Nov 3, 2016

231809848_f936f7ea9b_nThe area around Ocean Township, New Jersey, is always fun to explore. If you’re searching for a few of the most memorable museums and historical attractions in and around Ocean Township, consider a trip to one of the following places.

1. Silverball Museum

Located on the Ashbury Park Boardwalk, the Silverball Museum pays tribute to the classic pinball machine. The museum has 600 pinball machines in rotation built between 1950 and today that you can actually play while you visit. Along with pinball machines, Silverball Museum also has vintage arcade games like Frogger, Pac-Man, and Pong, as well as other games like Skee-Ball and air hockey. If you get hungry while you’re there, be sure to stop by the Silverball CafĂ© for boardwalk treats like pizza, hot dogs, nachos, soft pretzels, and more.

2. Township of Ocean Historical Museum

Learn more about the past of Ocean Township with a trip to the Township of Ocean Historical Museum. Housed in one of the last 18th-century homes still standing in Ocean Township, this museum showcases artifacts from the over 250-year history of the area. Learn about the lives of the Native American tribes who originally occupied the area, see what life was like for Colonial families, and find out how surrounding communities played a part in what Ocean Township has become today.

3. Historic Village at Allie

The Historic Village at Allaire is a living history museum that portrays the lives of everyday people living in the early 19th century. There are 13 original buildings you can explore, including a schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, bakery, and general store. See tools, equipment, household items, and learn more about the actual people who lived and worked in these buildings. Historic Village at Allaire regularly holds special events throughout the year, including flea markets, craft shows, and special seasonal performances.

4. Paranormal Books & Curiosities

Explore the unknown and the unexplained with a trip to Paranormal Books & Curiosities. The bookstore carries an enormous collection of titles ranging from local lore to paranormal fiction. The storefront is also home to The Paranormal Museum. Exhibits in the museum include a timeline of paranormal events, a look at the infamous Jersey Devil, and a showcase on objects with a reputation for being haunted. The bookstore also offers ghost hunting classes, lectures, and book signings.

5. Monmouth Museum

Monmouth Museum has rotating exhibits that focus on art, culture, and natural science for every age group. The Main Gallery is an ever-changing showcase of art, history, and science exhibitions. The Nilson Gallery showcases the work of New Jersey artists and allows the artists to share more about their stories and inspiration. The Becker Children’s Wing has hands-on activities for children ages seven through 12 where they can learn about the world we live in, and the WonderWing is ideal for children six and under to explore and play.

Whether you want to learn more about the area, or you’re simply looking to have some fun, these interesting museums in and around Ocean Township are worth the visit.

Image by PinballRobin is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0