Surprise! General Washington and his troops were the last thing the sleeping Hessian troops expected on that Christmas morning in 1776. After all, they did have to cross the icy waters of the Delaware River to get from Pennsylvania to Trenton where they beat the stuffing out of the German troops.

The spot where Washington made that landmark crossing has been preserved as a 3,126 acre park that protects both its historical significance and its natural resources. Start your visit at the Visitor Center Museum where you can get the lowdown on what happened during the “Ten Crucial Days” between December 25, 1776 and January 3, 1777, including the Battles of Trenton and Princeton.

Then stop at the Johnson Ferry House, the 18th century house where Washington and other officers more than likely spent a night or two planning their attack. If you go on weekend, you’ll often find interpreters in colonial garb doing demonstrations and re-enactments.

But as impressive as the history is, there is more to Washington Crossing State Park. Like 15 miles of moderate trails (not ADA accessible) that wind through the Park. Lace up your sneakers and you’ll spot various species of owls, hawks, deer and other wildlife. On the green-growy scene, you’ll see an assortment of hardwoods and wildflowers throughout the park.

If you are looking for something different to do on a Friday evening, join up with the Amateur Astronomers Association of Princeton for some stargazing at the Simpson Observatory in the Park. You can reach them at 609-737-2575.