Hackettstown Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for staying safe during your trip to Hackettstown, New Jersey.


Introduction to Hackettstown

Nestled in the rolling hills of Warren County, New Jersey, Hackettstown is a small town that packs a big punch. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Hackettstown. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, you won’t be disappointed by what this charming town has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Hackettstown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hackettstown Historical Society Museum - Learn about the town’s history through exhibits and artifacts.
  • Mansfield Township Schoolhouse Museum - Visit the restored one-room schoolhouse and experience what education was like in the 19th century.
  • Centenary University Art Galleries - Check out the rotating exhibits of contemporary art.
  • Allamuchy Mountain State Park - Explore the park’s natural beauty and visit the Red/Green blazed trail that loops through the park.

Natural Attractions of Hackettstown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Stephens State Park - Hike the Waterloo Village Loop Trail, a 4.7-mile trail that will take you past historic sites and through beautiful woodlands.
  • Penny Pack Preserve - Take a leisurely stroll along the walking path that winds through the preserve’s wetlands.
  • Musconetcong Gorge Preserve - Follow the marked trails to explore the scenic views and wildlife of the area.
  • Manitou Park - Go fishing, have a picnic or just relax and enjoy the calm atmosphere of this beautiful park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hackettstown

  • Columbia Trail - Take a scenic biking route through several cities, starting at the Long Valley and end at Washington.
  • Paulinskill Valley Trail and Rabbit’s Hole Trail - Combine these two trails and enjoy the incredible Pedersen Glacier Overlook.
  • Kittatinny Valley State Park - A great option for hiking and biking, with over 5,000 acres of natural beauty to explore.

Best Things to Do in Hackettstown: Activities and Tours

  • Ghost Tour of Hackettstown - Experience the town’s spooky side with this after-dark walking tour.
  • Wine Tasting at Four Sisters Winery - Sip on some locally-produced wine while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Waterloo Village Living History Museum - See what life was like in a 19th-century rural village, with costumed interpreters and live demonstrations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hackettstown

Day 1 - Visit the Hackettstown Historical Society Museum and hike at Stephens State Park.

Day 2 - Take a scenic bike ride on the Columbia Trail and explore the shops in town.

Day 3 - Drive to Four Sisters Winery for wine tasting and lunch at their cafe, followed by a drive to explore the Musconetcong Gorge Preserve.

Day 4 - Go on a ghost tour of Hackettstown and explore the local nightlife scene.

Day 5 - Take a break and enjoy some downtime in town, strolling and relaxing on Main Street for lunch with a view of the town gardens.

Day 6 - Visit the Allamuchy Mountain State Park and Waterloo Village Living History Museum.

Day 7 - Have a picnic on the shores of Lake Lackawanna and take a leisurely walk along the path at Penny Pack Preserve.

Food and Drink Scene of Hackettstown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buffalo wings - Try one of the many wing flavors available at local restaurants, such as Bea McNally’s Irish Pub or Mama’s Cafe Baci.
  • Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich - A New Jersey classic, you can find this breakfast favorite at many local diners and cafes.
  • Apple Pie - Made fresh with local apples, Hackettstown is known for its delicious pies. Try finding one at Orchard View Lavender Farm.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer from Czig Meister Brewing Company - Sample some of the local brews at this popular brewery.
  • Wine from Four Sisters Winery - Take a tour of the winery and tasting room and sample some of the local wines.
  • Fresh-squeezed apple cider - Available at local farms and orchards, this refreshing drink is a fall staple in Hackettstown.

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

  • The Hackettstown Motor Lodge - A budget-friendly option in town.
  • The Longwood Lake Inn - A classic inn with a beautiful view of Lake Lackawanna.
  • The Panther Valley Inn - A luxurious bed and breakfast located just outside of town.

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

  • Lavender from Orchard View Lavender Farm - This lavender farm has more than 20 varieties growing.
  • Local Honey from Hackettstown Honey - Great for sweetening up your breakfast, this honey is produced by local beekeepers.
  • Craft Beer from Czig Meister Brewing Company - Take a growler of your favorite beer home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Hackettstown

Hackettstown has a rich history and a strong community feel. The town is home to several festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Hackettstown Street Fair and the Hackettstown Oktoberfest. Hackettstown is known for its welcoming attitude, so be sure to say hello to the locals you meet during your visit.

Best Time to Visit Hackettstown

The best time to visit Hackettstown is during the fall months, when the leaves are changing colors and the weather is mild. The town’s festivals and events, such as the Hackettstown Fall Festival and the Hackettstown Oktoberfest, take place during this time of year. However, Hackettstown is a great destination any time of year, with plenty to see and do throughout the seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hackettstown

Do:

  • Do explore the town’s history and natural beauty.
  • Do try the local food and drink scene.
  • Do engage with the friendly locals to get the most out of your experience.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural areas.
  • Don’t disregard the town’s rules and regulations.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or directions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hackettstown

Hackettstown is a safe town with a low crime rate. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as locking your car and not leaving valuables visible. If you plan to hike or bike in the area, wear appropriate gear and bring plenty of water.

Health in Hackettstown

Hackettstown has several medical facilities, including Hackettstown Medical Center and several urgent care centers.

Getting to Hackettstown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hackettstown

  • Lehigh Valley International Airport - 35 miles away
  • Newark Liberty International Airport - 52 miles away

Bus Stations Near Hackettstown

  • Hackettstown Bus Terminal - Located in town center.
  • New Jersey Transit - Provides bus services throughout the state. Some routes have substantial stops in town.

Other Options

If you plan to explore the wider area, renting a car is the most convenient option. There are several car rental companies located near Hackettstown.

How to Get Around in Hackettstown

The best way to get around Hackettstown is by car, whether a rental or your own. There are also several bike rental options and bike trails in the area.

Where to Go Next from Hackettstown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Pocono Mountains - Less than an hour drive to the northeast.
  • New York City - A two-hour drive to the east.
  • Philadelphia - A two-hour drive to the southwest.

Conclusion

Hackettstown is a hidden gem located in northwestern New Jersey. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals, it’s no wonder that this charming town has become a favorite destination for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, Hackettstown has something for everyone.