9 Most Memorable Small Towns In New Jersey
New Jersey is commonly referred to as the "Garden State." Despite having a population of over 9 million people and numerous bustling cities, many charming small towns offer a unique and unforgettable experience. These small towns have a distinct character that sets them apart, thanks to their picturesque landscapes, stunning coastlines, and rich historical sites. Uncover some of the most memorable small towns that New Jersey has to offer.
Lambertville
Lambertville sits along the Delaware River, exuding a timeless charm that attracts visitors year-round. This town is renowned for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and antique shops. The region was purchased from local Native American tribes in the mid-1700s, as European settlers began to move in, build homes, and develop places of commerce. The town enjoys its Revolutionary War heritage; today, many historic buildings and Victorian homes exist to explore. Today, the town boasts beautiful green spaces, with leisurely walking areas, a thriving arts scene, and numerous top-rated restaurants.
For outdoor enthusiasts exploring the town's natural beauty, the Delaware and Raritan Canal provides a perfect setting for strolls. Art and antique lovers will enjoy exploring Bridge Street, lined with quaint historic buildings. If you can, explore the Golden Nugget, an open-air vendor market on Wednesdays. Sat. and Sun. There are several great places to eat, including Erini Restaurant, an award-winning upscale place with fantastic outdoor garden seating. The Lambertville Station Restaurant has served iconic meals from a historic railroad depot for nearly 36 years.
Cape May
Cape May is a seaside resort on the southernmost tip of New Jersey, featuring many old Victorian homes, tranquil beaches, and excellent shopping. Historic Cold Springs Village is a unique collection of 20 restored buildings with living history performers demonstrating various crafts and skills. Explore the farm, sample some freshly brewed beer, or ride in a wagon with the family.
The Cape May Point State Park features an 1859 lighthouse open for tours. The Park has tranquil beaches, saltwater marshes, and many hiking trails. Bird lovers will want to explore the Cap May Bird Observatory with weekly birding walks and nature activities year-round.
One of the most prominent features of this small town is the number of Victorian homes and buildings. The historic district has over 600 buildings, including a series of homes on Gurney Street labeled as the "Painted Ladies." The Emlen/Physick House is a Victorian museum with daily tours, and the Mid-Atlantic Center of the Arts and Humanities offers trolley tours with guides who are happy to share the stories of early Victorian residents. Do not miss the Washington Street Mall's eclectic mix of shops, antiques, and eateries. For an upscale dining experience, try Grana BYOB, known for its exquisite cuisine.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake is affectionately called the "Irish Riviera" and is home to many ornate Victorian homes, pristine beaches, and tree-lined walkways. This seaside resort boasts miles of tranquil beaches with a long, picturesque boardwalk perfect for travelers to stroll along the ocean. The family will enjoy stepping out into the gentle tides, building sandcastles, or just lying in the warm Jersey sun.
The downtown district is located just a few steps away from the beachfront. It is filled with a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The serene ambiance of the Victorian buildings on the tree-lined blocks is a delight for visitors. Explore art and antique galleries like Artisan Spirit or the Ephemia Gallery. The Third Avenue Chocolate Shoppe is a popular local spot known for its delicious handmade confections. For an upscale dining experience, head over to Whispers in the historic Hewitt-Wellington Hotel. It is a high-dollar establishment where you can bring your beverage, but the experience is worth the expense. Tom Bailey's Market has excellent Ruebens and other sandwiches for a casual setting.
Clinton
This beautiful small town sits along the Raritan River, combining natural beauty with a thriving arts scene. Visitors will want to experience the iconic Red Mill Museum Village, set against a waterfall backdrop, showcasing the town's industrial history. The beautiful old grist mill offers an excellent backdrop for picture-perfect moments, and the Museum has informative exhibits and displays.
Much of the town is its historic district encompassing more than 200 buildings, housing many locally owned businesses. Grab a coffee at Riverside Coffee and Tea, or for an excellent lunch, try the Clinton Station Diner for their whole 1-lb burger and fries, Ye Old Sub Base for a quick bite, or even Grounded For Life for plant-based vegan options.
The Hunterdon Art Museum presents an ever-changing array of contemporary art, crafts, and other early colonial memorabilia. Walk down almost any of the pristine streets to view outstanding examples of old Victorian-style homes, or spend an afternoon in one of Clinton's gorgeous parks to relax and enjoy a few minutes of peace.
Haddonfield
Haddonfield oozes a Revolutionary War ambiance as the place where the state of New Jersey declared its independence in the summer of 1777. Today, the town has a vibrant downtown area filled with eclectic shops, galleries, and dining venues. The Indian King Tavern is a primary point of interest, celebrating Colonial life. With no admission fee, this hour-long tour is a beautiful insight into the lives and struggles of early American residents.
The Crows Woods Nature Preserve is a city park with a mile-and-a-half walking trail through rolling slopes and old-growth forests. The best time to stroll along the paths is early spring, when the wildflowers bloom from the forest floor, offering a vivid palette of fresh, vibrant colors. Downtown Haddonfield is a great place to spend a day shopping, with over 200 small businesses, galleries, and award-winning eating establishments. Sample the fare at the Bistro, a cozy spot with unique menu choices, or Crust and Fire for excellent pizza, burgers, and other options. For French delicacies at their finest, the Little Hen is intimate but serves delicious food.
Cranbury
Cranbury enjoys its distinction as one of the oldest towns in New Jersey. In Middlesex County, in the state's center, the town's first recorded deed was from 1698, when European settlers received licenses to purchase land from the local Native American tribes. During the days of the Colonies, Cranbury was a stagecoach and commerce stop between New York and Philadelphia, which at the time was a three-day journey between the cities. Today, the entire township is part of a historic district. The Cranbury Inn is a perfect example of a colonial inn serving guests since the late 1750s.
Peace of Chocolate is a new place for fudge and decadent chocolates, and the Market on Main is an excellent place for homemade baked goods and coffee. The Plainsboro Preserve is a beautiful nature area, perfect for walks in the woods or bird watching.
Chester
This small township is in Morris County in the north-central part of the state. Like many of the communities in New Jersey, the town celebrates its legacy as an agrarian place of commerce where local farmers could bring their harvests for sale. The village continues that tradition today with a farmers' market and many farms still growing veggies and fruit. During the harvest, farms like Stony Hill will let you pick as many apples or pumpkins as you can carry.
The Hacklebarney State Park is about ten minutes south of town and features several miles of gravel-covered hiking trails. The Park is primarily wooded, with 890 acres of unspoiled wilderness. There are many opportunities for hiking, trout fishing, and wildlife viewing. The quaint downtown district features several blocks of shops, restaurants, and local stores. The Dainty Dandelion has eclectic handpainted vintage furniture, and Comfortably Chic sells affordable regional art. The Black River Candy Company is the place for appeasing your sweet tooth.
Smithville
Smithville is a charming small town with a quaint downtown, cobblestone streets, and arched footbridges. The Village Green comprises over sixty shops with quirky names like the Razzle Dazzle, Trendy Treasures, or Feather Your Nest. If you love peanut butter, stop at the Smithville Peanut Butter Shop for homemade spreads, cookies, and scones. Kids will enjoy the carousel, train, and paddle boats. Be sure to pause for the ducks who venture throughout the town because, as the locals will tell you, these ducks run the place.
The Edwin B. Forsythe Nature Refuge is just south of town and features 48,000 acres of protected coastal habitats. The refuge is one of the primary areas for bird migrations every year and is an excellent place for hiking, birding, and capturing photos of the Atlantic City skyline. The best restaurant in Smithville is Lakeside Grill, known for its award-winning lobster roll. The historic Smithville Inn has been a local institution in the community for over 70 years.
Toms River
Toms River sits on the Jersey shore in Ocean County. The town began as a settlement of immigrants and was named for Thomas Luker, who ran a ferry across Goose Creek (later renamed Toms River). During the American Revolution, the town's local salt works helped supply the colonies, and the port became a strategic location for both British and Continental forces. During the 19th century, the town enjoyed prosperity as a shipping and commercial port, moving lumber and iron through its docks.
The primary attraction is Ortley Beach, the 1.5-mile-long stretch of sand that borders the ocean and is famous for locals surfing, swimming, and bodyboarding. (Be aware that you need a beach badge from the local townships to access the beach areas). The specialty museum Insectropolois is a fascinating place for studying bugs, and the Robert Novins Planetarium is a first-class observatory with informative exhibits.
The JBJ Soul Kitchen serves meals for in-need and paying customers, welcoming everyone to its tables. This non-profit restaurant is transforming lives and helping feed the hungry with some of the freshest food ever to hit the table. The Ocean County Historical Society has been collecting and preserving the rich maritime stories of residents for over 100 years.
From the thrill of colonial architecture to the welcoming hospitality of local businesses, the small towns of New Jersey showcase a diverse and inviting spirit. These beautiful gems help make the Garden State one of the best places to spend a weekend building memories with family and friends. Take the time to explore all they have to offer because the chances are good that you'll be returning again and again.
