Rockaway Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs of Rockaway, New Jersey. Find out how to get there and where to stay, and explore its natural and cultural treasures.


A Comprehensive Guide to Rockaway, New Jersey

Rockaway is a quaint township located in Morris County, in the Skylands region of New Jersey, part of the Mid-Atlantic region in the United States of America. It is known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or cultural activities, Rockaway has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs of Rockaway, New Jersey.

List of Places to Visit in Rockaway

Rockaway has a wide range of attractions that reflect its cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some top places to visit in Rockaway:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rockaway Borough Museum - located in the heart of downtown Rockaway, the museum showcases the history of the borough and its surrounding communities.
  • Ford-Faesch House and Museum - a historical house museum dating back to the early 18th century, showcasing the history of Rockaway from its earliest settlements to the present day.
  • Atno’s Mansion - a historical mansion with beautiful architecture, built in the late 19th century, now used as a community center.

Natural Attractions of Rockaway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tourne County Park - a 565-acre park with hiking and biking trails, scenic views, and picnic areas.
  • Morris Canal Greenway - a 111-mile trail with beautiful natural scenery and historical landmarks, perfect for hiking and biking adventures.
  • Lake Denmark - a scenic lake with fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rockaway

Rockaway offers a host of hiking and biking opportunities with trails ranging from easy to challenging. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Park - a 1.5-mile loop trail with beautiful views, suitable for all levels of hikers.
  • Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area - a 7.2-mile loop trail with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, suitable for intermediate to advanced hikers.
  • Allamuchy Mountain State Park - a 14-mile trail with moderate to difficult terrain, suitable for experienced hikers and bikers.

Best Things to Do in Rockaway: Activities and Tours

Rockaway offers a wide range of activities and tours suitable for families, individuals, and groups. Here are some of the best things to do in Rockaway:

  • Visit a local winery - Rockaway Valley Vineyards offers a unique wine-tasting experience in a picturesque setting.
  • Take a guided historic walking tour - explore Rockaway’s rich history and architecture with a local guide.
  • Enjoy a scenic helicopter tour - see Rockaway’s stunning landscapes from a unique perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rockaway

To make the most of your visit to Rockaway, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Visit the Rockaway Borough Museum and enjoy a guided historic walking tour.

Day 2: Go on a hiking trip to Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Park and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Visit the Ford-Faesch House and Museum and learn about Rockaway’s early settlements.

Day 4: Take a scenic helicopter tour of Rockaway and its surrounding areas.

Day 5: Go on a bike ride along the Morris Canal Greenway and enjoy the natural beauty of Rockaway.

Day 6: Visit Lake Denmark for fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, then enjoy a local winery and wine-tasting experience.

Day 7: Explore Allamuchy Mountain State Park and its challenging terrain, then visit Atno’s Mansion for a cultural experience.

Food and Drink Scene of Rockaway

Rockaway has a unique food and drink scene, with a range of local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Taylor ham, egg, and cheese sandwich - a popular breakfast sandwich served on an English muffin or bagel.
  • Pork roll - a thin, savory pork product, similar to Canadian bacon, commonly served on a breakfast sandwich.
  • Beefsteak tomato sandwich - a simple yet delicious sandwich with fresh tomato slices, mayo, salt, and pepper on white bread.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beers - High Point Brewing Company and Jersey Girl Brewing Company offer a range of craft beers with unique flavors.
  • Wines - Rockaway Valley Vineyards and Four Sisters Winery offer a variety of wines made from local grapes.
  • Apple cider - Wightman’s Farms and Alstede Farms offer fresh apple cider made from locally grown apples.

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

Rockaway offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some top options:

  • Hilton Garden Inn Rockaway - a modern hotel with comfortable rooms and great amenities.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Parsippany - a budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Dover-Rockaway - a spacious hotel with suite-style rooms and a full kitchen.

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

Rockaway has a range of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a memento of your trip. Here are some top options:

  • Rockaway Borough lapel pins - a great way to show your love for Rockaway.
  • Local honey - made from honeybees in the surrounding areas, local honey is a delicious and healthy souvenir.
  • Hiking gear - Rockaway has a range of outdoor gear stores, perfect for picking up hiking and biking essentials.

Local Culture and Customs of Rockaway

Rockaway has a rich cultural heritage with a vibrant community spirit. Here are some local customs you should know:

  • Friendly greetings - locals are welcoming and friendly, and a simple “hello” or “how are you?” goes a long way.
  • Hiking etiquette - always respect the trail and other hikers, and pack out all trash.
  • Respect for history - Rockaway’s unique history is cherished by locals, and visitors are encouraged to appreciate and respect it.

Best Time to Visit Rockaway

Rockaway has something to offer year-round, with each season offering its unique attractions. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in each season:

  • Spring (March-May): Mild weather and beautiful blossoms, perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.
  • Summer (June-August): Warm weather and the peak season for outdoor activities and events.
  • Fall (September-November): Cool weather and stunning foliage, ideal for hiking and scenic drives.
  • Winter (December-February): Cold weather and winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rockaway

To make the most of your trip to Rockaway, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and local culture.
  • Pack sunscreen and bug spray for outdoor adventures.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions and dress in layers.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash on hiking trails or in public areas.
  • Disturb wildlife or plants.
  • Ignore warning signs or trail markers.

Safety and Health

Rockaway is a safe and healthy destination, but it’s always good to be prepared. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Rockaway:

Safety in Rockaway

  • Always carry a map, water, and first aid kit when hiking or biking.
  • Be aware of weather conditions and potential hazards, such as slippery rocks or steep drop-offs.
  • Use caution when driving on mountain roads, which can be narrow and winding.

Health in Rockaway

  • Bring any necessary medications and inform your travel companions of any allergies or health conditions.
  • Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration, especially during hot weather.
  • Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from sunburn and heat stroke.

Getting to Rockaway: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rockaway is easily accessible by various means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Rockaway

  • Newark Liberty International Airport - located 34 miles east of Rockaway, the airport offers a range of domestic and international flights.
  • Lehigh Valley International Airport - located 67 miles west of Rockaway, the airport offers domestic flights to major cities in the United States.

Bus Stations Near Rockaway

  • Greyhound - the closest Greyhound bus station is in Parsippany, about 6 miles east of Rockaway.
  • NJ Transit - several NJ Transit bus routes connect Rockaway with nearby towns and cities, including Dover, Morristown, and Newark.

Other Options

  • Amtrak - the closest Amtrak train station is in Newark, which offers connections to major cities in the United States.
  • Car rental - Rockaway has several car rental agencies, which are ideal if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Rockaway

Rockaway has several modes of transportation to choose from, including:

  • Hiking/biking - Rockaway has a wide range of hiking and biking trails, perfect for exploring its natural beauty.
  • Car rental - several car rental agencies operate in Rockaway, allowing for easy exploration of the surrounding areas.
  • Public transportation - several NJ Transit bus routes connect Rockaway with nearby towns and cities, including Dover, Morristown, and Newark.

Where to Go Next from Rockaway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rockaway is surrounded by several other destinations worth exploring. Here are some top options:

  • Morristown - a historic town with a range of cultural and natural attractions, including Morristown National Historical Park and Frelinghuysen Arboretum.
  • Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area - a stunning park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • New York City - one of the world’s most vibrant cities, located just 30 miles east of Rockaway.

Conclusion

Rockaway is a hidden gem in New Jersey, with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique cultural treasures. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or cultural activities, Rockaway has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you a good idea of what to expect and how to make the most of your visit to Rockaway. Safe travels!