Unveiling Freehold, NJ: A Guide for Curious Travelers
Discover Freehold New Jersey: Features a colorful American Revolution History, a revamped downtown that mixes the best of mom and pop establishments, fancy eateries, and Victorian houses
Freehold, New Jersey is a charming destination that offers a wealth of tourism information for visitors. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Freehold has something for everyone.
Freehold is more than just Bruce Springsteen's home town that became popularized when he introduced Freehold to America by his song “My Hometown” describing his thoughts about his hometown and later in more detail in his best seller book " Born To Run"
Freehold is one of the nation's oldest cities,with numerous monuments and landmarks familiar to people all over the country. It enjoys a colorful American Revolution History.
The town was established in the late 1600s and is home to several historic sites and landmarks. History enthusiasts can explore the Monmouth County Historical Association Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past. Another must-visit is the Freehold Raceway, the oldest harness racing track in the United States.
Nature lovers will appreciate the abundance of outdoor activities in Freehold and it's neighboring towns. The nearby Turkey Swamp Park offers hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to spend a sunny day. Additionally, the Manasquan Reservoir is a popular spot for boating and bird watching, with its serene surroundings and diverse wildlife.
Many of the Victorian buildings along Main Street date back to the 1800’s. The American Hotel, built in 1824 and renovated in 2009, makes claim to Abraham Lincoln having stopped here on the way to the White House in 1861.
The oldest building in town is St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, built in 1683. Check out the old cemetery – you’ll be fascinated by dates going back to the times of the pilgrims.
The Freehold area has sometimes been referred to as the "largest little city" in NJ. In addition to the downtown area with numerous shops and restaurants, the area boasts of many top attractions and things to do.
Attractions & Things To Do
Battle View Orchards
91 Wemrock Rd
Each year from May to October, they offer pickers the chance to select and "Pick Your Own" the areas best fruit.
Freehold Art Gallery
7 West Main St (second floor, one flight up, above CVS)
The gallery features all mediums of art from both emerging and established local New Jersey artists, and select works by artists from around the world.
Freehold Raceway Mall
3710 U.S. 9
A super regional mall, the third largest shopping mall in the state. Valet Parking - available in front of The Cheesecake Factory -on weekends
iPlay America Amusement Park
119 Schanck Road
An indoor amusement park with a Jersey Shore theme blended with a New York City street. Features a concentration of indoor fun things to do including rides, Topgolf Swing Suite, The Bistro Restaurant, concerts, and an event center.
Lake Topanemus
30 Mechanic St.
The park is a beautiful 20 acre lake enjoyed by fisherman, boaters, runners, walkers, and bikers. The lake is stocked with many varieties of fish approximately four times per year. On weekends, paddle boats can be rented out.
Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Business Route 33
Manalapan, NJ
The site of one of the largest battles of the American Revolution, it preserves the 18th-century landscape along with hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas, and recurring programs and battle reenactments.
Monmouth County Historical Association
70 Court St
Monmouth County Historical Association's Headquarters houses the main Museum and Research Library & Archives.
The Museum's collection is of national significance.
Old Beth AME Cemetery AKA The Squirreltown Historical Cemetery
Old Monmouth Road
This cemetery serves as the final resting place for many Black Civil War veterans and their families who hailed directly from the Freehold area.
Located on Old Monmouth Rd, off Freehold-Englishtown Rd, near the St. Rose of Lima Cemetery.
Turkey Swamp Park
200 Georgia Road
This wooded park features a 17-acre lake for fishing, boating, and ice-skating, along with miles of trails, camping facilities, and playgrounds.
Places to Stay
American Hotel
Located in downtown Freehold, this newly renovated hotel has a history dating back when it was built in 1824 as a stagecoach stop. The boutique hotel features room service, a full service restaurant offers American fare with a bar and lobby lounge with Fireplace.
Radisson Hotel
Located on the west side of Freehold on West Main St., 15 minutes to Great Adventure, this hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, This hotel is also a popular choice for couples celebrating their big day. The Crystal Ballroom, can accommodate up to 500 guests for special events.
Red Roof Inn
Located just outside the downtown area near the Freehold Racetrack, minutes away from Monmouth Battlefield State Park, Freehold Raceway Mall, iPlay America, Turkey Swamp Park, and a 20 minute drive to Six Flags Great Adventure.
