Hunterdon County, NJ, is known for its rolling hills, historic charm, and close-knit communities, but its central location makes it the perfect launchpad for weekend trips that offer a change of scenery. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural hotspots, the surrounding regions offer plenty to explore. Here’s a guide to some of the best weekend getaways from Hunterdon County, NJ, for a refreshing escape without traveling too far.
1. New Hope, PA: A Charming Riverfront Retreat
Just a short drive across the Delaware River from Hunterdon County, the picturesque town of New Hope, Pennsylvania, is an ideal weekend destination for those seeking quaint shops, unique restaurants, and an artsy vibe. With its historic architecture and stunning riverside views, New Hope is known for its artistic community, including galleries, boutiques, and antique shops.
Start your weekend with a stroll along the Delaware Canal Towpath, which stretches alongside the scenic Delaware River. The town also boasts theaters like the famous Bucks County Playhouse, offering performances ranging from musicals to plays. After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner at one of the town's highly-rated restaurants, like The Landing, where you can dine with a view of the water.
Start your weekend with a stroll along the Delaware Canal Towpath, which stretches alongside the scenic Delaware River. The town also boasts theaters like the famous Bucks County Playhouse, offering performances ranging from musicals to plays. After a day of exploring, enjoy dinner at one of the town's highly-rated restaurants, like The Landing, where you can dine with a view of the water.
2. The Pocono Mountains, PA: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
For a more rugged weekend escape, head to the Pocono Mountains, just over an hour's drive from Hunterdon County. The Poconos offer year-round outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking in the warmer months to skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
If you're visiting in the fall, the Pocono Mountains transform into a stunning backdrop of fiery foliage, perfect for leaf peeping. Spend your days exploring trails in Hickory Run State Park or taking a scenic drive along Route 209. Waterfalls, like Bushkill Falls, known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," are a must-see.
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the Poconos are also home to several cozy resorts and spas. A weekend at The Lodge at Woodloch offers a blend of luxury and relaxation, with wellness programs, fine dining, and nature-centric activities like forest bathing and guided hikes.
If you're visiting in the fall, the Pocono Mountains transform into a stunning backdrop of fiery foliage, perfect for leaf peeping. Spend your days exploring trails in Hickory Run State Park or taking a scenic drive along Route 209. Waterfalls, like Bushkill Falls, known as the "Niagara of Pennsylvania," are a must-see.
For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, the Poconos are also home to several cozy resorts and spas. A weekend at The Lodge at Woodloch offers a blend of luxury and relaxation, with wellness programs, fine dining, and nature-centric activities like forest bathing and guided hikes.
3. Princeton, NJ: A Historic and Cultural Experience
Located 45 minutes from Hunterdon County, Princeton offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. The prestigious Princeton University is the heart of the town, with its stunning Gothic architecture and tree-lined campus perfect for leisurely walks.
The Princeton University Art Museum is a must-visit, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from ancient times to modern pieces. Afterward, catch a show at McCarter Theatre Center, which offers a mix of theater, dance, and musical performances. For a taste of history, visit the Princeton Battlefield State Park, the site of a pivotal battle during the American Revolution.
Princeton's downtown area is filled with cafes, bookstores, and fine dining restaurants, such as the renowned Blue Point Grill or Agricola Eatery, known for its farm-to-table menu.
The Princeton University Art Museum is a must-visit, featuring a diverse collection of artwork from ancient times to modern pieces. Afterward, catch a show at McCarter Theatre Center, which offers a mix of theater, dance, and musical performances. For a taste of history, visit the Princeton Battlefield State Park, the site of a pivotal battle during the American Revolution.
Princeton's downtown area is filled with cafes, bookstores, and fine dining restaurants, such as the renowned Blue Point Grill or Agricola Eatery, known for its farm-to-table menu.
4. Lambertville, NJ: Artsy and Inviting
Right next to New Hope, Lambertville is another weekend gem worth exploring. This charming town along the Delaware River is known for its eclectic arts scene, antique shops, and beautiful Victorian homes.
A weekend in Lambertville can include visiting the Lambertville Historical Society to learn more about the area’s rich history, strolling the streets lined with unique art galleries, or attending a live performance at the Music Mountain Theatre. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can rent a bike and ride along the D&R Canal State Park Trail, which stretches along the river and offers beautiful scenery.
End your day by dining at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants like The Lambertville Station, offering delicious meals in a renovated 19th-century train station, or The Swan Bar, known for its rustic charm and upscale pub fare.
A weekend in Lambertville can include visiting the Lambertville Historical Society to learn more about the area’s rich history, strolling the streets lined with unique art galleries, or attending a live performance at the Music Mountain Theatre. If you’re looking for something a bit more active, you can rent a bike and ride along the D&R Canal State Park Trail, which stretches along the river and offers beautiful scenery.
End your day by dining at one of the town’s fantastic restaurants like The Lambertville Station, offering delicious meals in a renovated 19th-century train station, or The Swan Bar, known for its rustic charm and upscale pub fare.
5. Asbury Park, NJ: A Beachside Escape
If you're in the mood for a beach getaway, head to Asbury Park, located just over an hour from Hunterdon County on the Jersey Shore. This vibrant coastal town is famous for its lively boardwalk, pristine beaches, and an energetic arts and music scene.
Spend the day relaxing on the beach or take a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy boutique shops, fun arcades, and fantastic eateries. Asbury Park is also known for its live music venues, including the iconic Stone Pony, which has hosted legendary acts such as Bruce Springsteen.
For art lovers, the town's thriving mural scene and galleries offer a feast for the eyes, while its culinary options range from casual beachside fare to upscale dining experiences like Pascal & Sabine, known for its French cuisine.
Spend the day relaxing on the beach or take a stroll along the boardwalk to enjoy boutique shops, fun arcades, and fantastic eateries. Asbury Park is also known for its live music venues, including the iconic Stone Pony, which has hosted legendary acts such as Bruce Springsteen.
For art lovers, the town's thriving mural scene and galleries offer a feast for the eyes, while its culinary options range from casual beachside fare to upscale dining experiences like Pascal & Sabine, known for its French cuisine.
6. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area: Adventure Awaits
For a nature-focused weekend, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a stunning escape located about an hour from Hunterdon County. This area offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, offering some challenging hikes with rewarding views. One of the most popular hikes is to Mount Tammany, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Delaware River and the surrounding landscape. For something a bit more relaxed, canoe or kayak along the Delaware River, where you can spot wildlife such as eagles and deer.
There are also several historical sites to explore, such as Millbrook Village, a recreated 19th-century community, and the historic Minisink Archaeological Site.
The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, offering some challenging hikes with rewarding views. One of the most popular hikes is to Mount Tammany, where you can take in breathtaking views of the Delaware River and the surrounding landscape. For something a bit more relaxed, canoe or kayak along the Delaware River, where you can spot wildlife such as eagles and deer.
There are also several historical sites to explore, such as Millbrook Village, a recreated 19th-century community, and the historic Minisink Archaeological Site.
7. Philadelphia, PA: A Blend of History and Modernity
If you’re looking for a city experience, Philadelphia is just an hour’s drive away from Hunterdon County, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and cuisine.
Start your trip by exploring the historic district, home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its famous "Rocky steps," is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, as is the nearby Barnes Foundation, known for its impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings.
Foodies will love Philadelphia's diverse dining options, from the famous cheesesteaks to more refined dining experiences like Zahav, an award-winning Israeli restaurant.
Ready to explore the best weekend getaways or find your dream home in New Jersey? Let Freeman Smith, an experienced and trusted New Jersey real estate expert, guide you every step of the way. Whether you're buying or selling, Freeman’s local expertise and commitment to personalized service ensure a smooth and successful real estate experience. Contact Freeman today and start making your real estate dreams a reality!
Start your trip by exploring the historic district, home to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the National Constitution Center. The Philadelphia Museum of Art, with its famous "Rocky steps," is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, as is the nearby Barnes Foundation, known for its impressive collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and early Modern paintings.
Foodies will love Philadelphia's diverse dining options, from the famous cheesesteaks to more refined dining experiences like Zahav, an award-winning Israeli restaurant.
Ready to explore the best weekend getaways or find your dream home in New Jersey? Let Freeman Smith, an experienced and trusted New Jersey real estate expert, guide you every step of the way. Whether you're buying or selling, Freeman’s local expertise and commitment to personalized service ensure a smooth and successful real estate experience. Contact Freeman today and start making your real estate dreams a reality!
