Belle Mead Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide for Belle Mead, including places to visit, things to do, and where to stay. Plan your trip to Belle Mead with ease!


Introduction to Belle Mead

Belle Mead, a small unincorporated community located in Somerset County, New Jersey, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and history. One of the most historic towns in the state, Belle Mead, provides an unforgettable experience to visitors with its historic buildings, lush parks, and diverse culture. This travel guide will help you plan your trip to Belle Mead with ease.

List of Places to Visit in Belle Mead

Belle Mead is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and bustling food scene. Here are some of the best places to visit in the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association (OPCMIA) Local 29 Labor Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving the history of labor unions in New Jersey. It showcases various artifacts, photographs, and documents related to the labor movement.
  • Rockingham Historic Site: Rockingham is a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion that served as General George Washington’s temporary headquarters during the American Revolution.
  • The Griggstown Canal and Locktender’s House: The canal and locktender’s house offer a glimpse of Belle Mead’s industrial past.

Natural Attractions of Belle Mead: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • D&R Canal State Park: This park offers visitors an opportunity to explore the canal, which served as a major transportation route in the early 19th century. It provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing.
  • Harlingen Road Trail: This trail offers a scenic view of the Belle Mead countryside.
  • Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Reserve: This nature reserve spans across 1,000 acres and offers visitors an array of outdoor activities, including hiking and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belle Mead

Belle Mead is home to several hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Here are some of the best routes:

  • D&R Canal State Park Trail: This trail spans 77 miles and offers visitors a chance to explore the canal and surrounding forests.
  • Harlingen Road Trail: This 3.3-mile trail is perfect for hikers and offers stunning views of the Belle Mead countryside.
  • Six Mile Run Reservoir Site Trail: This 5.2-mile trail is perfect for mountain bikers and hikers and offers scenic views of the reservoir.

Best Things to Do in Belle Mead: Activities and Tours

Belle Mead has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in the town:

  • Visit the Winery at Belle Mead: This winery offers visitors an opportunity to explore the vineyards and taste some delicious wines.
  • Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Experience the beauty of Belle Mead from the sky with a thrilling hot air balloon ride.
  • Visit the Sourland Mountain Spirits Distillery: This distillery offers a unique opportunity to sample some locally made spirits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Belle Mead

Here’s a comprehensive week-long itinerary for Belle Mead:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Rockingham Historic Site
Day 2 Explore Stony Brook Millstone Watershed Reserve
Day 3 Take a hot air balloon ride
Day 4 Hike the Harlingen Road Trail
Day 5 Visit the Sourland Mountain Spirits Distillery
Day 6 Biking on D&R Canal State Park Trail
Day 7 Visit the Winery at Belle Mead

Food and Drink Scene of Belle Mead

Belle Mead has a bustling food and drink scene, with several options for foodies. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pork Roll Sandwich: A local favorite, the pork roll sandwich is usually served with egg and cheese on an English muffin.
  • Blueberry Pancakes: Made with fresh blueberries, these pancakes are a perfect breakfast option.
  • Pizza: Belle Mead is home to some of the best pizzerias in the state, serving up delicious slices.

Local Beverages

  • Tomato Juice: A local favorite, tomato juice is served in most restaurants in Belle Mead.
  • Wine: The Winery at Belle Mead produces some of the best wines in the state.

Where to Stay in Belle Mead: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belle Mead has several options for accommodation, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Courtyard by Marriott Ewing Princeton: Located just 20 minutes from Belle Mead, this hotel offers luxurious accommodation and excellent amenities.
  • The Peacock Inn: This historic inn is located in nearby Princeton and offers guests a luxurious stay with top-notch amenities.
  • The Franklin Inn: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in Belle Mead and offers cozy accommodation at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Belle Mead: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belle Mead has several options for unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best options:

  • Sourland Mountain Spirits: This local distillery offers a unique selection of locally crafted spirits.
  • Duke Farms: The gift shop at Duke Farms offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including local honey and preserves.
  • Artisanal Soaps: Belle Mead is home to several artisanal soap makers and makes for a unique souvenir item.

Local Culture and Customs of Belle Mead

Belle Mead is a welcoming and diverse community with a rich history and culture. It’s customary to greet people with a smile and polite conversation. When visiting public spaces, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of those around you.

Best Time to Visit Belle Mead

The best time to visit Belle Mead is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. Summer can get hot and humid, while winters can get very cold and snow-covered.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belle Mead

Do:

  • Greet people with a smile and polite conversation.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be mindful of those around you.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Leave trash in public spaces.
  • Be loud and disruptive in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belle Mead

Belle Mead is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. However, it’s always important to take precautions like locking your doors, being aware of your surroundings, and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Belle Mead

Belle Mead has excellent healthcare facilities and hospitals in nearby towns. Visitors should have comprehensive health insurance before traveling to Belle Mead.

Getting to Belle Mead: Transportation Options and Logistics

Belle Mead is easily accessible by various transportation options. Here are some of the best options:

Airports Near Belle Mead

  • Trenton-Mercer Airport
  • Newark Liberty International Airport
  • Philadelphia International Airport

Bus Stations Near Belle Mead

  • Princeton Junction
  • New Brunswick
  • South Brunswick

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Several car rental agencies operate in and near Belle Mead, making it convenient for visitors to travel around the town.
  • Taxi: Taxis can be expensive but are a convenient way to get around Belle Mead.

How to Get Around in Belle Mead

Belle Mead is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bicycle. Several car rental agencies operate in the town, making it convenient for visitors to travel around the town.

Where to Go Next from Belle Mead: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Belle Mead is located in the heart of New Jersey, making it the perfect base to explore nearby destinations. Here are some popular excursions:

  • Princeton: Located just 15 minutes from Belle Mead, Princeton is famous for its prestigious university and charming downtown area.
  • New Hope, PA: This small town is located just across the Delaware River and offers visitors a range of activities, including shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures.
  • Atlantic City: Located at the Jersey Shore, Atlantic City is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, boardwalks, and casinos.

Conclusion

Belle Mead is a charming town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culture. With several options for activities, food, and accommodation, Belle Mead is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.