Somerset County Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Somerset County, New Jersey.
- Introduction to Somerset County
- List of Places to Visit in Somerset County
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Somerset County
- Best Things to Do in Somerset County: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Somerset County
- Food and Drink Scene of Somerset County
- Where to Stay in Somerset County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Somerset County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Somerset County
- Best Time to Visit Somerset County
- Do’s and Don’ts of Somerset County
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Somerset County: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Somerset County
- Where to Go Next from Somerset County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Somerset County is a vibrant and historic region located in the Skylands of North America. With its rich history, scenic beauty, and diverse cultural offerings, Somerset County has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there’s plenty to see and do in this amazing part of New Jersey. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take a closer look at all the highlights of Somerset County, from its top attractions to its best hikes.
Introduction to Somerset County
Somerset County is situated in the north-central part of New Jersey, in the Skylands region. It covers an area of 304 square miles and has a population of approximately 330,000 residents. The county was established in May 1688 and named after Somerset, England. Its history is rich and varied, with numerous landmarks and historic sites that tell the story of its past. Today, Somerset County is a thriving community with a mix of urban and rural landscapes that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and recreational activities.
List of Places to Visit in Somerset County
Here is a list of must-see attractions in Somerset County:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Moses Taylor Pyne Estate: This Georgian-style mansion was built in 1910 and is now home to the Historical Society of Princeton.
- Duke Farms: This sprawling estate was once the home of tobacco magnate James Buchanan Duke. It now houses a museum, gardens, and walking trails.
- Somerville Fire Museum: This small museum showcases the history of firefighting in Somerset County.
- Jacobus Vanderveer House: A 1772 Dutch Colonial home-turned-museum located in Bedminster, NJ.
Natural Attractions of Somerset County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Washington Valley Park: Offers 719-acres of recreational opportunities including hiking, walking, jogging, and biking trails, fishing, and picnicking.
- Sourland Mountain Preserve: Featuring 6,000 acres of forests, boulder fields, wetlands, and meadows, the preserve is a delight for hikers and birdwatchers.
- Colonial Park: A beautiful and tranquil park offering a wide range of activities such as tennis, fishing, hiking, biking and a golf course.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Somerset County
- Northeast Counties Trail: This 16-mile trail runs from High Bridge in Hunterdon County to Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge in Morris County.
- D&R Canal State Park Trail: This 77 mile-long trail once served to transport goods between Philadelphia and New York, and now is a popular spot for jogging, biking, hiking, fishing and canoeing.
- Sourland Mountain Preserve Trail: Offers terrific views of the Sourland Mountains and is a great spot for birding, hiking, trail running, and mountain biking.
Best Things to Do in Somerset County: Activities and Tours
- Visit the Farmers’ Market: Enjoy fresh produce and engage with the local farmers every Saturday mornings at Duke Farms.
- Experience the State Theatre New Jersey: Winner of 3 Tony Awards, there is no better place to check out the performing arts.
- Enjoy a day out with your kids: Take your kids out to the Bowcraft Amusement Park, located in Scotch Plains, NJ. Rides, entertainment, and arcade games will keep everyone entertained.
Week-Long Itinerary for Somerset County
Here’s a suggested itinerary for a one-week stay in Somerset County.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit Duke Farms |
| Day 2 | Explore the Jacobus Vanderveer House |
| Day 3 | Enjoy hiking at Washington Valley Park |
| Day 4 | Indulge in local food and drinks |
| Day 5 | Visit the Somerset County Museum |
| Day 6 | Explore the Sourland Mountain Preserve |
| Day 7 | Experience the State Theatre New Jersey |
Food and Drink Scene of Somerset County
Must-Try Dishes
- Pizza: Popular pizza spots includes Uncle Vinnie’s Clam Bar in Raritan and Luigi’s Pizza in Dunellen.
- Sub Sandwiches: Check out Mike’s Famous Subs in Somerville and Gennaro’s in Somerset County for mouth-watering sub sandwiches.
- Local Produce: Somerset County is known for its fresh produce. Visit farms, such as Norz Hill Farm and Market in Hillsborough, to have a farm-to-table experience.
Local Beverages
- Craft Beer: microbreweries like Flounder Brewpub in Hillsborough and Village Brewing Company in Somerville pour unique beers that you won’t want to miss.
- Wine: Old York Cellars in Ringoes is a popular location that features a wine tasting experiences.
Where to Stay in Somerset County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center: A full-service hotel located in downtown New Brunswick and just a short drive away from Somerset County.
- Bridgewater Marriott: A luxurious hotel offering a fitness center, pool, and close proximity to local attractions.
- Pleasant view Guest House: A friendly, family-run guesthouse offering affordable rates and private rooms for the budget-conscious traveler.
What to Buy in Somerset County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Jams and Preserves: Flavors of Somerset County in Flemington offers an array of jams and preserves made from local produce.
- Antiques and Vintage items: Lambertville, just a short drive from Somerset County, is known for unique antiques from numerous dealers.
Local Culture and Customs of Somerset County
Somerset County is a diverse and welcoming community that respects the traditions and customs of its residents. Visitors should be aware of the county’s rich history and cultural heritage and respect these traditions. Also, tipping in restaurants is expected, typically 15-20% of the total bill.
Best Time to Visit Somerset County
The best time to visit Somerset County is during the spring and fall due to the mild weather and the beautiful foliage that is visible in these seasons. Summer is also a great time to visit, as there are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy, including concerts, fairs, and festivals.
Do’s and Don’ts of Somerset County
Do:
- Be respectful of the history and heritage of Somerset County.
- Try local food and drinks.
- Take part in cultural festivals and events.
Don’t:
- Litter.
- Be disrespectful to locals.
Safety and Health
Safety in Somerset County
Somerset County is generally a safe place for visitors. Visitors should exercise basic caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially in urban areas.
Health in Somerset County
Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Somerset County is home to several hospitals and medical facilities in case of health emergencies.
Getting to Somerset County: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Somerset County
- Newark Liberty International Airport is the closest airport, located approximately 30 miles to the east of Somerset County.
- Trenton Mercer Airport offers flights on Frontier and most major airlines and is roughly a 45-minute drive from Somerset County.
Bus Stations Near Somerset County
- Newark Penn Station is a major transportation hub with many bus lines that serve the area.
- New Brunswick Train Station is another option for those visiting Somerset County.
Other Options
- Many visitors arrive by car, using the major highways and interstates that run through the county.
How to Get Around in Somerset County
The best way to get around Somerset County is by car. Several car rental companies are available in the area. Public transportation options include local buses, trains, and taxis.
Where to Go Next from Somerset County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Princeton: Known for its vibrant downtown, rich history, and prestigious university, Princeton is a must-visit destination located just south of Somerset County.
- The Jersey Shore: Belmar, Spring Lake, and Point Pleasant Beach are popular beaches located on the shoreline of New Jersey, all within a two-hour drive from Somerset County.
- Philadelphia: Just an hour’s drive southwest of Somerset County, visitors can experience the history, culture, and museums of Philadelphia.
Conclusion
Somerset County offers visitors a rich and diverse blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and recreational activities. From its scenic hiking trails and outdoor adventures to its fascinating museums, charming small towns, and delicious local food, there are endless ways to explore and experience the best of this charming destination.