8 New Jersey Small Towns With Unmatched Friendliness
Also named the “Garden State”, the lovely New Jersey is a cornerstone of the Northeastern United States, first joining the Union December 18th, 1787.
Full of intriguing history, delightful natural beauty (including a famed coastline), and loads of friendly charm, New Jersey is indeed a treasure trove of discovery for all ages of guest. Whether it is admiring the Atlantic Ocean, learning more about Colonial America, or taking in a fun cultural event, experiencing the “Garden State”, through an exploration of its smaller towns is a great way to get acquainted with its true character. Here friendly ambiences await, ready to welcome visitors and show off the very best of New Jersey. So when visiting, consider a stop in these awesome, smaller, and friendly towns that really showcase some of the finest there in New Jersey, outside of its major urban centers.
Allentown
Allentown is situated between New York City and Philadelphia, making it a convenient destination for a fun day trip into the “Garden State”. Founded in the 1880s, today a modest population of just over 1,700 residents call this historic, friendly, and charming community home. Indeed a picturesque ambience defines Allentown, and it is surrounded by beautiful farmland and pretty wineries. From cute farmhouses to historic structures, the quaint delight of Allentown is definitely hard to beat. Explore such preserved landmarks like the Presbyterian Church (1837), the Allentown Mill (1855), and the John Imlay House (c.1790s), that are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and really get a feel of the America of yesterday.
And with great local businesses like Henry’s Salt of the Sea Restaurant and the South Mall, a genuine slice of Americana can be felt in central New Jersey. Add in events like the Fairgrounds Farmers Market, and all ages will surely mark down Allentown as a lovely place to return.
Chester Township
Scenic, lovely, and historic, Chester Township in Morris County is indeed a most friendly and inviting place. Founded in the 1790s, today just 7,700 reside in the community which is situated in the Raritan Valley Region and the Somerset Hills. Enjoy such activities like cycling and hiking, while at the nearby Hacklebarney State Park fishing, swimming, and even skating await in a marvellous area that spans some 890 acres. Meanwhile back in town proper even just a casual stroll and rest on a bench at the pretty Chubb Park is a great way to unwind and escape the stresses of the big city.
Additionally, the history lover can appreciate some of Chester’s important landmarks that are also named on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Nathan Cooper Gristmill (1826), amongst others in the area. And with such friendly local establishments like the Old Mill Tavern, a most charming offering of small town USA becomes evident with a special New Jersey character.
Spring Lake
Picturesquely located right along the famous Jersey Shore, Spring Lake definitely stands out as one of New Jersey’s prettiest and friendliest spots. A most popular beach attraction for guests and locals, the town features beautiful Atlantic Ocean views, relaxing beaches, and an appealing climate known for its mild winter and hot summer temperatures. Situated in Monmouth County, nearly 2,800 residents call this lovely community home and outdoors activities are sought after by many. Go swimming, sailing, and sunbathing on the golden sands, while strolling on the very charming boardwalk goes a long way in creating the perfect holiday outing. And for those looking for some historic allure, Spring Lake also hosts several important landmarks that have been preserved as part of the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Martin Maloney Cottage (1898) and the Sea Girt Lighthouse (1896), amongst several more.
And of course, with its vicinity to the ocean, one would be remiss in skipping over the town’s fine selection of seafood eateries. From Amelia’s By the Sea to the self explanatory Spring Lake Seafood, these are great destinations to enjoy some of the freshest catches of the day in a friendly and picturesque ambience.
Lambertville
Lambertville is a fascinating historic locale, beautifully located along the banks of the Delaware River. Home to over 4,000 inhabitants, the town can trace its colonial history to the mid 18th century, and it remains a wonderful place to experience living history through its assortment of preserved landmarks. These include the Lambertville House (1812) and the Marshall House (1816), and the Historic District, amongst others that are included on the National Register of Historic Places. And with its fine assortment of locally run antique boutique stores, it is no wonder why Lambertville is also known as the “Antiquing Capital of New Jersey”. From 18th and 19th century architectural styles and inviting shops like the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, the old world charm of Lambertville is hard to miss. Browse through the treasures of the past and find the perfect gift for oneself or a friend, there is surely never a shortage of quintessential Americana on display in town.
And with a climate characterized by mild winter and hot summer temperatures, there is never a bad time to visit Lambertville. Spend time along the River and enjoy chances to go boating and swimming, while pretty hikes and bike rides always delight. One might even see some local wildlife in a beautifully foliaged panorama.
Collingswood
One of the oldest colonial settlements in the “Garden State”, the town of Collingswood was founded by the Quakers in the 1680s. Today just over 14,000 residents call this historic center home, where a real sense of the past is definitely not difficult to sense. Featuring a wide assortment of preserved landmarks spanning several centuries, guests can explore the days of early America through many sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Downtown Historic District, the Collings Knight Homestead (c. 1820s), the Thackara House (1754), and the Stokes Lees House (c. 1760s), amongst others.
Meanwhile, the modern Collingswood also reflects the ever changing landscape of America and the many diverse cultures that have now come to call the country home. Featuring a wide range of international cuisine eateries, guests can enjoy the best of some of the world’s finest ethnic dishes. These include French, Italian, Indian, Chinese, Mexican and more in an inviting atmosphere that celebrates both foreign and American cultures. Add in cultural events like the Collingswood Farmers’ Market (Saturdays from May to November), the Green Festival, Halloween Pop Up, Independence Day Events, and the Book Festival, and finding fun and a friendly smile in town is a very easy thing to do indeed.
Princeton
Princeton is a place with history in its blood, and any visitors to the “Garden State”, should definitely not miss out on this cultural gem. Founded in the early 18th century, prior to the American Revolution, today a population of just over 30,000 call Princeton home which is widely known as the site of the same named University established in 1746. A lively and exciting college town, there is always something going on in Princeton and guests will find loads of historic attractions, cultural events, and loads of friendly locals. Visit the Princeton University Art Museum or simply spend a day on campus, while a number of 18th and 19th century landmarks populate the town’s landscape. These include the Trinity Church (1870), the Tusculum Estate (1773), the Westland Mansion (1856), and many more that are included on the National Register of Historic Places. But perhaps the most famous of these is the home on 112 Mercer Street, where the esteemed physicist Albert Einstein lived for 20 years. Now a museum, this fascinating destination is indeed one of the most unique tourist spots in Princeton.
Meanwhile lovely park areas abound here including Marquand Park and Battlefield State Park that commemorates the 1777 Battle of Princeston during the Revolutionary War. Add in many year round events at Independence Day, Christmas, summertime and beyond, and there is never a shortage of some fun activity to be had when in this Mercer County hotspot.
Frenchtown
Near the border with Pennsylvania, the lovely community of Frenchtown lies scenically along the Delaware River. Officially incorporated in the 1860s and with a modern population of just over 1,400 inhabitants, Frenchtown was once an important rail center until the mid 20th century and guests can continue to experience a special historic ambience here. Spend time at the Historic District which includes upwards of 400 contributing properties, of which many are named on the National Register of Historic Places. Including the Nathaniel Shurtz House (1865), the Oddfellows Building (1879), and the Frenchtown Inn (1832), there is certainly a sense of time travel when exploring these preserved parts of America’s past.
Meanwhile be sure not to overlook the famed Ulherstown-Frenchtown Bridge that traverses the beautiful Delaware River. And do not forget about the nearby Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, featuring picturesque cycling and hiking trails with loads of pretty plant and wildlife vistas. Add in fine eateries like Chez Daniel and the Frenchtown Café along with fun events including Farmer’s Market, Egg hunts, and craft fairs, and Frenchtown will surely leave a positive impression on all ages of tourist.
Allenhurst
Allenhurst lies right along the beautiful Jersey Shore and is uniquely bordered by both the Atlantic Ocean and Deal Lake. Home to a very modest population of just under 500 permanent residents, Allenhurst is conveniently located just some 57 miles from New York City, making it a great day trip option. A quiet and friendly community founded in the 1890s, Allenhurst serves as a great destination for those looking for a tranquil sampling of small town USA with spectacular natural scenery. Spend time along the coast where swimming, sailing, and sunbathing are always popular, while the Allenhurst Beach Club also features bathhouses and saunas.
From there explore the Residential Historic District that includes more than 400 homes featuring architectural styles ranging from Victorian to mid 20th century. Indeed these picturesque neighborhoods are known for being amongst the most expensive properties in New Jersey and create a unique image of “suburbia”. Finish off with a meal at local joints like Down To Earth and browse the goods at Shore Antique Center, and it is easy to see what makes Allenhurst such an attractive alternative to the often hectic pace of big city life.
When visiting the Northeastern United States, the lovely “Garden State” of New Jersey is surely one destination not to be missed. From its coastal beauty to its colonial history, and of course loads of friendly charm, New Jersey is a definite gem for anyone travelling through this region of America. Although major cities like Trenton and Newark remain the best known, there are an equal number of smaller towns here that showcase the very best of the State in more intimate settings. Indeed for guests looking for a friendly vacation experience, consider some of New Jersey’s smaller communities and see firsthand what makes it a delightful place. From the cultural wonder of Princeton and Lambertville, to the Ocean splendor of Spring Lake, experiencing these wonderfully charming and friendly towns is a treat that the young and old alike will remember for years to come. Wait no longer then and come see the “Garden State” of New Jersey, where a most memorable vacation outing awaits!
