Somerville Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Somerville with our comprehensive guide, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, the best things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Somerville

Somerville is a small borough located in the picturesque Skylands region of New Jersey. Founded in 1863, the town retains its historic charm with tree-lined streets and well-preserved buildings. It is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of New Jersey. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!

List of Places to Visit in Somerville

Somerville offers plenty of attractions and landmarks for tourists to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage: These historic houses were once home to several prominent figures and are now open to the public as museums.

  • The Somerset County Courthouse: Built in 1906, this stunning courthouse features Beaux Arts-style architecture and is a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.

  • The Somerville Fire Museum: This small museum is dedicated to the history of firefighting in Somerville and displays antique fire engines and other equipment.

Natural Attractions of Somerville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Duke Farms: This expansive estate features over 18 miles of hiking and biking trails, beautiful gardens, and a nature center.

  • Washington Valley Park: This park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking, as well as scenic views of the surrounding hills.

  • The Sourland Mountain Preserve: This nature preserve features over 6,000 acres of scenic woodlands and a network of hiking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Somerville

If you enjoy outdoor activities, Somerville has plenty of options for you. Here are some hiking and biking routes you should consider exploring:

  • The Raritan River Greenway: This 14-mile trail runs along the Raritan River and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

  • The Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail: This 77-mile trail runs along the Delaware and Raritan Canal and offers beautiful views of the waterway.

  • The Somerset County Parks Commission Trail System: This network of trails covers over 10 miles of pristine woodlands and meadows, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Best Things to Do in Somerville: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Somerville offers plenty of activities for tourists to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Somerville:

  • Somerville Farmers Market: This farmers market is held every Saturday from May to November and features locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, and artisanal crafts.

  • Art on Division: This annual art festival highlights local artists and musicians and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

  • Somerville Antiques Center: This antique shop features an extensive collection of vintage furniture, collectibles, and other unique items.

Week-Long Itinerary for Somerville

If you are planning a week-long trip to Somerville, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:

  • Day 1: Visit the Somerville Fire Museum and the Somerset County Courthouse.

  • Day 2: Explore Duke Farms and hike the Raritan River Greenway.

  • Day 3: Take a tour of The Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage and visit the Somerville Farmers Market.

  • Day 4: Visit the Sourland Mountain Preserve and enjoy a picnic in Washington Valley Park.

  • Day 5: Take a leisurely bike ride along the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail and shop at Somerville Antiques Center.

  • Day 6: Participate in a guided nature walk at Duke Farms and enjoy live music at Art on Division.

  • Day 7: Relax at your hotel or explore any places missed during the week.

Food and Drink Scene of Somerville

Somerville boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with restaurants serving up everything from traditional American fare to international cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Taylor Ham Sandwich: This classic New Jersey dish consists of Taylor ham, egg, and cheese served on a roll.

  • Pork Roll: Somerville is known for its delicious pork roll, a local delicacy that can be enjoyed in various dishes.

  • Tomato Pie: A specialty of New Jersey, tomato pie is a type of pizza that features a thick, bread-like crust topped with tomato sauce and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Jersey Devil Rum: This locally distilled rum is a must-try for anyone interested in craft spirits.

  • Weyerbacher Brewing Company: This microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers, including their popular Imperial Pumpkin Ale.

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

Somerville offers a variety of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some options for where to stay in Somerville:

  • The Inn at Somerset Hills: This charming inn features comfortable rooms, a full-service restaurant, and views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Saratoga Hill Bed and Breakfast: This cozy B&B offers a home-like atmosphere and personalized service.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Bridgewater Conference Center: This budget-friendly hotel offers basic amenities and is conveniently located near many tourist attractions.

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

If you want to take a piece of Somerville home with you, here are some local products to look out for:

  • Somerset County Honey: This locally produced honey is a delicious souvenir that also supports local beekeepers.

  • Vintage Vinyl Records: This record store offers an impressive collection of vinyl records and is a must-visit for any music lover.

Local Culture and Customs of Somerville

Somerville is a friendly, welcoming town that values its cultural heritage and celebrates its diversity. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions and to take part in local events and activities.

Best Time to Visit Somerville

The best time to visit Somerville is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its peak. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Somerville

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Somerville:

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The natural beauty of Somerville is best experienced through its hiking trails and parks.

  • Try local cuisine: Jersey staples like the Taylor ham sandwich and tomato pie are must-tries.

  • Respect local customs: Somerville is a friendly, welcoming town, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Like all towns, Somerville values its environment, and visitors are expected to clean up after themselves.

  • Disrespect historical landmarks: Historical landmarks, such as The Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage, should be treated with respect.

Safety and Health

Somerville is a safe town to visit, but visitors are encouraged to take precautions to ensure their safety and health.

Safety in Somerville

  • Watch out for traffic: Like all towns, Somerville has busy streets, and visitors are encouraged to use crosswalks and look both ways before crossing.

  • Stay aware of surroundings: Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and stay in well-lit, populated areas.

Health in Somerville

  • Stay hydrated: Visitors should stay hydrated, especially during warm weather.

  • Protect against ticks: Visitors should take precautions to protect themselves against ticks when hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Somerville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Somerville is conveniently located near several transportation hubs, making it easy to get to.

Airports Near Somerville

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): This is the closest international airport to Somerville, located about 40 minutes away by car.

  • Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE): This airport is located about an hour and a half away by car.

Bus Stations Near Somerville

  • New Jersey Transit: This bus station in nearby Bridgewater offers direct service to New York City and other destinations in New Jersey.

  • Greyhound: This bus station in nearby Flemington offers long-distance bus service throughout the United States.

Other Options

  • Car: Somerville is easily accessible by car via major highways such as Interstate 78 and the New Jersey Turnpike.

How to Get Around in Somerville

Somerville is a walkable town, and visitors can easily explore its attractions on foot. Alternatively, visitors can also rent a car or use taxis or ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Somerville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Princeton: This charming college town is only a 30-minute drive from Somerville and offers a variety of attractions.

  • Morristown: This historic town is about a 40-minute drive from Somerville and features several museums and landmarks.

Conclusion

Somerville is a charming town with a rich history and natural beauty that is well worth exploring. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip and shown you all the best attractions, activities, and local cuisine to experience in Somerville. Happy travels!

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