Page 10 - 2025 Southern NJ Vacationer

STEP INSIDE THE BELLY OF A BIG, GRAY ELEPHANT: Lucy the Elephant is a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. government, Lucy is the oldest surviving example of “zoomorphic” architecture and the oldest roadside attraction in America. Today, she remains the most beloved non-gaming attraction in the greater Atlantic City region. No legend along New Jersey’s Southern Shore quite matches the sight of this 65-foot-high wooden elephant gazing out to sea—a spectacle so striking that, according to historians, it convinced many seamen aboard tramp ships to swear off their rum rations for days! For more information, call 609-823-6473 or visit www.lucytheelephant.org
GARDNER’S BASIN IN ATLANTIC CITY:
Nestled on a protected channel along the back bays, Historic Gardner’s Basin on North New Hampshire Avenue in Atlantic City offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Boardwalk. This charming maritime park features a variety of activities, including sightseeing cruises, dolphin watching, water cruises, fishing, parasailing, and more. Satisfy your appetite with fresh seafood while enjoying house brews at popular restaurants like Back Bay Ale House and Gilchrist.
Families with youngsters will be excited about the reopening of the Atlantic City Aquarium. The aquarium features eight tanks and 100 varieties of fish and marine animals endemic to the New Jersey Coast, offering visitors an immersive experience with touch tanks, educational exhibits, and programs. For more information, visit www.atlanticcitynj.com
LAND ON THE ORANGE LOOP! The Orange Loop in Atlantic City is a vibrant and eclectic mix of dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences just steps off the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. This three-block stretch, named after the Monopoly board game, includes unique restaurants, bars, live music venues, coffee shops, yoga studios, cannabis lounges, and public art installations. www.visitorangeloop.com
SHOP, DINE & STAY IN A COLONIAL VILLAGE:
Visitors to Historic Smithville will discover a charming village that offers a delightful blend of history, shopping, and entertainment. This quaint destination in Galloway Township, features more than 60 unique shops and boutiques, each housed in beautifully restored 18th and 19th-century buildings. As you stroll along cobble- stone paths, you’ll encounter specialty stores, cozy
cafes, and a variety of eateries, creating a picturesque and inviting atmosphere. The village is also home to a serene lake, perfect for paddle boating or simply relaxing by the water. Throughout the year, Historic Smithville hosts numerous events, from car shows and craft fairs to holiday celebrations, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. With its timeless appeal, Historic Smithville provides a perfect escape for those seeking a mix of cultural heritage, unique shopping experiences, and scenic beauty. The Towne of Historic Smithville and The Village Greene are 15 miles north of Atlantic City, Route 9 and Moss Mill Road; 609-748-8999; www.historicsmithville.com
GO BIRDING IN A CELEBRATED, WORLD-CLASS BIRDING DESTINATION: Cape May is THE premier location for bird observation in North America, favored by renowned naturalists such as John Audubon and Roger Tory Peterson. More than 400 different species have been spotted on the peninsula during the fall migration, making it famous for spectacular flights of peregrines, merlins, ospreys, and sharp-shinned hawks. Cape May Point is one of the top birding spots, featuring marked, easy-to-follow trails that help even novice birders spot ducks, swans,
NJ’s Tall Ship, the A.J. Meerwald
Lucy the Elephant
Stargazing at the Cape May Point Science Center
8 SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY VACATIONER