If you’ve never visited New Jersey, you might not associate it with museums and outdoor recreation. What with 130 miles of shoreline, the bright lights of Atlantic City, and tons of fine dining, you might not realize that there are over 200 museums and 31 state parks. Or that within just nine miles of each other, you can visit both the New Jersey State Museum and Washington Crossing State Park, both located along the 301-mile-long Delaware River.

Trenton’s New Jersey State Museum was established way back in 1895, and after several relocations, found its home here in 1964. Within, you’ll find more than two million objects that relate to American and New Jersey history from the 17th century up until the present.

It was the first-ever museum in the US to have education as its main priority.

Scattered throughout its four floors, you'll find several collections, including those relating to cultural history, natural history, archaeology, and paleontology.

There are also Native American ethnographic pieces and fine art, such as work by Romeare Beardon and other important artists.

There is also an on-site auditorium and planetarium where you can take in exhibits and shows.

Notable collections include the Civil War Flag Collection, Fossil Tales of New Jersey, and Pretty Big Things, a collection of less known yet important stories and artifacts of the Garden State.

Now that you have toured one of New Jersey’s best indoor places for education, you’ll head down NJ-20 South to the 3,575-acre Washington Crossing State Park. This National Historic Landmark connects to Washington Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania.

It was here that in late 1776, George Washington and his Continental Army troops landed after crossing the Delaware River from Pennsylvania. You can even visit the site of the crossing at the river.

There are several different restored historic buildings, such as the Johnson Ferry House, where you might come across a living-history reenactment, as well as the 1850 Nelson House.

And at the Open Air Theatre, you might find a play or concert during nice weather.

Aside from the history of the park, you can also walk or bike ride several paths and check out the flora and fauna of the area.

There is also a museum full of displays and exhibits in reference to the “Ten Crucial Days” and other military and Revolutionary War items that will delight and educate the young and the old.

Head to the websites for The New Jersey State Museum and Washington Crossing State Park for the most up-to-date information on hours, pricing, exhibits, and schedule of events.

What's your favorite spot for learning or exploring in New Jersey? Tell us in the comments below!

If you've worked up an appetite after your day trip, check out some of the best restaurants in New Jersey.