In the quest to crown the 2024 Destination of the Year, five outstanding communities have emerged as finalists, each boasting a distinctive blend of charm, character, and a myriad offerings that make them contenders for this prestigious title, this year’s finalists showcase the diversity and richness of experiences available in New Jersey. In this exploration, we delve into the unique tapestry of Lake Hopatcong, Metuchen, Mullica Hill, Princeton, and Ridgewood, uncovering the treasures they hold in shopping, dining, history, recreation and beyond. Join us on a journey through these five exceptional communities, where every corner tells a story, and each locale invites residents and visitors alike to savor the distinctive flavors of their culture and heritage. We invite you to discover what makes each of these finalists a beacon of excellence, vying for the coveted title of 2024 Destination of the Year.
As one would expect of lake life, there is quite a lot to do out on the water around Lake Hopatcong.
Photo by Donna Macalle-Holly/Lake Hopatcong Foundation
LAKE HOPATCONG
New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake is 9 miles long and 3 miles across, with 45 miles of jagged shoreline carved through Jefferson, Roxbury, Mount Arlington and Hopatcong. According to a source from the 1800s, “Hopatcong” means “stone over water” in Ojibwa. A centerpiece of the Sussex Skylands, Lake Hopatcong is a four-season playground, whether you come to visit or come to stay. A resort area from the late 19th through early 20th centuries, it has since transitioned to a largely residential lake with much of its shoreline privately owned. Despite that, visitors are always welcome.
Lake Hopatcong was originally created as part of the 90-mile Morris Canal, completed in 1837. This feat of engineering allowed for the improved transportation of coal, iron and zinc across New Jersey, from Phillipsburg on the Delaware River to the Hudson River and New York Harbor. The canal was largely abandoned for use as transportation once the Morris & Essex Railroad was established, but a small museum housed inside the old lock tender’s house offers exhibits on the canal, the lake and the integral Native American history of the region.
Year-Round Playground
As one would expect of lake life, there is quite a lot to do out on the water around Hopatcong. From water skiing to wakeboarding, tubing, kayaking or windsurfing, early morning conditions are best to take advantage of the lake’s glassy conditions. Rentals make it easy to try out a new aquatic endeavor like boating or jet-skiing. Pontoon boats — known locally as patio boats — are a popular option on the lake, and available at many of the area’s marinas. Not to be missed are the Sunday sailboat regattas, hosted by the Garden State Yacht Club.
While out on the lake, be sure to stop by the Main Lake Market, a restored century-old boat house. It’s not only a deli and an ice cream shop, but also a general store, supply stop and patio where locals catch up on the latest lake news.
For something by land, consider either of Lake Hopatcong’s public beach areas or the Mahlon Dickerson Reservation. Operated by the Morris County Park Commission, the reservation is a sprawling 3,494 acres, with multiuse trails and seasonal campgrounds. Hiking enthusiasts will leap upon the chance to climb to the top of the 1,280-foot Headley Overlook. Fishing buffs will find plenty to love at Saffin Pond.
Hospitality Abounds
Lakeside dining is a novelty in the Garden State, but you’ll find it in full force surrounding Hopatcong. With many establishments accessible by boat, it’s possible to leave the car at home all weekend and spend as much time as possible on the water. (If you’re truly clever, you’ll time your reservation to coincide with the sunset.) Even in the wintertime, select restaurants remain open and provide views of snowy shores, snowmobiles and the brave souls who go ice fishing.
A must-visit Hopatcong staple is The Windlass at Nolan’s Point. While you’ll find seating indoors and out, the place to be in season is one of the five coveted dockside cabanas. Live the Lake Life New Jersey is a local hospitality group who also owns Alice’s open-air dining room. The Big Fish Lounge is directly below Alice’s, offering a bar menu, covered outdoor patio, darts, shuffleboard, jumbo Jenga and the game always on TV. Borrowing from the translation for Hopatcong, Stone Water is a premiere lakeside destination for cocktails and dining off Route 181. Or really dine out on the water with one of Lake Hopatcong Cruises’ dinner sailings.
The Lake Hopatcong Golf Club is also located at Nolan’s Point and is a family-friendly, 18-hole mini golf course right on the lake that features local structures and attractions throughout the game. Alice’s or The Windlass are just a one-minute walk away, making it the perfect activity for before or after dinner.
Something for Everyone
Couples looking for a romantic getaway will want to consider the Whistling Swan Inn, a Stanhope bed and breakfast housed in a 1905 mansion. A Victorian garden complements Wi-Fi and in-room Jacuzzi for a quaint yet modern stay. The Whistling Swan is on Lake Musconetcong, a stone’s throw from Hopatcong (about 3 miles) but offering another lakeside community to explore.
If you brought the kids, consider booking the special opportunity to board a floating classroom through the Lake Hopatcong Foundation. Each year, the foundation offers a limited number of hands-on environmental programs aboard its covered, 40-foot catamaran pontoon boat. Activities are geared toward children ages 10 and older, but younger siblings are more than welcome to join for the ride.
Visit Metuchen this coming January to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Photo by Richard Alfonzo
METUCHEN
Metuchen, a town whose Native American name translates to “rolling uplands,” is most definitely on a roll; and things sure are looking up. It just snagged the 2023 Great American Main Street Award for “excellence in community transformation” and was on the receiving end of a $3-plus million grant to fund its Arts District transformation. Metuchen is on a winning streak, and the town aims to keep that momentum going.
“We are so excited to be considered a top destination town, especially among all the amazing contenders,” gushed Dawn Mackey, executive director of Downtown Metuchen. “The nomination reflects the heart and soul of a dedicated team of volunteers working in harmony with the borough. When you come to Downtown Metuchen, you literally never know what awaits you. A T-Rex, a wrestler being thrown midair, or a fleet of Storm Troopers kidnapping the mayor. But the one thing you can count on is a feeling of welcome. You belong here. So come dine at our fabulous restaurants, shop in our unique stores, and find out what all the fuss is about!”
Might there be another fuss-worthy feat in store for Metuchen? Here’s the lowdown on the downtown that stands to make Metuchen the Jersey’s Best 2024 Destination of the Year.
All the Right Stuff
Metuchen has the size, personality, architecture, and all the quirky charm you’d expect from a small town. One of those so-called “donut hole” municipalities surrounded entirely by a much larger neighbor (Edison), Metuchen is just 2.8 miles square; and in its center is the square that won over Main Street America to be recognized as a national community model.
From the commuter train station right in the middle of downtown, residents and visitors can walk anywhere to shop, dine, or join the fun at any of the town’s countless public events.
In Mackey’s words, “We don’t have an identity crisis here. We know who we are, and we celebrate the weird and the wonderful.” She speaks the truth.
Shop Talk
Along Main and New, the streets at the nexus of downtown, you’ll find old and new mingle in harmony as treasured relics of yesteryear, like a classic barbershop pole or the 1920s marquee of the Forum theater, share the streetscape with modern storefronts that beckon you to explore.
Find the handiwork of creatives at Papillon, a “Maker Led Curated” gift shop hosting Makers Market days, yoga and socials. Visit the unique cooperative, New Market, currently home to three local shop owners — FK Living for home design and lifestyle, Creative Twist Events for celebration supplies, and Sweet Roots Cakery for custom cookies and cakes — as well as pop up shops. One final highlight among the many shops found downtown is Terrace Plant Shop, a paradise for plant lovers with an emphasis on the healing power of horticulture, even offering workshops on terrarium therapy and tropical plant arranging.
Tastes Like Foodie Heaven
You can come to Metuchen just to eat; you’ll find it’s like visiting the countries at Epcot. The cuisines, alphabetically, include: American, Asian, Cajun, Dominican, French, Greek, Indian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Latin, Mediterranean, Mexican, Portuguese, Thai, and Vegan. Then there are the cafes to sip coffee and grab a treat (no Starbucks – yet!), bakeries to indulge in decadent desserts, and a good old-fashioned ice cream parlor to put the cherry on top of your day.
Your Art’s Desire
Metuchen is committed to fostering the arts in all spaces, including private and sponsored commissions for sculptures as well as murals, banners, and the whimsical “Imagination Alley,” which transformed an otherwise unadorned passageway into a fantastical illustration of the town’s history and history makers. Currently partnering with The Seward Johnson Atelier, Metuchen has now placed three of the renowned sculptor’s works around town, the first of a year-long series.
Make the Rounds of Events in the Square
The Friends of Metuchen Arts promotes visual, musical, and performing arts at venues throughout Metuchen; of particular note are live jazz performances presented periodically at the high school, downtown restaurants, and the library. The biggest event by far is the Annual Jazz Festival, held at the town plaza at New and Pearl streets each September. Staying true to its community spirit, the evening warms up with performances by local dance students and the high school jazz band before welcoming internationally recognized names in jazz to the stage.
And in the interest of “weird and wonderful” celebrations, the Downtown Metuchen Alliance knows how to throwdown — especially at the annual Downtown Rumble Wrestling event held in October. Join Metuchen for somewhat more tame events like its Haunted Downtown (October), Juneteenth Celebration (June), Pride event (June), New Year Party (December), Lunar New Year (January), Hispanic Heritage Celebration (September), Break Dancing (June), Winter Market (December), Spring Bazaar (May), and Small Business Saturday (November). There are also watch parties for major sporting events in the plaza and Downtown Summer Sounds Concerts.
With one title under its belt, a fun and funky resume, and an enticing invitation to “see what all the fuss is about,” Metuchen makes you look twice – and just may double down on its Main Street to become the Jersey’s Best 2024 Destination of the Year.
MULLICA HILL
Mullica Hill’s Farm House offers unique and reimagined antiques and vintage home décor. Photo courtesy Farm House Design/Visit South Jersey
The antiques capital of southern New Jersey, Mullica Hill is bursting with historic buildings and shops along Main Street and well into its neighborhoods. This makes sense, as this village in Gloucester County’s Harrison dates to settlement by English and Irish Quakers in the 17th century. Mullica Hill is proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers an abundant treasure trove of architecture and old wares for anyone with a soft spot for the past.
Antiques Are Plenty
There is wine and antiques to spare around every corner, making Mullica Hill a premiere destination for anyone who loves vintages and the vintage. Stop by the Old Mill Antique Mall, open seven days and located in a building dating back to the Revolutionary War. There, you’ll find three floors of furniture and collectibles. Similarly, Yellow Garage Antiques is open year-round (Wednesday through Sunday) with finds from 35 different antiques dealers across 6,500 square feet.
There’s Plenty to See and Do
After all your browsing, head over to Wagonhouse Winery for a flight in the tasting room, which was formerly — you guessed it — the property’s original wagonhouse. Soak up the wine with the onsite bistro, catered by The Vintner’s Wife Mobile Café. Order light fare like soups and flatbreads, as well as cheese and charcuterie boards — or create your own board.
Beyond its historic downtown charms, Mullica Hill is home to the 100-acre William Heritage Winery. The current-day vineyard has been a farm since 1853 and has been run by the same family for an astounding six generations. Just 4 miles from the Heritage Winery is the Heritage Glass Museum. Although it is technically in Glassboro, this free museum is an incredible look at the preservation of South Jersey’s glass-making legacy.
Farming is an important part of Mullica Hill’s past and present. It maintains this connection between local produce and the public with institutions like the Amish Farmers Market, serving up fruits and veggies as well as Dutch cheeses, meats, soft pretzels and other specialty items such as soaps and candies. Creamy Acres Farm is a working dairy farm and garden center that also hosts seasonal events like its Night of Terror haunted house or its Night of Lights Country Christmas hayride. Perfect for autumn is the Barnyard Walk, where families can meet the four-legged residents of the farm, including calves and baby goats.
Enjoy the Best of Nature
Located near the Delaware River, there are parks and outdoor attractions here to bring the family year-round. Ella Harris is a recreational park and playground with a ball field and dog-friendly trails. Just a few miles northeast of downtown is Tall Pines State Preserve, a converted golf course that’s become the first state park in Gloucester County. Featuring 110 acres of woodlands, ponds and freshwater wetlands, it’s a great place to get out in nature and take a hike, with the Mantua Creek flowing straight through the center.
Brew x Bread is an inventive stop on South Main Street for anyone looking for a good cup of coffee and breakfast in the morning, or a glass of wine and a small plate by night. Also on South Main is the Mullica Hill Donut Co. and Pancake House, catering to anyone with a sweet tooth, even in the morning.
For something a bit heartier, consider booking dinner (or brunch) at Mullica’s Naples at the Warehouse, a South Main restaurant and pizzeria voted one of the best dining venues in the county. Run by two generations of an Italian family, this local favorite is the place to be as the one and only bar in the village.
Art, Dance and Fairs
A 10-minute drive from Main in Mullica Hill is 100-year-old Rowan University. On campus, the Center for Art and Social Engagement as well as the Rowan University Art Gallery are open to the public. Check Rowan’s calendar for events like stage productions and the Rowan Dance Festival.
Large events held in Mullica Hill throughout the year celebrate its assets accordingly. Among the annual festivals are the Antiques Street Fair in April; a fall festival with a Civil War reenactment in October; and Christmas in the Village in December.
Toward the end of 2022, Mullica Hill residents led an outcry over a proposed 2 million-square-foot warehouse that would be built over existing farmland. The story, which was covered by CBS News, ended with the proposal being voted down and the farmlands and market stands remaining intact.
“We continue to prioritize the preservation of our historical Main Street charm and agricultural history,” Mayor Manzo of Mullica Hill said in an article. “Mullica Hill is where history comes alive, and the community thrives.”
Stepping off the collegiate campus, visitors find themselves in the sophisticated yet quaint surrounds of Princeton. Photo courtesy of Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce
PRINCETON
As Jersey destinations go, Princeton has been one for centuries; and other than famously turning away the British Army in 1777, Princeton is overwhelmingly hospitable.
“Princeton is a welcoming melting pot,” affirms Hal English, president and CEO of the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce. “We are a big small town that has everything, but the biggest attraction is the people from all over the world. Our diversity sets us apart.”
And if people come from overseas, surely it’s a no brainer to come over land and catch Route 27 — otherwise known as Nassau Street — to discover Princeton for yourself. Will it be a no brainer for Jersey’s Best to declare Princeton the 2024 Destination of the Year? Here are some points to ponder (and wander).
A Study of Princeton University
This centerpiece of Princeton is a neo-Gothic masterpiece, a sight to behold with towering spires, intricately carved stone, pointed archways, and gargoyles perched on high to ward off evil spirits. Countless visitors come to admire the campus while strolling peaceful pathways amidst soaring trees, lush gardens and sculptures along the way.
Art lovers will be awed by the vast collection of visual arts on display at the Princeton University Art Museum when the redesigned main building reopens in the spring of 2025. In the meantime, exhibitions at its off-campus galleries in downtown Princeton, Art@Bainbridge and Art on Hulfish, showcase a rotating roster of stunning artwork.
Performing arts at the McCarter Theatre Center, a premier regional theater, which saw the likes of Ethan Hawke, John Lithgow, Christopher Reeve and James Stewart on its stage, is yet another striking venue, inside and out. A robust 2023-24 season awaits, featuring theatrical productions, comedic performances, film, dance, vocalists, musicians, and symphony orchestras.
Shop, Dine, and Try the Wine
Stepping off the collegiate campus, visitors find themselves in sophisticated yet quaint surrounds. Nassau Street is the address of Palmer Square, a chic center with upscale shops, including national retailers like Urban Outfitters and Lululemon, as well as unique independent boutiques; cafes and restaurants; and the historic Nassau Inn, a 188-room hotel and home to the Yankee Doodle Tap Room. A can’t-miss creamery is The Bent Spoon, where 625 artisan ice cream flavors rotate the menu and media recognition comes in scoopfuls.
Beyond Palmer Square, Witherspoon Street yields another walkable stretch of shops, such as the family-owned Homestead Princeton, as well as savory dining stops. One local favorite is the Witherspoon Grill, an exceptional steakhouse with a bustling bar scene and live Jazz on Tuesdays. Weekend afternoons at Terhune Orchards Winery (or any day at the Farm Store) make for a tasteful jaunt to the country side of town to sample the local wines and listen to live bands.
Explore a Country Mile or More
The suburban chic of Princeton proper gives way to bucolic rural charm, including six miles of the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park on the south edge of Lake Carnegie to indulge your outdoorsy side. Hike, bike, ride horseback, or paddle whatever floats your boat.
Make it a Getaway
Staying more than a day? Lodging options are abundant, from the classic Nassau Inn, to the elegant boutique Peacock Inn and cozy bed and breakfasts like the Inn at Glencairn, to four-star brands like Hyatt, Westin, and Marriott. Accommodations for all needs and experiences make it easy and appealing to turn a day trip into an escape.
The Rest is History
Saving its history for last means you’ll remember it first: this is the essence of Princeton. Each year in January the Battle of Princeton reenactment at Princeton Battlefield State Park draws crowds to relive the historic clash that ended “10 Crucial Days” in 1776-1777.
Explore such historic treasures as the Morven Museum and Garden, where exhibits and programs celebrate the birth of our nation in the former home of Richard Stockton; or schedule a tour of Drumthwacket, the official New Jersey Governor’s residence. Walking tours, ghost tours (lanterns included), and self-guided audio tours will exercise your mind and your feet as you follow in the footsteps of famous history makers, including Albert Einstein, F. Schott Fitzgerald, T.S. Eliot, Woodrow Wilson, Grover Cleveland, and J. Robert Oppenheimer.
Another Shot to Make History
“We are very happy to have Princeton as one of the five finalists in the Jersey’s Best 2024 Destination of the Year,” said Mayor Mark Freda. “Princeton has so much to offer, so much for people to see and do here. Arts, history, education, shopping, restaurants, trails and open space, and much more. Princeton is truly a great destination. I think it is the best in New Jersey!”
We shall see if great minds think alike as our Jersey’s Best editors determine if Princeton’s universal appeal makes it the perfect 2024 Destination of the Year.
Ridgewood’s biggest attraction is its downtown. It’s lined with shops and restaurants in abundance and the streetscape is rich in architectural detail. Photo courtesy of NJ Advance Media
RIDGEWOOD
The Bergen County village of Ridgewood can be described as historic, romantic, cultured and cool — an upscale suburb with New York City views and chic, small-town style. At just under 6 square miles, Ridgewood’s biggest attraction is its downtown thoroughfare: East Ridgewood Avenue. It’s lined with shops and restaurants in abundance and the streetscape is rich in architectural detail providing a scenic, suburban stroll.
Culinary Variety Abounds
With more than 120 places to eat in this small town, it’s hard to pick favorites. Luckily, there is so much culinary variety that there is likely a bite here for anything you’re craving. In fact, Cravings Tapas Bistro on Wilsey Square brings a taste of Spain to Ridgewood with small plates and wine as well as the option to BYOB. In keeping with Mediterranean cuisine, check out top-rated Latour, a French fine dining establishment on East Ridgewood for an elegant evening out. Heading further east in flavor, Bibillia serves up Korean comfort food favorites on Chestnut Street. Want to keep it simple with a burger and a beer? The Steel Wheel Tavern is a neighborhood bar with American fare and live music seven days a week.
Retail Therapy
As for shopping, countless specialty retailers surround Van Neste Square Memorial Park at the center of town. Mount Everest is a ski shop; Apricot Lane is a women’s clothing boutique; Paris Jewelers and Gifts is just one of many local jewelry shops. Town & Country Apothecary and Fine Cosmetics is a local boutique offering skin care, home decor and other gifts, reminiscent of Rose Apothecary from the popular show “Schitt’s Creek.”
Crafty Endeavors
Color Me Mine is a paint-your-own ceramics and pottery store — but it’s not the only one. Just over 300 feet down East Ridgewood is Creatively Yours, another DIY pottery venture. There are actually a number of crafty endeavors that can be found around Ridgewood, from paint-and-sip chain Pinot’s Palette to the Bazaar Star Beadery, a full-service bead shop located within the Enchanted Heart meditation studio.
Heading out of town for the afternoon? Do a little forest bathing at the Thielke Arboretum in Glen Rock, a fantastic place to birdwatch among native New Jersey species. The arboretum is also host to an annual fishing derby. The James Rose Center is a nonprofit landscape research and study foundation in the former home of landscape architect James Rose. On the National Registry of Historic Places, this unusual yet intriguing destination offers talks, yoga, cultural programming and even classes on mindfulness.
Learn About the Past
The Hermitage Museum is among Ridgewood’s claims to fame and one of the most historic homes in the state. The two-story stone farmhouse was originally built in 1700s (Ridgewood was not established until 1894) and became a crossroads for troops during the American Revolution. A widow due to the war, Theodosia Prevost hosted dignitaries and generals — including George Washington. It was ultimately Aaron Burr who caught her eye; the two were married at the Hermitage in 1782. Today, visitors can take tours on weekends and by appointment on Thursdays.
The Schoolhouse Museum is another portal to the past, built in 1872 and used as a one-room schoolhouse until 1905. Today it houses local artifacts curated by the Ridgewood Historical Society. Hit the trifecta of historic locations in town by visiting the nearby Old Paramus Church and Valleau Cemetery. Despite its small stature, Ridgewood hosts several notable townwide festivals and events, hosted by the Ridgewood Guild. The 10th annual Music Fest will be held in September at Memorial Park, featuring food, vendors, and artists from pop and rock to R&B and country. Music also plays in the park on Friday evenings all summer long.
A Little Screen Time
Movies in the Park draws families to the very same Memorial Park at Van Neste Square every Wednesday from June through August for free films and complimentary ice cream provided by Ben & Jerry’s. The Ridgewood Guild’s own International Film Festival is over the course of two days each spring.
Fun for the Entire Family
Perfect for hot summers, Ridgewood has an expansive community center and the Graydon Pool, with reduced rates for residents. Graydon is where you’ll find the summer camp, skate park and pickleball courts.
In 2023, Niche.com gave Ridgewood an overall grade of A+ and the accolade of second-best suburb in New Jersey. Niche is a data firm that analyzes schools, companies and neighborhoods. The firm bases its rating on housing trends, crime rates, quality of schools and other community factors. In the writeup, Niche noted that Ridgewood has “a lot of restaurants, coffee shops and parks.” What more could you want?
This article originally appeared in the Fall 2023 issue of Jersey’s Best. Subscribe here for in-depth access to everything that makes the Garden State great.
