Toms River Attractions

Cattus Island County Parkspans almost 500 acres and has miles of trails. The Cooper Environmental Center has displays and collections of snakes and reptiles. Outdoor activities include birding, crabbing, cross-country skiing, fishing, scenic overlooks and nature trails.

Ocean County Historical Museum is housed in the Pierson-Sculthorp House, a Victorian period house that was built in stages between 1820 and 1866. Permanent exhibits include Revolutionary War and Civil War memorabilia, fossils and Native American artifacts. Stories of Ocean County history are presented through various exhibits that highlight life-styles and occupations of local families.

Dinner, dance, lunch and sightseeing cruises along Barnegat Bay and the Toms River aboard a reproduction of a paddle-wheel riverboat are offered. The historical sightseeing cruise provides narration about area history.

The Robert J. Novins Planetarium offers a variety of star and sky shows to the public.

The Maritime Museum is housed in the 1868 Carriage House, which served the estate of Joseph Francis, developer of the "Lifecar". Many artifacts associated with marine history, historic boats, models, a maritime library, and ship's store are featured.