NJ Lighthouses

   In 2005, I always wanted to visit different lighthouses here in New Jersey and learn about them. 

So the first lighthouse I went to was Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, located at 208 Broadway, Barnegat Light, NJ  www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/parks/barnegatlighthousestatepark.html . This lighthouse, a top-rated tourist attraction for young and old alike, has a rich history dating back to its illumination on January 1, 2009, 150 years ago. The original lens was lit back in 1859. Before entering the lighthouse, take a little history lesson about the environment surrounding the Lighthouse, then take a lovely stroll along the Maritime forest trail. The trail is a 1/5 mile self-guided loop trail through maritime forest on LBI, and it is classified as easy to moderate. Then, finally, you will come upon the beautiful Barnegat Lighthouse, with 217 steps spiraling to the top overlooking the beautiful Jersey shore.  The best feature of the lighthouse is, of course, the light itself. 

  At Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, we are committed to ensuring everyone can enjoy our facilities. For fishing enthusiasts, there are various species to try your luck with. We've also provided a 1,033-foot concrete walkway with handrails, making the park accessible for those with disabilities. Whether you picnic along the inlet, observe the waterway, or relax on the sandy Jetty, there's a spot for everyone to enjoy the park's beauty and tranquility.

    Are you ready to plan your visit? The Park gates are open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the lighthouse welcomes visitors from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (weather permitting). Please note, the lighthouse may close earlier in case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. And here's a bonus: there is no charge until Memorial Day, making it the perfect time to explore the park. 

  Now, let's move on to the next lighthouse in NJ, a true gem- The Cape May Lighthouse. Located at 215 Lighthouse Ave. in Cape May Point State Park, capemaymac.org, the lighthouse was built in 1859 with 199 steps that lead to the exquisite view of the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean; the nature trails surround the State Park & Cape May Point Borough. Interpretive panels on the grounds, at the base, and on the climb tell stories of the lighthouse keepers, the surrounding area, and how the lighthouse functioned historically and today. This lighthouse, the third beacon in Cape May, still stands as a testament to our maritime history and is still active to aid in navigating ships . The lighthouse was restored and is still maintained by  Cape May Museums + Arts + Culture (MAC for short). Since they opened the lighthouse in 1988, more than 2.5 million visitors, including myself, have climbed to the top, but that was not in 1988. It is now listed in the State & National Registers Of Historic Places.

    The final Lighthouse is one of the oldest and tallest in the country and overlooks the Atlantic City skyline. The Absecon Lighthouse is at 31 S Rhode Island Ave, Atlantic City, NJ. www.abseconlighthouse.org The lighthouse has not only 228 steps and is 171ft tall; it also has the original first-order Fresnel lens that was first lit in 1857, and the multi-million dollar restoration includes a fantastic replica of the Lightkeeper's dwelling an educational museum, a quaint little gift shop, Fresnel Lens exhibit in the original oil house and the expansive grounds surrounding the lighthouse. 

   You can take the children on a field trip or have a wedding on the top of the lighthouse for a romantic setting. The Absecon Lighthouse is open Daily from July - to August, 10 am -to 5 pm, and from September - to June, Thursdays through Mondays, 11 am - to 4 pm. 

  I hope this summer you and your family or friends, and maybe even you, will go alone to explore, see these beautiful lighthouses, and take some photos for memories.

 Where will my adventurous mind tell me to go next? Well, that's for me to know and for you, the reader, to find out in my next blog post. Until then, Explore and be safe. 

Jerzy P🚗😊💛💜

Tommy's Tavern + Tap

 Last night, after a fantastic Drag Queen Bingo session, I found myself torn between dining out or cooking at home. Then, I remembered Tommy's Tavern and Tap, a place that never fails to intrigue with its wide variety of high-quality food and drinks. With 8 different locations, including the one on 40 Centerton Rd, Mount Laurel www.tommystavernandtap.com, Tommy's is a reliable choice. Their beef sliders, loaded nachos, and coal-fire wings are the best. And for those who prefer vegetarian options, they have unique dishes like Gen Tso's cauliflower and crispy Brussels sprouts that are equally delicious. Tommy's also offers a great selection of cocktails and local brewery beers on tap. I had their espresso martini, and it was a hit, while my friend Lynn couldn't get enough of their old-fashioned cocktail. It's these unique experiences that make Tommy's a must-visit.  

   The place has a vibrant atmosphere, with lively music and friendly staff, making it a perfect spot for those who want to feel the excitement and anticipation of a great night out. You can also enjoy the social setting at the bar, where they have several big-screen TVs to watch your favorite local sports teams, have ladies' / guys' nights out, or enjoy a romantic date night. 

  And let's not forget about the happy Hour. From 3-6pm at the bar, you can enjoy discount drinks like draft beers, house wines, and signature cocktails. It's a great way to unwind after a long day or kickstart a fun evening. Don't miss out on this enticing offer.

 In conclusion, if you want the best food and cocktails on the East Coast, Tommy's Tavern is the place to go.

 Where I will go next, only time will tell. Until then, Live life, have fun and be safe.

Jerzy P🚗🍔🍴🍺🍷🍸