9 Of The Most Eccentric Towns In New Jersey
New Jersey is a gold mine of creepy legends and lore, paranormal happenings, and an intricate history. Stay a night in the haunted hotel in Cape May, and perhaps visitors may experience a supernatural encounter. Take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir from Lambertville, the Antiques Capital of New Jersey, or shop all day in Frenchtown’s adorable downtown area with many eclectic shops and stops. Daring tourists can venture down Clinton Road in West Milford and may see the spirit of a boy who drowned. Ideal for fans of the occult, Asbury Park is an essential spot with the Paranormal Tower and witchy shops to stock up on supplies. Every corner in this whimsical state is filled with endless mystery and adventure.
Cape May
Cape May is typically at the top of the list when it comes to eccentric towns in New Jersey. As the oldest seaside resort in the country, Cape May is a treasure trove of ghostly encounters. The town looks straight out of a fairytale with Victorian buildings galore lining the streets and a pristine coastline that goes on for miles. After a long day of soaking up some sun at Cape May Point, be sure to see the old WWII bunker. Not only is it a phenomenal photo opportunity, but the roadside marvel is quite the oddity for a beach. Stay awhile in Cape May with an equally elegant and eerie stay at the historic and haunted Hotel Macomber. Wake up to the sparkling waters of the ocean and relish in the hotel's convenient location. Perhaps a shadowy figure or strange noises may pay a visit during the night.
Striking inside and out, the Emlen Physick Estate is an architectural masterpiece. Standing tall and proud since 1879, tour the massive residence and get a glimpse of Victorian life. From period furnishings and decor to vintage photographs, the museum is one of a kind. Celebrate the holidays with a Christmas-themed tour or show great bravery at one of the paranormal tours. Learn about the chilling tales between the walls, hear spirit voices obtained by staff over the years, and dive into the fascinating world of the occult.
Margate City
Margate City is a quirky town boasting an enchanting main feature. Say hello to Lucy the Elephant, a giant wooden elephant watching over Josephine Harron Park. Visitors can climb the stairs inside Lucy’s leg for a peek at Lucy’s history. Some lucky guests can snag a night’s stay inside this wacky Margate City wonder on Airbnb.
Take a trip down memory lane at Marven Gardens, the same one that inspired the classic Monopoly Game. (On the gameboard itself, the name has been mispelled to Marvin Gardens.) The neighborhood looks straight out of a quintessential American family movie with lush greenery, blooming flowers, tree-lined streets, and nostalgic homes. While the area itself does not have any tourist attractions, it makes for a beautiful stroll that really captures the cozy scenery of New Jersey. Continue the blast from the past with some treats from Jagielky’s Homemade Chocolates, a less than 10-minute walk away from Marven Gardens. Serving the area for many years with beloved, original recipes, Jagielky’s is a local favorite for Margate City residents. There is something for everyone, from dipped Oreos to caramel fingers, pecan turtles, almond bark, cherry cordials, and a variety of gummy candies.
Mount Holly
Satisfy curiosities in Mount Holly with its bevy of oddball sites. Not your average art gallery, the Nightmare Arts Gallery is a top choice for horror fans and macabre enthusiasts. Browse the otherworldly collection of creative works and join the team for a chilling seance. From there, continue your spooky adventure by visiting the stone altar at the old Mt. Holly Cemetery. The concrete slab is engraved with the words "Holy, Holy, Holy" and is said to imprison the New Jersey Devil, along with the woman who allegedly managed to capture it.
First built in 1811 and in use until 1965, the Burlington County Prison Museum is as historically significant as it is intriguing. Inside, discover stories of executions dating back to 1718, escaped inmates, and restless spirits said to be roaming the place since 1833. Step into the shoes of a prisoner and play the Escape Game. Figure out the combination to open the case filled with clues. Players venture through the jail in search of more clues, which in turn help them escape.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park captures the essence of a classic New Jersey town, offering a lively nightlife, a flourishing arts and culture scene, and top-notch seafood, all set against stunning, postcard-worthy waterfront views. However, Asbury Park does not fall short when it comes to witchy vibes and offbeat wonders. Pick up some supplies to embark on an ethereal journey at A Year and a Day Mystical Shoppe, which specializes in merchandise catering to Wiccans, Pagans, Buddhists, and other spiritual paths. From Reiki to meditation groups and psychic readings, the one-stop metaphysical shop has it all. Take home a new crystal, smudge stick, incense, or book to get started.
Asbury Park is all about the strange and mysterious. Situated right in the historic downtown, dive into a darker world at the Paranormal Tower, housing the Paranormal Museum and Paranormal Books & Curiosities. The guided tour explores haunted dolls, Ouija boards, and other creepy artifacts. Join the team for a ghost tour, a seance, or a lecture to further engage in the paranormal society.
Lambertville
Located on the banks of the Delaware River, Lambertville is a quirky town known as the Antiques Capital of New Jersey. Pick up a unique souvenir from A Touch of the Past Antiques. Venture around 10,000 square feet featuring an alluring mixture of ceramics, art pieces, Asian antiques, European furniture, vintage jewelry, and early American treasures. For an even larger selection, head to The People's Store, with four stories to traverse through. Look through a captivating collection of silver, paintings, clothing, books, accessories, furniture, and antiques from Europe, America, and Asia.
Have a feast at one of Lambertville’s peculiar eateries. Feel like family at the Under the Moon Cafe, a comforting spot with home-cooked meals. Kick back in the warm atmosphere and share a long conversation with friends. Stick around until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, paired with a plate of tasty late-night bites. Choose from a Cuban Poutine, Duck Mac and Cheese, and a Margarita flatbread. Rustic and charming, venture off the beaten path to The Boat House. The cozy cottage boasts a nautical ambiance and matches perfectly with New Jersey’s coastal vibes. Specializing in cocktails, try the BoatSpresso Martini, Rower’s Reserve, Boulevardier, or a classic Manhattan.
West Milford
West Milford earned a spot on New Jersey’s map as the owner of the notorious, deadly stretch of road known as Clinton Road. The most widely told story about this eerie path is of a boy’s spirit, who is said to appear at the bridge near Dead Man’s Curve after throwing a coin into the water. Dare to take a journey down this creepy road?
The West Milford area radiates an enchanting aura of magic and mystery. Wander through the ruins of the former Warner Bros. Jungle Habitat zoo park. Open from 1972 to 1976, visitors can roam around old animal cages and a ride track. Currently, the abandoned park is an adored local spot for hiking and biking. Aside from being an adventure path, Jungle Habitat hosts the Lunar Faire Night Market. Purchase a weird souvenir and gather with residents under the moon. The witchy-inspired pop-up market regularly travels throughout the state.
Step back in time at the historic Wallisch Homestead, a working farm that educates the masses. Take a leisurely stroll through this remarkable property, featuring a workshop, carriage house, windmill, creamery, and a Dutch-style dairy barn. Most of these historic structures date back to the 19th century. Join the festivities at Wallisch Homestead, featuring events like the Harvest Wine Tasting, Yoga with Viola, and a cozy Fireside Drum Circle.
Millville
Millville is an artsy New Jersey town that thrives on gathering creative minds together. The town is renowned for its murals, with the majority located on High Street. From a Peaceful Mandala to Sunrise on the Maurice River and the Wall of Remembrance, each masterpiece is striking, full of character, and tells a beautiful story. Right by the murals, continue getting an art fix at the Riverfront Renaissance Center for the Arts. Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, support local talent at the exhibits, or try a hosted hands-on experience with painting, drawing, quilting, jewelry, and other original feats.
Creative enthusiasts go nuts for the Festival of Fine Craft, with vendors galore selling their creations. Stick around for the special artist demonstrations and relax afterwards in the Beer & Wine Garden. No matter how you spend your day, tourists leave inspired by Millville’s creative spirit.
Frenchtown
Frenchtown is a misplaced New Jersey town in the best way possible. The fairytale town looks as if it's been plucked out of England and placed in the United States. Spend an afternoon basking in Hallmark movie vibes amidst the picture-perfect ambiance. Family-owned and independent, find a new favourite at the Frenchtown Bookshop. From award-winning novels to intriguing and informative non-fiction reads, choose from an extensive collection of subjects. The dollhouse exterior matches Frenchtown’s overall rom-com setting. Just down the street, discover a new head-turning outfit at Country Chic Boutique & Consignment. Pick out a gorgeous top, skirt, or sweater and complete the look with some jewelry. After a thrilling day of shopping, rejuvenate at the Perfect Day Cafe, true to its name. Savor a nice cup of their own fresh roasted coffee and pair it with a sandwich, soup, or pastry. Another option is to continue down Bridge Street to cross over the Delaware River and say hello to friends in Pennsylvania.
Cranbury
Take a journey to a bygone era in Cranbury, a well-preserved historic small town in New Jersey. The best way for visitors to immerse themselves in Cranbury’s roots is by checking out the Cranbury Museum. Previously a family home, the vintage home now showcases a time capsule of the town’s past as well as antique furniture. Celebrate the magic of the holiday season at the annual Christmas Tea held at the museum. Typically scheduled at the beginning of December, fill up on Christmas tea and cookies while mingling with the locals. Afterwards, wander through the seasonal Holiday Hankies & Gems exhibit. Sit down for a hearty meal at The Cranbury Inn, a long-time town landmark. Hosting travelers for centuries, the restaurant is a timeless gem in New Jersey. Gather for lunch, brunch, or dinner and dig into classic fare. Feel right at home with Loaded Nachos, a California Cheeseburger, or a Roast Turkey plate, and finish off with a Dark Side of the Moon Cake for a day well spent in Cranbury.
With its major ties to the Revolutionary War, it comes as no surprise that Cranbury is rich in historical sites. Pay respects to fallen soldiers at the Brainerd Cemetery, right behind the Presbyterian Church. Walk among the tombstones, where around 80 Revolutionary War troops are buried. The grounds exude an uncanny, but enticing aura.
Get Weird in New Jersey
New Jersey is a hotspot for history, mystery, and unexplained sightings. See the horror-filled gallery in Mount Holly and then head out to the tomb where, allegedly, the New Jersey Devil is captured. Climb the massive elephant in Margate City and stroll through the famous Marven Gardens. Invite friends or family for a unique dinner in Lambertville, boasting many captivating eateries, or head to Millville for a taste of New Jersey’s diverse art scene. Draped in spookiness year-round, Asbury Park is a phenomenal spot to get hands-on with otherworldly experiences. Explore the abandoned Jungle Habitat Park in West Milford and then embark on a frightening night drive down Clinton Road. New Jersey is full of quirky escapades to remember for a lifetime.
