Whether you are seeking a new home in New Jersey, or you are planning to take a local day trip, these 15 downtowns are definitely worth considering! As a 20-something post grad, I think about where my next move will be. I have friends who have already moved out to their own abodes in Jersey. There are so many great areas to consider in the Garden State! If you’re looking for a new town to call home, or a new spot to walk around, it can be a tough decision on where to go. New Jersey definitely has more than 15 beautiful downtowns to check out, but these are some of my favorites to consider visiting!
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1. Red Bank
(Monmouth County)
I’ve grown up visiting Red Bank, and it truly is one of my favorite towns to walk around for the day. Shop at local boutiques, catch a live show at Count Basie and Two River Theaters, dine at local restaurants, take in scenic views of the Navesink River, and more!
2. Ridgewood
(Bergen County)
The Village of Ridgewood is a vibrant town to visit in North Jersey. Enjoy a nice Italian dinner with friends at S. Egidio, shop at local stores, grab dessert at the Cookie Connect and more. The ambience and food scene of Ridgewood is also great for a date night with that special someone!
3. Montclair
(Essex County)
Looking to do some serious shopping (or window shopping)? Downtown Montclair located in Essex County is loaded with many small businesses, clothing stores, boutiques etc… Check out the Montclair book center, grab a yummy treat at Sweet Kitchen, and enjoy more fun in downtown Monctlair!
4. Hoboken
(Hudson County)
Hoboken is probably the closest vibe to NYC we’ll get here in Jersey. If you are into the bustling bar/restaurant scene, beautiful skyline views, and shopping, then Hoboken is the spot for you! Shop local and dine at delicious eateries on Washington Street and beyond. Walk along the waterfront and stop at Pier 13 for a quick bite and drinks.
5. Princeton
(Mercer County)
Princeton is one of my absolute favorite towns to spend the day in! The restaurant/food scene is great, and this town has a consistent cozy vibe to it. Walk through this charming town and explore the campus of the famous Princeton Unviersity! 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!
6. Cape May
(Cape May County)
I have been visiting Cape May since childhood, and it truly never gets old! 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, check out Congress Hall & more attractions in Cape May. If you are looking for a festive town to visit during the Holidays, Cape May really does up the decor at the Washington Street Mall and Congress Hall! Check out my article on 10 Casual Restaurants & Eateries in Cape May, NJ Worth Checking Out.
7. Morristown
(Morris County)
Located in North Jersey, Morristown is another gem to walk around if you are interested in a night out with friends, a cute date night etc… Grab some loaded burgers at The Committed Pig, walk around the historical Morristown Green, and check out the local shops!
8. Cranford
(Union County)
Cranford offers a quaint downtown nestled in Union County. Grab an Italian dinner at Garlic Rose Bistro and a pastry at Délice Macaroons. You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the Rahway River at Hanson Park, and shop local in downtown Cranford!
9. Jersey City
(Hudson County)
Jersey City gives us a taste of NYC with its own skyscrapers and high-rises. Take a long stroll along the Hudson River at Liberty State Park and enjoy picturesque views of the skyline. The Liberty House is a beautiful restaurant for a fancy dinner or date night. 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 serves up a variety of specialty cookies if you are looking for a decadent treat!
10. Smithville
(Atlantic County)
The quaint town of Historic Smithville is located not too far from Atlantic City. You can enjoy paddle-boating, a carousel, train, local eateries/shops, and a charming vibe in Historic Smithville.
11. Lambertville
(Hunterdon County)
Lambertville is located on the edge of the Delaware River, just a short walk away from New Hope, PA. You can enjoy 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 wander the streets here!
12. Asbury Park
(Monmouth County)
The beach town of Asbury Park is another Monmouth County favorite of mine! 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!
13. Summit
(Union County)
Summit is another gem in Union County, offering a plethora of local eateries and shops. Summit has a smaller downtown, but is worth a visit if you like a relaxed vibe and spot to stroll around!
14. Maplewood
(Essex County)
Not too far from Summit lies downtown Maplewood – another quaint spot worth checking out! Enjoy the old-fashioned architecture and cozy community vibe here. Dine at one of the local eateries and take a leisurely stroll around Memorial Park.
15. Denville
(Morris County)
Downtown Denville is a North Jersey gem that’s small, but has a lot of value to offer. I will sometimes come just to get the most amazing Italian Food at The Pasta Shop! Downtown Denville is home to numerous boutiques, restaurants and shops. Enjoy tasty ice cream at Denville Dairy, or grab a smoothie bowl at Playa Bowls and walk along Broadway.
[…] is one of my favorite towns that I also mentioned in my article “15 Beautiful Downtowns in New Jersey to Walk Around“. From local shops to historic Princeton University, Princeton is definitely worth a stop […]