the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, according to worldatlas.com New Jersey may be small, ranking 46th in size among U.S. states, but it packs a punch with its diverse landscapes and charming towns. Bordered by Pennsylvania to the west, Delaware to the south, and New York to the north and east, New Jersey offers everything from bustling urban environments to serene coastal retreats. Here’s a look at some of the most charming towns in the Garden State that are perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
1. Montclair
Montclair, located in northern New Jersey, is known for its rich history and vibrant modern-day vibe. As one of the wealthiest towns in the state, it offers an array of activities, including fine dining, arts, and outdoor adventures. The town is home to Montclair State University, adding a lively college-town atmosphere.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Charles Shultz House: A historic landmark showcasing turn-of-the-century infrastructure.
- The Pie Store: Famous for its savory and sweet pies.
- Montclair Art Museum: Featuring American and Native American art.
2. Ridgewood
Just thirty minutes north of Montclair, Ridgewood is steeped in U.S. history. It played a significant role during the Revolutionary War and is home to many historic sites.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Old Paramus Reformed Church: A tribute to the town’s historical heritage.
- Graydon Park: Offers outdoor activities and a pool for pass holders.
- Sook Pastry: A local favorite for homemade cakes and pastries.
3. Princeton
Located southwest of Ridgewood and Montclair, Princeton is famous for its prestigious university and rich history. The town’s beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Princeton University: Explore the stunning gothic-style campus.
- D&R Canal State Park: Ideal for a scenic walk or bike ride.
- Small World Coffee: A popular spot for coffee lovers.
4. Red Bank
East of Princeton, Red Bank is a charming coastal town along the Navesink River. Known for its vibrant arts scene and historic significance, it’s perfect for a relaxing getaway.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Maple Hall: A key site on the Black History Trail.
- The Oyster Point Hotel: Offers modern amenities and stunning views.
- Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash: A haven for comic book fans.
5. Freehold
Traveling west from Red Bank, you’ll find Freehold Township. This town is rich in history and culture, with numerous historical sites and modern attractions.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Monmouth Battlefield: A significant Revolutionary War site.
- Freehold Raceway Mall: Perfect for shopping and dining.
- Turkey Swamp Park: Offers camping, hiking, and boating.
6. Helmetta
Northeast of Freehold, Helmetta is a small town with a rich history. Despite its size, it offers beautiful nature spots and historical landmarks.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Helmetta Pond: Ideal for fishing and bird-watching.
- Villa Borghese II: Enjoy traditional-style pizza.
- St. George’s Anglican Church: A historic landmark.
7. East Brunswick
East Brunswick, located north of Helmetta, is a rapidly growing town that combines urban and rural elements. It’s known for its parks, shopping centers, and vibrant community.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Bicentennial Park: A large park with trails and a lake.
- Crystal Springs Waterpark: A fun spot for swimming and water activities.
- K-Pot Korean BBQ: A top-notch dining experience.
8. Seaside Park
South of East Brunswick, Seaside Park is a beloved coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and boardwalk. It’s an ideal destination for a summer day trip.
Must-Visit Spots:
- J Street Beach: Perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- SeaSpray Park: A waterpark that’s great for kids and families.
- The Sawmill: Enjoy classic New Jersey shore food.
New Jersey is a gem of a state, offering a unique blend of city life and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for historic sites, vibrant cultural scenes, or peaceful coastal retreats, New Jersey’s charming towns have something special for everyone.
Next Steps & Resources
- Plan Your Visit: Discover more about New Jersey’s charming towns.
- Book Accommodations: Find the best places to stay in each town.
- Explore More: Check out local events and activities happening throughout the state.
Enjoy your journey through the Garden State, where each town offers its own unique charm and attractions!
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Yes, it is a pretty amazing place, however we have a horribe Mayor and majority voting council who only prioritize their special interest projects that consist of things that relate to the central business area where the mayor owns many businesses. We need to get him out and put someone in place that actually cares about our precious village. So many bad things on Paul Vagianos’ time on the dais. It is time for him to go back to making gyros and leave Ridgewood politics alone.
Agreed but who in their right mind would want to be on the council. They already began to rig the process by waiting a month to announce the process all why the mayor and the bee dude were in full swing.
Because they only work in deceipt mode. The party to support and fundraise over at the Benjamin was not a carefully guarded secret. However you are talking about Paul Vagianos here and he is the magical mystery tour guide extraudinaire. You will never get any transparency from him as long as he is mayor. As for the bee guy, not sure why he wants to hitch his train to this wagon when it is a speeding locomotive into the depths of a place most of us don’t want to go. But when you lie and deceive the public over and over, along with the other idiots (except Ms. Reynolds) then this is what you can expect.
Who do you think is capable of being in the next mayor, and guess what you could put a brand new mayor council village manager into Office it doesn’t matter. Because the powers will control. The mall are or behind the curtain special interest groups control everything like it or not, just look at the past 15 years, the same bullshit keeps on occurring. So it tells you that someone or a group is controlling everything it’s just like the communist.
Anyone but Vagianos. Please tell me one thing the guy has actually done on his own without a heck of a lot of complaining, like sidewalks in key areas. Mostly he has cause a deficit but finds money for a crazy idea like a lightning shelter/pavillion that no one will use but his pals over at HB at Habernickle just to name one example. That is just great. Vagianos unfortunately does not have his eye on the ball and he should never have been elected mayor by the cronies he got to run alongside him. How corrupt do you have to Bee. speaking of Bee, he is doing the same thing with Frank Mortimer who is just another rubber stamp greenwashing along with Weitz who has basically also done next to nothing and and the never ending monologue artist Winograd who can credit herself with turtle crossing signs as the only original idea she has actually had. There is a serious conflict of interest here and Vagianos isn’t focused on what needs to get done in real time. He is an actor and not a very good one at that. He got elected by the sports machine and if he gets re-elected it will only be by that same group who may or may not get their field. Evrything else has fallen by the wayside and the town is not in the best shape, which is really sad.
I don’t feel like RW is such a special place. What makes HoHoKus, Allendale, Mahwah, Ramsey a lesser place than RW? Sook? lol.
Every time I drive on Franklin I get a disgusting feeling by the ugly look of downtown. Rundown, old, tired buildings and concrete with a depressing look. Where are the trees to at least break this monotonous picture? How about painting and maintenance? How about the abandoned spaces? Not special at all.
Ridgewood USED TO BE special…. about 25-30 years ago.
Now, not so much.
Nice enough, but not special anymore.
When we had long-time families committed to this town it was a better place. I have lived here since 1969.
On my block of 9 homes, 2 of us have been here 20 years or longer. The others have ‘turned over’ multiple times in less than 10 years. One home had 4 owners.
These people don’t give a shit about Ridgewood, they use the schools then go back to NYC *where they should’ve stayed”
Hmmm … so they act like illegal immigrants and foreign investors looking to make a quick buck?
What about the contaminated soil at Habernickle and shedler? Is that charming?
Don’t forget the poison in the drinking water.
And all those rich, stupid people.
only quaint
Ridgewood is no longer a “village “. And it is nothing special anymore ,even the schools
Ridgewood is no longer a “village “. And it is nothing special anymore ,even the schools. Who would make/plan a trip to Ridgewood? Ha ha ha