Bordentown Travel Guide

A complete travel guide for Bordentown, including a list of places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bordentown

Bordentown is a small city located in the Delaware River Region of Burlington County, New Jersey. The city is famous for its rich history, cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and mouth-watering cuisine. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, Bordentown offers a wealth of attractions and activities that will keep you entertained and inspired throughout your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Bordentown

Here’s a comprehensive list of must-see attractions and places to visit in Bordentown.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Bordentown Historical Society: This organization runs two museums, where you can learn about the city’s history and culture. The Friends Meeting House Museum offers exhibits of colonial-era artifacts, while the Clara Barton Schoolhouse Museum showcases memorabilia from the life of Clara Barton, a famous nurse who lived in Bordentown.
  • The General Joseph Bordentown Home: This historic house was built in the 18th century and was the birthplace of Joseph Bordentown, who served as a general in the American Revolutionary War.
  • The Thomas Paine House: This historic home was once the residence of Thomas Paine, an influential writer and philosopher who played a key role in the American Revolutionary War.

Natural Attractions of Bordentown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Crystal Lake Park: This park is located on 229 acres of land and offers a range of activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The park is home to several small lakes, woodlands, and meadows, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
  • Bordentown Beach: This sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing, especially during the summer months. The beach also offers a playground, basketball court, and picnic areas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bordentown

Bordentown offers several scenic hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • D&R Canal Trail: This 60-mile trail runs alongside the Delaware and Raritan Canal and offers stunning views of the waterway and surrounding countryside. The trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Bordentown City Bike Path: This 1.3-mile bike path winds through the city and offers picturesque views of the Delaware River. The path is flat and easy to navigate and is perfect for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Bordentown: Activities and Tours

Bordentown has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor activities.

  • City Walking Tour: Take a guided walking tour of the city and learn about its rich history and cultural landmarks.
  • Bordentown Food Tour: Sample some of the city’s best cuisine on a guided food tour that takes you to the top restaurants and cafes in Bordentown.
  • Riverboat Cruise: Take a scenic riverboat cruise down the Delaware River and enjoy breathtaking views of the water and surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bordentown

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Bordentown, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Bordentown Historical Society and the General Joseph Bordentown Home.
Day 2 Take a scenic hike or bike ride along the D&R Canal Trail.
Day 3 Visit the Clara Barton Schoolhouse Museum and learn about the life of this famous nurse and humanitarian.
Day 4 Spend the day at Bordentown Beach, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Day 5 Take a riverboat cruise down the Delaware River and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 6 Sample some of the city’s best cuisine on a guided food tour.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the city’s scenic parks and outdoor spaces, such as Crystal Lake Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Bordentown

Bordentown is a food lover’s paradise, with a range of cuisines and dining options to suit every taste and budget.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Roll Sandwich: This iconic New Jersey sandwich consists of thinly sliced pork roll, served on a fresh roll with cheese and egg.
  • Tomato Pie: This savory pie is made with a thick, tomato-based sauce, topped with cheese, and baked until crispy.
  • Taylor Ham and Cheese: Another classic New Jersey dish, this sandwich features fried ham slices, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs, served on a fresh roll.

Local Beverages

  • Jersey Devil Vodka: This award-winning vodka is made from locally sourced potatoes and filtered using Jersey Devil charcoal.
  • River Horse Brewing Company: This local brewery offers a range of craft beers and seasonal brews, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Bordentown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bordentown offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  • Wyndham Garden Trenton: This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness center.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Hamilton: This modern hotel features clean and comfortable rooms, a heated indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
  • The Bordentown Inn: This charming guesthouse is housed in a historic building and offers elegant rooms, a garden courtyard, and a cozy lounge area.

What to Buy in Bordentown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for the perfect souvenir or gift to bring home, Bordentown has plenty of options.

  • Local Cheese: Bordentown is known for its delicious locally made cheese, which is available at a range of shops and markets throughout the city.
  • Antiques and Collectibles: The city is home to several antique shops and vintage stores, where you can find unique and one-of-a-kind items.
  • Local Crafts and Artwork: Bordentown has a thriving arts community, and you can find a range of locally made crafts and artwork at galleries and shops throughout the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Bordentown

Bordentown is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are proud of their city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect the city’s landmarks and traditions, and to engage with locals to learn more about the area’s unique culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Bordentown

The best time to visit Bordentown is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city’s outdoor attractions are at their best. However, the city is also a great destination year-round, and visitors can enjoy a range of indoor activities during the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bordentown

Here’s a list of Dos and Don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Bordentown.

Do:

  • Respect the city’s historical landmarks and cultural traditions.
  • Engage with locals to learn more about the city’s unique culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine, especially the iconic pork roll sandwich.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in the city’s parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Disrupt the peace and quiet of residential areas, especially at night.
  • Ignore the city’s traffic laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Bordentown is a safe and healthy city, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their well-being.

Safety in Bordentown

  • Use caution when hiking or biking on the city’s trails and outdoor spaces.
  • Keep valuables locked up in a safe or secure location.
  • Follow the city’s traffic laws and regulations when driving or walking on the streets.

Health in Bordentown

  • Drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outdoors.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any illness or injury during your stay.

Getting to Bordentown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bordentown is easily accessible by car, bus, and train, and is located within easy driving distance of several major cities and airports.

Airports Near Bordentown

  • Philadelphia International Airport: This airport is located 45 minutes south of Bordentown and offers a range of domestic and international flights.
  • Newark Liberty International Airport: This airport is located 1 hour north of Bordentown and offers a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Bordentown

  • Greyhound: This bus station is located in Trenton, approximately 10 minutes from Bordentown.
  • NJ Transit: This bus station is located in Bordentown and offers local and regional bus service throughout the area.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The nearest Amtrak station is located in Trenton, approximately 10 minutes from Bordentown.
  • Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate in the area, offering a range of vehicles and rental options.

How to Get Around in Bordentown

Bordentown is a walkable city, and most attractions and amenities are within easy walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also use public transportation, taxis, or rental cars to get around the city.

Where to Go Next from Bordentown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore beyond Bordentown, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out.

  • Philadelphia: This vibrant city is located just 30 minutes south of Bordentown and offers a wealth of attractions, including museums, shopping, and dining.
  • Atlantic City: This famous seaside resort is located approximately 1.5 hours south of Bordentown and is known for its casinos, beaches, and boardwalk.
  • New York City: The Big Apple is located approximately 1 hour north of Bordentown and offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.

Conclusion

Bordentown is a hidden gem in the Delaware River Region, offering a wealth of attractions, activities, and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. From the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks to its scenic parks and outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Bordentown. So pack your bags, plan your trip, and get ready to explore one of New Jersey’s most unforgettable destinations.

Downtown Bordentown Downtown Bordentown Clara Barton School, Bordentown Clara Barton School, Bordentown