6 Best New Jersey Towns For First-Time Visitors

The third State to join the Union, the historic New Jersey earned its admission back in 1787 and it continues to an important economic and cultural driver of the Northeastern United States. Featuring fascinating history, splendid geography, and a welcoming ambience, the “Garden State” is indeed a wonderful place to discover firsthand. But while such major cities like Trenton and Newark are the best known, there are also a number of smaller towns that equally capture all the allure that has made New Jersey beloved by so many. From towns along the Jersey Shore and their Atlantic Ocean views to culturally rich college communities, first time visitors to New Jersey will definitely not be disappointed by exploring some of these smaller destinations. So wait no more and come see some of the best of New Jersey through a journey to these wonderful towns, ideal for first time visitors and those looking to return!

Princeton

Princeton is undoubtedly one of the finest places to visit in New Jersey, and guests will have loads of wonderful intrigue to discover in this charming college town. Founded in the mid 18^th century, today just over 30,000 residents call the town home, which is widely known for its namesake school, Princeton University (1746). Explore the beautiful campus and enjoy the splendor of the seasons here, where summers are hot, winters are cool, and changing autumn leaves and snowy rooftops make town a delight no matter what time of year. And as a historic community, visitors will never be short of awesome landmarks to explore while in Princeton. These include the Westland Mansion (1856), Trinity Church (1870), and the Tusculum Estate (1773), amongst many more that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And, of course, there is the unique Albert Einstein House, where Einstein lived, which is not a museum and remains closed to the public, as per Einstein’s wishes. However, the Princeton Einstein Museum of Science is in development.

Meanwhile other great cultural attractions make Princeton exciting for a variety of interests and ages. Marvel at the European and Latin American masters at the Princeton University Art Museum, learn more about New Jersey’s past at the Morven Museum & Garden, and relive the days of the American Revolution at the Princeton Battlefield State Park, to name just a few. And naturally take in fun festivals at Christmas, the 4^th of July, and more, sure to make a stop in this “Garden State” town a most memorable one.

Frenchtown

Situated along the banks of the Delaware River, Frenchtown was established in the 1860s by Swiss French pioneers as an important ferry town. Today just under 1,500 residents call this charming old world community home that will certainly delight first time visitors to New Jersey. Step back in time and explore the Historic District that features upwards of 400 historic buildings of significance! Listed in its entirety on the National Register of Historic Places, guests can see firsthand many different architectural styles that were prominent in the 19^th century including Federal, Greek Revival, and Italianate.

And with its cool winters and warm summers, spending time outside in Frenchtown is pleasurable throughout the year. Spend time at the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park to enjoy activities like hiking, cycling, and jogging are always popular as chances to see some local wildlife never disappoints. Meanwhile do not forget about the special Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Bridge (1931), which crosses the River and is listed as historically significant. Add in fine local eateries like Chez Daniel and FINNBAR, and it is easy to see what makes this such an alluring part of New Jersey.

Spring Lake

Spring Lake is beautifully located along the famed and beloved Jersey Shore, and it remains one of the “Garden State’s” most popular beach destination for both visitors and locals. Though home to nearly 2,800, many more come to this Monmouth County town along the Atlantic Ocean to enjoy some of the best panoramas in the State where fun and relaxation are always the order of the day. Known for its mild winter and warm summer temperatures, Spring Lake is an awesome place for first time visitors looking to discover what makes the Jersey Shore so attractive.

Go swimming, sailing, and sunbathing, while walking along the charming boardwalk is always a delight. Enjoy coastal breezes and browse through many local shops and diners that take one’s troubles away, at least momentarily. These include Amelia’s By the Sea Restaurant and Artisan Spirit Gift Shop, that with their vicinity to the Ocean means there is always a great view nearby. Finally explore some history from the 19^th and 20^th centuries and marvel at some great landmarks on National Register of Historic Places. From the Sea Girt Lighthouse (1896) to the Martin Maloney Cottage (1898), a bit of America’s past can be appreciated here all in the ambience of the special Jersey Shore.

Allentown

Allentown is conveniently located at the midway point between the cities of New York and Philadelphia, meaning that for any first time visitors to New Jersey it remains a great spot for a day trip. Incorporated in the 1880s, a humble population of just over 1,700 reside here creating a most charming sense of community. Full of historic intrigue and natural beauty, guests will delight in Allentown’s photogenic ambience. And with rich farmlands, rustic barns and silos, and pretty winery areas a postcard perfect New Jersey sojourn awaits.

Additionally, stroll through some American history and explore the town center and its welcoming Historic District featuring many preserved landmarks. These include the John Imlay House from the 1790s, the Allentown Mill (1855), and the Presbyterian Church (1837), amongst others that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. And of course like any great small town, an assortment of fine local restaurants and shops fill the landscape ready to welcome all ages. In Allentown, one can enjoy a nice American style meal at Woody’s Towne Café, while the Perennial Home Gift Shop on Main Street is the perfect place to bring home a piece of Anytown, USA, with a great New Jersey character!

Collingswood

Founded by the Quakers back in the 1680s, Collingswood is one of the oldest towns in New Jersey and it is situated very near the border with Pennsylvania. Home to a modest population of some 14,000 residents, this intriguing historic community will certainly leave history lovers satisfied with its old world charm and preserved landmarks. Stroll through the Downtown Historic District and marvel at such awesome properties like the Collings-Knight Homestead (1820) and the Thackara House (1707), amongst others on the National Register of Historic Places that act like a sort of time machine.

Furthermore, a welcoming sense of community spirit is palpable in Collingswood and guests can enjoy a nice variety of events and attractions throughout the year where summers are hot and winters are cool. These include the Independence Day Parade and Fireworks, the Farmers Market (from May to November), WinterFest, and Fall’s Porchfest amongst others. And one can even sample some of the best in international foods in Collingswood, which is known for its wide selection of global cuisine restaurants. From Il Fiore (Italian) to Li Beirui (Lebanese) there is always a tasty journey for the taste buds in town!

Lambertville

Also known as the “Antiques Capital of New Jersey”, Lambertville is one of New Jersey’s most pleasing communities, ideal for a first time visit to the State and those who are returning. Scenically situated along the Delaware River, just over 4,000 reside in Lambertville today which was formally incorporated in the 1840s. A great place to encounter 19^th century history, there are a number of preserved landmarks in town like the Marshall House (1816), the Kalmia Club (1870) and the Lambertville House (1812) that are also included as part of the National Register of Historic Places. And of course, with its beloved nickname tourists will never find a shortage of totally cute antique and boutique stores here!

These include the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, the Antiques Center, and Bridge Street Antiques, to name but a few. Here quirky and quaint items await, while the chance to find the perfect gift for oneself or another becomes a most amusing adventure. Finally as a River town, being outdoors is always top of mind and with hot summers and mild winters something fun to do can be found throughout the year. Go swimming, boating, hiking, and cycling, while wildlife watching and changing colors of foliage are a treat for all ages.

For anyone travelling through the Northeastern United States, the great “Garden State” of New Jersey is indeed a cannot miss destination. As a regional economic center, a historic place of intrigue, and a naturally stunning hotspot, first time visitors will certainly find plenty to discover and enjoy in the State. And although the major cities will always attract attention, it is often the smaller towns that showcase another side of any place in equally charming ways. From the Jersey Shore community of Spring Lake, the college ambience of Princeton, to the rustic beauty of Allentown, these small New Jersey towns are awesome centers to encounter a more intimate side of the State. Wait no longer then and come see the great State of New Jersey, and whether one is a first time visitor or a returning guest, a most splendid holiday experience will never be far away.