Burlington

Burlington lies on the banks of the Delaware River and brings together historical themes, art and public open spaces. A prominent link to the river is the Riverfront Promenade: this linear waterfront park is around one mile long and includes a bandstand. The promenade also serves as a venue for concerts and larger social events. Its length and its role as an event venue offer different points of emphasis: one describes the park’s extent, while the bandstand and events add to its cultural use. If you are considering Burlington as a destination, the promenade therefore offers a tangible example of the city’s public recreational spaces, in addition to its riverside setting.

Riverfront and Parks

Boaters can access the Delaware River via the boat ramp; a daily or seasonal fee applies. Another connection to the landscape can be found in the Kennedy Park Extension, where a footpath runs along part of the lake. The two offerings can be distinguished by body of water and activity: the promenade is associated with the Delaware River, while the footpath follows the lake.

The parks also have their own distinct features. Burlington Dog Park has two fenced areas for large and small dogs, respectively. Wooded Sixth Street Park offers a basketball court, playground equipment and picnic tables. The open-space options mentioned therefore range from a lakeside footpath and separate areas for dogs to opportunities for sports, play and picnicking. This can help you match the different park features to your interests during your stay.

History and Art

The Burlington County Historical Society campus in Burlington is home to the birthplaces of James Fenimore Cooper and Captain Lawrence. Bard How House features an interactive exhibit for children; Bennett Bard had the house built in 1743. The house, exhibit and two birthplaces provide specific points of reference for the area’s historical heritage, including an offering explicitly intended for children.

Lyceum Hall is a center for creative arts and arts education. The building has been returned to its original use as an arts center; offerings include art exhibitions, concerts, classes and holiday camps. Today’s Old City Hall is also part of the history behind the name Lyceum Hall: it was built in 1839 for public lectures, theatrical performances and use as a cultural center, and was transferred to the city for municipal purposes in 1851. These functions show how public and cultural uses have coexisted throughout Burlington’s history.

Architecture and Historical Traces

Burlington has historically significant architecture, including 40 notable buildings. Several buildings in the city served as stops on the Underground Railroad. The “Presidents, Printers and Patriots” tour highlights three centuries of Burlington City’s history. These themes add a historical dimension to your trip, spanning architecture, individual buildings and a broader account of the city’s history.

Burlington Island also has a name passed down through history: the Mantas, a Lenni Lenape tribe, called the island Matinicunk. The Mantas were also known as “Leaping Frog.” Together with the historic buildings and the tour, this account sheds light on different historical and cultural aspects of the city’s past.

Discover more destinations: Edgewater Park, Cookstown, Bordentown, Mount Laurel, Palmyra, Moorestown, Riverton, Pemberton Township.

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