Mighty Joe Statue

Mighty Joe Statue At A Glance...

• Impressive 25-foot tall fiberglass gorilla statue.
• Reportedly has eyes that light up red at night.
• The Grill & Deli serves as a unique photo opportunity for travelers.
• Todays Sunrise: ,   Sunset:  
• New Jersey Delaware River Region Burlington County

• Amenities:

  • Parking Lot(s)

Contact / Location

A Brief History

The statue known as Mighty Joe has a rich past. Originally built in Spain, it graced the boardwalk in Wildwood, New Jersey, under names like "Kongo-Pongo" and "Magilla." It also stood outside a go-kart track in Wildwood as "George." In the early 2000s, Larry Valenzano, owner of the gas station, purchased the then-deteriorating gorilla. The Valenzano family renamed their business and the statue in honor of their son, Joseph Valenzano, a bodybuilder known as "Mighty Joe," who sadly passed away from a brain tumor in 1999. After significant restoration, Mighty Joe was unveiled at its current location in Shamong in 2004 as a memorial and mascot. A sign on the statue explains its tribute to Joseph.

Things to See & Do

The primary activity is viewing and photographing the giant Mighty Joe statue.

• Read the memorial plaque detailing the touching story behind the statue.
• Visit the Mighty Joe's Gas, Grill & Deli for food, drinks, or fuel. They are noted for having a fully-stocked convenience store and offering catering. Some visitors mention good chicken tenders and that the gas station sells race gas.

Trip Ideas

A stop at Mighty Joe can be a fun detour for those traveling through the Pine Barrens or along Route 206.

• Combine a visit with exploring other South Jersey roadside oddities.
• Make it a quick stop on a longer trip to or from the Jersey Shore.
• Grab a meal or snacks at the deli before or after your photo op.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips for visiting Mighty Joe:

• Be sure to read the plaque on the statue to understand its heartwarming story.
• It's located at a functioning gas station and deli, so you can plan for a quick stop for refreshments.
• The statue is quite large, so step back to get the whole thing in your photos.

Parking

Ample parking is available at Mighty Joe's Gas, Grill & Deli, as it is a gas station and convenience store. Parking is free for customers and visitors stopping to see the statue.