Explore the best small towns in New Jersey throughout the year, each offering unique seasonal activities and events.
A new year is upon us and there is no better resolution to make than to explore everything New Jersey has to offer. But how do you know where to begin? The small towns in New Jersey — some nearly unknown, some legendary — are full of surprises, and each one has a perfect time to visit. On this year-long tour of the best small towns in New Jersey, you'll experience winter bliss, raucous holidays, a summer of fun, and a holiday season to remember. The one thing all of these small towns have in common is that they're all quintessentially New Jersey, and there's a reason that they belong on any resident's or tourist's travel bucket list.
January - Frenchtown
During the cold winter months, this quiet town's network of art museums, antique shops, hotels, and charming cafes make the perfect day trip destination. See for yourself why Frenchtown is one of the best towns to visit in New Jersey.
February - Cape May
Cape May during the summer is bustling - but in the winter months, the coastal town is shockingly peaceful. It's perfect for a unique and romantic Valentine's Day getaway, and I suggest you surprise your special person with an overnight stay at Congress Hall, which has an on-site spa and dining options.
March - Metuchen
Metuchen may be the best place in New Jersey to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, thanks to Hailey's Harp & Pub — an authentic Irish pub right on the town's main street. You can also explore the shops and restaurants in Metuchen, one of the most charming towns in New Jersey.
April - Chester
The quiet farm town of Chester comes alive in April, as Alstede Farms hosts the state's biggest Easter event for families. Hayrides, egg hunts, and countless other activities await. If you plan on spending the night, take a look at the Publick House Hotel and book your stay.
May - Asbury Park
As summer approaches, the shore comes to life - and you can begin your adventure at NJ's live music capital in Asbury Park. For a relaxing getaway, spend a couple of nights at the Asbury Ocean House Hotel.
June - Point Pleasant Beach
Home to a boardwalk, amusement park, aquarium, funhouse, and massive arcades, this shore town is a state institution. Point Pleasant Beach is one of the best towns to visit in New Jersey, and if you're looking for a place to stay, consider the charming Tower Cottage.
July - Margate City
Fourth of July fireworks can be crowded, but the tiny beach town of Margate City holds a celebration where you can beat the crowds and take in the amazing sights. There are also many charming rentals to stay at like this home with a large outdoor kitchen located just a few blocks from the sand.
August - Wildwood
As summer winds down, there's no better way to celebrate than with a visit to NJ's biggest - and some would say best - boardwalk, with its craziest rides. And perhaps there's no better place to stay in Wildwood than Seaport Oasis.
September - Manalapan
Fall foliage in New Jersey is stunning, and Manalapan's Monmouth Battlefield State Park is one of the best places to walk along the trees.
October - Holmdel
Holmdel is home to Bell Labs and the PNC Bank Arts Center as well as a park and the Historic Longstreet Farm, a living history museum demonstrating life on a farm in the 1890s. This is a quiet town if you need to get away for a few hours and immerse yourself in nature.
November - Manasquan
This beautiful beach town is quiet in November, which makes it a great place to take in the sights. It's also home to Hinck's Turkey Farm, where it's Thanksgiving all year round - and especially all November! To make your stay in Manasquan a relaxing one, book a room at the Inn on Main Hotel.
December - Smithville
There is no better way to celebrate Christmas in New Jersey than with a visit to the Village Green, the charming Christmas village in the heart of Smithville, one of the most historic towns in New Jersey.
Have you been to any of these small towns in past years? What other towns should we add to our bucket list? Let us know by filling out this nomination form.
If you want to make sure your visit to Manasquan delivers delicious food, make sure to drop by the website of Hinck's Turkey Farm to see what they've got cooking. To get your year off to a fast start, why not try some of these winter day trips?