The city of Camden, New Jersey is not known for its child-friendly attractions. But while Camden’s national reputation wouldn’t lead parents to expect it, curious families can find plenty to do together in Camden, NJ.

The city’s enviable location on the Delaware River made Camden a key port in the fur trade during the 17th century. Once a secondary transportation hub for Philadelphia, Camden came into its own during the 1800’s, providing a valuable way-point between New York City and the City of Brotherly Love.

Today, Camden’s revitalization initiatives continue. With time and care, Camden could one day return to its former glory as an East Coast city of note. Along with this invigoration comes brand new opportunities for families seeking entertainment and excitement in Camden. So without further ado, here are our favorite spots for family fun in Camden, NJ:

Our Picks For Family-Friendly Fun In Camden, NJ

Our first stop in Camden sits on the banks of the Delaware River.

Camden NJ's battleship at dockBattleship New Jersey

Camden has a long, rich maritime history. Adventurous kids can truly “live” this history on the Battleship New Jersey, a historic (and historically massive) Iowa-class battleship that saw action during World War II and the Vietnam War.

Formally known as the USS New Jersey (BB-62), the Battleship New Jersey is home to tours, special events, and even overnight encampments! Exhibits of artifacts from the ship’s long history at sea are only the start. Sea-faring kids can explore almost every aspect of the ship, from climbing original ladders to the bridge to searching hidden passageways!

The Battleship New Jersey drops anchor at 100 Clinton Street in Camden, NJ.

Camden Children’s Garden

The Camden Children’s Garden is a “special place to explore and discover the natural world.” A veritable oasis within the concrete jungle that Camden presents, the Camden Children’s Garden fosters imaginative play through a wealth of horticultural experiences for both kids and parents.

Camden Children’s Garden is located at 3 Riverside Drive in Camden, NJ.

Adventure Aquarium

Hippo at aquarium in Camden, NJThe Travel Channel recently named Camden’s Adventure Aquarium the best aquarium on the East Coast. It’s easy to see why. Adventure Aquarium is huge, including a massive 750,000 gallon Ocean Realm exhibit that features the East Coast’s largest collection of sharks!

In their brand new Hippo Haven exhibit, Adventure Aquarium offers children an unprecedented opportunity to come “nose-to-nose underwater with massive Nile hippos.” Adventure Aquarium is America’s only aquarium to feature hippos.

Adventure Aquarium is located at 1 Riverside Drive in Camden, NJ.

Adoption Agency Near Camden, NJ

From our offices in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, just 20 minutes away from Camden, Adoptions From The Heart offers the East Coast’s most trusted adoption services to pregnant women, children, and prospective adoptive parents in Camden, New Jersey.

Interested in learning more about adoption in the Camden area? Visit our Adoptions From The Heart: Cherry Hill, NJ location page for more information.