From bustling big cities to quaint seaside villages, the northeastern state of New Jersey has it all. While New Jersey is within easy driving distance of several other significant states and major cities, such as Philidelphia and NYC, it's a vacation destination on its own. If you're looking for a picturesque small town to explore during a weekend retreat, you'll find it in New Jersey.
Westfield
The cozy town of Westfield is best known for being the former home of famous cartoonist Charles Addams, the creator of the Addams Family cartoon series. Downtown Westfield is known for its small town charm and beauty, with its tree-lined main street lined with historic Victorian homes and buildings. You could easily spend the entire weekend exploring the downtown area, trying out local eateries and buying the perfect souvenirs at individually owned shops and boutiques. Visitors can learn about local history and lore at both the Westfield Historical Society and the Miller-Cory House Museum, which recreates the New Jersey farm life experience from 1740-1820 in great detail.
Depending on when you visit Westfield, there may be a special event taking place, making your weekend retreat even more exciting. The Sweet Sounds Downtown Music Festival and the Downtown Westfield Chocolate Tour are just two festivities that draw in tourists. Relax and unwind at the Westfield Inn, an elegant boutique hotel in the heart of town.
Frenchtown
If you're looking for a picture-perfect New Jersey town to spend a few days in, you can't go wrong with charming Frenchtown. Nature lovers won't want to miss a visit to one or several of the town's parks, such as Frenchtown Boro Park, which features a stocked fishing lake and a hiking trail, or Sunbeam Lenape Park, which offers scenic Delaware River views. The Nishisakawick Preserve and the Frenchtown Preserve are also available for year-round outdoor activities.
Depending on your interests, you can either stroll along the banks of the Delaware River, or through the bustling downtown, taking in the beautiful Victorian architecture, thriving arts community, family-run restaurants, and unique boutiques and shops. The Sunbeam General store, which is housed inside the historic Gem Building, is the ideal place to stock on souvenirs such as locally made treats, soaps, and t-shirts. Finish your weekend adventure with a walk over the Uhlerstown-Frenchtown bridge, which spans the river. The National Hotel is just one of the comfortable and history-rich lodging options you can stay at during your weekend getaway.
Cape May
A pretty beach town situated at the southern tip of the state, charming Cape May is the weekend retreat destination of dreams. The charming town has attracted visitors since the 18th Century due to its sandy Atlantic Ocean coastline and quaint island feel. The seaside resort town is known for its impressive Victorian-style homes, such as the Emien Physick Estate, which is now a museum. The historic Colonial House was originally a tavern, but is currently also a museum as well as Greater Cape May Historical Society headquarters.
If you're bringing your family along on the weekend getaway, don't miss a trip to the free Cape May County Park and Zoo, which is home to more than 550 animals, including snow leopards. The Cape May Lighthouse is another must-see attraction, as it dates back to 1857 and features a visitors center and museum shop carrying maritime-themed treasures. The Queen Victoria Bed and Breakfast Inn offers three restored 1880s homes complete with historic gambling parlours, cozy fireplaces and relaxing porches.
Ridgewood
With its historic downtown that is built around a town square, abundance of scenic parks, and plenty of high-quality shopping and restaurant options, the quaint town of Ridgewood is known as a suburban oasis. Just a 50-minute train ride from New York City, this New Jersey town feels like its a world away from the bustling metropolis. Visitors can enjoy the relaxing retreat, and also use it as a home base when exploring NYC.
If you're visiting during the hot summer months, cool off at the almost 3-acre Graydon Pool, which is fed by spring water and looks and feels like a lake. The Ridgewood Art Institute offers year-round drawing, oil painting, watercolor and other types of classes for both children and adults. The town's list of annual events include The Ridgewood International Film Festival and the Fall Music Fest. When it comes time to turn in at night, you'll feel right at home at the Ridgewood House, which is within walking distance of Pier Beach.
Spring Lake
Located on the world-famous Jersey Shore, Spring Lake captivates visitors with its sandy beaches, a scenic, spring-fed lake, and a historic downtown filled with unique eateries, galleries and boutiques. If you're looking for a weekend getaway location that's easy on the eyes, Spring Lake is it. The sweet seaside town is ideal for a girls' trip, a romantic rendezvous, or a short family vacation.
Spend a relaxing day at Spring Lake Beach, which features a 2-mile boardwalk for walking and biking. Other popular attractions include the Spring Lake Theatre, a performing arts venue known for producing Broadway-quality shows, and the historic Sea Girt Lighthouse. Spring Lake has no shortage including charming lodging options, including the Villa Park House, a bed and breakfast inn near the Atlantic Ocean.
Clinton
Situated on the Raritan River in New Jersey's scenic Raritan River Valley, the cute small town of Clinton has everything you need to create a memorable weekend getaway. This riverfront town is known for its quaint, tree-lined sidewalks, historic attractions, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving downtown. The charming Lowthorp Truss Bridge, which was constructed in 1870, is a must-see point of interest, as is the Red Mill Museum Village, a historic museum complex.
The Hunterdon Art Museum beckons weekend visitors with its ever-changing contemporary art, craft and design exhibits. It's also housed in a 19th-Century stone mill that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Clinton is also home to a variety of parks and natural areas ready for exploring, such as the Spruce Run Recreation Area, the Round Valley Recreation Area, and Hunts Mill Park. Accommodations include several well-known hotel brands, such as Holiday Inn and TownPlace Suites.
Asbury Park
Another charming and scenic Jersey Shore destination, Asbury Park is the ultimate warm-weather weekend getaway location. Asbury Park Beach made Travel and Leisure's Top 25 Beaches in the United State list, and for good reason. The Atlantic Ocean beach features soft white sand, a historic boardwalk lined with restaurants and bars, a splash park, and a miniature golf attraction. There's also a retro arcade featuring over 600 pinball machines dating back to the 1930s.
Other top Asbury Park attractions include the Paramount Theater and Convention Hall, Asbury Park Distilling, the Steven Crane House, the Asbury Park Brewery, and the Paranormal Museum, which offers hour-long docent-led tours. The town also offers a wide variety of lodging options, including the charming Ocean Park Inn Bed and Breakfast.
When you're looking for a weekend getaway destination that is aesthetically pleasing, you can't go wrong in New Jersey. Whether they're located within a convenient driving distance of New York City, or are situated on the world-famous Jersey Shore, these small towns will give you a memorable short-term vacation experience.
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Elizabeth Arnold April 28 2024 in Places
