Phillipsburg Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Phillipsburg, New Jersey with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and more.


Introduction to Phillipsburg

Phillipsburg is a charming town situated in Warren County, in the Skylands region of New Jersey, Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, North America. It is a popular destination for tourists who are looking for a serene, scenic getaway. Founded in 1861, the city has a rich history and is home to beautiful landmarks and natural wonders. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your trip and maximize your experience in Phillipsburg.

List of Places to Visit in Phillipsburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. Walter S. McAfee Memorial

Walter S. McAfee Memorial is a historical landmark named after a renowned African-American physicist, who was born in Oreland, Pennsylvania. The memorial is situated in Shappell Park, and it is a must-see attraction for visitors interested in African-American history.

2. The Phillipsburg Railroad Historians Museum

Located in the historic Lehigh Valley Railroad Station, The Phillipsburg Railroad Historians Museum is an impressive display of railroad history. Visitors can explore model train layouts, photographs, books, artifacts, and other railroad memorabilia.

3. The National Canal Museum

The National Canal Museum offers an in-depth look at the history of canals in America. This museum features an interactive tour showing the history of the canal, and its importance in America’s industrialization.

Natural Attractions of Phillipsburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. Delaware River

The Delaware River is the centerpiece of Phillipsburg’s natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming. This is an excellent destination for a relaxing day in the sun. There are several parks located along the river shore that offer picnicking spots, walking trails, and abundant wildlife to enjoy.

2. Mount Tammany Trail

Mount Tammany Trail is a popular hiking trail in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. The trail leads to the summit of Mount Tammany, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.

3. Merrill Creek Reservoir

The Merrill Creek Reservoir is a great place for fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife watching, and picnicking. The reservoir covers almost 650 acres, making it an excellent spot for outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Phillipsburg

Phillipsburg offers several scenic hiking and biking routes to explore the city and its natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes to try:

1. The D&L Trail

The D&L Trail is a 165-mile trail that spans through Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The section that goes through Phillipsburg offers stunning views of the Delaware River and Lehigh Canal. The trail is suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

2. Great Valley Trail

The Great Valley Trail is a 2-mile trail located in Oxford Furnace Park. It is a great spot for family-friendly hikes and biking tours. The trail meanders through the park’s woodlands and offers scenic views of the valley.

Best Things to Do in Phillipsburg: Activities and Tours

1. Delaware River Tubing

Delaware River Tubing provides a fun, refreshing activity for visitors to enjoy. You can rent a tube, kayak, canoe, or raft, and spend the day floating down the Delaware River. The service provider arranges transportation to take you back to your vehicle or other starting points.

2. Spin Me Round

Spin Me Round is a local record store located in downtown Phillipsburg. It offers an impressive collection of vinyl records and music-related merchandise. It is an ideal place for music lovers to explore, listen, and purchase favorite albums.

Week-Long Itinerary for Phillipsburg

Day 1: Visit The National Canal Museum and Delaware River

Day 2: Explore the history of Phillipsburg by visiting the Walter S. McAfee Memorial and the Phillipsburg Railroad Historians Museum

Day 3: Take a Hiking tour to Mount Tammany Trail

Day 4: Spend the day relaxing at Merrill Creek Reservoir

Day 5: Rent kayaks to explore the scenic Delaware River, followed by a tour to Spin Me Record Store.

Day 6: Take a bicycle ride along the Great Valley Trail

Day 7: Visit the historic sites and explore the beauty of the Delaware River on the D&L Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Phillipsburg

Must-Try Dishes

1. The West-Ward Ho! Burger

The West-Ward Ho! Burger is a juicy, mouth-watering burger made with black angus beef, cheddar cheese, and a brioche bun. This burger is a signature dish of the Phillipsburg local restaurant, The Union Pub.

2. Hot Dogs

Hot Dogs are a popular snack served in many eateries and food stands throughout Phillipsburg. Mustard and onions are common toppings, but experimental sauces are available at most outlets.

Local Beverages

1. River Horse Brewing Company

River Horse Brewing Company is a local brewery that offers an assortment of hand-crafted beers. Visitors can tour the brewery, sample different beers, and enjoy a fun-filled atmosphere.

2. Ironbound Hard Cider

Ironbound Hard Cider is a must-try local drink for visitors. The cider is made with locally grown apples and other ingredients, producing a refreshing, delicious drink.

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

Phillipsburg offers a range of accommodation options to fit every budget and preference. Some of the recommended places to stay are:

1. Grand Eastonian Hotel and Suites

Grand Eastonian Hotel and Suites is a historic hotel in downtown Phillipsburg. It offers comfortable rooms, in-room amenities, free Wi-Fi, and excellent customer service.

2. The Rose Motel

The Rose Motel is a cost-effective option for travelers on a budget. It offers basic amenities like clean rooms, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.

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

Phillipsburg offers several souvenirs and local products visitors can bring home.

1. Phillipsburg T-Shirts

Phillipsburg T-Shirts are available in many stores in Phillipsburg. They come in different colors and designs, highlighting the city’s landmarks and attractions.

2. George Bush Train Engine

The George Bush train engine is a popular souvenir among train enthusiasts. Visitors can purchase replicas or models of the engine at the Phillipsburg Railroad Historians Museum or other local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Phillipsburg

Similar to many regions of the US, Phillipsburg has a diverse cultural history with a mix of Colonial, Native American, and African American influences. A visitor should embrace this diversity and respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Phillipsburg

The best time to visit Phillipsburg is the summer season (June to August) as the city’s outdoor attractions are open and accessible. December is another ideal time to visit Phillipsburg, as the town is lovely and landscaped decorations are famous.

Do’s and Don’ts of Phillipsburg

Do:

  • Respect Local Culture and Traditions.
  • Keep the environment clean and litter-free.
  • Be prepared for the weather when taking outdoor activities.
  • Check out local food and drink hotspots.

Don’t:

  • Engage in illicit drugs or prohibited activities, as Phillipsburg is strictly law-abiding.
  • Disrespect locals or their traditions.
  • Litter on the city’s streets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Phillipsburg

Phillipsburg is generally safe for tourists to visit. Visitors should look out for themselves when performing outdoor activities.

Health in Phillipsburg

Phillipsburg has various health clinics and hospitals to ensure visitors’ safety, including St. Luke’s Hospital and Hackettstown Regional Medical Center.

Getting to Phillipsburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Phillipsburg is easily accessible through the following transportation options:

Airports Near Phillipsburg

The nearest international airport is Newark Liberty International Airport, located 68.6 miles away from Phillipsburg. Lehigh Valley International Airport is a smaller airport located around 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Phillipsburg

There are several bus stations in Phillipsburg, including the Phillipsburg Union Station.

Other Options

The nearest train station is Phillipsburg Railway Station.

How to Get Around in Phillipsburg

Visitors can rent bicycles, cars, or use taxis to get around Phillipsburg. The D&L Trail and Great Valley Trail are great options for exploring the city’s landmarks on foot.

Where to Go Next from Phillipsburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can take day trips to nearby cities like Easton, which is just across the Delaware River, to discover more historical landmarks, fine dining restaurants, and shopping centers.

Conclusion

Phillipsburg is a beautiful tourist destination with a rich history and beautiful natural landmarks. Visitors can explore the city’s cultural heritage, indulge in outdoor activities, indulge in culinary delights, and more. This comprehensive tour guide offers all the necessary information to plan your trip to Phillipsburg, ensuring an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

A view of Phillipsburg and the Free Bridge (Northampton Street Bridge) A view of Phillipsburg and the Free Bridge (Northampton Street Bridge) The main terminal of Lehigh Valley International Airport, 15 miles southwest of Phillipsburg in Hanover Township, Pennsylvania outside Allentown The main terminal of Lehigh Valley International Airport, 15 miles southwest of Phillipsburg in Hanover Township, Pennsylvania outside Allentown A view of the Easton–Phillipsburg Toll Bridge on Route 22 that connects Easton (Pennsylvania) A view of the Easton–Phillipsburg Toll Bridge on Route 22 that connects Easton (Pennsylvania) John Roseberry Homestead, completed in 1783, at 540 Warren St. John Roseberry Homestead, completed in 1783, at 540 Warren St.