December 27, 2022
2023 is upon us and there is no better resolution than exploring all that New Jersey has to offer. But how do you know where to start? New Jersey’s small towns — some virtually unknown, some legendary — are surprising, and each has a perfect time to visit. On this year-round tour of New Jersey’s best small towns, you’ll experience winter fun, crisp holidays, summer fun and a 2023 holiday season to remember. One thing all of these small towns have in common is that they all belong to New Jersey, and there’s a reason why they should be on any New Jersey resident’s travel bucket list.
During the colder winter months, this quiet town’s network of art museums, antique shops and charming cafes make the perfect day trip destination.
Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA
Cape May can be bustling in the summer – but the coastal town is surprisingly calm in the winter. It’s perfect for a special Valentine’s Day vacation.
Metuchen may be the best place in New Jersey to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, thanks to Haley’s Harp & Pub – an authentic Irish pub located on the town’s main street.
The quiet farming town of Chester comes alive in April as Alstead Farms hosts the state’s largest Easter event for families. Hayrides, egg huts and countless other activities await.
As summer approaches, the coast comes alive — and you can start your adventure in NJ’s live music capital of Asbury Park.
Asbury Park, NJ 07712, USA
Home to a boardwalk, an amusement park, an aquarium, a funhouse and a giant arcade, this coastal town is a state institution.
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, USA
Fourth of July fireworks can be crowded, but this small beach town has a celebration where you can beat the crowds and enjoy the spectacular views.
Margate City, NJ 08402, USA
As summer winds down, there’s no better way to celebrate than with a visit to NJ’s largest — and some might say best — boardwalk, its crazy rides.
Fall foliage in New Jersey is spectacular and Manalapan’s Monmouth Battlefield State Park is one of the best places to walk through the trees.
Manalapan Township, NJ, USA
Holmdell is home to NJ’s most immersive Halloween event – Haunt O’Week, located in the former Bell Labs building. Get ready to be scared!
This pretty beach town is quiet in November, making it a great place to see the sights. It’s also home to Hinck’s Turkey Farm, where it’s Thanksgiving all year long — and especially all of November!
There’s no better way to celebrate Christmas in New Jersey than with a visit to the Village Green, a charming Christmas village in the heart of historic Smithville.
Smithville, Galloway, NJ 08205, USA
Have you been to any of these small towns in the past years? Tell us about your trip and let us know your picks for the best small towns in New Jersey in the comments section! If you want to make sure that your visit to Manasquan offers delicious food, check out the Hinck’s Turkey Farm website to see what they’re cooking up. To jump start your 2023, why not try some of these winter trips?
Address: Frenchtown, NJ 08825, USA
Address: Margate City, NJ 08402, USA
Address: Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
Address: Wildwood, NJ 08260, USA
Address: Metuchen, NJ 08840, USA
Address: Manalapan Township, NJ, USA
Address: Chester, NJ 07930, USA
Address: Holmdel, NJ, USA
Address: Manasquan, NJ, USA
Address: Asbury Park, NJ 07712, USA
Address: Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, USA
Address: Smithville, Galloway, NJ 08205, USA
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