Exploring the best small towns in New Jersey is one of my favorite summer (and spring, and fall) activities. There are dozens to love and I’ve covered so many over the years including Haddonfield, Clinton, Lambertville, and countless others. Each community is packed with charm, and worthy of a visit, whether it be for just a day or to spend a weekend exploring. Today, the focus is on Flemington – read below and you’ll fall in love with this town.

The historic borough of Flemington in Hunterdon County is home to around 4,500 residents.
Library of Congress/Wikipedia
It's actually the county seat of Hunterdon County and it was incorporated in 1910. Nearly 65% of the town's buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places. You can take a walk around town and you'll see all sorts of relics from the past, so we recommend keeping an eye out for historic markers and monuments.
What To Do:
Samuel Fleming House Museum/Facebook
This little town is perfect for a day trip or weekend of fun. You don't want to miss the Samuel Fleming House Museum & Gardens! Built in 1756, the museum offers exhibits, educational programs, guided tours, and special events including pumpkin decorating and yoga in the garden. The gardens are beautiful all year long, but this is a must-see in the spring and fall.
Black River & Western Railroad/Facebook
Another adventure you can enjoy is a family-friendly steam train ride through Black River & Western Railroad. There are rides for every occasion, and both kids and adults will love the trip! They also offer a small museum and themed seasonal rides with the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus.

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Northlandz Model Railroad Museum/Facebook
Northlandz Model Railroad Museum is another favorite. Home to the world's largest model railroad, you will also find an art gallery, play area, outdoor train rides, and a collection of over 200 unique dolls. Fun fact...Northlandz has a whopping 8 miles of indoor track! This is another fun spot that adults will enjoy just as much as children.
Where To Eat:
MitchPhyllis65/TripAdvisor
Hungry? Head to the historic Stangl Factory. The former pottery factory is home to one of the coolest coffee shops in New Jersey - Factory Fuel Co. Enjoy coffees, teas, pastries, and a very trendy atmosphere. The factory is also home to Blue Fish Grill. The BYOB eatery offers good food and friendly service. The menu includes everything from beef barbacoa tacos to kung pao chicken bites. The mahi bowl and spring strawberry salad are also favorites.
Matt's Red Rooster Grill/Facebook
Matt's Red Rooster Grill, Teaberry's Tea Room, 55 Main, Jack's Pizza, Platform One, Grateful Bites (100% of proceeds benefit charity), and JS Shaker Cafe are also popular picks. On a health food kick? Garden State Salad prioritizes fresh, local, and organic ingredients whenever possible. You're sure to find a great meal wherever you dine here in one of the best small towns in New Jersey.
Where To Shop:
Colleen/Google Images
People come from all over to shop at Liberty Village Premium Outlets. You'll find a variety of big name brands offering discount prices including Polo Ralph Lauren, Coach, Calvin Klein, and Ann Taylor. You may also want to check out local treasures like Ye Olde Antique & Curiosity Shop and Camp Flemington Antiques. Get ready to bring home some goodies!

There’s a lot to love about Flemington! Flemington DIY is a community art space offering a variety of affordable programs and classes. The Historic Hunterdon County Courthouse was home to the notorious Lindenburg trial back in 1935. Its Stangl Factory also offers a farmer’s market, art gallery, yoga classes, live music, and more. Flemington rocks!

What’s your favorite small town in New Jersey? Do you prefer southern farm towns, or northern mountains and lakes? Let us know – we’d love to visit your pick for the best small towns in New Jersey!

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best small towns in new jersey

Kim Magaraci | July 02, 2021

What is the oldest town in New Jersey?

Officially, the oldest town in New Jersey is Woodbridge! It was granted a charter in 1669 by King Charles II. There are a few other towns that have been around for nearly as long, too: Burlington was founded in 1677, Newark was incorporated in 1693, and Morristown was settled in 1715. There is so much history here in New Jersey! You can read more about our oldest towns and their histories right here.

What is the most unique town in New Jersey?

There are a lot of unique towns in New Jersey, but we think Haddonfield is one of the best small towns in New Jersey when it comes to truly standing out. You'll find a little bit of everything here! The downtown shopping district on Kings Highway features small shops that have been around for ages and restaurants that feature cuisine from all over the world. Be sure to visit the English Gardener Gift Shop! Read more about why we love Haddonfield right here.

What is the most naturally beautiful town in New Jersey?

Many of New Jersey's small towns are packed with beauty and charm, but Walpack is one that we can't quite get over! This Sussex County community has a fairly tumultuous history - it was almost abandoned to build a dam in the 1960s. The dam was never built, and only a handful of residents remained. Surrounding the town you'll find gorgeous forests, tall cascades, streams, rivers, brooks, and meadows. Take a look!

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Flemington, NJ 08822, USA