The 12 Most Charming Small Towns in New Jersey. And with plenty of kid-friendly things to do on the streets of these unique and vibrant downtowns, exploring one with the whole family is a must. You're sure to find many dining options as well, including the #1 rated pizza in the U.S. Tuesday nights from 5:00 pm 9:00 pm, downtown is closed to vehicle traffic for Surf City Nights. There are various things to do in downtown Montclair on Church Street, where kids will like Doin Dishes. Take, for example, the adorable towns on this list, which are ripe for exploration via a New York City day, overnight, or weekend trip. You can learn more about that process here. 
How about Pitman New Jersey it is historic, retro and it also has a certified historic district called the grove but thats OK I understand you guys probably broke out in hives and had to be given steroids just putting Haddonfield in Cape May on your list because God for bid you ever includes South Jersey when you write about the 10 best anything in New Jersey its all your precious New York North jersey towns. The downtown area is also a cultural center with the Museum Center, Plummer Auditorium, and Downtown Plaza. Its adorable, for sure, but its the mix and energy of this downtown that sets it apart from others. Without even stepping out of the car or the adorable green-painted train stop in this town, its immediately obvious that Red Bank oozes cool. Finding the best downtowns in NJ is a little like coming across a hidden secretmany are full of history, great food, and culture, and making a trip to one feels like a mini-escape. When its time to refuel, head down Division Street to stop at 30 Burgers, with 30 different burger choices that arent all beef. If you have kids, take time to enjoy the playground equipment located in the sand on the south side of the pier. And they wouldnt be wrong about it, as you can totally see a Carroll Gardens vibe all around you. Take a step back into Revolutionary War history in Morristown, find Jersey music roots in Asbury Park, or stroll along the Hudson River in city-slick Hoboken. Dont forget Liberty Science Center, liberty State Park, The old train terminal at the park and the ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Connecticut has many town centers where a nice ramble takes you to shops, restaurants, galleries, museums and even a park bench or two. Clinton will charm your pants off. Itll be worth it, though. Heidi Deal is the author of the Newcomers Handbook to Living In Los Angeles & Orange County, and a childrens book author specializing in history and human rights. Stretch your legs as you explore its multiple mom-and-pop shops, unique restaurants, galleries and landmarks. Scroll down for where to go and what to do in these best downtowns in NJ. One of the few U.S. cities to have its entire downtown designated as a National Historic Landmark District, the seaport city of Beaufort boasts oak-shaded streets lined with stunning pre-Civil War homes and a picturesque waterfront park with walking paths. There are even audio and guided walks that visitors can take to learn more about the area. In the summer season, the beach is a must, with our personal favorite being the chill Sunset Beach slightly outside of the hustle and bustle of town. Galleries, tasteful little shops and an interesting variety of restaurants. For vaccinated visitors, a stop at the universitys gorgeous chapel is a must, where you can take in the stunning Gothic architecture and enjoy a service or concert (advance registration required). Muzeo, located on the corner of Anaheim and Broadway, is a museum and cultural center with exhibits showcasing the history of Anaheim and a variety of art exhibits. Easily accessible by train from Penn Station, Princeton is a crown jewel amongst all charming towns everywhere and worth making a weekend trip out of in order to take everything in. Shoppers can browse the many shops like the bookstore and the antique shop, or view the artwork at one of the several galleries in the area. Sign up for the best activities, events + exclusive offers from our partners. Many of the area's historic buildings date back to the textile and railroad boom that occurred between 1880 to 1920. Three of our favorite stops in town, even if youre just window shopping: Antiques Center at the Peoples Store, Pirela Atelier and Gallery Piquel. For more information about shopping and events, follow Seal Beach on Facebook. Budding musicians will want to see the legendary Stone Pony, the Paramount Theater, Convention Hall, and Lakehouse Music Academy. South Carolina is the perfect vacation destination for every family. The Red Mill is a focal point and will quickly make its appearance on your social channels when you visit. Lots of places to shop, too. And, as many New Yorkers tend to do, you never knowyou might end up graduating and making one of them your permanent residence one day, too. Any town nicknamed The Rose City (more on that below) that boasts a Shakespeare Theater should instantly pique your interest. See all the transportation options near you with theCTrides transit finder. Its rich history, well-preserved architecture, narrow cobblestoned streets and award-winning restaurants will knock your socks off. Historic San Juan Capistranos downtown district takes you a step back in time and encompasses the Mission and the surrounding area, including Los Rios Street, the first and oldest residential street and neighborhood in California. And if Fido is waiting for you at home, stop by the Hungry Hound dog bakery for a treat to bring back. Don't miss the annual Greenwich International Film Festival held in eary June, all events associated with the festival are all in walking distance and some close to the train station. Enjoy exploring the small businesses in and around the towns picturesque main square, Palmer Square. And the historic Fox Theater is undergoing renovations and will soon open for films and events. There's so much to see and do in New Haven all in a walkable setting! Enjoy the architecture of the fourth oldest university in the United States, grab breakfast for dinner at PJs Pancake House, or sneak in a sweet treat at the Bent Spoon. Villa Del Sol, at the corner of Harbor and Wilshire, is a great spot for shopping. Inside the original grist mill, which was powered by a waterwheel and first built in 1706, visitors will find The Moth, a friendly coffee shop overlooking the towns lake with primo blends and caf concoctions, delicious vegan-friendly sandwiches, cakes and other devilishly good pastries. With a Main Street thats over a mile long, the colonial town of Ridgefield boasts unique eateries and boutiques. Kilwins is a big hit for fudge, candy, and ice cream, or visit Cinnaholic, which has massive cinnamon buns with toppings and edible cookie dough (yum). Find more ways to enjoy West Hartford here. Just a block north, more shopping and dining is available at The Strand, or head a block south to Pacific City for ocean view dining at popular restaurants like Ola Mexican Kitchen and Old Crow Smokehouse.
As some NJ license plates proudly proclaim, theyre Shore to Please. Downtown San Juan Capistrano is ideal for an afternoon stroll or an evening out. Today, it houses a public market, restaurants, and a gathering space that often features live music. Meet someone online? More Newport in nature than Seaside Heights, its easy to enjoy a day in town just gawking at its real estate (and subsequently Zillow-ing and crying). Before you head into town, stop at the Montclair Art Museum, known for its fantastic contemporary art exhibits and creative family activities.
Today, it includes a small downtown of fun bobo (thats boho chic to you and me) shops, including a gemstone gallery, a petrified wood gallery, art galleries and gift shops, plus a dedicated mens store that carries everything from glassware to vintage threads to cowboy boots. For those looking for a splurge, theres a luxury consignment shop with coveted brands, finer decor stores including a West Elm, and even a Tiffany & Co to indulge yourself. They include a fine foods store, Olssons; an old-timey record store, Princeton Record Exchange; and a fantastic bookstore worth getting lost in, Labyrinth Books.
It increased demand so much that the area was home to many greenhouses and at the turn of the century, became internationally known for its roses, gaining its aforementioned nickname. If you are looking for more to do, visit Haddon Lake, the Camden Childrens Garden, Camden Adventure Aquarium, or Battleship New Jersey are all nearby, and NJMOM attractions we love. Test your arcade skills at the Game Vault, where kids and adults play vintage video games in a former bank. Bring the kids to Old Towne on Halloween for Treats In The Streets, a fun and unique trick-or-treating event. RELATED: Your Next Weekend Escape: Princeton, NJ. Before having her kids, Melanie was no stranger to writing or working with children. A fire damaged the restaurant at the end of the pier and the city is currently in the redevelopment process. If this is more than a day trip, a stay at Congress Hall is a perfect kid-friendly stop. The picturesque downtown keeps visitors coming back regardless of temps, with boutiques, candy stores and a beautiful adjacent park with walking paths. The other section of the restaurant is converted from the structure that originally housed the court and jails, built in 1812. It's prime time fo, July is National Park and Recreation Month. A bus from Port Authority can get you to Cape May, or you can arrive at the very Southern tip of New Jersey by car, which will take you three to four hours depending on traffic. Step back in time at Yestercades with arcade video games, let your kiddos run and climb at the KidStreet Playground, or get wet at the Michael Lepp Park. She wrote for a local newspaper as a reporter and taught English and Dance in a public school. Advertise A shopping mall would never do in affluent Greenwich, not when theres fabulous Greenwich Avenue and its array of shops and restaurants running between Route 1 and Bruce Park Avenue. Downtown Westfield is bright, bold, and a favorite stop for families. For dessert, the Baking Mama is a family-owned small-batch bake shop in town thats a must for handcrafted macarons, and dont miss the popular Carlos Bakery made famous through the television show Cake Boss (its easy to spot with a line out the front). Visitors can come out and enjoy family time at entertainment venues such as Big Air Trampoline Park or Krikorian Metroplex 18. Downtown Fullerton has undergone a revitalization process over the last several years and the SOCO District (South of Commonwealth) has become a center for dining and entertainment with unique shops, restaurants, and bars, many of which offer live music. In fact, long before the Jersey Shore invaded this affluent community, wealthy New Yorkers built country estates here and looked to fill them with flowers. For good eats, look no further than Dfloret, which could give some big city restaurants a run for their money. The antiques capital of New Jersey, this is where you come if youre looking to procure an amazing second-hand piece of furniture, knick-knack or talisman. A post shared by City of Hoboken (@hobokennj). In addition to great restaurants and bars, Old Town Seal Beach has many unique shops for everything from bathing suits to toys. At the heart of Spartanburg's downtown is Morgan Square, a gathering spot since 1787 and site of the iconic 19th century town clock. Less than 90 minutes outside NYC, Clintons tiny downtown will transport you to a small, country village with shops and eateries that will interest selective city slickers. Old Towne Orange is known as the Antique Capital of California with more than 40 antique shops in a four block area. Lots of people will try to tell you Montclair is the Brooklyn of New Jersey (ditto for nearby Maplewood). The town is true seashore Americana at its finest and filled with gawk-worthy architecture and small pleasures at every turn. She is passionate about the outdoors, and enjoys exploring the states many natural treasures from the Lowcountry to the Upstate. Or you could support the towns bookstore dedicated to mystery books, aptly named The Cloak and Dagger, by virtual means. Photo Credit: @washingtonstreetmall. Before you head to The Green (a parkland area smack in the center of town steeped in Revolutionary History), step back in time to learn about George Washington and the Continental Army at Washingtons Headquarters at the Ford Mansion and Museum. For nightlife, popular spots include Heroes and The Continental Room. It is now home to Umami Burger and the Monkish Brewing. Have fun celebrating with, Just another Navy A-4 Skyhawk hanging over an Oran, We stopped by the @deltaco in Barstow today - the, What are your summer travel plans? And if youre looking for pretty parks, Montclair doesnt disappoint. Photo Credit: @kerisharpe featured by @morristown.nj. Grab a bite to eat at Fins Bar & Grill, find some treats to bring home at the Cape May Peanut Butter Company, and keep your kids happy with a gourmet ice cream sandwich from Peace Pie. For food, check out the Good Karma Vegan Cafe, the JBJ Soul Kitchen (run by Jon Bon Jovi Foundation), where you can volunteer, donate, and eat, and Juanitos for authentic Mexican dishes. If youre looking to shop and stroll near the water, State Street in downtown Westport is a fantastic spot for a day trip. If, Copyright 2022 Connecticut Office of Tourism, Can't-Miss Waterfront Dining in Connecticut, Sensory-Friendly Programs for Kids at Connecticut Attractions, Find Your Vibe in Connecticut Billboards, Find Your Vibe in Connecticut As Seen on TV, Find Your Vibe in Connecticut As Seen on TV. Take an evening summer stroll through the downtown of Asbury Park, NJ. Youre taken back in time when you visit Old Towne in the city of Orange. Get outdoors and explore Pier A Park, Castle Point Lookout and skatepark, Elysian Park, and the famous Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Request your free copy, view the guide online or download a PDF version below. A post shared by MONTCLAIR NOW ? Perfect for browsing or a bite to eat, Litchfields West Street borders the villages historic town green. But Frank Sinatras hometown also holds onto its own unique identity and history, and is brimming with charming architecture, shops, eateries, and parks blessed with stunning views of Manhattans twinkling skyline. Plan your Palmetto State adventure today. Locals gather here for good food, drinks, and live music. And that diversity can be seen in the shopping scene: Everything from a Cos Bar to a quality cheese shop to Jay & Silent Bobs Secret Stashaka Kevin Smiths famed comic book store featured on AMCs Comic Book Mencan be found in the town.
Let some energy out before heading home with a stop at Marquand Park, Terhune Orchards, or visit our favorite Grounds for Sculpture. But theres nothing sleepy about Cranburyjust wait till you hear about its annual Cranbury Day, a yearly celebration taking place the Saturday after Labor Day which features live music, local vendors and crafters as well an annual duck race (!). Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to get the latest ideas, deals, and getaways.
The downtown center hosts a variety of events throughout the year like summer concerts, blood drives, holiday celebrations, and craft festivals. The District Lounge is built inside what was once the city of Oranges first post office. Contact Us
With eclectic restaurants and lots of shore history, families get a good mix of culture and the coasttest your arcade skills at the Silverball Retro Arcade, experiment with glassblowing at Hot Sand, sample vegan treats at the Cookman Creamery, and make sure to bring home donuts from Purple Haze. Photo Credit: Snapshots For The Soulfeatured by @montclair.newjersey.
OC Par, Hey Ninja Warriors! The town, which notably lent its high school as a filming location for Mean Girls, boasts a great farmers market on Saturday and has a few walkable shopping districts to grab whatever your heart desires. The well-groomed beaches are a draw in any season thats not winter, especially for their quieter and more relaxing vibes come prime season. Said theater is located on the campus of Drew University, and while you cant take in any indoor shows there at the moment, you can catch a glimpse of it on a walk around the classic college campus that appears straight out of a filmand indeed, has been featured in them many times. There's a reason Charleston has consistently been named one of the "Best U.S. Cities" by Cond Nast Traveler. The Packing House, built in 1919, was part of the agriculture industry where fresh citrus was washed, processed, and packed into containers for shipping via the train rails just outside the building. A long-standing florist, art and pottery studio meets gift shop, Bloomers N Things, is another draw right in the town, but we also suggest visiting its bucolic outskirts. or uncover more great South Carolina trip ideas on: A former staffer with The Miami Herald, Marie moved to SC in 1992. a ceramics studio to paint plates, cups, and other pottery. Youll find the old fashioned original Watsons Drug and Soda Fountain which has been located in Orange since 1899. 
Here are a few local favorites.
This Union County location with a Main Street USA feel is often referred to as Bestfield by localsand its easy to see why with tree-lined sidewalks, unique shops mixed with brand-name ones, and a generally convivial atmosphere. Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Gather inspiration with trip ideas for planning your next South Carolina vacation. For a treat, try the Thai-inspired ice cream at Absolute Zero Ice Cream, or if lattes and homemade doughnuts sound more your style, visit the Montclair Bread Company. You've also got Main Street and The Vista - capital city hot spots for shopping, dining and art. Perfect Connecticut Towns for Romantic Escapes, Great Places for Workcations in Connecticut, 12 Summer Experiences You Just Can't Have in the City, Unique Places to Stay Connecticut's Most Unconventional Accommodations, Winter - Celebrating Places to Dine and Drink in Connecticut, Connecticut Summer at the Museum 2022 - Free Admission for Kids. Taking in the flavors with a seaside, lakefront, or riverside view. Privacy Policy 2010-2022 Wow Media Products, Inc doing business as PureWow. Big adrenaline, unreal art, neon nightlife, glamping you can find your vibe in Connecticut, no matter how unique. Melanie Bodner has always had a love for writing, but now she has a new lovebeing a mom. Just a short drive outside of the capitol city, Manchester offers plenty of shopping, dining and attractions for all to enjoy. Copyright 2014-2022 NJ Mom LLC | All Rights Reserved. A handful of interesting museums, which hold tours daily, are located in its vibrant downtown. Nothing beats a great downtown, and Orange County has no shortage of downtown districts. Who says you need a dirt path or rocky trail to go hiking? Georgetown, the nation's third oldest seaport, has a charming downtown lined with historic homes, grand old churches and museums. Of course, kids will want to spend time on the sand, but theres also the Cape May County Park & Zoo, the Cape May Lighthouse, and the Nature Center of Cape May. Many buildings here, including the park and the fountain in the middle of the circle at Chapman and Glassell, are on the National Register of Historic Places. Downtown Haddonfield is a welcoming town in Camden County. About The Old Mill is a draw in this small town thats retained its country charm, and is lined with Victorian homes, plus a handful of shops and restaurants. Like Frenchtown, Lambertville is a river town and has an adorable bridge which many people walk over and take pictures on, eventually ending up on the other side in New Hope, PAalso packed with a considerable amount of art, boutique shopping, and delicious food. Best Of OC This classic commuter town has an appealing downtown and many restaurants, especially in the triangle formed by Main, Locust and Forest Streets. Dubbed the Mile Square City, thanks to its small footprint at about one square mile, youll find crowd pleasers like an Artichoke Basiles and a Shake Shack in Hoboken, but you should focus your time at the delish Karma Kafe for well-priced and top-quality Indian grub, Barbs for French with a Moroccan twist, Apulia for wood burning oven pies and Italian, and Elysian Cafe for the dreamy ambiance. Photo Credit: @drnorton featured by @somerville.nj. ht, What are you doing this summer? All rights reserved. Find must-see attractions and long-distance travel resources, including visa information, regional overviews and tour operator credentials. Hamilton fans will want to make a stop at the nearby Schuyler-Hamilton House on Olyphant Place where Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler, his wife, courted. We cant wait to see whats coming! Cities such as Aliso Viejo, Villa Park and others also have town centers but were not included as downtown destinations. Sugar Shack is a favorite local spot for breakfast, and Dukes at the beginning of the Huntington Beach Pier is a must for visitors to Surf City. And the fare you'll find in the local eateries will certainly beat the smashed peanut butter-and-jelly sandwich in your backpack. The city of Huntington Beach and the popular downtown area is a summer tourist destination. This year, Montclair also welcomed an arts complex near the Wellmont Theater featuring plenty of outdoor space for performances and public art. Start planning your ultimate South Carolina adventure with a free copy of the 2022 Vacation Guide. Get wet at the Asbury Splash Park, float away on the Asbury Park Pedal Boats, or get competitive with a round of mini-golf. The intersection of Farmington Avenue and South Main Streetin West Hartford can lead you to many shopping or dining pleasures, and eventually to the adjacent Blue Back Square. After, head to Washington Street, the heart of downtown Hoboken, where youll find Big Fun Toys and outdoor seating at Elysian Cafe and Grimaldis with menu options to satisfy kids and grown-ups. Relaxing on the, public market, restaurants, and a gathering space, A post shared by OMalleys Seal Beach (@omalleys_sealbeach), https://www.surfcityusa.com/about-huntington-beach/neighborhoods/huntington-harbour/, www.cityoflagunaniguel.org/city-center-project, https://www.yorbalindaca.gov/175/Yorba-Linda-Town-Center. Due to the large number of historic buildings in the area, it has an old town charm and there are several shops that specialize in antique and vintage products. Boxwood Coffee is also a must for great local coffee and to-go snacks. Planning a first date (especially when meeting for the first time) can be stressful. Locals are partial to this Monmouth County town built on the banks of the Navesink River, which brings together art, culture, local boutiques, and excellent restaurants. Red Banks Broadwalk pedestrian plaza is a fun, family-friendly part of downtown. Continue to East Side Mags, a go-to spot for vintage comic books and collectibles, and dont miss Just Kidding Around, where littles will be awed by the fantastic toy selection. Hoboken is a Hudson County hotspot. #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:400px;} #mc_embed_signup input.email { font-family: "Open Sans","Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,Verdana,sans-serif; width: 100%; text-align: center;#mc_embed_signup .button { clear: both; background-color: #e18b85;}#mc_embed_signup .button:hover { background-color: #ea9b96;}, Learn about the history of downtown Morristown, Explore the unique spots of downtown Montclair, NJMOM Best Gardens and Nature Centers Guide, Shop, Sugar-up, and Selfie in downtown Westfield, Take in the modern and historic sites of downtown Somerville, featured in our NJ Best Gardens and Nature Centers Guide, Live like a rockstar in downtown Asbury Park, Take in the art and culture of downtown Red Bank, Heres How To Earn Up To $400 This Summer {Studies for Babies, Kids and Teens Too!
