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The 25 Most Charming Small Towns in New Jersey

From Cherry Hill to Toms RIver

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In the words of the late, great Anthony Bourdain, “To know Jersey is to love her.” The state might often get a bad rap, thanks to those funky smells right along the Turnpike near Newark Airport, but once you start to explore The Garden State, you’ll discover hidden treasures guaranteed to impress even the most discerning New Yorkers. Take, for example, the adorable towns on this list, which are ripe for exploration via a New York City day, overnight, or weekend trip.

And, as many New Yorkers tend to do, you never know—you might end up graduating and making one of them your permanent residence one day, too. Here are 25 charming small towns in New Jersey that are worth checking out, whether you’re looking for a pastoral retreat, a quaint suburb with easy city access or a vibrant small town with a tight-knit community and historic charm.

This East Coast Gem Boasts Sandy Beaches, Historic Architecture and a Vibrant Music Scene


1. Frenchtown, NJ

The French always seem to do it right. Early speakers of the love language were the influence for this town’s name, and probably its spirit, too. Today, it includes a small downtown of fun bobo (that’s boho chic to you and me) shops, including a gemstone gallery, a petrified wood gallery, art galleries and gift shops, plus a dedicated men’s store that carries everything from glassware to vintage threads to cowboy boots. There’s also a shop solely dedicated to the zodiac with tarot card readings—naturally—and a handful of tiny juice and coffee shops, including one that's dedicated to coffee and chocolate. Our must-visit, though, is Frenchtown Pottery, where you will score high-quality local, handmade bowls and plates.

Nestled on the banks of the Delaware River, Frenchtown's Warren truss-style bridge is a destination in its own right, and while we technically can't advise you to wait for the two way traffic to clear before snapping the perfect pic in front of it, you wouldn't be alone if you tried.

2. Cranbury, NJ

With quiet cobblestoned sidewalks, a handsome brick-facade town hall, and the historic Cranbury Inn—which has been operational in some form since the 1750s—it’s easy to see why visitors are completely spellbound by this charming Central New Jersey town. If you’re partial to the outdoors, there’s also a very idyllic nature preserve, Plainsboro Nature Preserve, within quick driving distance.

But there’s nothing sleepy about Cranbury—just 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 (!).

3. Montclair, NJ

Lots of people will try to tell you Montclair is “the Brooklyn” of New Jersey (ditto for nearby Maplewood). And they wouldn’t be wrong about it, as you can totally see a Carroll Gardens vibe all around you. Decidedly more suburban in nature, the townhouses surrounding Smith Street are a mix of well-manicured and seriously grand old homes. The town, which notably lent its high school as a filming location for Mean Girls, boasts a great farmer’s market on Saturday and has a few walkable shopping districts to grab whatever your heart desires. This year, Montclair also welcomed an arts complex near the Wellmont Theater featuring plenty of outdoor space for performances and public art. That’s on top of an already established arts community that includes live theater and galleries. Restaurants, movie theaters, shops and nightlife are other major draws. Pro tip: Don’t leave without trying a meal at French Lebanese restaurant Uncle Momo, which has another outpost in Jersey City.

4. Madison, NJ

Any town nicknamed “The Rose City” (more on that below) that boasts a Shakespeare Theater should instantly pique your interest. Said theater is located on the campus of Drew University, where you can enjoy a show or simply catch a glimpse of it on a walk around the classic college campus that appears straight out of a film—and indeed, has been featured in them many times.

In Madison, a recognizable freestanding clock stands at the center of a charming downtown filled with gift and decor shops, a bookstore, a consignment shop, and an adorable coffee shop located in an old motor garage. Today, The Snooki Shop also has a home here as the brick and mortar embodiment of the star’s online shop, but that doesn’t mean this place is stereotypically Jersey in any way, shape or form. 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. 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.

5. Princeton, NJ

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. The Ivy League school of the same name brings folks from all over the world, and as a result, this town is blessed with great shopping, arts, entertainment, food, museums, orchards and wineries—and the list goes on. A stop at the university’s gorgeous chapel is a must, where you can take in the stunning Gothic architecture and enjoy a service or concert (advance registration required).

Enjoy exploring the small businesses in and around the town’s picturesque main square, Palmer Square. They include a fine foods store, Olsson’s; an old-timey record store, Princeton Record Exchange; and a fantastic bookstore worth getting lost in, Labyrinth Books. Or you could support the town’s bookstore dedicated to mystery books, aptly named The Cloak and Dagger, by virtual means.

6. Clinton, NJ

Clinton will charm your pants off. The Red Mill—a museum complex with numerous historical buildings, including an old schoolhouse, blacksmith shop and log cabin—is a focal point and will quickly make its appearance on your social channels when you visit. Less than 90 minutes outside NYC, Clinton’s tiny downtown will transport you to a small, country village with shops and eateries that will interest selective city slickers. Heartstrings, a jewelry, home decor and gift shop will not disappoint, nor will Fourchette, which sells everything from fine foods and beauty products to garden tools and rugs.

most charming towns in new jersey spring lake
Monmouth County Government

7. Spring Lake, NJ

What’s not to love about a Jersey beach town? As some NJ license plates proudly proclaim, they’re “Shore to Please”. But packed boardwalks, funnel cakes, and amusement rides are a far cry from what you’ll find in Spring Lake, which if you ask anyone from New Jersey, seems to have a particular cachet. More Newport in nature than Seaside Heights, it’s easy to enjoy a day in town just gawking at its real estate (and subsequently Zillow-ing and crying). The well-groomed beaches are a draw in any season that’s not winter, especially for their quieter and more relaxing vibes come prime season. The picturesque downtown keeps visitors coming back regardless of temps, with boutiques, candy stores and a beautiful adjacent park with walking paths.

most charming towns in new jersey red bank new jersey
Monmouth County Government

8. Red Bank, NJ

Without even stepping out of the car or the adorable green-painted train stop in this town, it’s immediately obvious that Red Bank oozes cool. It’s adorable, for sure, but it’s the mix and energy of this downtown that sets it apart from others. And that diversity can be seen in the shopping scene: Everything from a Cos Bar to a quality cheese shop to Jay & Silent Bob’s Secret Stash—aka Kevin Smith’s famed comic book store featured on AMC’s Comic Book Men—can be found in the town. For those looking for a splurge, there’s a luxury consignment shop with coveted brands, finer decor stores including a West Elm, and even a Tiffany & Co to indulge yourself. Loads of dining options, art galleries, and theaters and music venues keep this town’s heart throbbing as well.

9. Allentown, NJ

The Old Mill is a draw in this small town that’s retained its country charm, and is lined with Victorian homes, plus a handful of shops and restaurants. 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 town’s lake with primo blends and café concoctions, delicious vegan-friendly sandwiches, cakes and other devilishly good pastries. Upstairs and in and around the mill, you’ll find shops from local artisans, of which items for sale are hand-made or vintage. 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. Here, you’ll find The Horse Park of New Jersey; the Ashford Estate, a breathtaking and popular wedding venue; and, Screamin’ Hill Brewery, where a family farm meets a brewery, and you can reserve a “crop circle” to enjoy a cold one with friends.

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Richard T. Nowitz/Getty Images

10. Cape May, NJ

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. It’ll be worth it, though. The town is true seashore Americana at its finest and filled with gawk-worthy architecture and small pleasures at every turn. 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. (Don’t fret—it’s still a relaxed beach town.) Highlights in and around Cape May include the Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly shopping district, the Cape May lighthouse and surrounding nature trails, or a leisurely dinner on the porch at either Ebbitt Room or Peter Shields Inn, plus touring the historical and well-preserved Emlen Physick Estate.

most charming towns in new jersey lambertville
photovs/Getty Images

11. Lambertville, NJ

The antiques capital of New Jersey, this is where you come if you’re looking to procure an amazing second-hand piece of furniture, knick-knack or talisman. It’s also a major art outpost, with galleries hugging its main thoroughfare, Bridge Street, and many walkable side streets. 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, PA—also packed with a considerable amount of art, boutique shopping, and delicious food. Three of our favorite stops in town, even if you’re just window shopping: Antique’s Center at the People’s Store, Pirela Atelier and Gallery Piquel. For good eats, look no further than D’floret, which could give some big city restaurants a run for their money.

12. Hoboken, NJ

  • Why We Recommend It: urban amenities, cityscape views, good eats, picturesque downtown, great shopping
  • Where to Stay: W Hoboken (from $256/night); Hoboken Brownstone (from $650/night, sleeps 6); Artsy Getaway (from $284/night, sleeps 2)

With rapid access to downtown and midtown Manhattan (less than 10 minutes on the PATH train), many New Yorkers already consider Hoboken the “sixth borough” of NYC, and the city's cosmopolitan nature has certainly rubbed off here. But Frank Sinatra’s 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 Manhattan’s twinkling skyline. One of our favorite (and free!) things to do, though: Take a walk down Hudson Street past some of the town’s sparkliest West Village-like brownstones, many of which are worthy of a double take.

Dubbed the Mile Square City, thanks to its small footprint at about one square mile, you’ll find crowd pleasers like an Artichoke Basile’s 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, Barbès for French with a Moroccan twist, Apulia for wood burning oven pies and Italian, and Elysian Cafe for the dreamy ambiance. Hoboken is also home to many noteworthy small businesses, like the recently opened Unjumbold, a home and lifestyle store which features products from women, LGBTQ and black-owned companies; Little City Books, an independent book shop that encourages you to bring your pup inside; Galatea, a shop dedicated to lingerie and loungewear; and Washington General Store, which carries a large variety of gifts suited for any personality.

Street art of Milburn NJ
Township of Millburn/Facebook

13. Millburn, NJ

A vibrant Essex County suburb just 40 minutes outside of NYC, Millburn is known for its bustling downtown district, which boasts a whole host of boutiques and restaurants. Don’t miss out on lunch at Millburn Deli—a veritable institution with a famously long sandwich menu that includes a killer New Jersey style sloppy Joe—and maybe take your grub to-go so you can picnic in the scenic 16-acre downtown oasis known as Taylor Park, which features lush foliage, a tranquil pond and multiple recreational areas and playgrounds. Finish your visit with a trip to the Paper Mill Playhouse—a performing arts venue that was dubbed the “State Theater of New Jersey” and hosts a variety of top-notch live performances on the regular—or if you’re more interested in nature than arts and culture, head to the nearby Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary. In other words, Millburn is an idyllic New Jersey enclave with something to offer everyone.

Cloudy day at Tomes River
Luisnet/Getty images

14. Toms River, NJ

This Jersey Shore destination has a very different vibe than the nearby Seaside Heights, so it’s nothing like what you’ve seen on TV. In fact, Toms River is a super low key and tranquil town that’s known for its beautiful, unspoilt beaches (the most popular being Dover and Ortley) and pristine waters. Downtown consists of only a handful of eateries and shops, which means there’s not much in the way of entertainment—only enough to meet all your basic needs. That said, the locals are friendly and the ocean views can’t be beat, so if you’re looking for a truly restful beachside escape, Toms River fits the bill.

This Southern Jersey town in the county of Camden is actually a suburb of Philadelphia, making it a commuter’s dream for folks hoping to relocate to a small town in New Jersey without sacrificing access to a major urban hub. Obviously, the close proximity to Philly opens up so many possibilities when it comes to culture, dining and entertainment—but Cherry Hill has plenty of charm in its own right. Kids will delight in the nearby family-friendly attractions like Diggerland USA, a construction themed amusement park, and Clementon Park & Splash World, and the Camden County 9/11 Memorial and Esther Raab Holocaust Museum are worth visiting for a more sobering cultural experience. Above all, though, Cherry Hill should be on your radar as an affordable and charming town that allows visitors easier access to all the big city attractions of Philly without having to pony up the big rental prices.

A bustling downtown replete with vintage shops, boutiques, breweries and restaurants, plus an equally vibrant boardwalk, make Asbury Park one of the most attractive small towns in New Jersey for visitors looking for a beach stay that serves up more than just sand and sea. The town has aesthetic appeal, too—especially the boardwalk area, which dates back to 1871 and has retained its historic charm. For those interested in the history of the town, be sure to check out the Paramount Theatre and Asbury Park Convention Hall, both of which will transport you back to the Roaring Twenties. Oh, and if you’re looking for a place to eat after a long day on the beach, we have it on good authority that the classic Italian fare at Moonstruck is second to none.

The beach town of Brigantine is located just minutes away from Atlantic City, so visitors can easily get their nightlife fix and spend some time at the casinos while still enjoying a vacation with a far more peaceful vibe. In fact, Brigantine is an ideal place for visitors looking for a nature retreat, since it’s home to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center and the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge—a birdwatcher’s paradise, complete with hiking and biking trails and lots of rare avian life.

This Somerset county gem has a quaint but vibrant shopping and restaurant district, as well as scenic outdoor attractions like the gorgeous Cross Estate Gardens. Bernardsville has country club vibes that will appeal to golfers and pretty much anyone who’s looking for a relaxing resort-style getaway. The Somerset Hills Country Club is a perfect place to tee off while taking in the natural beauty of the bucolic countryside, provided you move to town and get a membership (or are visiting someone who does). Bottom line: If you’re looking for a low-key getaway with pastoral views, country club vibes and a quiet but well-appointed town center, Bernardsville fits the bill.

Come summertime, folks flock to Seaside Heights—a popular beach getaway in Ocean County. The beach itself is a major draw, of course (and be prepared because it does get quite crowded on weekends), but there are many other attractions to enjoy when you’ve had enough of the sun and surf. The lively boardwalk is lined with casual eateries where families can enjoy top-notch food while enjoying the ocean views. There’s also a carousel and an amusement park, Breakwater Beach Water Park and Casino, that will keep all members of the family entertained. And yes, this is the famous stomping grounds of the Jersey Shore crew from back in the day, so the nightlife is popping off. Still, families shouldn’t shy away from this popular Jersey destination, as there are plenty of wholesome ways to spend a weekend in Seaside Heights.

This beachside community is an ideal spot for families to visit, due to its energetic vibe and array of kid-friendly attractions. On the boardwalk, you’ll find old-timey candy shops—Jenkinson’s Sweet Shop has classic charm to spare and an excellent selection of treats—arcades, and even an amusement park. There are dining options aplenty: The menu at The Poached Pear Bistro boasts some Michelin star-worthy seafood dishes, and there’s an abundance of kid-friendly American fare to be found in town and on the boardwalk as well.  Best of all, the beach is pristine, the waves are soft and gentle and the overall vibe of the town is right there in its name.

Belvidere, a quaint and quiet community in Warren County, is one of the small towns in New Jersey that’s least likely to garner attention from tourists visiting the Garden State. That said, folks who are looking for an authentic small town experience will find it here. The vibe is decidedly low-key, but that is part of the appeal in that this Jersey town is an ideal place for those looking for some peace and quiet or for families who want to spend some QT together. Don’t get us wrong, though—you won’t be completely wanting for entertainment. Mackey’s Orchard is a gorgeous farm where you can enjoy hayrides, pick your own seasonal produce and delight in farm-fresh delicacies from their market; the Country Gate Playhouse, a converted 1930s art deco movie theater, hosts live performances regularly; and Five Acres, an antique shop, is described by reviewers as “the best flea market ever.” If you want a taste of quiet country living with a dose of Victoriam charm, Belvidere delivers.

Located on the Mullica River in Atlantic County, Port Republic is a quiet town that offers visitors gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and access to the nearby wetlands, where opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing abound, including the aforementioned Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, which is just a stone’s throw away.. There’s also the Red Wing Sporting Clays—a beloved shooting range for those interested in that particular breed of recreation—and wine lovers would be wise to pay a visit to the Tomasello Winery and Vineyard, where they can taste some of the best local wine that the Garden State has to offer. While enjoying your stay in quiet Port Republic, be sure to venture off to neighboring Smithville for a shopping and dining experience that feels like it’s been plucked from a history book.

This Sussex County town is just one hour’s drive outside of NYC and boasts myriad attractions with year round appeal. There’s a ski resort for winter recreation and a water park for family-friendly summer fun at Mountain Creek, and the Crystal Spring Resort’s Minerals Spa is an ideal spot where couples can enjoy a romantic weekend of pampering. Outdoor enthusiasts should also pencil the Stairway to Heaven Trail (pictured above) into their itinerary—an Appalachian trail that boasts a moderate, family-friendly route in addition to the more strenuous climb; both culminate in panoramic views and serve up plenty of natural beauty along the way.

Downtown Somerville has plenty of small town charm, but it’s also pretty far from snoozy, since it’s packed with restaurants and bars (Savor, Da Filippos and Cafe Picasso all get glowing reviews). There’s also a noteworthy antique shop, Elysium Antiques, where you’re almost guaranteed to discover a unique treasure, a number of family friendly attractions—Yestercades and Ultimate Xscape Rooms are a must if you’re looking for some entertainment—and a couple of historical attractions, like the Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage Association, that offer up some cultural enrichment. Somerville might be one of the less popular small towns in New Jersey, but it truly does have something for everyone and should be on your radar for this very reason.

This charming small town in New Jersey started out as the stomping grounds for the region’s elite and has since evolved into a (relatively) densely populated and diverse community, making it a very rich and vibrant place to visit. It’s also worth noting that the place is downright gorgeous. Stroll the scenic public spaces—Pine Park, Lake Carasaljo—where you can watch swans glide across the water, and the picturesque campus of Georgian Court University, to name a few. Oh, and be sure to pack a picnic lunch from Bagel Nosh. You won’t be disappointed, trust.


purewow author

Freelance PureWow Editor

Dan Koday is a travel and lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years experience creating content for your favorite websites, print publications and brands. As a native to the NYC metropolitan area, Dan is an expert on all things Gotham, but likes to get out of town, too. After a recent trip to Antarctica, he's officially traveled to all four corners of the globe. 

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Freelance PureWow Editor

  • Has 5+ years of experience writing family, travel and wellness content for PureWow
  • Previously worked as a copy editor, proofreader and research assistant for two prominent authors
  • Studied Sociology, Political Science and Philosophy in the CUNY Baccalaureate independent study program.

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