Hamilton has an estimated population of 92,297 based on a 2020 census and is located in Mercer County, east of the city of Trenton.

With it being along the northeast coast, it is known for its temperatures being more on the colder side, usually staying below 50 degrees.

Hamilton Township’s history traces back to its establishment in 1842, taking its name from Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers. Originally a rural farming area, the township experienced significant growth during the Industrial Revolution, attracting industries and new residents.

It has an older population, with much of its current construction projects being geared toward the baby boomers that make up most of its population. This is probably why it remains one of the safest areas in the whole country, ranking 16th out of over 300 cities surveyed.

Yet this aging city provides good quality time for the family. Its hidden secrets are what make it stand out from any Los Angeles or Miami. They provide interesting events and things to see that will make your experience one to remember for the long haul.

This article will give you an overview of the best top 20 things to do in Hamilton, New Jersey when you go visit.

Things to Do in Hamilton, NJ

1. Enjoy nature at the Sayen Botanical Garden

Now it could not be a quiet small town if there was not a botanical garden around. This 30-acre garden is filled with an assortment of flowers that can make any nature lover fall in love all over again.

It even has historical records spread throughout the garden to give you an insight into not only the garden but the surrounding area.

The garden even tries to outdo itself on Mother’s Day, when it holds a special event. Putting on a display of more than 250,000 flower bulbs and adding them along various walkways, bridges, and fountains.

2. Visit Hamilton’s Largest Park

Speaking of places to walk around and get a good view. Veterans Park is a beautiful park that actually is Hamilton’s largest park and is home to the largest playground in the state.

This park consists of not only a playground but a skate park, a lake, a dog park, a tennis court, and so much more. In total, this park is 333 – acres. It is also home to monuments that are attributed to the men and women that fought for this country. 

During the Fourth of July, they host a fireworks show, so it may be a good idea to go around this time to enjoy this experience. 

3. Have Fun Visiting Legendary Exotics

If you have the desire or the adrenaline to go fast, then Legendary Exotics is the place to go. They play host to several top model cars, like the Ferrari or Lamborghini, and provide you with a driving experience that will leave your body shaking. You will not want to let go of the wheel after you get out of one of these cars. 

Started by car enthusiasts whose main goal is to give anyone the opportunity to drive high-end cars. Legendary exotics will give you the keys to these cars, and certain packages give you the chance to switch out to a different car at designated checkpoints.

They know how to make a vacation a good time and what people like. Fast cars on a sunny, clear sky day and letting your hair fly with the fun, how could you go wrong? Make sure to give them a peak and have fun. 

4.Go Play at the Cloak and Dagger Escape Room

Even when it is not Halloween, you can still have Halloween-themed adventures. That’s what the Cloak and Dagger Escape Room hope to provide. The name implies it all it’s a building that encompasses several rooms, all with different themes and different storylines. Your objective for the course is to take those hints given to you and find a way out within a certain timeframe.

The various colors, paintings, and themes combine to make a marvelous experience. It’s great for kids to have little adventures, run around and really put their minds to the test. Take a look inside and see if you can escape this maze of a building. 

5. Admire the Grounds for Sculpture

Worshipping and building sculptures is not just something the Romans or the Greeks did. This is a practice that still exists today and still holds the same beauty as before, and no one puts this display on better than Grounds for Sculpture.

This forty-two-acre facility is a non-profit park whose true aim is to showcase art by old and new artists from all over.

With its plot of more than 270 pieces, these museums offer a lot to the imagination when it comes to sculpture art. They also offer performances, eating, and shopping areas, so it can make a good place for you and your family to get lost for a day.

Take a look into the world of sculpture and see why the Romans and Greeks loved them so much. 

6. Learn History at the Civil War and Native American Museum 

Update: This place is temporarily closed.

Now that we have looked at some art, the next thing to do would be to learn some history. The great thing about visiting new areas is the new opportunities to learn new things.

Hamilton offers their own look at the history of the Civil War and Native American history. Showcasing the battles that took place, along with New Jersey’s own personal involvement in the war.

Then, when it comes to Native American history, they give you a glimpse into the different tribes and battles that took place throughout their history, along with the role they played when the settlers came ashore.

Hamilton and New Jersey have a special place in history when it comes to the civil war and Native Americans. Take the time to stop by this museum and see just how deep the rabbit hole goes. 

7. Catch a Baseball Game at the Arm and Hammer Park

Nothing is better than a day to catch up on some baseball. Baseball is one of America’s longest-running sports, and its popularity has stayed consistent throughout the last century.

You can not go wrong with grabbing a hot dog, a soft drink, taking a seat, and watching a player hit it out of the park.

The Arm and Hammer is home to the minor league team, Trenton Thunder. They play here throughout the summer, so nothing but sunny skies and baseball.

Although they are not a major league team, the atmosphere and the fun remain the same. Watch the team win or yell at an umpire for a call you deem wrong. Either way, you will have a good time.

The other advantage, of it being home to a minor league team is that the tickets will be inexpensive. So, grab your hot dog, baseball cap, and “play ball.”

8. Try Some Stand-up at Catch a Rising Star

Everybody loves to laugh, and if they say they don’t, they are lying. Catching a comedy show at Catch a Rising Star is the best way to get a laugh.

“Catch a Rising Star” is a well-known chain of comedy clubs that has been operating for several decades. It has played a significant role in the stand-up comedy scene in the United States. The club has hosted many famous comedians early in their careers, helping them gain exposure and recognition.

Catch a Rising Star was founded in 1972 by Rick Newman, and it quickly became a popular venue for emerging comedians to showcase their talent. The club has locations in various cities across the United States. It’s known for providing a platform for both up-and-coming comedians and established ones to perform their stand-up routines.

Over the years, Catch a Rising Star has been associated with launching the careers of many renowned comedians, including Jerry Seinfeld, Eddie Murphy, Ray Romano, Rosie O’Donnell, and many others. The club’s reputation as a place where comedians could “catch a rising star” contributed to its name.

9. Take Lunch at Rat’s Restaurant 

Rat’s Restaurant is for you if you want an exciting dining experience! The Restaurant’s name comes from the character Ratty from the children’s book The Wind in the Willows.

Ratty sees beauty all around him, and you can also find this beauty at the Rat’s Restaurant. Fins the Restaurant at 16 Fairgrounds Rd Hamilton, NJ 08619, inside the Grounds For Sculpture, and enjoy its elegant atmosphere and delicious menu. 

Guests can have breakfast, lunch, or dessert and various beverages to choose from. The Restaurant’s theme is European, and the outdoor dining is one of the best experiences!

10. Visit Kuser Farm Park

Kuser Farm Park is another local, major attraction you can’t miss while in town. While this looks like a regular community park, at first sight, there are still many things to enjoy here. Here you can find the Kuser Farm Park on Newkirk Avenue and the Kuser Farm Mansion.

The mansion was a favorite vacation home for the owners of Fox Film Corporation, the Kuser Family. The estate was built in 1892 and became a museum in 1979.

Visitors will be impressed by the Queen Anne-style architecture and its elegant interior!

11. Go Rock Climbing at the Rockville Climbing Center

If you like rock climbing, you will find a great center just for this kind of activity in Hamilton. The Rockville Climbing Center is fully equipped to accommodate beginners and experts during their climbing experiences.

Safety is one of the main aspects covered at this rock climbing center, and climbing enthusiasts will always climb in a controlled environment. The center has areas with different difficulty levels, so all types of climbers will find the perfect wall to conquer. 

The center is open from Monday to Friday on a 12 pm to 10 pm schedule and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm. 

12. Learn to Fly at SkyZone Hamilton

Skyzone Hamilton gives you the experience of flying in a safe environment with the training and supervision of a team of experts. There are plenty of aerial recreational activities at Skyzone Hamilton, including trampolines that will throw you up in the air, giving you an unforgettable experience. 

One of the most popular aerial activities is the Freestyle Jump facility, which lets you fly from one trampoline to another.

If you bring your children with you, you will find an area dedicated primarily to toddlers where the little ones will have the time of their life! 

13. Go Fishing at Gropp Lake

Those who enjoy more peaceful activities can always go for a fishing session at Gropp Lake. This could be an exciting experience for a family or a group of friends while they can also spend quality time in nature. 

This lake is a 31-acre lake that became very popular thanks to the diversity of aquatic creatures. Yellow perch, channel catfish, and largemouth bass are only a few types of fish you can expect to catch here.

Plus, the lake offers a great experience even for visitors who are not into fishing but like to relax in nature. You can find the Gropp Lake on Lincoln Avenue. 

14. Take your Friends Bowling at Hamilton Lanes

Bowling will never go out of fashion regarding preferred activities, and Hamilton Lanes offers the best opportunity to try a few bowling sessions with your friends! It is also kid-friendly, so if you want to teach the little ones some bowling, you will find the best lanes in the area!

The atmosphere is overall cozy and welcoming, and the prices are within the affordable range. Plus, you can find other fun activities and great food if you get hungry between games!

15. Have Fun at the Pump it up Center

Pump it up in Hamilton, NJ, is a very appreciative amusement center. The center is ideal for hosting birthday parties for children or other fun events. Among the best activities here are those that develop creativity and imagination. 

If you want to have a party or any other event here, check their website, as a booking will be required in advance. You can find the free dates in the calendar section. 

16. Check out the Winter Wonderland 

If you find yourself in Hamilton during the holiday season, you can’t miss Winter Wonderland, which is dedicated entirely to the holidays! The Winter Wonderland takes place at the Kuser Farm Mansion and around it.

Visitors can admire attractive Christmas decorations and an impressive Christmas tree. 

Also, Winter Wonderland is home to many events and concerts that children and adults love every winter. This place will help all its visitors feel the holiday spirit! 

17. Visit Abbott Marshlands Tulpehaking Nature Center

The Abbott Marshlands are spread over 3000 acres and include other communities around Hamilton. Here there are swamps, freshwater tidal and non-tidal marshes, ponds, and an area of woodland where you will find many species of animals. 

The Tulpehaking Nature Center is the most critical educational facility in Abbott Marshlands and the perfect place for kids to learn about local wildlife. There is even a Beaver Hut Reading Room where children find interesting books and information about nature and animals. 

18. Play Golf at the Hamilton Township Golf Center 

If you enjoy playing golf or want to discover this exciting sport, you can check out the Golf Center in Hamilton. The 18-hole Miniature Golf Course is perfect for a family or a group of friends. 

The Golf Center is completely equipped with everything players need for a great experience. You can rent all types of equipment, and the prices are affordable. Plus, golf enthusiasts can take professional lessons to perfect their skills! 

19. Take a Trip to New Jersey State Museum

If you want to explore the surroundings of Hamilton, you can take a short trip to the New Jersey State Museum. This museum has the essence of New Jersey and its beauty, so you will have plenty of things to admire. 

You will find the most impressive art galleries and creative works among the best exhibits at New Jersey State Museum. There are also different planetariums that visitors can enjoy, and valuable information is attached to each gallery.

A visit to the New Jersey State Museum is an educational one, too, not just an entertaining one. 

You can find this museum at West State Street in Trenton, New Jersey, only ten to 15 minutes away from Hamilton. 

20. Check out the Terhune Orchards

The Terhune Orchards is a family-owned farm that you will find just 19 minutes away from Hamilton, in Princeton, New Jersey, on Cold Soil Road. The Mount family managed the farm for almost five decades, spreading over 250 acres.

Visitors will find a farm store where they can purchase local fresh produce and a winery with exquisite wins! You can join live events such as concerts hosted at the winery but also wine-tasting events.

The wines made here are award-winning brands, and they are made of local ingredients and recipes! 

Conclusion

At face value, Hamilton may look like a quiet town for retired people to settle into their older lives, but that is far from true. It is littered with culture, education, and fun activities.

It keeps the population on their toes, and because the population is small compared to most cities, it allows for more public celebrations.

They hold festivals and carnivals for residents and tourists alike. They make sure that when you arrive, you second guess going back. Hamilton may not jump to the top of people’s considerations when they think of vacation spots, but it should.

Its reputation for being a safe city, its smaller, more intimate population, and its emphasis on culture and history, make it a beautiful spot that will leave you shocked that you didn’t know about it before.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamilton, NJ famous for?

Hamilton, New Jersey is known for its historic downtown area, the Grounds for Sculpture Park, and Rogers Centre Stadium.

What state is Hamilton Township, NJ in?

Hamilton Township, NJ is located in the state of New Jersey, USA. It’s a township in Mercer County.

Are there two Hamilton Townships in NJ?

Yes, there are two townships named Hamilton in New Jersey. One is Hamilton Township located in Mercer County, and the other is Hamilton Township located in Atlantic County. These two townships are distinct and separate entities, each situated in different parts of the state.

Is Hamilton Square, NJ A good place to live?

Yes, Hamilton Square, New Jersey is a great place to live with its short commute times into New York City and Philadelphia and its low crime rate.

Why is Hamilton, NJ named Hamilton?

Hamilton, New Jersey is named after Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, who was born in the nearby town of Nevis in 1755.

What is the history of Hamilton Square New Jersey?

Hamilton Square, New Jersey was incorporated in 1825 as part of Nottingham Township. It has grown from a small farming community to become a vibrant suburban area of Mercer County.