Blake Walsh

20 Best Things to Do in West Berlin, NJ

  • Published 2023/03/09

Many people might confuse West Berlin with the capital of Germany.

However, this version is in New Jersey, a few miles from the famous Delaware River and “The City of Brotherly Love,” Philadelphia.

West Berlin is a village in the Berlin Township in New Jersey’s Camden County.

This quaint town is an unincorporated community, but don’t let its retro appeal deceive you.

Those who seek a quick side trip to Philadelphia and other places in New Jersey should consider checking out West Berlin’s unspoiled attractions.

West Berlin offers a wholesome travel experience, perfect for families who want a quick weekend getaway.

Despite its size, it’s also home to state-of-the-art water parks, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and shops.

Meanwhile, its surrounding townships and boroughs boast equally exciting attractions genuinely worth checking out.

Here are the best things to do in West Berlin, NJ:

Commune with Nature at Wharton State Forest

The calm waters of Wharton State Forest

Zhiwei Huang / Shutterstock.com

This famous natural attraction in New Jersey is renowned for its gorgeous pinelands, home to scenic trails and rivers.

It’s excellent for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and kayaking at Atsion Lake.

Nature trail at Wharton State Forest

Dawn J Benko / Shutterstock.com

For a more convenient visit, head to Atsion Recreation Area, where you can camp or have a picnic while enjoying its notable outdoor activities.

In addition, Wharton State Forest has a charming wildlife observation area.

Head to this wildlife observation area to witness the majestic bald eagles soaring freely along with other local animals.

A house along Wharton State Forest

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock.com

Take the Plunge at Big Kahuna’s Water Park

To start your West Berlin travel adventure in a fun way, head to the Big Kahuna’s Water Park.

This vast water park is one of the most famous water parks in New Jersey.

Big Kahuna Water Park is a 58,000-square-foot indoor water park featuring state-of-the-art facilities.

This water park has a surf simulator, water obstacle course, tube slides, and lazy rivers.

In addition, Kahuna’s Water Park is home to the world’s most extensive rope course, covering a 3,000-square-foot facility.

Likewise, you can enjoy dozens more exciting features at Kahuna’s Water Park.

You’ll likely spend your day there enjoying them.

Dive at Clementon Park & Splash World

If you’re looking for another fun-filled water park adventure in West Berlin, head to the Clementon Park & Splash World.

This water park features unique attractions in its massive pools, making it a fascinating place to visit.

In addition, it has its own theme park filled with thrilling and kid-friendly rides, perfect for the whole family.

Clementon Park is famous for its Torpedo Rush, a massive tube slide, and a wooden roller coaster plunges 110 feet.

You will indeed enjoy visiting this water park with all these exciting attractions.

Once you’re done riding the theme park’s attractions, proceed to its water park and have extra fun at the pool.

Ride and Operate Heavy Equipment at Diggerland USA

People operating Diggerland USA tractors

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

This unique theme park in West Berlin features heavy construction equipment such as backhoes, bulldozers, and cranes.

Notably, you can operate this equipment yourself.

Diggerland USA is famous throughout the country for its one-of-a-kind theme park experience.

Elevation station at Diggerland USA

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

It’s the nation’s only construction theme park which also features a top-notch water park for you and your loved ones.

More than 40 rides and attractions await you and your loved ones at this famous theme park.

Dig, lift, and swing various heavy equipment similar to an actual construction site.

In addition, Diggerland USA has its own collection of restaurants, an arcade, and a souvenir shop you can visit after enjoying the rides and attractions.

Aerial view of Diggerland USA obstacle

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

Wander the Black Run Preserve

This 1,300-acre nature preserve is a charming natural attraction in West Berlin.

Black Run Preserve is an ecological preserve, home to a pine barren forest, streams, wetlands, and old cranberry bogs.

It is home to threatened plant and animal species in New Jersey.

It is a famous natural attraction for wildlife viewing, hiking, and school field trips.

This natural attraction features a five-mile trail that lets you discover its natural beauty.

At the same time, you can bring your binoculars to spot local wildlife such as birds, small mammals, and lizards.

Hike the Connolly Park Trail

If you want a hike to breathe fresh air and appreciate nature, head to Connolly Park’s 1.3-kilometer loop trail.

Its trail is ideal for those who have just started hiking since it features an easy route you can finish in 16 minutes.

Besides hiking, Connolly Park’s trail is excellent for trail running.

You can bring your dogs there, but you should put them on a leash.

Do Recreational Activities at Berlin Park

If you’re looking to break a sweat, you can’t go wrong seeing Berlin Park.

This is a go-to town park in West Berlin, sprawling with a number of amenities that primarily focus on sports, primarily basketball.

There’s also a neat dog park here called Bark Park, making this a must-visit if you’re already bringing your pooch with you during the trip.

Berlin Park also has huge walking trails and a jogging path that lets you appreciate the nice scenery of this quaint community.

You can access the park along Lucas Avenue.

Splurge on Chocolate at Chocolate Michel Cluizel

Chocolate enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that there’s a popular chocolate shop at West Berlin, conveniently found along Highway 73.

Chocolate Michel Cluizel has an abundance of chocolate goods, all of which are inspired from France.

Their gourmet chocolates make for a fantastic souvenir or gift, so be sure to take your time to pick your favorite ones from the wide assortment they have.

Besides their store, Chocolate Michel Cluizel also has a mini chocolate museum that you can tour, subject to reservation.

They also do chocolate workshops here from time-to-time, so check with them for an added fun experience.

One of the finest experiences you can have in West Berlin, don’t miss out visiting this awesome place.

Have a Japanese Feast at Volcano Steak and Sushi

Volcano Steak and Sushi is a go-to place among locals for celebrations like birthday parties because of its vibrant atmosphere.

Spearheaded by its entertaining hibachi chefs, grilling your favorite Japanese meat dishes with a side of entertainment is their speciality

Of course, Volcano Steak and Sushi also has stellar seafood, best eaten through their creative sashimi and maki creations.

With such a fun atmosphere and delicious menu, this is one of the most popular restaurants not only in West Berlin, but in the entire township.

Find the restaurant along Highway 73.

Watch a Band Over Great Food at Palace Diner and Tapped Bar

Palace Diner and Tapped Bar has many things going for itself because of its awesome business model.

Primarily known as a breakfast place that offers 24/7 service, the diner and bar is also a well-known attraction at night because of the bands they feature.

This makes the place both an early morning and late night attraction, so you could easily go here twice during your visit.

Besides its vibrant atmosphere, the food here is excellent—try their creamed chipped beef, omelets, and french onion soup.

Located along Highway 73, Palace Diner and Tapped Bar is an easy visit during your trip.

Grab Breakfast at Avenue Diner

Avenue Diner is arguably the most popular dining establishment in West Berlin.

It’s a quaint diner that has a bit of vintage aesthetic to it, so dining here for your breakfast is a tranquil experience.

While the place is quaint, their food is packed full of flavor and personality that keeps customers coming back.

They’re popular for their breakfast menu items such as french toast and gyros, but one of their most highly rated dishes is the lobster bisque soup—a must-try.

Avenue Diner can be found along Haddon Avenue, making this a convenient stopover or a great way to kickstart your day.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Climb the Rocky Balboa Stairs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Exterior of Philadelphia Museum of Art

User:Rgordon6~commonswiki, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Since West Berlin is less than 30 minutes away from Philadelphia, you can also visit the neighboring state.

One of the most famous attractions in Philly is the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Fashion exhibit in Philadelphia Museum of Art

Regan Vercruysse from Stewartsville, New Jersey, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sylvester Stallone filmed one of his iconic scenes in the movie “Rocky” on the museum steps.

Today, the stairs of the Philadelphia Museum of Art remain a famous location for Rocky fans worldwide.

Don’t miss the chance to climb these famous 72-stone steps to the museum entrance.

Aerial view of Philadelphia Museum of Art

Meihe Chen, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Taste Award-Winning Wines at the Sharrott Winery

This local winery in the neighboring town of Hammonton, New Jersey, boasts award-winning wines.

It’s 13 minutes away from West Berlin.

Sharrott Winery offers a one-of-a-kind experience for wine connoisseurs and even regular tourists.

This local winery in New Jersey was once an apple orchard until they converted the six-acre property into a vineyard in 2005.

From then on, it has produced world-class wines shipped across the nation.

Sharrott Winery produces a whopping 4,600 cases of fine wine annually, making them one of New Jersey’s top local wine producers.

Spending time at this local winery is a splendid experience.

Open a bottle of its finest wine while pairing it with their gourmet dishes.

If you’re searching for a cozy place in West Berlin to unwind, head to Sharrott Winery.

Rate the Tastiest Philly Cheesesteaks

A tasty-looking Philly Cheesesteak

Kyle Lee / Shutterstock.com

Many food connoisseurs argue about the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia.

With that in mind, join the debate by sampling every famous cheesesteak delis you can find in the state.

Make some room in your stomach and embark on a Philly Cheesesteak crawl through its famous delis.

Exterior of Geno's Steaks

Bobak Ha’Eri, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rate them after which one is the best in your opinion.

Check out John’s Roast Pork, Tony Luke’s, Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, Cosmi’s Deli, Angelo’s Pizzeria South Philadelphia, Oregon Steaks, and Jim’s Steaks.

Exterior of Pat's King of Steaks

Bobak Ha’Eri, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Spend the Day at the Funplex

This vast indoor and outdoor playground in Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is an excellent place to bring your kids.

Just drive 20 minutes from West Berlin.

This wholesome attraction in Mount Laurel offers toddlers and even parents limitless possibilities to enjoy its facility.

It has go-karts, arcades, a waterpark, a laser tag course, and thrilling rides, making it an excellent family destination.

Since 1997, the Funplex has become one of the most popular family theme parks in New Jersey.

After playing at Funplex’s rides and games, head to its restaurant and walk-up bar for refreshments.

Experience Farm Life at Johnson’s Corner Farm

If you want a unique travel experience during your West Berlin trip, then visit Johnson’s Corner Farm in Medford, New Jersey.

It’s 19 minutes away from West Berlin.

Johnson’s Corner Farm is famous for its farm life experience, where visitors can enjoy hands-on fruit and vegetable harvesting.

In addition, this charming farm offers hayrides, field trips, and other wholesome activities for everyone.

Johnson’s Corner Farm has operated since 1953 as a family and educational attraction in Medford.

Today, it remains an excellent destination for the whole family, even for individuals who seek a unique but fun experience.

Its entire farm covers a vast 100-acre field, featuring various crops visitors can pick and harvest, giving them a genuine farm life experience.

Enjoy a Lovely Picnic at Cooper River Park

Vibrant flowers at Cooper River Park

Rita Francis / Shutterstock.com

West Berlin is also home to numerous outdoor attractions where you can explore and enjoy outdoor activities.

One of them is Cooper River Park, which is situated between three townships in Collingswood, Cherry Hill, and Haddon, New Jersey.

It’s also 20 minutes from West Berlin.

The 346-acre Cooper River Park is vast enough to give you a worthwhile outdoor adventure where you can hike, bike, and play sports.

This popular outdoor attraction features numerous trails, bike paths, a children’s playground, sports facilities, a picnic area, and a restaurant.

Most people who visit Cooper River Park want to enjoy the outdoors, especially during weekends.

Meanwhile, others get active at the sports facilities for softball, volleyball, and the mini-golf course.

Others hike or bike along Cooper River Park’s gorgeous trails.

Sip Fine Wine at the Valenzano Family Winery

This former livestock farm in nearby Shamong, New Jersey, is now one of New Jersey’s best wineries.

It’s 19 minutes away from West Berlin.

Valenzano Winery is a family-operated winery that started in 1991 as a humble business.

Today, Valenzano Winery is one of New Jersey’s biggest wine producers.

It boasts more than 80 acres of grapes in its vineyard, producing more than 80,000 cases of excellent wine annually.

With all that in mind, Valenzano Winery is an attraction that should be on your itinerary during your trip to West Berlin.

It features a gorgeous tasting room where you can taste its top-notch wines.

At the same time, it has a grand ballroom area that holds weddings and other parties.

See a Show at Grand Theatre: Home of the Road Company

A 19-minute drive south of West Berlin takes you to a renowned New Jersey theatre group, The Road Company.

This group, which regularly performs at the Grand Theatre in Williamstown, has staged top-notch entertaining Broadway-like performances since 1976.

Moreover, your visit will give you a bit of a historical experience since Grand Theatre has operated since 1924.

It’s an iconic building in Williamstown, New Jersey.

If you’re searching for a theatre to watch local stage plays, head to the Grand Theatre and the Road Company in Williamstown.

Watch Speedsters Burn Rubber at Atco Dragway

A 15-minute drive south of West Berlin leads you to the famous Atco Dragway, where you can watch adrenaline-pumping drag races.

This famous drag strip is one of the longest-operating drag strips in the state.

Since 1960, it has hosted several electrifying drag races.

It’s home to drag racing legends and prospects who continue to defy limits with their powerful vehicles.

Atco Dragway features a 1/4 mile drag strip regularly featuring local drag races.

Before returning home, drop by Atco Dragway and watch speedsters zip through the track.

Final Thoughts

Like its neighboring townships and boroughs, West Berlin has its unique identity and charm.

If you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind travel experience near Philadelphia, Jersey City, or New York City, consider West Berlin your alternative destination.

This small township in New Jersey is filled with surprises and memorable travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Start planning your West Berlin trip today!

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