9 Slow-Paced Towns to Visit in New Jersey
New Jersey might seemingly be known for iconic destinations like Atlantic City along the shoreline. Still, in the small towns, you can see the beauty of communities and boroughs. While there are plenty of destinations for those looking for fast-paced bustle and commotion, many find joy in slowing things down. Turning pages at the Chatham Bookseller store, taking in the renowned Cape May Lighthouse landmark, or hitting the trails of Roosevelt Park in Metuchen - a slow-paced community can make all the difference in your visit to the Garden State.
Chatham
One of the gems of Morris County, Chatham is a small town rife with attractions for visitors who want as much to do as they do a relaxing and serene setting to do it in. The main streets of the town are lined with historic buildings that now house some of the cozy cafés, shops, and eateries the city is recognized for, such as the restaurant Scalini Fedeli set in a restored church or the popular retailer The Chatham Bookseller.
There is much to explore when taking in the slower pace of Chatham, such as the natural wonders of the Passaic River Park or taking the miles of trails throughout the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. If you are visiting Chatham in June, stick around long enough to participate in the famous Fishawack Festival, the only time you will see the borough's main streets flooded with thousands celebrating local artists, vendors, and musicians.
Collingswood
One of the reasons why so many enjoy the tranquility of Collingswood is that it is only a short drive away from Philadelphia, PA, meaning that you can experience all the amenities and attractions of this historic metropolis while simultaneously surrounding yourself with a serene backdrop when you are not immersed in the city limits nearby. The borough has many beloved eateries and businesses, such as the delectable Italian cuisine at Zeppoli or ramen at Sagami Japanese Restaurant. You can even indulge in the local produce every weekend from May to November at the Collingswood Farmers’ Market.
For those looking to enjoy some of the entertainment Collingswood offers during their visit, begin with the Perkins Center for the Arts events. Community events are a draw for the residents and the surrounding areas, revitalizing the relaxed streets to celebrate live music, food, and local artists with annual gatherings like the Collingswood Book Festival in October or the May Fair.
Cape May
Everything about Cape May suggests that the visitors here should slow down and appreciate their surroundings as much as possible. The first clue is how much of the original Victorian architecture still stands in this coastal community, which is entirely on display during the holiday season when tours occur in many ornately decorated properties. Among the most famous buildings is the Emlen Physick Estate, an 18-room mansion turned museum highlighting life before the boom of modern times. You can also get a nod to slow down when you see the Washington Street Mall and its plentiful shops, boutiques, and eateries like Louisa’s Chocolate Bar or Just for Laughs.
Truly relaxing in the community means partaking in the many old-fashioned traditions to help you indulge in the history here, like a horse-drawn carriage ride through the districts or taking in a meal at the renowned local favorite, The Washington Inn.
Spring Lake
There is a reason that many refer to Spring Lake as the ‘Jewel of the Jersey Shore,’ as this is best known for its pristine beaches and serenity and is an ideal spot for an extended getaway. There are more than two miles of boardwalk here, allowing beach lovers to take in breathtaking views of the water without the commercialism of busier shorelines. Downtown Spring Lake is home to some of the area’s most renowned locations beloved by the borough’s residents, such as The Breakers on the Ocean or the cozy pub-style fare of St. Stephen’s Green Publick House.
But the town is more than just beachfront and big plates of food, as the arts scene is alive and well with famous locations like the Spring Lake Community House, which hosts the Spring Lake Theatre Company productions. Divine Park nearby is also worth a prolonged visit if you enjoy a tranquil garden setting and long trails winding through lush landscapes.
Summit
Summit is the ideal small town, boasting both a serene environment and plentiful attractions for a prolonged visit. This goes beyond its quaint appearance with tree-lined streets and historic architecture. When you stroll down Springfield Avenue, it does not take long to find the local favorites that keep residents happy, like Natale’s Summit Bakery or the farm-to-table cuisine at Roots Steakhouse.
Once you escape the attractiveness and slow pace of the downtown area, Summit continues to liven up through its recreational options, such as the Reeves-Reed Arboretum’s trails, and cultural offerings like the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. For an even greater treat and experience of what this community can do, plan your trip around the Summit Downtown Art Festival, a showcase of local artists with music, vendors, and food that draws in many visitors.
Metuchen
Those visiting Metuchen can quickly see how it has gained the moniker of the ‘Brainy Borough.’ This charm shines in its manicured green spaces, maintained streets, and historic architecture like St. Luke’s Episcopal Church (1868) or the Old Franklin Schoolhouse (1807.) That does not mean there are not plenty of charming modern spots as well, including some of the favorites for locals like Hatch44 Café, The Greek on Main, and more boutiques and shops.
There is much to explore when you visit the town, including diving into the rich history of the location with exhibits from the Metuchen-Edison Historical Society. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the relaxed environment away from the center of town with nearby Roosevelt Park and its miles of trails along a picturesque lake and lush garden.
Red Bank
Those who visit Red Bank can describe its blend of picturesque natural beauty thanks to its positioning on the Navesink River and its blend of charm and entertainment. The slow pace and calm of Red Bank are accentuated by a focus on local businesses and attractions, including beloved dining establishments like The Globe Hotel or Toki.
There is a lot to do when visiting the borough, too. Beyond its natural attractions like Riverside Gardens Park, there are many entertainment venues and fun spots like the Count Basie Theatre, which shows multiple productions yearly, or whimsical stops like Yestercades, an arcade focused on old Atari games. Those planning a visit in September could catch one of the most popular events happening in the borough every year, the Red Bank Guinness Oyster Festival - this weekend gathering boasts countless vendors, live music, entertainment, and fun for the whole family.
Haddonfield
Haddonfield is one of the more recognizable small towns in New Jersey, predominantly because of its historical significance to the Revolutionary War with landmarks like the Indian King Tavern Museum and its connection with prehistoric discovery as the site of North America’s first (nearly) complete dinosaur skeleton commemorated by the Hadrosaurus Foulkii sculpture.
The small-town ambiance allows Haddonfield to stay calm and slow-paced despite its many attractions and tourist sites. This laid-back atmosphere is never more apparent than strolling down King’s Highway, where you can find countless local businesses thriving, such as beloved eateries like The Little Hen or The British Chip Shop. But the borough can awaken with a bit of bustle and excitement at certain times of the year, especially for the annual Haddonfield Crafts and Fine Arts Festival.
Madison
Madison is a small, charming town that personifies a laid-back and relaxing atmosphere with everything from tree-lined streets to vibrant local shops. Even with its smaller size, “The Rose City” boasts fine dining options as well, like Il Mondo Vecchio for delectable Italian cuisine.
Because it is the home of Drew University, Madison can come alive with a younger population, allowing for gentrification that promotes the arts through attractions like the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey or the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts that features exhibits on the town’s rich history in building trades. This blend of history and culture is most on display in the fall for the Bottle Hill Day Festival, where local artists, vendors, restaurants, and entrepreneurs line the main streets for a fun day of celebration and excitement.
While millions visit The Garden State every year, many do not take the time to appreciate the wealth of entertainment, beauty, and history that await them in the small towns and boroughs of New Jersey. From the renowned Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey in The Rose City to the early 19th century structures throughout Metuchen, there is always something new to see and explore in the state’s most relaxed and slow-paced communities.
