If you think that you’ve seen all there is to see in Philly, think again. I recently discovered some attractions at Penn’s Landing and the Camden Waterfront that are worth a peak. If you’re worried about cost (who isn’t?) I’m here to give you the inside scoop on deals to save some coin.
Visiting the Battleship New Jersey on Camden’s Waterfront is not something mainstream, but who cares? This interactive tour is exciting, different and could be a substitute for your weekend workout (this tour involves a great deal of maneuvering and climbing). So lace up your sneakers and definitely be prepared to do some work. The tour is not suited for elderly people or uncoordinated people in general, so if you’re a klutz you may want to consider the Cezanne exhibit at the Art Museum, because visitors need to feel comfortable climbing up and down ladders and in and out of small spaces. Even I, at times (and yes I’m a runner and consider myself to be in shape), found the tour to be a bit demanding.
Guests have the option of touring the ship with headsets or in a group led by a tour guide. Grab a set of headsets so you can tour the ship at your own pace and spend extra time on the interesting areas and blow past the dull parts (there are a few).
Even if you are using headsets, don’t be afraid to stop and talk to the veterans stationed on the ship. When you think that the ship served in WWII, the Korean Conflict, Vietnam and in the Persian Gulf Wars, it could be intimidating. Don’t be afraid to stop and talk to the veterans stationed all around the tour. They are knowledgeable, friendly and as excited to share their stories and information as your Grandpa. The veterans are there to help you out and they take pride in sharing information with visitors, so the least you can do is remove your headset for a second and stop and talk about their life’s passion.
Throughout the tour, you can see the differences between the life of an officer and of an enlisted sailor (if the advantages of having a high rank in the military were ever unapparent). You can climb in and out of the tiny enlisted sailors’ bunks, if you want to feel just how small and uncomfortable it really was.
HOW TO GET THERE
For those who find history and touring museums to be a bore, the ferry ride is worth it in itself. Try to catch the ferry near dusk as the sunset over the Delaware River; the view of the city is incredible.
WHAT ELSE TO DO
You can make a day out of all there is to do between Penn’s Landing and the Camden Waterfront. Combo packs are available for the Cruiser Olympia, WWII Submarine Becuna, Independence Seaport Museum and the Riverlink Ferry. MONEY-SAVING TIP:
Get the package for $35 that includes a tour of all five attractions (the ferry ride and four museums). Great news considering the ferry ride and the battleship will run you $26 themselves.
FUN EXTRAS
Dine on the river at Keatings and watch the docked sailboats bob as you enjoy Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna with Seaweed Salad and an Orange Rush cocktail (Mt. Gay Rum, Tuaca, orange juice, sweet and sour mix). If you wan to grab a drink in Camden, the nicest place is The Victor’s Pub with it’s large waterfront windows and modern bar. Try their Funky Fresh Franklin cocktail (orange and cranberry juices are fused together with Triple Sec, Absolut Mandarin and tequila then topped off with fizzing lemon-lime soda and grenadine).
For more information about touring the ship and pricing information, check out: www.battleshipnewjersey.org.
AroundPhilly Staff
