Information about Howell Living History Farm Free Attractions in NJ

Travel back in time at this fun and free farm attraction where history actually comes alive. See a real working farm in action and roll up your sleeves to help out with chores and activities around the barn, in the kitchen, and out in the field.

Relive the early 1900s, a time when horse buggies roamed the dirt roads of Pleasant Valley and everything was done by hand—no tractors, no smartphones, just good old-fashioned elbow grease and community.

You can help the farmers harvest whatever's in season, sweep out the barn, or even bake a loaf of bread the old-fashioned way. There's something genuinely satisfying about kneading dough or gathering eggs when you know it's being done exactly the way people did it over a century ago.

The farm animals are adorable, and the farmers are amazing storytellers who really know how to paint a picture of what life was like back then.

What's really special about Howell Living History Farm is how hands-on it is—this isn't one of those "look but don't touch" museums where everything's behind velvet ropes. Kids especially love it because they get to actually do things rather than just observe, and honestly, adults find it pretty therapeutic too.

There's something grounding about spending a few hours disconnected from modern life, focused on simple tasks that people have been doing for generations.

Saturday is definitely the best day to visit since that's when most of the special programs and activities happen. And did I mention it's completely free? You really can't beat that for a unique day trip in New Jersey.

If you like traveling in time, Also see Allaire State Park in Wall, NJ