10 New Jersey Towns To Visit During an Autumn Day
By Ava Bell
Looking for a tasteful fall town in New Jersey for a fun day trip? Here are the top 10 towns that best showcase a beautiful Autumn day in the Garden State. Filled with fun adventures, great food, and stunning scenery, these towns are the perfect place to spend a fall day.
- Frenchtown
Picture courtesy of Andrew Kazmierski
Located in Hunterdon County, this quaint, historic town is straight out of Hocus Pocus! Its color scheme and stores give it a spooky Salem vibe, and is perfect for a photo opp! Frenchtown has beautiful Victorian architecture, vibrant arts painted all around, and a deep rooted history. This town is perfect for those who like to, “shop until they drop!” Or others who thoroughly enjoy history as it has many historic venues. Some venues include the Frenchtown Cemetery, Uhlerstown Covered Bridge, and the Artyard. As for food, many commend the Frenchtown Cafe, especially for their Belgian Waffles. Overall, this town is a beautiful place to spend the day, and was even recognized by USA Today as one of “America’s best Small Towns!”
- Princeton
Photo Courtesy of Kelly Cox
Not only is Princeton home to one of the best Ivy League schools, but it presents an absolutely stunning scenic view during the fall. The Palmer Square serves as a chic shopping strip lined with boutiques and restaurants. Reserve a table at the nationally recognized The Bent Spoon and enjoy a meal with your loved ones. Feeling adventurous? Rent a kayak at Princeton Canoe and Kayak Rental, and enjoy the sight of amber leaves while going down the Delaware and Raritan Canal. And if you want to add a touch of history to your day, Princeton has various options. The Princeton Battlefield State Park, a prevalent point in American Revolutionary War is a must see for history lovers!
- Montclair
Photo Courtesy of Norm R.
One of the neighboring towns of Caldwell poses as a wonderful spot for a fall evening. Known for its bustling nightlife, Montclair has numerous options. Restaurants are located at every turn, and include every food optionimaginable! Mexican food? Tacoria has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with even better food. Your stomach will thank you later! Italian? Leone’s is one of the best authentic Italian restaurants in the state! Anything you desire, here located in Montclair. Expressive stores line Church Street, providing an endless shopping spree full of fun and memories! The picture from above showcases a beautiful tourism spot, known as Eagle Rock Reservation. It serves as a memorial for 9/11, and overlooks the beautiful New York City skyline.
- Chester
Photo Courtesy of Get Outside NJ
Morris County is home to this beautiful town that is filled with farmland creating the coziest touch for an autumn day. Because of the multitude of farms located here, it’s perfect for pumpkin and apple picking, sunflower photo shoots, feeding goats, and warm cider. Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill is just one of the many best cider farms in Morris County! There are loads of beautiful parks for nature lovers. And lots of historic venues. There’s even an Alpaca Farm called Bluebird Farm where you can feed, pet and spend time with Alpacas!
- Clinton
Photo Courtesy of George Oze
Clinton is a gorgeous place, especially for nature enthusiasts. It offers lots of hiking trails, but a fan favorite is the NJ Wildlife Trails, because of all the amazing animals you get to witness! The picture above is, The Red Mill Museum Village, a historic 19th century mill that holds an interesting backstory. Built in 1810, this mill has had several roles throughout the 214 years it’s been in operation. Although it’s now no longer in use, tours are available. There is also a wide array of art galleries located all around Clinton as well.
- Milford
Photo Courtesy of Borough of Milford
Milford is a fun, free-spirited town containing so many activities! At Mad Lavender Farm, you can partake in goat yoga, wreath making, and inhale the relaxing scent of fresh lavender. If you’re feeling bold, Delaware River tubing is a great option, even providing a scenic view. If you’re looking for a Pinterest-board photoshoot, Milford is home to many flea markets, farmers markets and antique stores. There is even a Halloween Parade that takes place on October 30th!
- Cranbury
Photo Courtesy of Tim Bonnette
Cranbury is the perfect place to spend a relaxing fall day. Its parks illustrate the colors of autumn beautifully. This town is great for history-buffs, because there are many museums and educational events surrounding the history of New Jersey. Some include, The Cranbury Museum, Cranbury History Center and Dr. Hezekiah Stites House, which served briefly as one of General George Washington’s Headquarters! These headquarters are where The Battle of Monmouth planning took place! This charming, quiet town is a vintage time capsule, with many old homes, restaurants and hotels.
- Hopewell
Photo Courtesy of Hopewell Township
Hopewell is yet another amazing place for nature lovers, especially during the fall months as the leaves change colors and the air becomes crisp. Home to numerous parks and trails, this town will have you in awe with its astonishing views. There’s loads of art galleries, like Morpeth Contemporary which is described as a hidden gem. The Hopewell Museum provides visitors with the rich history of how this cozy town came to be.
- Chatham
Photo Courtesy of Coldwell Banker Realty
Chatham is a suburban town with a fascinating history. There are lovely farmers markets and Gazebo Concerts every Thursday! If you’re looking for some fun there’s The Gravity Vault, which is a super cool rock climbing gym. Lots of parks are located here, serving as a cozy picnic spot with friends, enjoying the delightful autumn weather and scenery!
- Branchville
Photo Courtesy of Robcurt Ross
A quaint town, Branchville has many forests for exploring like the large Stokes State Forest. Other attractions include Broad Street Books, Hidden Pastures Luxury Fiber Farm, Sussex Branch Rail Trail and more! If you’re looking for a quiet autumn day, this is the perfect spot for you!
