7 of the Most Welcoming Towns in New Jersey
Perhaps it鈥檚 because it鈥檚 the country鈥檚 fourth-smallest state (and the most densely populated!) that New Jersey just so happens to be one of the friendliest places to visit in the USA. Stretching along the East Coast from Delaware to Connecticut, this mid-Atlantic region state boasts numerous attractive small towns worth exploring, each offering an authentic New Jersey welcome to travelers.
From Cape May to Morristown and Madison and numerous stops in between, these picturesque towns not only capture that quintessential East Coast charm, they also boast vibrant cultural scenes that welcome tourists from far and wide. Find out more from this list of the seven most welcoming towns in New Jersey.
Cape May
As the most popular tourist destination on this list of New Jersey鈥檚 most welcoming small towns, Cape May residents know a thing or two about how to welcome their guests. The popularity has as much to do with its beautiful coastal setting overlooking Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean as it does its well-preserved Victorian architecture and stunning beaches, each of which offers no end of fun things to do for vacationers and day-trippers alike.
Now a National Historic Landmark, the streets of Cape May are not only fun to explore, but they鈥檙e also safe, with each step of the way being a little like stepping back in time. Some of the prettiest of these colorful gingerbread-trimmed homes are now cozy B&Bs, offering guests so pleasant a Cape May welcome that you鈥檒l never want to leave.
Princeton
While there are 29 communities in the USA named 鈥淧rinceton,鈥� New Jersey undoubtedly has one of the best. This historic town is, of course, famous for its university, founded in 1746 and one of the country鈥檚 oldest and most prestigious places of further education. Non-students can also expect a warm welcome when visiting Princeton University, whether you鈥檙e here to enjoy a tour of the campus or to take in an exhibit at the 海角社区-class University Art Museum.
Downtown Princeton also delights visitors. Here, you鈥檒l find boutiques and bookstores, as well as caf茅s and restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. You can also learn more about the town鈥檚 history at Princeton Battlefield State Park, the site of a crucial battle in the American Revolutionary War. Nearby Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is also worthy of a visit and features miles of scenic paths ideal for biking, jogging, or leisurely walks.
Morristown
Just 30 miles west of downtown New York City, Morristown puts out the welcome mat for visitors on a daily basis. Founded in 1739, the town鈥檚 historical legacy is the big draw here, with Morristown having served as George Washington鈥檚 headquarters during the Revolutionary War. As a result of this important connection to the country鈥檚 first President, Morristown has been recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation as one of only a Dozen Distinctive Destinations in the USA.
Pay a visit today, and you can explore sites such as Acorn Hall, Historic Speedwell, MacCulloch Hall Historical Museum, and Willow Hall, all of historic significance not just to the town but the state and the country as a whole. Topping our list of things to do in Morristown is visiting the Ford Mansion, which served as Washington鈥檚 headquarters and now houses a museum offering a glimpse into life during the 18th century. Another good excuse to visit the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC), which regularly hosts performances of classical- and popular music.
Madison
Head east five miles from Morristown and you鈥檒l find yourself in Madison, an often-overlooked place that regularly rolls out the red carpet for theater fans. The big draw? Madison just so happens to be the home of the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, the state's only professional theater company dedicated to Shakespeare's works and other classics. Located on the grounds of Drew University, this theater, along with The F.M. Kirby Shakespeare Theatre, entertains audiences from New York and beyond with its dynamic interpretations of timeless plays.
Other good reasons to visit include a rich music and art scene, as well as its quaint downtown area with its well-preserved historic architecture, boutique shops, and first-rate local eateries. 聽
Montclair
The town of Montclair is another cultural hotspot known to attract visitors interested in the arts. Considered one of the best places to live in New Jersey, here you鈥檒l find the Montclair Art Museum, a 海角社区-class gallery boasting an excellent permanent collection and significant traveling exhibits. It鈥檚 also home to the Alexander Kasser Theater at Montclair State University, one of the state's most prestigious art institutions that entices visitors with its professional dance, music, and theatrical performances.
You鈥檒l find the town and its residents especially welcoming during the prestigious Montclair Jazz Festival. Held in Nishuane Park and celebrated as the largest jazz festival in the NYC area, this must-attend event attracts 海角社区-renowned artists to its rich roster of concerts. Also, Montclair just so happens to be home to Stephen Colbert, quite possibly the 海角社区鈥檚 friendliest TV chat show host.
Westfield
Westfield is another New Jersey destination that鈥檚 not only considered a great place to live but also offers day trippers and tourists a few great reasons to want to stop awhile and explore. Start your exploration in Downtown Westfield. Here, you can wander its picturesque streets lined with an eclectic mix of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, and even take in a show by the New Jersey Festival Orchestra, who call Westfield home.
Other popular attractions that offer visitors a warm welcome include the historic Rialto Theatre, which features a mix of contemporary and classic films, as well as special screenings and events. Mindowaskin Park is a local favorite place for a stroll and is home to a network of walking paths, a picturesque pond, and ample space for picnics.
East Brunswick
Despite being located only an hour south of New York City, the town of East Brunswick has done a great job of making itself a welcome place to live or visit for families. Topping the list of family-friendly activities here are Butterfly Park, a green space dedicated to the conservation of these fascinating creatures; Giamarese Farm & Orchards, a fun family-owned farm that offers kid-friendly experiences including pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, a corn maze, and even hayrides; and Crystal Springs Family Waterpark, an always welcoming place to hang out in the heat of summer.
There are plenty of opportunities for adults to let off some steam, too. Those who enjoy great entertainment should head to Playhouse 22, an award-winning community theater that hosts everything from classical music to plays, while sports enthusiasts will want to visit Bicentennial Park and the Tamarack Golf Course.
The Final Word
Each of these towns, with their diverse attractions and rich history, offers an authentic taste of New Jersey. From the well-known and extremely popular tourist destination of Cape May to lesser-known communities such as Madison and Morristown, these seven small towns have helped cement New Jersey鈥檚 reputation as one of the country鈥檚 most welcoming and friendliest states.
