian Foundation
300 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
732-846-5777

Showcasing collections that capture the true spirit of Hungarian immigrant life through fine art, folk art and folklife focus. With both permanent and special temporary exhibits, the foundations constantly evolving and changing so always check back in so you don't miss out on the beautiful art displayed.


Keyport Fire Museum
86 Broad Street. Keyport, NJ
732-739-5362

The Keyport Fire Museum and Education Center was first opened in 2001 and is a constant ongoing project funded by the Keyport Fire Department with the goal of teaching the public fire safety and education of fire prevention.


Meadowlands Museum
91 Crane Avenue, Rutherford, NJ 07070
201-935-1175

Founded in 1960, the Medowlands Museum's goal is to connect students to the Medowlands history. Linking the rich cultural and artistic heritage of the region and promoting an appreciation of contemporary arts and culture.


Pascack Historical Museum
19 Ridge Ave, Park Ridge, NJ 07656
201-573-0307

Founded by a small group of local residents led by John C. Storms in 1873 in a former chapel the Pascack Historical Museum is a historical site the museum is much more than just that. They host lectures on historic topics, educational programs for kids and research projects to continue uncovering the Pascack Valley's story.


Rutgers Geology Art Museum
85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
848-932-7243

Dedicated to educating the public with their collections, exhibits and public lectures and other programs Rutgers Geology Art Museum wants to teach an understanding of the natural world. Offering presentations of geological, mineralogical and paleontological and anthropologic materials this is a unique experience you do not want to miss!


The Schoolhouse Museum
650 E. Glen Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
201-447-3242

This one-room schoolhouse that the museum is housed was built in 1872 and was an operational school until 1905. It now serves as a museum of local historic artifacts and is maintained by the Ridgewood Historical Society.


Hancock house
3 Front St, Hancocks Bridge, NJ 08038
856-935-4373

The Hancock House sits on a property purchased in 1675 by William Hancock an English shoemaker. The State of New Jersey purchased the house in 1931 for only $4000 and was opened as a museum for the public in 1932.


Cumberland County Prehistorical Museum
1461 Bridgeton Rd, Greenwich, NJ 08323
856-455-8141

To visit this museum is to step into the world of the Native Americans who inhabited the lower Delaware Valley at the end of the last Ice Age. Since the museum opened it has become a valuable resource to archeologists, anthropologists, paleontologists and students alike as well as the general public.


Avalon History Center
215 39th St, Avalon, NJ 08202
609-967-0090

Avalon History Center displays a collection of objects from Avalon's past. Here you can learn about one of New Jersian's favorite beach towns by immersing themselves into numerous exhibits including a 1925 Avalon Life Boat that you can actually climb into!


NJ State Police Museum
1040 River Rd, West Trenton, NJ 08628
609-882-2000

Featuring a number of exhibits that showcase the state polices history from confiscated weapons including several dozen handguns and rifles to breathalyzers, radar detectors and radios. They even have New Jersey's electric chair "Old Smokey" on display that ended the lives of over 159 convicted murderers in NJ.

If You're a Music Enthusiast, Find Upcoming Concerts

If music and concerts are what matter to you, then that may be what you choose to put your money towards. Browse through our guide to upcoming concerts in NJ so you can plan ahead. Buy tickets and inform friends so when the day comes around it'll be one to remember.

What is the cheapest thing to do?

22 Free (or Cheap) Things to Do.
Go to a museum, aquarium or zoo. Many aquariums, museums and zoos waive admission fees on certain days. ... .
Read a book. Dive into a new book or revisit an old favorite. ... .
Catch a movie. ... .
Play a game inside. ... .
Play a game outside. ... .
Volunteer. ... .
Visit the farmers market. ... .
Go thrift shopping..

How can I have fun for free?

13 ways to have fun without spending money.
Go on a picnic. ... .
Go to no-cost museum and zoo days. ... .
Give geocaching a try. ... .
Leverage your chamber of commerce. ... .
Take a historical city tour. ... .
Visit a farmers market. ... .
Go camping. ... .
Do a photography challenge..

Are there any free museums in Amsterdam?

Museums. Some museums in Amsterdam have sections that you can visit for free! Just minutes from the Begijnhof, the Schuttersgalerij (Civic Guards Gallery) is now officially part of the Amsterdam Museum but is still free for all visitors.