Early to bed, early to rise as Benjamin Franklin advised? Not in Philadelphia. Native son W.C. Fields once joked, “Last week, I went to Philadelphia, but it was closed.” Now Philly boasts more than a place in American history. It's hip. It's open all hours. Stroll along myriad streets and discover upscale galleries and fine boutiques, elegant haute-cuisine restaurants and gritty fast-food joints—Philly cheesesteak, anyone? In warm weather, dance in open-air clubs to river lights and a view of the Ben Franklin Bridge. This Colonial enclave has transformed itself into a city so happening that even old Ben would stay up past his bedtime.
Things to do in Williamstown
Adventure Aquarium
Sea life and wildlife can be seen in a variety of exhibits. Shark Realm, a 40-foot walk-through tunnel, houses more than 20 sharks and 850 other animals. The West African River Experience presents hippopotamuses and porcupines as well as a variety of African birds in an aviary. Films shown in a 4-D theater depict the wonders of underwater life. Call (800) 616-5297 for more information.
1 Riverside Dr., Camden, NJ 08103
Clementon Amusement Park & Splash World Water Park
Clementon Amusement Park & Splash World Water Park, .7 mi. w. of US 30 on White Horse Ave., is set on the shore of a small lake. The amusement park has rides, carnival games and a children's section with a petting zoo. A variety of waterslides are featured at the water park. Bathing suits are required at the water park; lockers and changing facilities are available. Picnicking is permitted. Call (856) 783-0263 for more information.
144 Berlin Rd., Clementon, NJ 08021
John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum
The refuge contains 1,200 acres of what was once tidal wetlands. More than 280 bird species as well as opossums, raccoons, deer, foxes, muskrats and state-endangered turtles and frogs can be seen. The Cusano Environmental Education Center presents nature exhibits. Boardwalks and trails offer opportunities for wildlife observation, hiking, fishing and bicycling. Naturalists conduct nature walks and education programs. Call (215) 365-3118 for more information.
84th St. & Lindbergh Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19153
Red Bank Battlefield Park (Fort Mercer)
During the Revolutionary War Fort Mercer was hastily built at this site to protect the Delaware River and the port of Philadelphia from British forces. In October 1777, 400 Patriots under Gen. Nathanael Greene vanquished 1,200 Britons and Hessians led by Count Van Donop. The house of Ann Whitall, who supposedly spun wool while the battle raged around her home, has been restored. Call (856) 853-5120 for more information.
100 Hessian Ave., Woodbury, NJ 08096
Vineland Historical and Antiquarian Society
Exhibits relate to Vineland and its surroundings, including items belonging to town founder Charles K. Landis and his family, locally crafted glassware, military memorabilia, a music room, old firefighting equipment, American Indian relics and period furniture and clothing. Archives are available for genealogical research. Call (856) 691-1111 for more information.
108 S. 7th St., Vineland, NJ 08087