Points of Interest between Carteret, New Jersey to Williamstown, Massachusetts

picture of Carteret, New Jersey

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carteret, New Jersey to Williamstown, Massachusetts

Have you ever wanted to take a road trip but don't know where to start? Why not take a scenic drive from Carteret, New Jersey, to Williamstown, Massachusetts? This route takes you through charming towns and picturesque views of the mountains. Although the total trip can take up to 5 hours, the journey can be broken up into unexpected pit stops. Below are five unique places to take a break, where you can discover hidden gems and indulge in local treats.

Halfway Point: Lagrangeville, NY

Before we dive into the five unexpected stops, the halfway point is worth mentioning. Lagrangeville, NY, is roughly three hours from Carteret and two hours from Williamstown. It is a perfect spot to rejuvenate your energy for the remaining drive and explore the town's offerings.

  1. Storm King Art Center: A ten-minute detour from Route 84 is the Storm King Art Center. The 500-acre outdoor museum features contemporary sculptures from artists worldwide and expansive views of the Hudson River Valley. Grab a map at the entrance and spend hours wandering through the fields, forests, and hills of art.
    • Favorite Food: Storm King Cafe's Grilled Cheese
  2. Hudson Valley Wine Market: A twelve-minute drive north of the Storm King Art Center is the Hudson Valley Wine Market. Here they offer wine tastings of local vineyards, purchase bottles, and even local jams, honey, and cheese. The knowledgeable and welcoming staff will guide you through the tasting, highlighting the region's unique terroir.
    • Favorite Food: Cinnamon Swirl Bread from Arthur Ave. Bakery
  3. Dutchess County Fairgrounds: A nineteen-minute drive south of Lagrangeville is the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. It is home to the Dutchess County Fair, which typically occurs in late August. Off-season, the fairgrounds are available to rent where they host events such as farmers' markets and craft fairs.
    • Favorite Food: Authentic Tacos from the La Grange Farmers Market on Saturdays
  4. Roosevelt-Vanderbilt National Historic Site: A ten-minute drive south of Dutchess County Fairgrounds is the Springwood Estate, the ancestral home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Visitors can take a guided tour of the estate, where they will learn about the 32nd president's life and legacy. Next, break a sweat on a hiking trail through the scenic woods and down to the Hudson River.
    • Favorite Food: Rhinebeck Bagels Bagel Sandwiches
  5. Innisfree Garden: A twenty-minute drive south of Hyde Park is Innisfree Garden, where visitors can explore an eight-hectare traditional-style Chinese garden. The landscape not only includes a vast collection of native plants but also various water features, rocks, and architecture reflecting Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism principles.
    • Favorite Food: En Fuego BBQ's Ribs and Brisket

After exploring Lagrangeville's hidden gems, it is truly worth continuing the drive up to Williamstown, Massachusetts. The view of the mountains and the anticipation of the final destination are worth the trip.

In conclusion, this scenic drive from Carteret, New Jersey to Williamstown, Massachusetts, is worth every bite of local food and every minute of spent admiring art and nature. The journey between the two towns is filled with unique and unassuming pit stops filled with history, art, and culture. For those looking to break up the long drive or explore the town from a local's perspective, these five unexpected places are a must-visit.