Morris County Travel Guide

Explore the best things to do, see, and eat in Morris County, NJ. Discover natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and travel tips to make the most of your visit to this Skylands region.


Introduction to Morris County

Welcome to Morris County, located in the Skylands region of New Jersey. This county is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture seekers. With a range of museums, scenic parks, hiking trails, and culinary experiences, there is something for everyone. Here’s your complete guide to exploring Morris County, NJ.

List of Places to Visit in Morris County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fosterfields Living Historical Farm: Explore the daily life of farmers during the early 1900s through guided tours, including hands-on activities and demonstrations.
  • Morris Museum: Discover a range of changing exhibits, including American and European art, mechanical musical instruments, and folk art.
  • Macculloch Hall Historical Museum: Admire the rich history of the Morris family, including antiques and artifacts from the Victorian era.

Natural Attractions of Morris County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tourne County Park: Enjoy panoramic views of the New York City skyline and explore various trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
  • Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: Discover one of the largest freshwater marshes in the state and witness over 250 species of birds, hiking, and nature observation.
  • Jockey Hollow: Explore the Revolutionary War campsite and hike through the scenic valley to see the granite memorial of soldiers who died in the harsh winter of 1779-80.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Morris County

With over 36,000 acres of parkland, Morris County offers a vast network of trails for nature lovers and exercise enthusiasts. Some of the top trails include:

  • Patriots Path: This 35-mile trail provides a variety of terrains from hills, streams, and open fields with multiple access points.
  • Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area: This 1,500-acre park has one of the best scenic views in NJ, with rocky trails, waterfalls, and historical landmarks.
  • Columbia Trail: This trail runs along the former path of the High Bridge Branch of the Central Railroad and offers a flat and shady route for bikers.

Best Things to Do in Morris County: Activities and Tours

  • Whippany Railway Museum: Take a nostalgic ride on the vintage trains and learn more about the history, technology, and engineering of the past.
  • The Seeing Eye: Visit the world’s oldest guide dog school and get to know how these amazing animals help those in need.
  • Alstede Farms: Have some fun picking fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers in a family-friendly environment with an ice cream parlor.

Week-Long Itinerary for Morris County

Planning a week-long vacation to Morris County? Here are some suggested must-see attractions and experiences:

  • Day 1: Visit Macculloch Hall Historical Museum and explore downtown Morristown.
  • Day 2: Take a hike at Tourne County Park and have a picnic lunch.
  • Day 3: Learn more about Revolutionary War history at Jockey Hollow and Washington’s Headquarters.
  • Day 4: Take a train ride at Whippany Railway Museum and enjoy a late afternoon wine tasting at the Willowwood Arboretum.
  • Day 5: Visit the Fosterfields Farm and attend a food festival at Alstede Farms.
  • Day 6: Discover the Morris Museum and unwind at the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
  • Day 7: Bike along Columbia Trail and end with a sunset cocktail at the historic Bernards Inn.

Food and Drink Scene of Morris County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Taylor ham sandwich: This specialty pork roll breakfast sandwich is a New Jersey staple and can be found in most diners and delis.
  • Hot dogs with onions: Head to Rutt’s Hut, an iconic North Jersey hot spot since 1928 for deep-fried hot dogs with grilled onions.
  • Tomato pie: A Trenton-style pizza with tomatoes on top and crispy crust in riverside restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Jersey Devil Vodka: Small-batch vodka made from New Jersey corn and filtered through birch charcoal for a smooth texture and quality taste.
  • Jersey Cider Works: An award-winning micro cidery that produces delicious apple and pear ciders, made from locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Morris County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Madison Hotel: A luxurious boutique hotel, featuring a French-style restaurant, in-room spa services, and meeting rooms.
  • The Hyatt House Parsippany East: A modern hotel with comfortable suites, a free shuttle, and an outdoor pool with a patio.

What to Buy in Morris County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cheese from Valley Shepherd Creamery: A farm-to-table dairy that offers delicious artisanal cheese made from sheep milk.
  • Morris Plains Farmers Market: Local farmers’ market, with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and handmade goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Morris County

  • Morris County boasts the rich history of the Revolutionary War and the industrial revolution.
  • New Jersey is known for their beach and boardwalk, located in Atlantic City, famous for gambling, nightlife, and events.

Best Time to Visit Morris County

The best time to visit Morris County is from March to June, when the weather is mild, and the outdoor parks are at their most beautiful. September to November is also a great time to visit for fall foliage tours and apple picking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Morris County

Do:

  • Follow the rules and regulations posted in parks and recreational areas.
  • Tip waitstaff and service personnel when dining out or using transportation services.
  • Explore museums, local farmers’ markets, and cultural landmarks to get a taste of the history and local culture.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public parks and areas.
  • Leave trash in nature and parks area.
  • Take photos without asking permission in private properties and museums.

Safety and Health

Safety in Morris County

Morris County is known for its safe and pleasant environment, However, it is always recommended to follow general safety protocol and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Morris County

Morris County offers excellent medical facilities and services for visitors. It is advisable to have a travel insurance coverage before your visit.

Getting to Morris County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Morris County

The closest airport to Morris County is Newark Liberty International Airport, approximately 34 miles east of the county.

Bus Stations Near Morris County

The NJ Transit Bus, Lakeland Bus Lines, and DeCamp Bus Lines operate the local and intercity bus services in Morris County.

Other Options

Morris County has a range of taxi services, car rental services, and shuttle services. The Uber and Lyft services also operate in Morris County.

How to Get Around in Morris County

Public transportation includes NJ Transit trains and buses and Morris Area Paratransit Services. In addition, car rentals, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Where to Go Next from Morris County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Explore New York City, just 30 miles east of Morris County,
  • Head south to Trenton, the capital of New Jersey, for a deeper dive into the state’s history and culture.

Conclusion

Morris County is a hidden gem in New Jersey that offers something for everyone. Explore cultural landmarks, natural beauty, culinary experiences, and outdoor activities. With this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your visit to Morris County, NJ, and create unforgettable memories.



    Chatham
    East Hanover
    Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
    Long Hill
    Madison
    Montville
    Mount Olive
    Netcong
    Parsippany
    Rockaway
    Washington (Morris County, New Jersey)