The Weirdest Places in New Jersey to Visit

New Jersey is known for its vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. However, beyond the well-known landmarks and tourist hotspots, the state is also home to a variety of strange and offbeat destinations that offer visitors a glimpse into its quirky side. From unusual museums to bizarre roadside attractions, here are some of New Jersey's weirdest places to explore:

World's Largest Light BulbPhoto byRachel White/Burst

1. Lucy the Elephant (Margate City):
Standing six stories tall and weighing over 90 tons, Lucy the Elephant is one of New Jersey's most iconic and peculiar landmarks. Built in 1881, this wooden elephant-shaped building served as a real estate office, summer home, and tavern before being transformed into a museum and tourist attraction. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area while marveling at Lucy's unique architecture.

2. The Gingerbread Castle (Hamburg):
Tucked away in the town of Hamburg, the Gingerbread Castle is a whimsical and slightly eerie attraction that harkens back to a bygone era of fairy tales and fantasy. Built in the early 20th century, this elaborate castle-shaped structure was originally part of a theme park and children's entertainment complex. While the park is no longer in operation, the castle still stands as a testament to its former glory, attracting curious visitors with its enchanting facade and mysterious aura.

3. The Grave of the Unknown Girl (New Brunswick):
Nestled in a quiet cemetery in New Brunswick lies the grave of the Mary Ellis, a mysterious and poignant memorial that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. The grave, adorned with toys, flowers, and other trinkets, is believed to be the final resting place of a young girl who died under mysterious circumstances in the early 20th century.

4. The World's Largest Light Bulb (Edison):
Edison, New Jersey is home to an unusual and somewhat oversized attraction – the world's largest light bulb. Standing at over 14 feet tall and weighing more than eight tons, this giant replica of a light bulb pays homage to Thomas Edison, the inventor of the incandescent light bulb. While it may not be the most practical or functional light source, it certainly makes for an interesting photo opportunity.

5. The National Mustard Museum (New Brunswick):
Mustard enthusiasts rejoice – New Jersey is home to the National Mustard Museum, a quirky and eclectic museum dedicated to all things mustard. Located in New Brunswick, this unique attraction boasts a vast collection of mustard jars, bottles, and memorabilia from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for condiment connoisseurs and curious travelers alike.

Have you ever visited any of these odd attractions? Let us know in the comments.