Why these charming towns should be your entry point into the Garden State
New Jersey is easy to misunderstand if you only know the turnpike, the airport or the Sopranos. The state is dense, incredibly diverse and packed with towns that punch far above their weight (564 in total, to be exact!). But not all NJ towns are created equal, especially for newcomers and first-time visitors. WorldAtlas recently highlighted a handful of places that give newcomers a real feel for the state. These six stand out. If you’re new to Jersey—or even if you’ve lived here forever—they’re worth the trip.
Princeton
Princeton is the state’s postcard. The Ivy League university at its center sets the tone: old buildings, leafy paths and a campus with a small-city feel. But the town around it is what hooks first-timers. Walk downtown, grab a coffee or hot chocolate and you’re steps from museums, historic homes and the battlefield park where Washington’s troops turned the tide during the American Revolution. It’s full of history and charm that keeps people coming back long after their first visit.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake isn’t the first town most people picture when they think of the Jersey Shore, but maybe it should be. It’s the Shore stripped down to its essentials: sand, surf and a quiet boardwalk. Unlike surrounding towns, there are no loud bars or heavy crowds. Instead you get a tight downtown, clean beaches and homes that look built for postcards. First-time visitors get a gentler Shore experience here.
Frenchtown
Perched on the Delaware River, Frenchtown feels like it’s been lifted from another century. The historic district stretches block after block, lined with 19th century architecture and colorful storefronts. The river trail draws crowds, the bridge is an iconic landmark and the food scene is small but strong. The entire town is walkable and manages to stay tourist-friendly without losing its local character.
Allentown
No, WorldAtlas didn’t sneak in a Pennsylvania town. This Allentown sits firmly in the center of the state between New York and Philadelphia. It leans rural and parts of it feel like preserved pieces of old New Jersey. Think farmland, old grain mills and a main street made for a slow afternoon. The town center is compact, historic and easy to explore in a single visit. Allentown shows a side of New Jersey many outsiders don’t know exists, and it’s the right pick if you want the state’s quieter, more pastoral version.
Collingswood
A short ride from Philadelphia, Collingswood is one of New Jersey’s oldest towns. Its downtown is packed with old homes, churches, storefronts and plenty of great dining options. The town leans into community with farmers markets, festivals and a main stretch with more range than most small towns can offer. Collingswood is one of those New Jersey gems that locals know well.
Lambertville
Like Frenchtown, Lambertville sits on the Delaware River, but the vibe is different. It’s older, artsier and a gold mine for antique hunters. The streets are lined with shops, galleries and restored 19th century buildings. Cross the bridge and you’re in New Hope, Pennsylvania, but Lambertville stands on its own with river views, biking paths and a tight grid of walkable blocks. It’s a simple town that rewards anyone who takes the time to explore it.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.