CNBNews

Gloucester City may be small, especially compared to Philadelphia, which sits just across the river from the city, but that doesn’t mean it’s not without excitement or enjoyable activities. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly outings or kid-free entertainment, these seven places and experiences are sure to please.

View of Proprietor's Park, located on the banks of the Delaware River in Gloucester City, NJ (CNBNews graphic files)

1. Red Bank Battlefield Park

Being a city nestled along the historically significant Delaware River, it’s no surprise that it and neighboring Gloucester County have historically significant sites. One of the area’s most important and interesting spots is the Red Bank Battlefield Park on the river waterfront, just ten minutes outside the city. The park is home to a historic home, the James and Ann Whitall House, which has stood since 1748. The home is open for tours from April to October, and visitors can enjoy hearth cooking demonstrations. Younger guests can participate in various children’s programs exploring early American life.

Surrounding the Whitall House are gardens and a butterfly house, both of which are volunteer-run by the Gloucester County Certified Gardeners group. The butterfly house is available for tours from June to September, allowing you to see the full life cycle of butterflies, an experience that will surely delight young naturalists. You’ll even find annual events like the Spring Festival or Butterfly Festival here, with live music, magic shows, crafts, and even a bug parade.

If history and gardens are not for you, the park also offers a host of amenities for enjoying a day outdoors. On site, you’ll find grills perfect for a picnic, walking trails, and restrooms to enjoy the park and its river views uninterrupted.

2. Battle of Gloucester Audio Tour

If American history fascinates you, you’ll want to embark on a combined walking and driving audio tour of the Battle of Gloucester. The tour starts in Haddonfield and ends in Gloucester City, following the path of American, British, and Hessian soldiers of the American Revolution. The tour is self-paced with the assistance of the TravelStorys app, which presents information about each site as you drive up to it. The app also encourages you to get out of your car and visit historic landmarks and signs that delve further into the significance of each site. It’s a fun and innovative way to explore local and national history.

3. Proprietors Park

Another great place to enjoy a day outside is Proprietors Park. Situated along the Delaware River and offering scenic views, the park is named for the first landowners in what is now Gloucester City, making it a place rich in history. Throughout the park are plaques informing visitors of the area’s significance. Like with Red Bank Battlefield Park, even if you’re not interested in its historic features, you’ll enjoy Proprietors Park’s green spaces and many walking paths. The park also serves as an event and festival space throughout the year, including the city’s main site to enjoy a Fourth of July fireworks display.

4. Restaurants

Gloucester City may be small, but it offers a selection of enjoyable dining experiences. Highlights include Max’s Seafood Cafe and Vitale’s Italian Bistro. On the corner of Hudson and Burlington, Max’s stands out for its historic look (the building was built in 1890), paired with a neon sign and an approachable entrance. Many of the restaurant’s customers have been incredibly pleased with the experience. The menu ranges from jambalaya to a classic steak dinner and everything in between, making it an excellent option for its versatility.

Meanwhile, Vitale’s is a cozy and casual restaurant serving classic Italian dishes, from appetizers to desserts. The restaurant is well-rated, and many customers enjoy the atmosphere and service as much as they enjoy their food.

5. Online Gambling

Though Gloucester may not have a casino or gambling hall, it is part of the state of New Jersey, meaning online gambling is not only legal but also widely available from a range of operators. Residents and visitors can access a diverse selection of online gaming platforms, offering everything from classic casino games to innovative live dealer experiences. If you are someone who makes informed decisions before diving into the action, you can view sites that rate, review, and carefully curate gaming options. These platforms provide expert insights, user reviews, and comparisons to help you choose from the many reputable operators available, ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming experience tailored to your preferences.

6. The Pub Scene

When it comes to bars and pubs, Gloucester has quite a few to have on your radar, from sports bars with the best game day food and drinks to friendly spots with live music. You’ll find plenty of options throughout the city. Nero’s pub brings DJs to the venue for a fun-filled night of dancing and drinking. The Highland Tavern offers drinks and late-night eats for a busy night on the town. Tavern on the Edge provides a huge selection of beer on tap and opportunities to try craft beers, and of course, pub food that perfectly complements your drinks. Finally, with live music and a classic hole-in-the-wall feel, Bayer’s Tavern delivers just what you need from a local bar.

7. Day Trip to Philadelphia

Another huge perk of living in Gloucester City is its proximity to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. You can enjoy the charms of a tight-knit community but only need to drive twenty minutes to find the amenities of a big city. After crossing the Walt Whitman Bridge, you’ll find yourself in Pennsylvania, a short way away from Philadelphia and all its attractions, like the statue of Rocky Balboa, the steps from the Rocky film, Reading Terminal Market, the Magic Gardens, and the Liberty Bell Center. You can pop out for an afternoon or spend the day there enjoying all the amenities.

Conclusion

Gloucester City offers many wonderful experiences, including opportunities to explore the nation’s history, spend time outdoors, enjoy a bite to eat, or take a day trip to places like Philadelphia. The best part? The variety means you can tailor these experiences to whatever you and your loved ones prefer.