Delaware Township Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of Delaware Township with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culturally important attractions, natural beauty, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to Delaware Township

Delaware Township is a picturesque small town in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, located in the beautiful Skylands region. The township is known for its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities. Travelers to the area will find plenty to see and do, including hiking and biking, exploring museums and historical sites, enjoying scenic views, and sampling the delicious food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in Delaware Township

If you’re planning a visit to Delaware Township, make sure to check out these top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Prallsville Mills: This historic site is a complex of buildings and structures that served as a mill for over 200 years. Today, the site includes a museum, art gallery, and event space.
  • Hunterdon Art Museum: Founded in 1952, the museum features contemporary art exhibits and hands-on art classes for all ages.
  • Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum: This living history museum showcases life on a 19th-century farm and offers educational programs and events.

Natural Attractions of Delaware Township: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Delaware River: The Delaware River runs through the township and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • Sergeantsville Farmers’ Market: This outdoor market offers a variety of fresh produce and handmade goods from local farmers and artisans.
  • Baldpate Mountain: This mountain offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Delaware Township

Delaware Township is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the top routes include:

  • Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park Trail: This trail offers 72 miles of hiking and biking, with stunning views of the canal and river.
  • Hunterdon County Arboretum Nature Preserve: This preserve features three miles of hiking trails through fields, meadows, and forests.
  • Union Mountain Preserve: This preserve offers over eight miles of hiking trails, with views of the Sourland Mountains and the Delaware River Valley.

Best Things to Do in Delaware Township: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Delaware Township. Here are some of the best:

  • Delaware River Tubing: Enjoy a leisurely float down the Delaware River on a tube, with beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for swimming and relaxing.
  • Wine Tasting Tours: Visit one of the many wineries in the region, such as Unionville Vineyards or Old York Cellars, for a tasting and tour.
  • Farm-to-Table Dining: Sample locally sourced cuisine at one of the area’s many farm-to-table restaurants, such as The Ship Inn or Spruce Run Eatery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Delaware Township

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Delaware Township:

Day Activity
1 Visit Prallsville Mills and Hunterdon Art Museum, followed by dinner at The Clean Plate Kitchen.
2 Hike the Baldwin Mountain trail in the morning, then enjoy a picnic lunch at the top. In the afternoon, visit Sergeantsville Farmers’ Market.
3 Spend the day on the Delaware River, kayaking and fishing.
4 Tour the Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum, followed by lunch at The Rail at Readington.
5 Take a wine tasting tour, visiting local wineries like Unionville Vineyards and Old York Cellars.
6 Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at The Ship Inn or Spruce Run Eatery.
7 Explore the Union Mountain Preserve, followed by a farewell dinner at The Milford House.

Food and Drink Scene of Delaware Township

Delaware Township is known for its fresh, locally sourced cuisine and farm-to-table restaurants. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken and Waffles: This Southern-inspired dish is a specialty at The Clean Plate Kitchen.
  • Grass-Fed Burgers: Enjoy a delicious burger made from locally sourced beef at Clinton Station Diner.
  • Seasonal Salads: Sample fresh seasonal salads made from locally sourced ingredients at Spruce Run Eatery.

Local Beverages

  • Unionville Vineyards Wine: This award-winning winery produces a variety of handcrafted wines, including Chardonnay, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc.
  • River Horse Brewing Company Beer: This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers, including the popular River Horse IPA.

Where to Stay in Delaware Township: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Delaware Township has a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some options:

  • The Milford House: This elegant Victorian-style bed and breakfast offers luxurious accommodations and a full breakfast each morning.
  • The National Hotel: This historic hotel dates back to 1833 and offers stylish rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar.
  • Camp Taylor Campground: This family-friendly campground offers tent and RV sites, as well as cabins and cottages.

What to Buy in Delaware Township: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to bring home some local products and souvenirs from your trip to Delaware Township. Here are some ideas:

  • Hunterdon Land Trust Farmers’ Market: This farmers’ market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items from local farmers and artisans.
  • Unionville Vineyards Wine: Bring home a bottle of locally produced wine as a reminder of your trip.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Visit Flameworx Studio, where you’ll find beautiful handcrafted pottery made by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Delaware Township

Delaware Township is a friendly and welcoming community with a strong sense of local culture and heritage. Visitors to the area should take the time to learn about the township’s history and traditions, and respect the local customs and way of life.

Best Time to Visit Delaware Township

The best time to visit Delaware Township is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful. Summer is also a popular time to visit, thanks to the many outdoor activities and events that take place during this season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Delaware Township

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Delaware Township:

Do:

  • Explore the Outdoors: With its stunning natural beauty, Delaware Township is the perfect place to enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Sample Local Cuisine: Delaware Township is known for its fresh, locally sourced cuisine, so make sure to try some of the local specialties.
  • Respect the Local Community: Delaware Township is a friendly and welcoming community that values respect and courtesy from visitors.

Don’t:

  • Litter or Damage the Environment: Delaware Township is home to many pristine natural areas, so please do your part to keep them beautiful and undisturbed.
  • Be Disrespectful of Local Culture and Customs: Be aware of the local customs and way of life, and show respect for the township’s cultural heritage.

Safety and Health

When visiting Delaware Township, it’s important to keep safety and health in mind. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Delaware Township

  • Watch for Wildlife: Delaware Township is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and snakes, so make sure to take precautions when hiking or exploring the outdoors.
  • Be Cautious on the River: If you plan to kayak or canoe on the Delaware River, make sure to wear a life jacket and be aware of the river’s currents and hazards.

Health in Delaware Township

  • Stay Hydrated: With its many outdoor activities, Delaware Township can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
  • Protect Yourself from Ticks: Delaware Township is also home to ticks, which can spread Lyme disease. Make sure to wear insect repellent and check yourself for ticks after spending time outdoors.

Getting to Delaware Township: Transportation Options and Logistics

Delaware Township is easily accessible by car, but there are also other transportation options available. Here’s what you need to know:

Airports Near Delaware Township

  • Newark Liberty International Airport: Approximately 50 miles from Delaware Township.

Bus Stations Near Delaware Township

  • Flemington Bus Depot: Approximately 10 miles from Delaware Township.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Car rental companies are available in nearby cities like Newark, Trenton, and Philadelphia.
  • Public Transportation: NJ Transit buses connect Delaware Township with nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Delaware Township

The best way to get around Delaware Township is by car, as public transportation options are limited. However, there are also opportunities to explore on foot or by bike, especially along the many scenic hiking and biking trails in the area.

Where to Go Next from Delaware Township: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Washington Crossing State Park: This state park is located across the Delaware River in Pennsylvania and features historical landmarks, hiking trails, and other recreational opportunities.
  • Princeton: Just a short drive from Delaware Township, Princeton is home to Princeton University, as well as a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • New Hope: This charming town in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, is known for its art galleries, antique shops, and scenic beauty.

Conclusion

Delaware Township is a hidden gem in the Skylands region of New Jersey, offering natural beauty, rich culture, and plenty of recreational opportunities. Whether you’re interested in hiking and biking, exploring museums and historical sites, or sampling delicious cuisine, Delaware Township has something to offer everyone. So why not plan your visit today and experience the best of this charming small town?