Native American Indian Culture in New Jersey

From the first Thanksgiving to present day, Native American culture has been an important part of both New Jersey and American history. Take the kids for a day trip to visit one of the museums below.

NJ STATE MUSEUM

Explore the history of Indians & Europeans in colonial New Jersey at the NJ State Museum. Featuring Native American artifacts: a dugout canoe, fishing equipment, tools, tea kettles, and weapons. Visit “A Much Moved People: Preserving Traditions of the Delaware Indians” exhibition. See displays of objects and clothing used by Lenape Indians. 205 West State Street, Trenton, 609.292.6464.

FRANKLIN MINERAL MUSEUM

The American Indian Room contains a large collection of stone tools made by Lenape Indians. Also see artifacts from all over U.S. and Mexico including baskets, pottery, knives, axes, spears and more! 32 Evans St, Franklin, 973.827.3481, franklinmineralmuseum.org

MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM

Native American artwork and artifacts. 3 South Mountain Ave, Montclair, 973.746.5555, montclairartmuseum.org

LAKE HOPATCONG HISTORICAL MUSEUM

The Lenape once lived along the shores of Lake Hopatcong. Learn about the history of the lake and the history of the lake’s first settlers. Hopatcong State Park in New Jersey.

MORRIS MUSEUM

Visit the exhibit “Earth & Memory: Contemporary Native American Pottery” at the Morris Museum. Highlights modern craftsmanship and artistry. 6 Normandy Heights Rd, Morristown, NJ.

WATERLOO VILLAGE AT ALLAMUCHY MOUNTAIN STATE PARK

Winakung is a native woodland forest, visit Lenape Indian Village exhibits to learn how they lived. Hands on activities. 525 Waterloo Rd, Stanhope, NJ.

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Featuring Hall of the Eastern Woodlands and Hall of Plains Indians at the American Museum of Natural History. Explore native American Indian life, showcasing clothing, instruments, masks, and jewelry. Check out a canoe, a wigwam, and longhouse. 79th St & Central Park West, New York NY.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN NEW YORK

FREE Admission. Explore exhibits on Native people of the Americas at The National Museum of American Indian New York. The imagiNATIONS Activity Center is a family friendly interactive space where your child can explore Native innovations and technologies. One Bowling Green, NYC.

THE MUSEUM OF INDIAN CULTURE

Learn about the First Peoples of the Lenape and Northeastern Woodlands tribes at The Museum of Indian Culture. Go on a guided tour and get exposed to Indian culture. Touch friendly and interactive exhibits for children. Collection: Women Warriors, The Great Native American Toolkit, Walking in the Ancestors' Footsteps: The Lenape Past and Present. Fish Hatchery Rd, Allentown PA.