11 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in New Jersey
Nestled between New York, Pennsylvania, and the Atlantic Ocean, New Jersey is often overlooked as a crowded tourist destination. Yet, New Jersey is actually home to some of the country's most unique small towns. These hidden gems offer a slower pace than the state's big cities and a chance to explore the historical landmarks that set them apart. New Jersey is nicknamed the Garden State for a reason, and that can be seen within the charming towns that dot the state with natural beauty and historical roots. If you're looking for a quiet getaway or a vacation filled with unique attractions, these unforgettable small towns in New Jersey should be at the top of your must-see list.
Cape May
One unique small town in New Jersey filled with fun boardwalk attractions is Cape May. Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, this charming town is known for its beautiful beaches and Victorian architecture. This combination of town and ocean resort is a National Historic Landmark, with several preserved Victorian buildings to explore. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach or enjoy the shops and delicious restaurants that line the streets. One of the most popular unique attractions is the Cape May Lighthouse, where visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the ocean.
The Cape May County Park and Zoo is another fun stop in this town, home to animals from all over the world. For history buffs, the World War II Lookout Tower offers a chance to learn about this town's role during the war. There's also the Lucky Bones Back Water Grille, which is a perfect spot to have a meal after a long day of sightseeing. With its unique architecture and historical significance, it's no wonder that Cape May is referred to as America's oldest seaside resort.
Margate City
With a population of just over 5,000, Margate City perfectly captures the small-town vibe. This beach town is known as a prime location for surfers, and it's also home to the popular Lucy the Elephant landmark. This six-story elephant-shaped building is an incredible attraction for visitors, offering a glimpse into the town's quirky history. Margate City is also home to some of New Jersey's most beautiful beaches, including the iconic Margate Beach with its lifeguarded swimming area from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
One unique aspect of Margate City is its close proximity to Atlantic City, making it an ideal location for a day trip or night out. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Margate Fall Funfest by the Bay. This fun-filled festival has free admission, an arts and crafts show, and live music, making it a great way to experience the town's community. Those who enjoy seafood can plan a visit to Shucker's Bar & Grille, a local favorite for fresh seafood dishes and ocean views.
Berkeley Heights
Located in Union County, Berkeley Heights is a small town with a one-of-a-kind charm. In fact, Berkeley Heights has won the number six award on the “Best Places to Live - America’s Top 50 Small Towns” report. One of the most unique things about Berkeley Heights is that you can enjoy the nature and laid-back pace of this rural location, yet it's located just under 30 miles from New York City. The town's Lower Columbia Park has everything from a playground to a picnic area, perfect for a family day out.
One of the most popular landmarks in Berkeley Heights is the Watchung Reservation. This 2,000-acre nature preserve has over 26 miles of hiking trails and has areas visitors can stop off at and view historical Watchung Reservation landmarks. Another unique aspect of Berkeley Heights is its diverse culinary scene, with over 20 restaurants offering everything from traditional American dishes to Italian and Asian cuisine. With its peaceful atmosphere and close proximity to the attractions of New York City, Berkeley Heights is a great town to add to your next vacation.
Bordentown
One of the more unique and picturesque towns in New Jersey is Bordentown. This small town is located on the banks of the Delaware River and has a long history dating back to 1682, when it was first settled by Quakers. One of the main landmarks in Bordentown is Pennsbury Manor, which now operates as a museum showcasing the colonial estate of William Penn. There's also the White Hill Mansion located in the town, many believing this is one of the most haunted Revolutionary War sites in the area. The mansion has events throughout the year, including historical reenactments and ghost tours.
Aside from its historical landmarks, Bordentown is also known for its fun downtown events. There are over 30 arts and cultural festivals each year, with the Cranberry Festival being one of the most popular autumn events. There's a revolutionary pub crawl that tourists can take that stops at several historic taverns and pubs. Another unique experience is the Spring Street Fair, a yearly event featuring hundreds of crafters, artists, and vendors selling wares. Overall, Bordentown's unique atmosphere makes it an unforgettable town to visit.
Egg Harbor City
Located in Atlantic County, Egg Harbor City boasts a rich history that dates back to the 1600s. This city is home to Egg Harbor Lake, where visitors can enjoy paddle boarding, picnics, and gazebo rentals. The lake also has the fun Egg Harbor Lake Campground, a great vacation spot for families looking for a unique camping experience. The campground has canoeing, fishing, golfing, and fun events for guests, as well as a general store for any camping needs. Renault Winery is a short drive from the city, offering wine tours, tastings, and gourmet dining options.
One of Egg Harbor City's most unique attractions is the Batsto Village. This now ghost village was once a thriving iron community in the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can tour the Batsto Mansion, Post Office, Sawmill, General Store, and more to get a glimpse into what life was like during that time. There's also the scenic Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve Loop, a short, easy trail perfect for a leisurely walk and birdwatching.
Shamong
If you're looking for a unique town that's off the beaten path, Shamong is worth adding to your list. Located in Burlington County, this town is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can check out the popular Atsion Mansion, a historical landmark that now operates as a museum, giving tours that showcase the town's iron history. Nature lovers will enjoy visiting Atsion Lake, a manufactured lake offering fishing, boating, and even cross-country skiing during the winter season.
A must-visit in Shamong is Wharton State Forest, the largest single tract of land owned by New Jersey. This sprawling forest spans over 110,000 acres and offers boating, hiking, camping, and more. Visitors can also explore the Batsto Lake Trail that winds through the forest. The Sharrott Winery is another unique attraction that offers wine tastings and food pairings, with views of the vineyards as a backdrop. Overall, Shamong's peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect town for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Lake Como
Formerly named South Belmar, Lake Como is a charming borough located in Monmouth County. This town's main attraction is its namesake lake, which offers various water activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can also relax on Belmar Beach, a fan favorite among locals and tourists. This beach has a boardwalk where guests can take a stroll along the water and enjoy some delicious treats from the many food trucks that stop throughout the season. Maclearie Park is another great spot to have a picnic and watch the boats come in and out of Shark River.
For a unique experience, visitors can take a walk on the Belmar Bridge. This bridge connects Lake Como to the neighboring town, Belmar, and offers stunning views of both the ocean and lake. Another popular attraction is the Como Cathedral, a beautifully designed open-air structure that hosts concerts and events throughout the year. Overall, Lake Como's mix of outdoor activities and unique landmarks make it an excellent town to visit in New Jersey.
Haddonfield
Located in Camden County, Haddonfield is known for its downtown area filled with historic homes, locally owned shops, and quaint eateries. It's also a hub for lawyers, with over 150 attorneys in the area! Haddonfield has that classic small-town feel that makes it a popular destination for day trips and weekend getaways. One of the main landmarks in this town is the Greenfield Hall, also called The Historical Society of Haddonfield, a historic building that now operates as a museum showcasing Haddonfield's past. There's also the Indian King Tavern Museum, a restored tavern from 1750 that offers tours and events throughout the year.
Aside from its rich history, Haddonfield also has a bustling downtown area with plenty of things to do. Visitors can explore the art galleries and antique shops or catch a show at the Haddonfield Plays & Players theater. There are also various events throughout the year, including a fall festival and holiday parade. For nature lovers, there's Crows Woods Nature Preserve, a wooded area perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Red Bank
Known as "the hippest town in New Jersey," Red Bank is located in Monmouth County and offers a vibrant entertainment scene. This town has been featured in various movies and TV shows, including some episodes of MTV's Jersey Shore. Visitors can take a stroll down Broad Street, the main downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The Count Basie Center for the Arts is another popular landmark, hosting concerts and events throughout the year.
Red Bank also has attractions like the Broadwalk Pedestrian Plaza, a unique destination for shopping, dining, and outdoor events in the warmer months. Marine Park is a popular spot for families, with playgrounds, picnic areas, and views of the Navesink River. For a more immersive experience, visitors can take a boat tour on the river and learn about Red Bank's history and local wildlife.
Asbury Park
Another great town in New Jersey with unique landmarks and a lively atmosphere is Asbury Park. Located in Monmouth County, this town is known for its iconic boardwalk that features unique art, local restaurants, and live music venues. Visitors can also check out the Silverball Museum Arcade on the boardwalk, a retro-style arcade with pinball machines and classic video games. Asbury Park is also one of the top spots for live music in New Jersey, with venues like The Stone Pony and the Wonder Bar hosting performances year-round.
For a mix of history and natural beauty, visitors can take a tour of the Stephen Crane House, the former home of American author Stephen Crane. This unique house is one of the oldest standing structures in the town of Asbury Park. Another must-see is the Paramount Theater, an impressive historic theater that now hosts events and shows. Asbury Park is also known for its street art, with murals scattered throughout the town. Whether you're looking for a beach day, live music, or cultural attractions, Asbury Park has it all.
