See South Jersey: History, Agriculture & Unexpected Delights

The sandy soils of South Jersey’s Outer Coastal Plain American Viticultural Area are ideal for growing several varietals of wine grapes. With over 30 vineyards in the area, you won’t have to look far for high-quality, locally produced sips. Relax with a wine flight and small plates in Hammonton while taking in panoramic views of Sharrott Winery, where you can also enjoy live music and comedy nights. Visit the grapevine fields of Tomasello Winery to sample ciders, cream liqueurs and classic wines while enjoying charcuterie and tapas in the tasting room. This family-run establishment offers additional tasting room experiences throughout South Jersey, including historic Downtown Smithville. Venture to Auburn Road Vineyards in Pilesgrove to tour a European-style vineyard and uncover the flavors of The Enoteca – their wine bar offering gelato, coffee, wood-fired pizzas and a curated wine list. Oenophiles will love exploring the family vineyards of William Heritage Winery in Mullica Hill, whose focus on sustainable growing practices complements their cozy tasting room in downtown Haddonfield.

Explore South Jersey’s historic sites and landmarks to discover the role this region played in shaping the USA. Nestled within Wharton State Forest is Batsto Village, a 1700s-era glass and iron town featuring a blacksmith shop, gristmill, general store and the Italianate Batsto Mansion. After taking in scenic views from the Nature Center, head into the forest for hiking around Lake Batsto, mountain biking and horseback riding through the Pinelands. History lovers will find much to admire at the Indian King Tavern Museum in Haddonfield. This Colonial-era tavern was instrumental in New Jersey becoming a state in 1777. Docent-led tours showcase original furnishings as well as the social and political landscape of South Jersey during the Revolutionary War. For a fascinating detour, visit the Hancock House Historic Site – a Quaker home that was the site of the Hancock House Massacre during the Revolutionary War. At Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville, you can wander the grounds of a three-fort coastal defense system built to guard the Delaware River during the Spanish-American War. This historic site offers an afternoon of riverfront nature trails and exhibits on military technology.

Looking to go off-the-beaten-path? Pilesgrove hosts the longest-running weekly rodeo in the USA every Saturday, from May to September. Cowtown Rodeo may have started in 1929, but today’s adrenaline-pumping bull riding includes barrel racing and more. The region's rich glassmaking heritage comes to life at several unique venues. In Glassboro, the Heritage Glass Museum showcases an impressive collection of historic pieces, while Millville's Wheaton Arts and Cultural Center houses both the Museum of American Glass and the Down Jersey Folklife Center. Visitors can admire centuries of artisanal glasswork and even try their hand at glass crafting during weekend workshops. Brace yourself for a primordial experience in Sewell: Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University offers prehistoric fun complete with life-sized dinosaur statutes, preserved fossils and the opportunity to dig up your own ancient finds.

Fly into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) in Pennsylvania and enjoy a short drive over the Delaware River to reach the South Jersey region. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is a bit farther, but still well within reach. Fly into your airport of choice and rent a car or RV to start exploring.