9 Most Neighborly Towns In New Jersey

"The Garden State,” New Jersey’s nickname, exudes neighborliness without even trying. The towns that make up New Jersey vary in style, architecture, food, and attractions while never lacking in warmth or welcoming locals. Families, as well as couples and solo travelers, will enjoy these slow-paced and artfully designed towns in Jersey. Within these nine towns, visitors will find unique, lush landscapes and pleasant downtowns that belong in magazines and movie scenes.

Frenchtown

Along the banks of the Delaware River, Frenchtown pleases the senses with its Victorian architecture dating back to the early 18^th century. In downtown Frenchtown, beautifully maintained, locally owned shops like Modern Love, River Gypsy, or Dalla Terra offer eclectic, unique gifts and styles. Frenchtown is known for its welcoming community, which includes local events like Riverfest, a street fair celebrating life along the river. This small town is full of local vendors and business owners who take pride in their community. Love Frenchtown is a volunteer non-profit that connects and supports local business owners with networking and events throughout the year.

Spring Lake

Head to the beach for memorable shorelines in the "Jewel of the Jersey Shore." Spring Lake has 2 miles of Atlantic beach and boardwalk to enjoy without the bustle of large crowds. Travelers enjoy sunbathing along the coastline, paddleboarding the lake at Divine Park, or carousing in the shops downtown like Artisan Spirit or family-owned Barewires Surf Shop. A stay at Johnson House Inn promises an atmosphere of warm hospitality and porch sitting, tranquil mornings. Enjoy Duck Confit Hash at local favorite Marigold Market and Cafe, which is open for breakfast and lunch.

Lambertville

Known as “The Antique Capital of New Jersey” or one of the “Top Prettiest Towns in America” by Forbes Magazine, Lambertville is a top destination for anyone looking for a hospitable community that’s also aesthetically beautiful. Lambertville is just a one-hour drive from both Philadelphia and New York and keeps people coming back with unique things to do, like seeing a play at Bucks County Playhouse or canoeing down the Delaware River in the summer months. Lambertville also has one of the most celebrated desserts in the region at Peace Pie, specializing in their patented ice cream sandwich with a layer of pie filling! Peace Pie has over 40 flavors, from Pecan Pie to Blueberry Cobbler.

Princeton

Home to the famous Princeton University, the town of Princeton offers many opportunities for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike to delve. Princeton University itself is an impressive campus to wander, with student-led tours held over the weekends. Princeton’s local population is largely well-educated and diverse as a result of many alumni of Princeton remaining in the area post-college. A stay in Nassau Inn is a visitor favorite; it’s been operating for over 260 years and is located in Palmer Square. Stroll around Palmer Square and find Chez Alice Patisserie for a delicious mid-day pastry, or take a cheese-making class at Olsson’s Fine Foods. For outdoor enjoyment, visitors can head to Lake Carnegie Reservoir or the Institute Woods.

Clinton

Known for its landmark, Red Mill, Clinton is a charming town in central New Jersey that families love to flock to for its family-friendly attractions and laid-back feel. Red Mill Museum Village is a 10-acre site with 12 buildings, rotating and permanent exhibitions, and a large collection of artifacts to explore. The Hunterdon Art Museum offers the opportunity to not only wander the many exhibits but also attend workshops or classes for any age within categories ranging from poetry to ceramics. Those wanting fresh air in Clinton can take a hot air balloon ride with A-Lot-A Hot Air or head to Round Valley Recreation Area.

Allentown

Allentown is a proud community in central New Jersey, surrounded by its lush greenbelt that locals and tourists love taking leisurely walks or runs on. The town also has one of the most walkable Main Streets in New Jersey with favored local restaurants like the classy Italian, La Piazza or Off the Grill. Check out The Old Mill on South Main Street, along with the surrounding streets and structures dating back to the 1800s; visitors can learn about the historical relevance of Allentown. Anglers and boaters can head over to Conines Millpond for fishing and a serene day on the 24-acre lake.

Chester

The Chester township is in the southwestern portion of Morris County. It’s surrounded by incredible green scenery with the Black River nearby, farms and gardens that offer year-round events, and fresh produce like Alstede Farms and Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill. Hikers can enjoy the challenging Black River Trail, and history buffs will love the Cooper Gristmill, established in the 1760s. Chester has several locally owned retail locations like Black River Candy Shoppe, where visitors can buy classic candies in bulk, or Chesters Crafts and Collectibles, specializing in home décor and accessories.

Cranbury

Established in 1780, Cranbury comprises a small population of wonderful people. It was originally established to support the surrounding agricultural setting, and today, it is no different, with historic farms like Protinick Family Farm and Stults Farm selling local produce in town at farm stands. Visitors can check out the Elizabeth M. Wagner History Center for the public research of Cranbury’s history or wander around Main Street for unique culinary experiences; Zinna’s is wildly popular for anyone passing through Cranbury with high-quality menu items like Ma’s Meatballs or Honey Butter Tuna.

Haddonfield

Only 10 miles away from Philly, Haddonfield is the perfect example of a small, neighborly charm. Main Street Haddonfield is popular with shoppers and foodies with more than 200 storefronts along lovely, tree-lined streets; visitors love Maraki Market or A Little Whimsy for unique gifts, Jersey Java and Tea Co. for coffees and the atmosphere, and Crumb for delicious sandwiches. Haddonfield Plays and Players have some fabulous plays throughout the year for theatre enthusiasts, and the Historical Society of Haddonfield is best suited for history lovers. Visitors must also make time to get a picture of the Hadrosaurus statue at the end of Lantern Lane.

Why These New Jersey Towns Stand Out

New Jersey never fails to impress. It’s historical prominence, warm farming communities, along with the towns that support them are all woven into a very special environment. The state is full of places to savor and enjoy, these 9 being just the tip of the iceberg. Visitors will love the rolling greenery of New Jersey and the towns that connect and intersect to create admirable, clean surroundings. Enjoy with the whole family!