Hypnotized By Hunterdon County

BY ERIN McFEETERS

Hunterdon County Towns

Alexandria

Bethlehem

Bloomsbury

Califon

Clinton Town

Clinton Township

Delaware

East Amwell

Flemington

Franklin

Frenchtown

Glen Gardner

Hampton

High Bridge

Holland

Kingwood

Lambertville

Lebanon

Milford

Raritan

Readington

Stockton

Tewksbury

Union

West Amwell

Fast Facts

Name: Hunterdon County, named after BrigadierGeneral Hunter, the Governor General of the Provinces of New York and New Jersey

Region: Central Jersey

Municipalities: 26

Population: 130,183

Population Per Square Mile: 301.4

Median Household Income: $139,453

Mean Travel Time to Work: 33.6 Minutes

Housing Units: 52,255

*Facts according to the U.S. Census

Single Family Median Sales Price Year-to-Date: $660,000

Single Family Closed Sales Year-to-Date: 1,042

*According to NJ Realtors® November 2024 Housing Market Report

At the westernmost part of New Jersey along the Delaware River, you’ll find Hunterdon County, most known for outdoor experiences, charming small towns, historical tales, and abundant farmland. New Jersey has something for everyone and Hunterdon County is for lovers of open space, farmers markets, unique small businesses, the arts, and so much more.

“Hunterdon County is a picturesque region with a warm and quaint smalltown feel. There are many recreational opportunities to enjoy the rural landscapes and the beauty of the river and streams,” said Elizabeth Cole, Curator of Collections and the Deputy Director of The Red Mill Museum in Clinton. “However, in my opinion, it’s the historic charm that really sets it apart! Many towns have beautifully preserved historical buildings, which now house unique shops, galleries, or coffee spots.

I love how many of these establishments retain the character of the past and create an eclectic vibe.” The county dates back to the times of William Penn in the late 1670s, who owned large portions of land in the county known as West Jersey and was the traditional territory of the Delawares of the Lenni Lenape people, according to The First Century of Hunterdon County, State of New Jersey, written by George S. Mott and read before the New Jersey Historical Society at Trenton on Jan. 17, 1878. According to the same text, the county was officially erected in 1713, including all of the West Jersey territory north of the Assanpink, at the request of residents who no longer wished to travel to the West Jersey capital at the time, Burlington, to do business. As the population grew, the county was divided into Morris County and then Mercer County. Due to the success of its mills, Hunterdon was the most wealthy and populated county, and by 1790, the population grew to 20,153 and was made up of five townships. Today, the county is home to 130,183 residents and 26 municipalities.

Towns With Main Streets To Explore

Experience all Hunterdon County has to offer and visit these towns’ “Main Streets.” You’ll find new small businesses with unique offerings weaved throughout historical areas of the county.

High Bridge

With less than 4,000 residents, High Bridge provides the small town feel but with attractions to enjoy such as High Bridge Hills Golf Club, pottery classes at Old Borough Hall Pottery, piping hot coffee from Scout’s Coffee Bar and Mercantile, crisp ales from Esker/Hart Artisan Ales and easy access to train transportation. Single Family Median Sales Price: $385,000

Clinton

Known for the iconic Red Mill, read about it in the NJ historic sites section of this article, Clinton is located right along the Spruce Run Reservoir. Here you can visit the Red Mill Museum, enjoy a burger and wine pairing from the Clinton House, grab a quick bite at the Towne Restaurant, or find your mid-day pick-me-up at The Stone Bean. Single Family Median Sales Price: $561,500

Flemington

If you love sightseeing and historic homes, add Flemington to your list of places to visit. It’s most known for its historic district, which runs throughout town and encompasses the town’s rich history. Walk Flemington’s street and spot the Hunterdon County Courthouse; the Capnerhurst, a structure from 1760; the Hall of Records; the Union Hotel; and more. Many small businesses fill the iconic structures such as the Stangl Factory, which was completely renovated and now holds weekly farmers markets. Single Family Median Sales Price: $450,000

Milford

Situated right along the Delaware River, Milford is home to Descendants Brewing Company at the Old Ship Inn, known for its English-style brews; Solstice Farm, known for its rainbow eggs and fresh wildflowers; and Goldberg’s Bridge Street Bagels, known for its classic NJ-style breakfast sandwiches. Single Family Median Sales Price: $385,000

Frenchtown

Victorian architecture lovers, avid shoppers, and creatives alike will spend all day walking through the historic streets of Frenchtown. Avid readers will search the shelves of Frenchtown Bookshop, art-lovers will find unique pieces at ArtYard, and coffee lovers will find seasonal creations at Early Bird Espresso. Single Family Median Sales Price: $530,000

Lambertville

What was once a manufacturing hub, is now a historic destination with countless shops, restaurants, galleries, and small hotels to visit. Walk the iconic bridge over the Delaware River into New Hope Pa., find hidden gems at the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, stay the weekend at The Inn at Lambertville Station, or walk or bike the towpath along the Delaware River. Single Family Median Sales Price: $529,000

*All housing market data is according to NJ Realtors® November 2024 housing market data report.

Taverns And Inns To Explore This Winter

Early taverns and inns were essential for travelers back when Hunterdon County was known as West Jersey. Visit these historic watering holes for your next night out and taste the history of Hunterdon County.

Clinton House

Clinton

theclintonhouse.com

A Wine Spectator winner since 2020, the Clinton House was established in 1943 and has been catering to its patrons and overnight guests ever since. Their menu features burger and wine pairings, a raw bar, unique cocktails like the Not Your Mama’s Old Fashioned, steaks and chops, and more.

Inn at Glen Gardner

Glen Gardner

theinnrestaurant.com

Dating back to the 1760s, the Inn at Glen Gardner serves up the classics with a twist in their historical setting. Try the Benfatto Coffee Rubbed Pork Chop, Sweet Potato Pierogies, the Nashville hot chicken wings, and seasonal cocktails like the Plum and Cozy with Amaretto and plum juice or the Mezcal Harvest with pomegranate juice and a brown sugar rim.

Lambertville House

Lambertville

lambertvillehouse.com

First opening its doors in 1812 by Captain John Lambert, this historic property does it all from serving up cocktails to hosting corporate meetings to helping brides plan their big day to hosting overnight guests.

Bookstores To Browse On Sunday Afternoon

Who doesn’t like a good book on a winter afternoon? Hunterdon County is home to bookshops featuring some of the rarest book finds to the newest titles—one even has a Basset Hound named Fern.

Howling Basset Books

Oldwick/Tewksbury howlingbassetbooks.com

Located in downtown Oldwick, you can find books for all ages and visit the puppy in charge, Fern.

Frenchtown Bookshop

Frenchtown frenchtownbookshop.com

More than just books, visit Frenchtown Bookshop for stationery, toys, home goods, and games. They also host events throughout the year such as writers’ circle, book readings, book clubs, and more. Attend an author visit with Mike Sielski on Feb. 13 or an evening read of the Midnight Library by Matt Haig on Feb. 19.

Act 2 Books

Flemington

act2books.com

Hunting for an out-of-print rare book? Look no further than Act 2 Books. From a first edition signed copy of Firestarter by Stephen King to signed copies of The Writings of Harriet Beecher Stowe to a copy of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court by Mark Twain.

Panoply Books

Lambertville

panoplybooks.com

From vinyl and CDs to antique books to art, there’s a little of everything to explore at Panoply Books. Find Letters of Henry to Walter Berry, The Tragedie of King Lear by William Shakespeare and Claire Van Vliet, and other rare titles.

Hiking And Outdoor Experiences To Explore

Hike through Hunterdon County for a true feel of New Jersey’s hills and mountains. Reach new heights and discover Hunterdon County’s nature side.

Goat Hill Overlook—Lambertville and New Hope

Lambertville

njhiking.com/goat-hill-overlook

Enjoy views of the Delaware River, Lambertville, and New Hope, Pa. on this one or 2.4-mile route.

Vorhees State Park

Glen Gardner

njreal.to/voorhees

Dating back to 1929, the land now known as Vorhees State Park was formerly owned by the late Gov. Foster McGowan Vorhees who served from 1899-1902. He donated the 323 acres after he died and the rural land now features trails, camping grounds, areas to fish and hunt, and an observatory with a Newtonian reflector telescope.

Hunterdon County Arboretum

Clinton Township

njreal.to/arboretum

This living museum was established in the 1940s and features 135 acres of gardens and trails. Consider participating in the self-guided nature hike to see all the land has to offer or hike one of the seven trails that cover two miles.

Teetertown Preserve

Lebanon Township

njreal.to/teetertown

Uncover Hunterdon County’s natural beauty and explore all the Teetertown Preserve offers—wooded areas, streams, rock outcroppings, and animal life. Participate in the compass course, hike or bike its trails, or escape to go camping.

Tower Hill Reserve & Jugtown Mountain

Nature Preserve

Bethlehem Township

njreal.to/tower-hill

What was once a mine in the 1800s is now a 690-acre nature preserve on the ridge of the Musconetcong Mountain. The land’s rocky terrain makes for more difficult hiking trails and visitors can explore the former mine’s grounds.

Creative Spaces To Visit Next Weekend

Harness your creative side and visit some of Hunterdon County’s small businesses dedicated to the arts. From museums to pottery studios, there’s so much to explore.

Hunterdon Art Museum

Clinton

hunterdonartmuseum.org

Visit the hub of shops and restaurants in this historic town of Clinton and you’ll find the Hunterdon Art Museum, located within a 19th century stone mill. Attend one of their shows featuring art from internationally recognized artists and new artists, sign your child up for an artistic summer camp, or register for a workshop.

Hunterdon Hills Playhouse

Hampton

hhplayhouse.com

Enjoy a night out at a full dinner theater experience at the Hunterdon Mills Playhouse. From musical theatre productions to comedies to music events, the playhouse has a packed schedule of events to choose from for your next date night. Attend their upcoming shows: Dr. K’s Motown Revue Feb. 20-23, The Mahoney Brothers Feb. 27-March 2, or Bill Haley Jr. & The Comets March 7-9.

ArtYard

Frenchtown

artyard.org

What was once a former electronics warehouse and abandoned egg hatchery is now Art Yard, a one-ofa-kind arts experience comprised of a state-of-the-art theater, exhibition space, two artist residencies, and a workshop space. Their mission, foster creative expression and collaboration. Visit for one of their upcoming events: Red Pencil Drawing Nights Jan. 2-Feb. 27 or Soft as Earth Feb. 22-June 8.

Stangl Factory

Flemington

stanglfactory.com

The historic Stangl Pottery Factory is now a creative community ready for you to join. Visit and find an artist-owned gallery, pottery studio, coffee and food, a medium, a weekly farmers’ market, and a yoga and physical therapy studio.

Old Borough Hall Pottery

High Bridge

oldboroughhallpottery.com

Studio owner Rachel Yu and her team will walk you through your first time at the pottery wheel or help you refine your craft if you’re a little more advanced. In the historic High Bridge Old Borough Hall, take a step into history and learn new artistic skills.

Music Mountain Theatre

Lambertville

musicmountaintheatre.org

First opening its doors in 2017 with its production of Phantom, the

Music Mountain Theatre has plenty of upcoming performances for you and your family. Purchase tickets for Vanya and Sophia and Masha and Spike Feb. 7-Feb. 23 or Disney’s Aristocats Kids Feb. 15-March 1.

Whittemore

Oldwick/Tewksbury

whittemoreccc.org

Left to the town by nature lover and diarist Helen A. Whittmore, the 180-acre preserve is now a flourishing community comprised of hiking and walking trails, gardens, art exhibits and workshops, and so much more. Attend weekly fitness classes, nature educational programs for all ages, and walk the unique grounds.

Travel To Another Time And Visit NJ Historic Sites

From inns to farmsteads, travel to the early 1700s by visiting Hunterdon County’s most historical sites and museums.

Red Mill Museum Village

Clinton

theredmill.org

The Red Mill began its operations to process wool in the early 1800s before later focusing operations as a grist mill. According to Cole, mills played a pivotal role in shaping Hunterdon County’s history. The Red Mill provided electricity for Clinton’s street lamps, produced peach baskets, and then for grinding talc in the early 1900s.

“They served as essential hubs of commerce and business, driving economic development and enabling towns to thrive. This growth fostered not only economic prosperity but also the social fabric of early American communities, as mills became central to daily life and interaction,” said Cole.

Established in 1960, The Red Mill Museum has connected visitors to its past for over six decades while fostering a sense of community, according to Cole. Today they preserve 12 historic buildings and have a collection of 40,000 artifacts. Join them on April 12 for their Hands-On History: Traditional Crafts Festival.

Readington Museums

Readington

readingtontwpnj.gov/ museums-home

Uncover what it was like to live in the Hunterdon County of yesteryear and visit the Readington Museums, which are located at the Bouman-Stickney Farmstead. The preserved open space is home to several buildings: Bouman-Stickney Farmhouse, a 1741 Dutch bank house; Eversole Hall House, which dates back to 1753; the WadeWyckoff Barn; and the Cold Brook School.

Holcombe Jimison Farmstead

Lambertville

holcombe-jimison.org

Visit the farm and learn more about Hunterdon County’s agricultural heritage. The property features a print shop, woodworking shop, dairy exhibit, doctor’s office, blacksmith shop, and more. They just wrapped up the Christmas season on the Farm Winter Wonderland, but stay tuned this spring for more events.

Prallsville Mills

Stockton

prallsvillemills.org

Located right on the Delaware River, this 10-building complex features a grist mill, linseed oil mill, saw mill, and granary. Now, it’s used for weddings and other special events.

Samuel Fleming House

Flemington

samuelfleminghouse.org

Journey back to colonial life in America and learn about the story of Samuel Fleming, who emigrated from Ireland in the 1700s, and his family of 10 children. Uncover the family’s past for yourself and attend an upcoming home tour.

Rockingham Historic Site

Franklin

nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/ historic/rockingham.html

After the Revolutionary War, Martha and General Washington spent time at Rockingham while Congress met in Princeton as he wrote his Farewell Orders to the Armies. Today, you can walk through the restored home, attend events and participate in basket weaving, musket drilling, and outdoor hearth cooking.

Family Fun Experiences At The Farm

Did you know? Hunterdon County has a farmland protection program and since its inception in 2008 has preserved 36,136 acres of farmland on 478 farms, according to The Land Conservancy of New Jersey. They’ve put $303.5 million into protecting the best of what Hunterdon County represents. Visit these unique farms for an experience like no other.

Doyle’s Farm

Flemington

doylesfarm.com

Visit this farm for a taste of rural living. During their season, you can get in on the planting and harvesting action, learn about farm machinery, and how to care for different farm animals. They also have a Country Store/Boutique, which is located in Neshanic Station, where you can buy straw and hay, farm fresh eggs and meats, gifts, goat and cow hides, along with bunnies, goats, and sheep.

WoodsEdge Farm

Stockton

woodsedge.com

Established in 1976, this farm is unlike your typical textile farm. While the founders began their business with wool, the farm transitioned to a herd of 300 llamas and alpacas in the mid-1980s.

“Farming is at the heart of Hunterdon County. Our farm has been in my family for 49 years, and as a third generation New Jersey farmer, I’ve seen how it shapes not just the land but the fabric of the community,” said Brent Walker of WoodsEdge Farm. “At WoodsEdge, we’ve built a fiber farm that’s rooted in tradition and sustainability, raising alpacas and llamas to produce luxurious, natural fibers for end products (like our Best Ever Alpaca socks).”

Today you can attend their annual shearing fest, have lunch with a llama, or attend an alpaca paint party. The farm is closed for the season but will reopen in November 2025.

“What makes this area truly special is how the community values its farmers; not just for what we produce, but for the way farming keeps us connected to the land and to each other. Here, farming is more than a livelihood—it’s a legacy and a way of life,” said Walker.

Gorgeous Goat Creamery

Stockton

gorgeousgoat.com

It’s all about the goats at this first-generation dairy farm. Maria Stewart and Matt Kriegler moved to New Jersey in 2016 and used goats to remove invasive plants. Four years later, the pair operates a full-blown goat dairy farm making cheeses, milk, yogurt, soap, lotion, and more. Visit today and attend a soapmaking class, tour the farm, hike with the goats, and more.

Mad Lavender Farm

Milford

madlavenderfarm.com

The farm started growing lavender in 2013 and now grows seven different varieties. When they reopen for the season this spring, attend goat yoga, take photos amongst this year’s lavender crop, host a private party on the grounds, and of course pick lavender.

Restaurants For Your Next Night Out

If you’re looking for a new spot, Hunterdon County has a slew of restaurants that focus on fresh ingredients. Whether you’re planning family dinner, date night, or fun with friends, there’s a restaurant to satisfy your cravings.

The Harvest Moon Inn

Ringoes

harvestmooninn.info

Located in a stone building that dates back to the early 1800s, The Harvest Moon Inn is an American cuisine restaurant with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. You’ve heard of farm-to-table, but have you heard of back door-to-table? Their gardens on the property feature an array of flowers, vegetables, and more.

Matt’s Red Rooster Grill

Flemington

mattsredroostergrill.com

A BYOB restaurant cooking up unique dishes on their wood-fired grill. Try their Griggstown Farm deviled eggs with bacon and chili oil, signature grilled romaine, wood fire grilled ahi tuna, and the cherry coke short ribs.

Juniper Hill Restaurant & Bar

Annandale

juniper-hill.com

Located in a renovated bank, Juniper Hill is a family-friendly restaurant and bar serving seasonal food. Try their steelhead trout poke, tamarind braised short rib, fresh squid ink campanelle, or margarita pie.

Hash House

Lambertville

hashhouselambertville.com

A brunch spot serving up the classics with a twist. Try the Choco Taco, coffee with dulce de leche and a liege waffle; or their main dishes such as Orange Crush Pancakes, pancakes made with orange juice; or the Joe Shmoe, breakfast sandwich on sourdough.

Brasserie 513

Califon

brasserie513.com

When Mediterranean and Italian meet you get breaded brie cheese with granny smith apples and strawberry jam, short rib sliders with caramelized onions and melted gorgonzola, and porcini mushroom risotto with chunks of steak and a demi glazed sauce.

Grab Your Morning Cup Of Coffee

These Hunterdon County coffee spots are the place for a mid-day pick-me-up, for medicinal tea when you’re feeling down, and your first stop on a weekend adventure.

Alkemy Coffee Co.

Flemington

alkemycoffeeco.com

Located in the Stangl Factory, their goal is to go beyond coffee and offer a menu that focuses on holistic healing. While their menu is stacked with your coffee favorites try the Goth Latte with blueberry and charcoal powder, the honey lavender latte, or herbal coffee with medicinal mushrooms. Tea lovers will find all their favorites plus function herbal teas to support immunity, emotional healing, and skin support.

Early Bird Espresso & Mercantile

Frenchtown

@earlybird_espresso on Instagram

You’ll find more than just your morning cup of joe. Visit and find breakfast staples like quiche and baked goods like blueberry crumb, and seasonal drinks like their maple latte.

Union Coffee

Lambertville

unioncoffeenj.com

Bringing coffee and the community together each day, Union Coffee’s menu features coffee classics with house-made syrups and quick bites like overnight oats, avocado toast, and vegan chicken salad. They also host events every week. Join them for their Sunday Music Series, trivia night, and more.

The Stone Bean at Riverside

Clinton

@thestonebean on Instagram

Just across the River from the Red Mill Museum, make a trip to Clinton to enjoy all it has to offer. Pop into The Stone Bean for seasonal coffee creations like cookie buttercream cold brew and walk along the reservoir on your next free weekend morning.

Scouts Coffee Bar and Mercantile

High Bridge

scoutscoffeebar.com

Taking coffee to the next level by training all their baristas to the standards of the Specialty Coffee Association and roasting all of their coffee in-house, Scouts Coffee is a mustvisit. Try their Ginger Molasses Latte with ground ginger and topped with molasses-sweetened steamed milk or the Andes Mint Latte with crushed Andes mints. They also offer brunch options such as prosciutto ricotta toast, pesto hummus toast, burritos, muffins, and more.

For Your Friday Night Sweet Treat

When you have a hankering for something sweet or craving rich chocolate delight, Hunterdon County small businesses deliver. Try these spots with homemade ice cream with unique flavors, nostalgic candy, or ice cream sandwiches inspired by pie.

Sandy’s Scoops

Frenchtown

sandyscoops.com

Taking ice cream to the next level, Sandy Scoops prioritizes local ingredients including dairy from Spring Run Farms in Bucks County, Pa. Indulge in their flavors such as wild berry cheesecake with scratchmade cheesecake, banana caramel biscoff with real bananas, or mint chocolate flake infused with real mint. They’re always creating new combinations and they also have six flavors of vegan ice cream and sorbet.

Chocolate in the Oven

Milford

chocolateintheoven.com

Serving up everything from pignoli and peanut butter crisp cookies to tiramisu and lobster tails to pies, cakes, and homemade candy—everything is made in-store and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth. Their menu also features seasonal delights, small-batch ice cream, and gluten-free options.

Peace Pie

Lambertville

peacepieworld.com

Inspired by pie flavor combinations, Peace Pies takes ice cream sandwiches to a new level with layers of pie filling, ice cream, and crust flavors for countless possibilities. Try the blueberry cobbler with blueberry ice cream, vanilla mousse, and graham cracker cookies; or the peanut butter brownie with chocolate ice cream, peanut butter mousse, caramel, brownies, and chocolate shortbread cookies.

The Farmer’s Table

Stockton

sugarmaplejerseys.com

When you walk into The Farmer’s Table, you won’t find commercial products, but you will find a slew of products from local farmers and homemade ice cream from The Nesting Box, a small family-owned business in Kempton, Pa.

“Our 180-acre dairy farm is located just a few short miles from The Farmer’s Table in town,” said Heidi Kovacs, owner of Sugar Maple Jerseys dairy farm and The Farmers Table. “We only retail all of our own high-quality meats that we raise right on the farm and all of our own grass-fed dairy products.”

Head to The Farmer’s Table for fresh cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products, but the ice cream will stop you in your tracks.

“They [The Nesting Box] are always willing to explore new flavors and ideas,” said Kovacs. “I think the most popular flavor we created with them is our “Cow Tracks.” That is a vanilla bourbon-flavored ice cream with fudge and caramel swirl.”