FORT LEE HISTORIC PARK AND VISITOR CENTER - Review of Fort Lee Historic Park NJ

Fort Lee Historic Park
and Visitor Center

NORTHERN NEW JERSEY

Fort Lee Historic Park and Visitor Center
Hudson Terrace
Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024
201 461-1776

In close proximity to the George Washington Bridge, the Visitor Center is an 11,000 square foot facility that was completed in time for the Bicentennial celebration in 1976.

The building houses two floors filled with displays detailing events leading up to General George Washington’s famous “Retreat to Victory” across New Jersey in 1776.

A strong sense of emotion is depicted in a print of General Washington and his comrades watching as Fort Washington burns, across the Hudson River.

Miniature soldiers in
glass cases show
the different
styles of uniforms
worn during the war

A mannequin exhibits the
classic style
of clothing worn
during this period

A cannon and
other military
weapons are
on display

Medical equipment
used to tend to the
injured troops

In addition to the wonderful displays pictured above, there is a 150 seat auditorium, a gift shop, restrooms and water fountain at the Fort Lee Historic Park and Visitor Center. A helpful assistant at the information desk on the first floor will be happy to answer any questions visitors may have. Free site maps and pamphlets concerning this and other area attractions are available.

At the northern end of the 33 acre Historic Park, two overlook areas offer breathtaking views of the George Washington Bridge, the Hudson River, and the New York skyline.

While walking through the southern end of the park, the quiet beauty of the winding trails leads you to the historic section, including authentically constructed 18th century style huts, a woodshed, a baking oven, and a cannon. These are used as the focal point for interpretive programs often held in on weekends and in summer.

Cannon overlooking the river at the
Fort Lee Historic Park and Visitor Center

Programs:

During the school year, classes (grades 5 and up) that are studying the American Revolution can take part in a five hour “living history” program. A fee is charged and reservations must be made in advance. Call or speak with someone at the information desk in the Visitor Center for more information.

Throughout the year, cultural, historical and recreation programs are held at the site. Please contact the Visitor Center or log onto the website (above) for further information.

This day trip will help both adults and children understand and appreciate the historic significance of events that took place in this area.

Fort Lee Historic Park and Visitor Center
Hudson Terrace
Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024
201 461-1776

Days and Hours of Operation:
The Visitor Center is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Park grounds are open from 8 a.m. to dusk. A parking fee of $5 is charged during special events.

DIRECTIONS:
Fort Lee Historic Park is located on Hudson Terrace, on top of the Palisades in Fort Lee, New Jersey, immediately south of the George Washington Bridge. It is in the New Jersey section of the Palisades Interstate Park.

From Route 4, 46, I-95
Take the exit for Fort Lee / Palisades Interstate Parkway. Continue on Bridge Plaza South through several traffic lights. At the last light (T intersection), turn right onto Bigler Street and travel to the end of the block (Main Street). Turn left on Main Street and stay in the left lane to bear left onto Hudson Terrace. The Historic Park entrance is on the right immediately before the traffic light.

From the Palisades Interstate Parkway (southbound only):
Take the last exit before the George Washington Bridge (Hudson Terrace). Turn left (south) onto Hudson Terrace. At the second traffic light, keep in left lane to bear right onto Bigler St. to the stop sign at the end of the block (Main St.). Turn left (east) on Main St., then stay in left lane to bear left (north) on Hudson Terrace. The Historic Park entrance will be on the right, immediately before the traffic light.

From US Route 9W
At Main Street, Fort Lee, turn east (right if headed north, left if headed south). Proceed down the hill and stay in the left lane to bear left at Hudson Terrace. The Historic Park entrance is on the right immediately before the traffic light.

From New York City
Take the upper level of the George Washington Bridge to the second local Fort Lee exit . Follow the orange and black detour signs to Hudson Terrace. At the “T” intersection, turn right onto Bigler Street to the end of the block (Main Street). Turn left on Main Street and stay in left lane to bear left onto Hudson Terrace. The Historic Park entrance is on the right immediately before the traffic light.

Article and Photos by Kim Reilly