Parsippany Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Parsippany with our comprehensive guide. Explore museums, natural attractions, local culture, and more. Discover must-try dishes and local products to bring home. Find transportation options and nearby destinations for excursions.


Introduction to Parsippany

Parsippany is a vibrant town in Morris County in Skylands, New Jersey. Its strategic location, between the two major cities of New York and Philadelphia, makes it easily accessible for visitors by air, train, or road. The town has retained its old-world charm, and the natural beauty of its surroundings is truly stunning. Parsippany is a great place to explore museums and historical sites, outdoor adventures, and local culture.

List of Places to Visit in Parsippany

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Parsippany has a rich history that can be explored at its museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places in Parsippany are:

  • The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms: This museum is a must-visit for lovers of Arts and Crafts movement. The museum exhibits the works of Gustav Stickley, a prominent furniture designer of the early 20th century.
  • The Knoll East Country Club: This historical site was once known as the Rockaway Hunting Club and was a popular destination for the wealthy in the early 20th century. The site is now a public golf course that has retained its old-world charm.
  • The Parsippany Historical and Preservation Society: This society documents the history of the town and arranges tours of the historic sites in the town. The society also hosts lectures and events that celebrate the town’s heritage.

Natural Attractions of Parsippany: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Parsippany is home to several natural attractions that can be enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Some of the must-visit natural attractions in Parsippany are:

  • The Troy Meadows: This area is home to several trails that are great for hiking and birdwatching. The marshy land is home to several unique species of flora and fauna.
  • The Tourne County Park: This county park offers stunning views of the New York City skyline and is great for hiking, biking, and picnics.
  • The Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge offers visitors the chance to experience an untouched natural environment. The refuge is home to several species of birds, mammals, and reptiles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Parsippany

Parsippany has several hiking and biking routes that are great for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes in Parsippany are:

  • The Troy Meadows Trail: This trail is great for hiking and birdwatching. The trail is 3.7 miles long and takes visitors through the marshy land of Troy Meadows.
  • The Tourne Trail: This trail is great for hiking and biking and offers stunning views of the New York City skyline. The trail is 1.7 miles long and is great for beginners.
  • The Mount Tabor Trail: This trail is great for hiking and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding hills. The trail is 1.6 miles long and has varying levels of difficulty.

Best Things to Do in Parsippany: Activities and Tours

Parsippany has several activities and tours that are great for visitors. Some of the must-try activities in Parsippany are:

  • The Wineries and Breweries Tour: This tour takes visitors to several wineries and breweries in the surrounding area. Visitors can taste local wines and beers and learn about the history of winemaking in the area.
  • The Horseback Riding Tour: This tour takes visitors on a horseback ride through the scenic surroundings of Parsippany. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the area.
  • The Cooking Class: This class teaches visitors how to make local dishes and introduces them to the staple ingredients and spices of the area. Visitors can take the recipes home and impress their friends and family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Parsippany

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for visitors to Parsippany:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms
2 Hike the Troy Meadows Trail and enjoy a picnic in the Tourne County Park
3 Visit the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and go birdwatching
4 Take the Wineries and Breweries Tour
5 Go horseback riding and explore the local countryside
6 Attend a cooking class and learn how to make local dishes
7 Visit the historical sites in Parsippany and take a walking tour with the Parsippany Historical and Preservation Society

Food and Drink Scene of Parsippany

Parsippany has a diverse food and drink scene that is sure to please all visitors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Italian Hot Dog: This local specialty is a hot dog served on a long roll with onions, peppers, and fried potatoes.
  • The Pork Roll and Cheese Sandwich: This sandwich is a local favorite and is made with pork roll and American cheese on a Kaiser roll.
  • The Taylor Ham and Egg Sandwich: This breakfast sandwich is made with Taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a hard roll.

Local Beverages

  • The Jersey Tomato Juice: This juice is made from locally grown tomatoes and is a great cool drink during the hot summer months.
  • The Blueberry Wine: This wine is made from locally grown blueberries and is a great accompaniment to local dishes.
  • The Cranberry Juice: This juice is made from locally grown cranberries and has a tart flavor that is unique to the area.

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

Parsippany has several options for lodging that cater to all budgets. Some of the popular hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Parsippany are:

  • The Westin Parsippany: This luxury hotel offers visitors a great location and all the amenities that one would expect from a Westin hotel.
  • The Hampton Inn Parsippany: This mid-range hotel offers visitors a great location and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
  • The Red Roof Inn Parsippany: This budget-friendly hotel offers visitors a great location and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

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

Parsippany has several souvenirs and local products that visitors can take home with them. Some of the popular souvenirs and local products in Parsippany are:

  • The Maple Syrup: This syrup is made from locally harvested maple trees and has a rich flavor that is unique to the area.
  • The Handcrafted Pottery: The pottery in Parsippany is made by local artists and is a great way to take home a unique piece of art.
  • The Antique Jewelry: There are several antique stores in Parsippany that offer visitors a chance to take home a piece of jewelry that has a rich history.

Local Culture and Customs of Parsippany

Parsippany has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through its museums, historical sites, and local festivals. The township has several parks that offer visitors a chance to experience the local culture. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions and should make an effort to learn about them.

Best Time to Visit Parsippany

Parsippany is great to visit year-round, but the best time to visit is during the fall (September-November) when the leaves change colors and the weather is mild. The winter months (December-February) can be cold and snowy, but the winter sports and festivals make it a great time to visit as well.

Do’s and Don’ts of Parsippany

Do:

  • Explore the museums and historical sites in Parsippany.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Take a hike or bike ride through the natural surroundings.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks or natural areas.
  • Disrespect the local traditions and customs.
  • Leave valuables in your car.

Safety and Health

Safety in Parsippany

Parsippany is a safe town, but visitors should take general safety precautions such as not walking alone at night and locking car doors when parked.

Health in Parsippany

Parsippany has several medical facilities and pharmacies to cater to any medical needs of visitors. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance before visiting the area.

Getting to Parsippany: Transportation Options and Logistics

Parsippany is easily accessible by air, train, or road. Here are some transportation options and logistics for visitors:

Airports Near Parsippany

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): This airport is the closest to Parsippany and is only 26 miles away.
  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA): This airport is 37 miles away from Parsippany.
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): This airport is 48 miles away from Parsippany.

Bus Stations Near Parsippany

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Parsippany: This bus station has regular services to and from New York City.
  • New Jersey Transit Bus, Parsippany: This bus has regular services to and from New York City.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: There are several car rental companies in Parsippany that offer visitors a chance to rent a car and explore the area at their own pace.
  • Taxi Service: There are several taxi services in Parsippany that offer visitors a chance to explore the area without worrying about transportation.

How to Get Around in Parsippany

Parsippany is best explored by car, but visitors can also use the public transportation system. There are several taxi services and car rental companies that offer visitors a chance to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Parsippany: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Parsippany is located in a strategic location and is a great base to explore nearby areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions from Parsippany:

  • New York City: The city is only 30 miles away from Parsippany and can be easily reached by car, train, or bus.
  • Philadelphia: The city is only 90 miles away from Parsippany and can be easily reached by car, train, or bus.
  • Jersey Shore: The Jersey Shore is only 80 miles away from Parsippany and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the beach and sun.

Conclusion

Parsippany is a hidden gem in New Jersey. It offers visitors a chance to experience its rich history, natural beauty, and local culture. Visitors can enjoy museums, historical sites, outdoor adventures, and local cuisine. The town is easily accessible by air, train, or road and is a great base to explore nearby destinations. Plan your trip to Parsippany and enjoy all that it has to offer.

Main house at Craftsman Farms (early 20th century) Main house at Craftsman Farms (early 20th century) Benjamin Howell Homestead, built in 1763 and extended and completed in 1793 Benjamin Howell Homestead, built in 1763 and extended and completed in 1793 Bowlsby-Degelleke House, built in 1791 Bowlsby-Degelleke House, built in 1791