At the center of many New Jersey towns is a bustling main street with lots of local shopping, restaurants, bakeries, and more entertainment! Whether you are seeking a new home, or just a local day trip, these 20 walkable downtowns in New Jersey (in no particular order) are worth a visit!
1. Ridgewood
The Village of Ridgewood is home to a popular downtown to visit in North Jersey. Enjoy a delicious Italian meal at S. Egidio, shop local at their many boutiques, and grab dessert at the Cookie Connect! The lively scene of Ridgewood definitely makes it worth a visit!
2. Red Bank
Downtown Red Bank offers a quaint charm with local businesses scattered throughout, many restaurants, and a waterfront along the Navesink River. Shop, dine, and walk your way around downtown Red Bank’s Broad Street!
3. Westfield
Westfield’s “E Broad Street” is one of their lively main roads home to local shops, eateries, a YESTERcades retro arcade, and more fun! I recently took a Club Pilates reformer class in Westfield, and loved the vibe of the downtown surrounding this studio!
4. Montclair
Get your shop on, and steps in, when visiting downtown Montclair located in Essex County! This downtown is loaded with many local businesses including boutiques, restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, and more. Check out the Montclair book center, walk along Bloomfield Ave, grab a bite to eat, and traverse around the town!
5. Collingswood
Downtown Haddon Ave is a shopper’s oasis as it is home to numerous local businesses. This charming South-Jersey town is loved by locals, and is a breathe of fresh air to walk around. Learn more by visiting their website.
6. Hoboken
Looking for a taste of NYC without leaving NJ? Hoboken has got you covered! If you are into the bustling bar/restaurant scene, picturesque skyline views, and shopping, then Hoboken is the spot for you! Traverse through the streets in Hoboken and Shop local and don’t forget to check out Washington Street! Visitors and locals can also take a scenic stroll along the waterfront.
7. Princeton
Downtown Princeton is a gem of New Jersey! Home to the beautiful and historic Princeton University, this downtown is definitely worth a day trip! The restaurant/food scene is great, and the charming town has plenty to offer. Tacoria is a great spot for a savory burrito bowl if you want something casual and quick. I also suggest planning a visit to Princeton during the holidays as the town becomes very festive!
8. Cape May
Cape May is a nostalgic spot for my family and I, as we grew up visiting every summer! Cape May truly never gets old and is arguably the best beach town in New Jersey! With about 2.5 miles of coastline, Cape May is your quintessential NJ beach town. Shop local at the Washington Street Mall, walk along the boardwalk, explore Congress Hall & experience fun attractions in Cape May. If you are looking for a festive town to visit during the Holidays, Cape May is also a perfect spot to visit! For food recommendations, check out my article on 10 Casual Restaurants & Eateries in Cape May, NJ Worth Checking Out.
9. Haddonfield
Another charming South-Jersey spot is Downtown Haddonfield. Locals and visitors can experience Haddonfield’s unique boutiques, restaurants, and more while visiting!
10. Morristown
Morristown is another gem to explore while in North Jersey! Morristown is perfect for those interested in a night out, a cute date night, or just an afternoon stroll and shopping. Grab some loaded burgers at The Committed Pig, walk around the historical Morristown Green, and check out the local boutiques!
11. Jersey City
Liberty State Park in Jersey City gives us a scenic view of NYC behind the Hudson. Take a long stroll alongside the Hudson River at Liberty State Park and enjoy a beautiful dinner at The Liberty House. Looking for something more casual? Grab a quick bite at Tacoria on Eerie Street and walk around the Exchange Place neighborhood. Also, Bang Cookies on Summit Ave (they have another location of Newark Ave) serves up a variety of specialty cookies if you are looking for a decadent treat!
12. Mount Holly
Locals and visitors can enjoy an assortment of restaurants, pubs, breweries, and distilleries in Mount Holly of South Jersey! Additionally, Mill Race Village of Mount Holly is home to numerous boutiques, antique shops, retail stores, and galleries.
13. Smithville
The charming town of Historic Smithville is located a short drive from Atlantic City. Enjoy paddle-boating, a carousel, little train, local eateries/shops, and a wholesome vibe while in Historic Smithville.
14. Lambertville
Lambertville is located on the edge of the Delaware River, just a short walk from New Hope, PA. Experience both towns in one day with just a brief walk across the New Hope – Lambertville Bridge. Grab Mexican food at Tacos Cancun in Lambertville, and enjoy the old-fashioned victorian architecture as you traverse the area!
15. Clinton
In the charming downtown of Clinton lies a unique blend of local businesses, eateries, as well as two museums. Read more about what Clinton has to offer on their website.
16. Asbury Park
The coastal town of Asbury Park is home to an inviting and walkable downtown area in Monmouth County! Cookman Ave is where a majority of the night-life, shopping, local businesses, and restaurants can be found. With a bustling bar and restaurant scene, a unique variety of local shops, and access to the beach, Asbury Park does not disappoint! Grab the most delicious sourdough pizza at Talula’s on Cookman Ave, and don’t forget to save room for ice cream at Cookman Creamery!
17. Cranford
Cranford is a quaint downtown nestled in Union County. Experience a delicious Italian dinner at Garlic Rose Bistro and a decadent pastry at Délice Macaroons. Locals and visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll alongside the Rahway River at Hanson Park, and shop local in downtown Cranford!
18. Denville
Another quintessential downtown vibe can be found in the heart of Denville! My favorite Italian Restaurant in the Garden State is situated in this charming town: The Pasta Shop. Experience the town’s blend of local shops, eateries, and more during your visit!
19. Beach Haven (Seasonal)
Beach Haven is one of Ocean County’s boroughs situated towards the southern end of LBI. While LBI is seasonal, I still wanted to mention it as it makes for a great spot to walk around during the summer months. Beach Haven is home to many shops and eateries (such as the famous Chegg), and is surrounded by beautiful beach scenery. Visitors and locals can enjoy a trip to Fantasy Island Amusement Park while in the area!
20. Sea Isle City (Seasonal)
Another beautiful, but seasonal, town worth visiting in New Jersey is Sea Isle City. Visit between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and experience the coastal beauty of Sea Isle! With many restaurants, shops, and a beautiful stretch of coastline, Sea Isle is definitely worth a visit!
[…] With warmer weather comes more ideal conditions to take a leisurely stroll through town. Check out my blog post 20 Walkable Downtowns in New Jersey Worth A Visit. […]