Lebanon Travel Guide

Explore the best of Lebanon, NJ with our travel guide. Discover amazing natural sights, cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, local food and drinks, accommodation options, and essential travel tips.


Introduction to Lebanon

Lebanon is a small historic borough located in Hunterdon County nestled in the beautiful Skylands region of New Jersey. The town was initially named Lebanon after the Biblical land of milk and honey. Lebanon has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can experience this first hand through the town’s museums, historical attractions and quaint small town charm. This guide will provide an overview of the best things to do and see while visiting Lebanon.

List of Places to Visit in Lebanon

Here are some of the must-visit places in Lebanon, NJ:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hunterdon County Historical Society - showcases artifacts from Hunterdon County’s past offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the area.
  • Boone Farm Museum - exhibits and talks depict the rich farming history of this area. Various demonstrations are also held at this site.

Natural Attractions of Lebanon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Round Valley Recreation Area - offering stunning views of the rolling hills and the Round Valley Reservoir, this area is perfect for hiking, swimming, or picnicking.
  • Cushetunk Mountain Wildlife Management Area - great for hiking, biking, bird watching, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lebanon

Explore the lush green forests, take in the stunning views of the various water bodies, and enjoy the fresh air on one of the numerous hiking and biking trails in and around Lebanon. Some of the popular trails are:

  • Columbia Trail - follows a former railroad bed through High Bridge, Califon, and points beyond, offering scenic views of picturesque farmland, streams, and rivers.
  • Round Valley Recreation Area Trail offers mountain biking and hiking trails with beautiful views for a fun day out.

Best Things to Do in Lebanon: Activities and Tours

Lebanon has an array of activities and tours that will keep visitors entertained, some of the best things to do in Lebanon include:

  • Hot air balloon rides - take a ride on a hot air balloon and experience Lebanon from above.
  • Wine tasting at vineyards - visit one of the many wineries around Lebanon and sample their offerings.
  • Horseback riding - explore the lush green forests and parks on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lebanon

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best things to do in Lebanon:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Columbia Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot.
Day 2 Hike at the Cushetunk Mountain Wildlife Management Area and explore the scenic beauty of the area.
Day 3 Visit Hunterdon County Historical Society and The Boone Farm Museum to learn about the history of Lebanon.
Day 4 Spend the day at Round Valley Recreation Area and indulge in various outdoor activities like swimming, picnicking, or hiking.
Day 5 Take a hot air balloon ride and explore Lebanon from above.
Day 6 Wine tasting tours at local vineyards and enjoy the scenic countryside.
Day 7 Explore the horse trails around Lebanon and enjoy nature on horseback.

Food and Drink Scene of Lebanon

Lebanon has a burgeoning food and drink scene, and visitors can experience local cuisine at some of these restaurants:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Roll Egg and Cheese - a classic New Jersey sandwich loaded with flavor.
  • Taylor Ham - a type of breakfast meat that is uniquely New Jersey.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - Lebanon is famous for producing some of the best wines in New Jersey. Tour one of the local vineyards to experience this first hand.
  • Craft beer - sample delicious craft beers at the many breweries in and around Lebanon.

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

Here are some lodging options for visitors to Lebanon:

  • The Raritan Inn Bed and Breakfast - a cozy yet luxurious bed and breakfast located right on the banks of the Raritan River offering beautiful views and quiet relaxation.
  • Hampton Inn Clinton - a popular hotel located in Clinton, just 15 minutes away from Lebanon.

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

  • Jersey Fresh Produce - Visitors can bring home fresh fruits and vegetables, some widely available at the various farm stands around Lebanon.
  • Artwork and Crafts - Lebanon has a thriving local artisan community, so visitors can buy handmade crafts, sculptures, and other artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Lebanon

Lebanon has a deep cultural heritage that can be seen through its museums and local customs. Visitors should respect the local traditions and cultural practices, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Lebanon

The best time to visit Lebanon is during the fall, when the leaves are changing, and the weather is mild. The spring and summer months are also great for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lebanon

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try local cuisine and products.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Disrespect the local culture.
  • Forget to carry mosquito repellent during outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lebanon

Lebanon is a very safe town with relatively low crime rates. Visitors should still take the usual precautions while exploring the town.

Health in Lebanon

Lebanon has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can receive care at Hunterdon Medical Center.

Getting to Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some options for getting to Lebanon:

Airports Near Lebanon

  • Newark International Airport
  • Lehigh Valley International Airport

Bus Stations Near Lebanon

  • TransBridge Bus Lines
  • Greyhound Bus Lines

Other Options

  • Inexpensive shuttle services are available from most major airports and train stations to Lebanon

How to Get Around in Lebanon

Since Lebanon is a small town, the best way to get around is by car, bike, or foot. Bike renting services are available at various locations, and many areas are close enough to walk to.

Where to Go Next from Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby attractions that can be visited during a day trip from Lebanon:

  • Washington Crossing Historic Park - located in Pennsylvania, it commemorates the site where General George Washington crossed the Delaware River with his army in 1776.
  • Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area - located in Pennsylvania, it offers visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping.

Conclusion

Lebanon provides a wide range of experiences to visitors who wish to explore everything from history to natural beauty, outdoor adventures and local cuisine. There’s also plenty to discover in the surrounding towns and nearby attractions. We hope this guide helps you to make the most of your visit to Lebanon, NJ!