Museum of Jersey City History at Apple Tree House - Image 1
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Museum of Jersey City History Apple Tree House

4.3
·47 reviews·Jersey City, United States

A beautifully preserved Dutch colonial home in Jersey City, offering a unique glimpse into early American history during special events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring weekends

Special events like Bergen Square Day

CrowdMedium
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Museum of Jersey City History at Apple Tree House - Image 1

Museum of Jersey City History Apple Tree House

Best Time

Spring weekends

Special events like Bergen Square Day

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully preserved Dutch colonial home in Jersey City, offering a unique glimpse into early American history during special events.

4.3
(47 reviews)

"Truly unique and very beautiful historic foundation and decor!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Event Schedules

The house is often only accessible during special events like Bergen Square Day or the Apple Festival. Plan accordingly!

🚶‍♀️ Explore Bergen Square

The surrounding Bergen Avenue area is rich in Dutch colonial history. Make time to explore the neighborhood.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Apple Tree House

The Historic Apple Tree House

Bergen Square

Step back in time at this beautifully preserved Dutch colonial home, a gem of Jersey City history.

Bergen Square Day Celebration

Bergen Square Day Celebration

Bergen Square

Experience local history and culture during this vibrant community event, often held in spring.

Annual Apple Festival

Annual Apple Festival

Apple Tree House grounds

A popular event celebrating the house's namesake, offering a glimpse into its past and community spirit.

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Planning Your Visit

Check for Special Events

The Apple Tree House, part of the Museum of Jersey City History, often opens its doors for special events like Bergen Square Day or its annual Apple Festival. These are prime times to visit and experience the history firsthand, though they can get crowded. Check their schedule before you go to make the most of your visit.

Understand Its Dual Role

While a historic house museum, the Apple Tree House also serves as a space for Jersey City's Economic Development Corporation and Office of Cultural Affairs. This means access might vary, and it's primarily experienced through guided tours during specific events rather than open-ended exploration.

Best Times

When
Spring weekends
Why
Special events like Bergen Square Day
Crowd
Medium
When
During the Apple Festival
Why
Unique historical experience
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🎯 Check Event Schedules

The house is often only accessible during special events like Bergen Square Day or the Apple Festival. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Bergen Square

The surrounding Bergen Avenue area is rich in Dutch colonial history. Make time to explore the neighborhood. Reddit

🗣️ Engage with Guides

Tours during festivals are often led by knowledgeable and friendly guides eager to share the house's stories. Reddit

📸 Appreciate the Decor

The historic foundation and decor are truly unique and beautiful, offering great photo opportunities. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Event Schedules

The house is often only accessible during special events like Bergen Square Day or the Apple Festival. Plan accordingly! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Bergen Square

The surrounding Bergen Avenue area is rich in Dutch colonial history. Make time to explore the neighborhood. Reddit

🗣️ Engage with Guides

Tours during festivals are often led by knowledgeable and friendly guides eager to share the house's stories. Reddit

📸 Appreciate the Decor

The historic foundation and decor are truly unique and beautiful, offering great photo opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(47 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Apple Tree House for its beautiful preservation and unique historical significance, especially during community events like Bergen Square Day and the Apple Festival. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to glimpse into Dutch colonial life are frequently highlighted as positives. However, the limited access, primarily tied to specific events, can be a drawback for those hoping for spontaneous visits.

"Growing up on Academy St as kids we use to pick alot of apples from the apple tree. That apple tree had so many apples. When the funeral home closed nobody took care of the grounds and eventually the apple tree died. I was told by the previous owner funeral director that General George Washington had his soldier stand on the roof to observe the British navy ships on the Hudson River when the British occupied Manhattan."

Lou J

"It was Saturday, May 18th 2019 when I went to the local beauty supply store and stumbled upon the "Bergen Square Day" celebration. The sun was shining brightly, the weather was nice and warm so it was the perfect day to celebrate. The entire Bergen Avenue area from Sip Avenue through Highland is historic. On that day, we were able to get a glimpse into the past when the doors to The Van Wagenen house (Apple Tree house) were opened to the public. The entire area was Dutch and we learned that the smaller part of the house was built first in order to give the people shelter in the quickest way possible. The larger part would be added on after they had settled in the area for a while. During the visit, guests got to see a copy of the deed and the property owner's "inventory" which included 3 slaves."

Donna V

"It was a pleasure to speak about an important cause that affects our society! Plus the Apple Tree House has such a historic foundation and decor...it's truly unique and very beautiful!!!"

Jennifer Williams

What People Like

Beautifully preserved historic home
Knowledgeable and friendly guides
Unique glimpse into colonial past

What People Dislike

Limited access to events only

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Apple Tree House is located in Bergen Square. Public transportation is a good option, with buses serving Bergen Avenue. Parking in the area can be challenging, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transit if possible. Reddit

Street parking is available in the Bergen Square area, but it can be limited, especially during events. Some visitors recommend using ride-sharing services for convenience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Apple Tree House is primarily accessible during special events like Bergen Square Day or the Annual Apple Festival. Entry for these events may require a ticket or be free, so it's best to check the museum's schedule for specific details. Reddit

The house's hours are typically tied to specific events. It's not a regularly open museum with set daily hours. Always check the Museum of Jersey City History's calendar for event dates and times. Reddit

No, visits are generally limited to special event days. The house also serves as office space for city departments, so it's not open for casual drop-in visits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you can see a copy of the original deed and the property owner's inventory, which historically included enslaved people. The house itself showcases Dutch colonial architecture and decor. Reddit

Children can enjoy the historical aspects and the festive atmosphere during events like the Apple Festival. The stories of the past, including the mention of slaves, can be a learning opportunity with parental guidance. Reddit

The house is a significant example of Dutch colonial architecture in Jersey City and has a history dating back to the early settlement of the area. It's also rumored that General George Washington's soldiers observed British ships from its roof. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside during events, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and the historic nature of the site. Check for any specific signage or ask a guide. Reddit

The exterior of the house, especially during spring or fall events, is very picturesque. The historic interior decor also offers unique photographic opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Apple Tree House during events like the Annual Apple Festival will find a lively atmosphere. While the historical context, including the mention of slavery, requires sensitive discussion, the overall experience can be educational and engaging. The chance to see a historic home and participate in community celebrations offers a unique outing. Check the event schedule in advance to plan your visit around these special open days. Reddit

Consider bringing children during the Apple Festival for a more lighthearted experience. The surrounding Bergen Square area also offers opportunities to discuss early American history in a tangible way. Remember that access is limited to these events, so it's not a spontaneous drop-in destination.

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Apple Tree House is a must-visit during its open event days. Its significance as a Dutch colonial home in Jersey City, coupled with its rumored connection to General George Washington, makes it a compelling site. The opportunity to view original documents like deeds and inventories provides a direct link to the past. Reddit

Pay close attention to the guided tours offered during events; the guides are often passionate and well-informed, providing deep insights into the house's history and the lives of its former inhabitants. Exploring the surrounding Bergen Square area can further enrich your understanding of the region's colonial past.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Dutch Colonial Life

The Apple Tree House stands as a testament to Jersey City's early Dutch colonial roots. Built in sections, with the smaller part constructed first for immediate shelter, it reflects the practical approach of early settlers. Visitors during special events can view a copy of the original deed and an 'inventory' that notably included enslaved individuals, offering a complex and honest look at the past. The house's architecture and decor are described as truly unique and very beautiful, providing an immersive experience into a bygone era. Reddit

This historic property is more than just a museum; it also houses important city offices, including the Economic Development Corporation and the Office of Cultural Affairs. This dual function means that access is often limited to scheduled public events, making these occasions particularly valuable for experiencing the site. The preservation efforts are noted as being well done and tasteful, ensuring the house remains a significant historical landmark. Reddit

Community and Celebration at Bergen Square

The Bergen Square Day celebration and the Annual Apple Festival are key opportunities to engage with the Apple Tree House and its surrounding history. These events transform Bergen Square into a vibrant hub, offering visitors a chance to learn about local heritage in a festive atmosphere. During these times, the house doors are opened, allowing guided tours that are often praised for their knowledgeable and friendly guides. Reddit

These community gatherings highlight the enduring connection between the house and its namesake, the apple tree that once thrived on its grounds. While the original tree may be gone, the spirit of celebration and historical appreciation remains strong. Visitors often express surprise at how long it took them to discover this interesting spot, underscoring its hidden gem status within Jersey City. Reddit

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