8 Towns in New Jersey that Were Ranked Among US Favorites
An important cultural, historical, and economic center of the northeastern United States, the “Garden State” of New Jersey is indeed a most beautiful destination. From coastal towns to colonial communities, the allure of New Jersey is a special trait waiting to be discovered for any travelers in this part of the country. Although major cities like Trenton and Newark attract much attention, the smaller towns in New Jersey are also worthy of exploration, where charm, history, and natural beauty all come together. So come and see the “Garden State”, across a voyage to these great smaller towns that are favorites of the locals and will surely be a favorite for all guests who stop by.
Allentown
Established in the 1880s, the community of Allentown is situated in Monmouth County, where today, just over 1,700 residents call home. A charming place of historical and natural beauty, Allentown is situated roughly at the midpoint between New York City and Philadelphia, respectively, making it an ideal stopover place for any traveler between these major cities. With a surrounding area that includes rich farmland, cute wineries, and charming barns and silos, the agricultural beauty here creates a most picturesque outing that all ages can appreciate. Meanwhile, in Allentown proper, guests can explore the historic district and its many landmarks, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Including the John Imlay House from the 1790s as well as the Allentown Mill (1855) and Presbyterian Church (1837), the historic allure of Allentown really does create a time machine-like feeling. And like any inviting small American town, this Central Jersey community is full of welcoming local shops, restaurants, and other businesses that all contribute to a quaint and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a getaway from the bustling city.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake is scenically located along the famed Jersey Shore, and it remains an ever-popular destination for tourists from across the nation. Formally established in the 1890s, a humble population of nearly 2,800 inhabitants calls this beautiful beachfront community home, which attracts thousands of guests each year. Known for its comfortable summer and winter temperatures and inviting coastal views and beaches, Spring Lake is a less crowded but equally alluring seaside treasure than such bigger centers like Atlantic City. Enjoy fun opportunities for swimming, sailing, and, of course, sunbathing while a nice collection of restaurants and shops dot the boardwalk landscape. In addition, guests can explore a number of historic structures in Spring Lake, ranging from the late 19th to mid-20th century. Including the Sea Girt Lighthouse (1896) and the Martin Maloney Cottage also from the 1890s, amongst others that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Indeed, with its pleasant coastal beauty, pleasing weather, and charming historic character, Spring Lake is one of New Jersey’s finest coastal towns.
Frenchtown
Frenchtown is a most charming and scenic river community that beautifully lies along the path of the Delaware River. Originally a ferry town, it evolved into a rail center by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but today it boasts a humble population of just under 1,500 residents. A nice place to explore fascinating American history and enjoy natural splendor, Frenchtown truly charms visitors with a variety of interests. Visit the historic district, which spans some 40 hectares, and appreciate up to 400 distinct buildings, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Oddfellows Building (1879), the Frenchtown Inn (1832), and the Nathaniel Shurtz House (1865), amongst others. And do not forget about the Ulherstown-Frenchtown Bridge that crosses the Delaware River for a most picturesque road trip delight. From there, explore the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, where inviting hiking and biking trails team up with stunning views of natural wildlife and plants.
Princeton
A pretty and inviting college town, Princeton is known worldwide as the home of the same named University (1746). Indeed, even if one is not a student or staff member, the charm and beauty of the campus area make visiting the town a nice excursion for anyone in the Central Jersey region. Home to a population of just over 30,000 residents, Princeton can trace its modern history to the late 18th century and several historic landmarks across town reflect varying styles of architectural design. These include the Trinity Church (1870), the Westland Mansion (1856), and the Tusculum Estate (1773), amongst several others on the National Register of Historic Places. Meanwhile, with several historic districts, varied art galleries, eclectic restaurant cuisine options, and great shopping outlets, there is always something exciting to discover while in town.
Of note amongst museums, do not forget about the Princeton University Art Museum (with a new building opening in 2025) and its impressive collection of European and Latin American works, and of course, the Albert Einstein House. It was here that the famed physicist lived upon his immigration to the United States in the 1930s.
Lambertville
With a colonial history dating to the mid-1700s, the historic town of Lambertville remains a most charming community where history and nature join together. Beautifully situated along the Delaware River, a modest population of just over 4,000 residents call Lambertville home in Hunterdon County. Explore several landmarks here, including the James W. Marshall House (1816) and the Lambertville House (1812), amongst others on the National Register of Historic Places, and admire centuries worth of varying architectural styles. Meanwhile with its generally hot summers and mild winters, enjoying the outdoors in this river town is always a popular activity. Enjoy scenic walks, bike rides, and boating opportunities, while beautiful foliage and local wildlife fill out the landscape. Finally known locally for its cute assortment of antique boutique shops, guests can expect to find something truly special and unique to bring home when visiting Lambertville. Affectionately called the “Antiquing Capital of New Jersey”, stores like the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market transport guests and buyers through centuries of history with hundreds of collectable items ranging from the 18th to 20th centuries! Add in some welcoming local diners and loads of friendly smiles, and Lambertville surely stands out as a prime example of genuine Americana.
Chester Township
Just some 40 miles from New York City, Chester Township is a beautiful community of just under 8,000 residents in Morris County. Formally established in 1799, this historically charming place is indeed a delightful spot to enjoy a weekend getaway. Enjoy the outdoors at such attractions as Hacklebarney State Park or Chubb Park, where opportunities for camping, biking, hiking, fishing, and even winter ice skating are always popular. Meanwhile, a number of historic Victorian-era landmarks and homes can be appreciated in Chester, including the Nathan Cooper Gristmill (1826), amongst several others included on the National Register of Historic Places. These add a most charming old-world feeling to the town, and even a casual stroll is sure to be filled with picturesque views and quaint delight. Add in the area’s scenic farmland and an emphasis on “agritourism”, where locally grown foods and other products form part of the local economy, and Chester Township definitely leaves any tourist with a very special set of rustic memories sure to invite repeated visits.
Deal
Deal is one of the most ethnically unique communities in the United States, where some 80% of residents identify as Sephardi Jews. And with a population of nearly 900 residents, the demographics are even more striking! A scenic place located along the Jersey Shore, Deal’s stunning beachfront has long made it a popular tourist destination, dramatically increasing the summer population by a few thousand. Known for its mild winter and hot summer temperatures, spending time outdoors in Deal is indeed a pleasant experience that is accentuated by the very special cultural ambiance. Featuring a great variety of Jewish-American restaurants, shops, and other galleries, there is always something unique to discover here. While the special architecture of synagogues and Victorian-era homes dot the landscape for awesome postcard-like vistas. And of course, swimming, sailing, and sunbathing opportunities are never far away, ensuring that between its cultural character and its natural delight, Deal is one New Jersey community one will want to return to.
Allenhurst
Also situated along the Jersey Shore, the scenic town of Allenhurst is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Deal Lake and is just some 57 miles from New York City. Formally established in the 1890s and with a modern population of just under 500 inhabitants, Allenhurst is a quiet community known for its picturesque neighborhoods and homes that are frequently cited as among the most expensive real estate properties in the country. While deciding to buy a home here may be too pricey for some, even just a visit to these pretty streets and houses makes Allenhurst a nice place to visit on any road trip. Indeed, in the Allenhurst Residential Historic District, upwards of 400 distinct properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting architectural styles from the late Victorian period to the mid-20th century. And of course, with its small town population, there is loads of charm to be encountered through many local shops, restaurants, and other businesses ready to show off their very best.
Also known as the “Garden State”, the northeastern hub of New Jersey is a veritable place of natural beauty and historic importance. Indeed, whether it is spending time along the coastline or discovering the fascinating stories of yesterday, the towns of New Jersey are great places to spend a holiday where all ages can find something to enjoy. From the historic ambience of Allentown, the charming campus culture of Princeton, and the scenic delight of Spring Lake, these and other wonderfully inviting smaller communities showcase some of the very best of the “Garden State”, in less crowded and busy urban centres. New Jersey indeed awaits, so wait no longer and experience some of the best of the northeastern United States!
