Across New Jersey are hundreds (literally) of charming small towns. Still, some stand out above the rest with walkability, shopping, dining, history, ocean views, architecture and more. Travel + Leisure just released its list of the prettiest small towns in the Garden State. From a Victorian seaside resort at the tip of the Cape May Peninsula to a college town with Gilded Age bones, here are the top five.
Cape May
It’s no surprise that America’s oldest seaside resort earns the top spot. Cape May is defined by its Victorian architecture, long sandy beaches, and a walkable downtown that holds up year-round. Travel + Leisure highlights breakfast at Blue Pig Tavern, a trolley ride through town, lunch at Beach Plum Farm, and a sunset dinner at Fish House—that’s a full day.
Princeton
It’s rare you’ll find a college town amongst a list of the prettiest small towns—especially one with this prestige. But Princeton is no ordinary college town. The Gothic stonework of the University Chapel and the brick storefronts around Palmer Square give it a postcard quality. Spend the afternoon at Labyrinth Books and the Princeton Record Exchange, then grab dinner before heading out. Or, make a weekend out of it.
Montclair
Grand Victorians, tree-lined streets, and the Watchung Mountains as a backdrop give Montclair a sense of place most NJ suburbs can’t match. The Wellmont Theater anchors downtown, and the restaurant scene is legitimate. Travel + Leisure knows their NJ dining—shouting out Robbie Felice’s pastaRAMEN as a must-try option when passing through.
Lambertville
The antiques capital of New Jersey sits along the Delaware River with 19th-century rowhouses, narrow walkable streets, and a pedestrian bridge that connects directly to New Hope, Pennsylvania. The D&R Canal towpath runs through town. It’s the perfect day trip destination.
Spring Lake
Among the quietest and cleanest beaches on the Jersey Shore, with a two-mile boardwalk free of rides and distractions. Just ocean views and room to walk. It’s a quieter shore option that earns its spot among elite company.
That’s not all. Travel + Leisure named 10 New Jersey small towns in their ranking. Check out the full list here.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.