TOWN SPOTLIGHT
Courtesy of Blue Rascal Distillery
Hammonton Small Town Feel, Big City Appeal BY LINDSEY GETZ Courtesy of Blue Rascal Distillery
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ocated between Philadelphia and Atlantic City, Hammonton is known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World.” While there’s no doubt the sandy soil is optimal for blueberry growth, this charming town wants people to know there’s so much more to it than fruit. For such a small town, there’s a tremendous amount to do. This includes an abundance of wineries, breweries, and distilleries, a variety of festivals, arts programming that easily rivals a big city, and so much more. The city has dubbed the phrase, small town feel, big city appeal, to summarize all that it has to offer.
22 | NEW JERSEY REALTOR® | MAY/JUNE 2022
Jim Donio, Hammonton’s “town advocate,” a title given to him by the mayor, has been directly involved in the town’s continued growth, including its embracing of the arts. He said a day trip to Hammonton could be easily jampacked with activities. For those seeking fresh air, there’s plenty to do outdoors. Donio said being ringed by Wharton State Forest has prevented this area from being overrun by the sprawl that exists all around them. In that way, it’s almost like an island—and it makes for a great escape. “There is mountain biking, fishing, and hiking,” Donio said. “We have seen a lot of growth as people have
come to appreciate being outside and enjoying nature.” There’s truly something for everyone with seven wineries, three breweries, a wine bar, and a distillery, visitors have plenty of options. Blue Rascal Distillery has even found a way to incorporate the town’s blueberry history with blueberry-infused liqueur and custom cocktails. As far as food goes, the options are equally as varied. Donio said Penza’s Pies is the perfect place to pick up both sweet and savory pies. Joe Italiano’s Maplewood is known for being the town’s long-standing Italian restaurant and Donio said the area is also fortunate to have a couple of different
