Exploring the USS New Jersey Ship: A Guide to Guided and Self-Guided Tours
If you're a history buff, there are few things more exciting than the chance to step aboard a real-life piece of American military history. That's exactly what you'll get to do when you visit the USS New Jersey Ship, a decommissioned battleship that has been turned into a floating museum.
The USS New Jersey Ship served in the US Navy from 1943 to 1991 and was involved in several major conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Lebanese Civil War. Today, it is docked in Camden, New Jersey, just across the Delaware River from Philadelphia, and is open to the public for tours.
When you visit the USS New Jersey Ship, you have the option to take a guided tour or a self-guided tour. Here's what you can expect from each option:
Guided Tour
The guided tour is led by a knowledgeable tour guide who will take you through the ship and provide you with in-depth information about its history and operations. The tour guide will lead you through each section of the ship, providing you with interesting facts and stories about what life was like aboard the USS New Jersey.
One of the advantages of the guided tour is that you'll be able to ask questions and get personalized attention from your guide. You'll also be able to see parts of the ship that may not be open to self-guided visitors, such as the engine room and the Combat Engagement Center.
The guided tour typically lasts around 90 minutes and is a great option if you're interested in learning as much as possible about the ship and its history.
Self-Guided Tour
If you prefer to explore the USS New Jersey Ship at your own pace, you may prefer a self-guided tour. With this option, you'll be given a map and can wander through the ship on your own. There are informational signs and exhibits throughout the ship that will provide you with information about the ship's history and operations.
One of the advantages of the self-guided tour is that you can spend as much time as you like in each section of the ship, without feeling rushed. You can also skip sections that don't interest you and focus on the areas that you find most fascinating.
The self-guided tour typically takes around 60-90 minutes, depending on how much time you want to spend on the ship.
Ultimately, whether you choose the guided tour or the self-guided tour will depend on your personal preferences. If you're a history buff or want to learn as much as possible about the ship, the guided tour may be the better option. If you prefer to explore on your own and at your own pace, the self-guided tour may be the way to go. Either way, a visit to the USS New Jersey Ship is sure to be a fascinating and memorable experience.
Some of the highlights of a visit to the ship include:
1. The Turret Room - One of the most impressive features of the USS New Jersey Ship is its massive gun turrets, which could fire shells weighing up to 2,700 pounds over 20 miles. In the Turret Room, you'll get to see these guns up close and learn about how they worked.
2. The Captain's Quarters - As you tour the ship, you'll get to see where the captain of the USS New Jersey Ship lived and worked. The Captain's Quarters are a fascinating glimpse into life aboard a battleship, and you'll get to see everything from the captain's desk to his personal effects.
3. The Mess Hall - No visit to a battleship would be complete without a stop at the Mess Hall, where sailors ate their meals. You'll get to see the kitchen where meals were prepared, as well as the tables and benches where sailors sat to eat.
4. The Bridge - Finally, you'll get to visit the Bridge, where the captain and his officers controlled the ship. From here, you'll have a stunning view of the Delaware River and Philadelphia skyline.
Visiting the USS New Jersey Ship is an experience you won't soon forget. Not only will you learn about American military history, but you'll get to see firsthand what life was like aboard a battleship. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to step back in time and explore one of America's most famous warships.
Visiting Info:
Self-guided tour: Daily 10am-5:30pm
Adults - $30
Seniors & 12 and under - $23
Veterans: $30
Guided Tour: Daily 12pm
Adults - $40
Seniors, 12 & Under, Veterans - $35'
