New Jersey Celebrates Black History Month 2021 with Launch of New Statewide Black Heritage Trail

TRENTON, N.J, Jan. 25, 2021— Reflections on service, contribution and accomplishment mark Black History Month nationwide throughout February, and New Jersey honors the struggles and triumphs of the Garden State’s men and women of Black heritage with the launch of its new virtual hub, “Explore New Jersey’s Black Heritage in Distinctive Destinations,” found on VisitNJ.org. 

This February and year-round, The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) invites visitors and residents to experience the Black Heritage Trail and discover the remarkable achievements and legacies of New Jersey’s African American scholars, famous figures and everyday citizens, who shaped the state’s history for nearly four centuries. Journey through fabled towns and along pioneering footpaths that make up the trail’s historical landmarks, heritage sites, museums and modern-day attractions, revealing why New Jersey’s African American story—both past and present—is one of America’s greatest accomplishments.

“No matter where your adventure begins along the Garden State’s Black Heritage Trail—the Delaware River, Central, Southern or Northern region—you will be uplifted and inspired by this new initiative during Black History Month and beyond. Discover the hallmarks of the African American experience and our abundant cultural offerings across our beautiful state,” said New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way. “The trail not only embodies the extent of our state’s diversity and heritage, but also captures often overlooked contributions Black New Jerseyans have made to American culture. Residents and visitors will be able to immerse themselves in Black history, tradition, and culture across the Black Heritage Trail.”

“Consumer research and interest, as well as travel trade, illustrate the tourism potential of promoting New Jersey’s Black heritage roots and offerings,” said NJTT Executive Director Jeff Vasser. “Whether visiting the hub of the Underground Railroad in Cape May, sampling craft beer at Black-owned breweries in Montclair, or playing a round of public golf at the formerly first-owned Black American country club in Scotch Plains, the three-day itineraries allow travelers a unique opportunity to blend New Jersey travel with New Jersey Black history.”

To experience first-hand New Jersey’s trailblazers across the Garden State during Black History Month, or during any time of the year, please first check with the state’s most up-to-date COVID-19 guidelines, restrictions and re-opening statuses for events and businesses, found at New Jersey’s COVID-19 Info Hub. Visitors and residents are encouraged to explore the Black Heritage Trip Itineraries, many of which are family-friendly and free-of-charge; a selection for each region can be found below. To view the full itineraries and destinations, please visit the virtual hub at VisitNJ.org and download a printable trip itinerary PDF.

Delaware River Highlights:

• Peter Mott House, Mount Peace Cemetery, Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church, Butler Cemetery and Burlington County African-American history tour.

Central New Jersey Highlights:

• Count Basie Center for the Arts, T. Thomas Fortune Cultural Center, Moses D. Heath Farm, Crossroads Theatre Company, St. Thomas AME Zion Church and Scotch Hills Country Club.

Southern New Jersey Highlights:

• Harriet Tubman Museum, Underground Railroad Trolley Tour, African American Heritage Walking Tour, Civil Rights Garden, Chicken Bone Beach, African American Heritage Museum of Southern New Jersey and jazz concerts.

Northern New Jersey Highlights:

• Arts of Global Africa Gallery at Newark Museum of Art, Afro-American Historical Society Museum, African Art Museum of the SMA Fathers, Gethsemane Cemetery and Bethel Church of Morristown.

Follow the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube for more events and news throughout the state.

About New Jersey
New Jersey provides a wide variety of experiences to visitors all year long. Travelers can enjoy outdoor adventures, renowned culinary offerings, educational opportunities, and a strong arts and cultural scene. With numerous state and national parks, beaches, skiing, tax-free shopping, historic sites, museums and more, New Jersey blends together its rich history and exciting present. Home to the nation’s first beach resorts and the birthplace of major inventions, New Jersey offers picturesque escape opportunities for all ages. For more information, explore VisitNJ.org.