6 Towns In New Jersey That Were Frozen In Time

If you love history and are looking for the perfect state to spend vacation time in, you can't go wrong with New Jersey. Situated on the northeast coast, New Jersey is packed with historic destinations, from Colonial-era taverns and inns to Revolutionary War landmarks and everything in between. New Jersey has the benefit of being one of the country's oldest states, as well as having more than its fair share of small, adorable towns that feel as though they were frozen in time. So, pack your bags, hop on a plane or in a car, and travel back to the bygone days of New Jersey. You will find any of these six Garden State towns to be warm and welcoming home bases for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Haddonfield

At the top of the must-visit list is Haddonfield, a charming small town in Camden County. American history is alive and well in Haddonfield, where you can find perfectly preserved 18th-century Colonial architecture around almost every corner. When you get into town, make one of your first stops at the Indian King Tavern Museum, which is the site where the New Jersey Assembly met during the Revolutionary War. Another place that will delight history lovers of all ages is the Haddonfield Historical Society's museum, an attraction featuring a comprehensive collection of artifacts reflecting the town's heritage.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting town during a summer weekend, don't miss the Haddonfield Farmers Market, where you can buy fresh, local produce and handmade items.

Cranbury

Another quaint New Jersey town that seems to be frozen in time is Cranbury, which is also home to an extensive number of well-preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Walk through the historic district, taking in antique shops, cozy cafes, eateries serving local delicacies, and unique stores such as Market on Main Cranbury.

Check out the Cranbury Historical Society museum, which showcases local history through pictures and artifacts throughout four properties. You can get outside and stretch your legs or view wildlife at Heritage Park, Cranbury-Millstone Park, or Village Park, which is situated on the north shore of Brainerd Lake. History buffs will feel right at home at the legendary Cranbury Inn, a landmark that has been in operation since 1780.

Morristown

Pretty Morristown proudly considers itself the "crossroads of culture of commerce" and is the location where General George Washington developed winter encampments during the Revolutionary War. You can learn all about the momentous period in time at Washington's Headquarters Museum, as well as the Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, which offers an introspective peek into life in the 19th century. If you plan to visit this museum, be sure to plan ahead, as tours are by reservation only.

Put the impressive Morris County Courthouse on your "must-see" list as well, as it dates back to 1827 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you want to extend your historical experience to your lodging, check into the Madison Hotel, which was built in 1936. For a refreshing outdoor excursion, you can't beat the Frelinghuysen Arboretum, a relaxing attraction featuring vibrant gardens, paths, and plant life exhibits.

Washington

Charming Washington in Warren County is another small town where you can find a beautiful collection of 18th and 19th-century architecture, as well as a historic district that will make you feel like you are strolling back through time. Begin your visit with a stop at the Washington Borough Historic District, which is lined with cobblestone streets and dotted with perfectly preserved Colonial-era houses and buildings, including the 1926 Washington Theatre. Stroll through downtown, stopping at the many cafes, restaurants, antique shops, and boutiques, including Gaias Gifts and the Laughing Goat Coffee Bar and Eatery.

Frenchtown

You don't have to travel all the way to France to experience the French culture, as it's right here in Frenchtown, New Jersey. The area was purchased by a French man, Paul Henri Mallet-Provost, in 1794, and Frenchtown was established in 1867. Visitors feel as though they are traveling back through time as they meander through downtown, which features cobblestone streets, restored historic buildings, many of which are filled with interesting stores and eateries today, and antique shops

Architecture styles on display include Greek Revival, Colonial, and Late Victorian. Check out the Sunbeam General Store, which is housed in the historic Gem Building, as well as the Rock Art Revival gallery. Enjoy the local wildlife as you stroll the path in D&R Canal State Park, which runs along the Delaware River.

Flemington

Sweet Flemington is another historic New Jersey town worthy of a weekend getaway or even an extended vacation. It is home to Dvoor Farm, a locally revered historic farm that is home to a variety of buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The farm is part of the Hunterdon County Historical Society, which is committed to preserving and getting the word out about the area's rich agricultural heritage.

After you have explored the expansive farm, head over to the Main Street Historic District to view more stunning 19th and 20th-century architecture. The Samuel Fleming House Museum & Gardens was built in 1756, and is the oldest standing house in town. The Annual Victorian Days festival draws in history lovers from all over, and celebrates all things from that time period through a variety of period costumes and special events.

One of the advantages of New Jersey's small size is that it's easier to check out multiple historic towns, landmarks, museums, and other points of interest during your trip to the state. No matter what time of year you visit, you will find an attraction or even a festival that allows you to explore your passion for history. Many of the state's charming small towns feature historic districts that will make you feel like time was frozen in the 18th and 19th centuries, due to their cobblestone streets, perfectly preserved architecture, antique shops, and authentic ambiance.