Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial, docked on the Camden Waterfront, is moving forward with a $24.25 million expansion and improvement project, according to Visit South Jersey. The plans include a new three-story visitor center, improvements aboard the ship itself, and upgrades meant to strengthen the attraction’s spot along the waterfront for years to come.
What’s Changing
The centerpiece of the project is a new three-story visitor center that will replace the current facility, which has stayed largely the same since the museum opened in 2001. Plans call for a lobby and ticketing area, artifact displays, a small café, gift shop, administrative spaces and landscaping improvements around the site. Citing reporting from The Philadelphia Inquirer, Visit South Jersey notes the new building is expected to span roughly 8,700 square feet — more than twice the size of the existing facility — and will include a rooftop deck.
Beyond the visitor center, the project includes an additional level at the Wiggins Marina parking area, bringing capacity to approximately 240 spaces. Aboard the ship, planned work includes a new private event space on the main deck, accessibility upgrades, exterior lighting, restroom renovations, and repairs to the ship’s superstructure and pier.
Funding support comes from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority through its Cultural Arts Facilities Expansion (CAFE) Program, which has awarded a tax credit of up to $19.9 million toward eligible project costs, according to the announcement.
Where, When and How to Visit
Battleship New Jersey is located on the Camden Waterfront and currently welcomes about 80,000 visitors a year, drawing families, school groups, veterans, history enthusiasts and travelers exploring the Greater Philadelphia region. The ship is open daily, with self-guided and guided experiences available, including tours of areas like the engine room and Turret II, along with overnight encampments, educational programs, group tours and special events.
What: $24.25 million expansion of Battleship New Jersey, including a new visitor center and shipboard improvements
Where: Battleship New Jersey, Camden Waterfront
When to visit now: Open daily, with tours and experiences year-round
Visit South Jersey advises checking Battleship New Jersey’s website for current hours, tickets and upcoming events before planning a trip, as the expansion project moves forward.
Source: Visit South Jersey