Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cedar Grove, NJ to South Bound Brook, NJ
Are you ready for a fun-filled road trip that will take you through scenic routes, historic sites, and a plethora of attractions? This article will take you on a tour from Cedar Grove, NJ to South Bound Brook, NJ, highlighting some of the best things to do along the way.
The drive from Cedar Grove to South Bound Brook takes about an hour, with a halfway point in Basking Ridge, NJ. This historic town is a great place to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat before continuing on your journey.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit Duke Farms
Duke Farms is a 2,740-acre nature preserve located in Hillsborough, NJ. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, birdwatching, or simply strolling through the scenic greenery. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and beavers. Don't miss the Orchid Range, which features over 1,000 orchids from around the world.
Interesting Fact:
Duke Farms was once the private estate of tobacco and hydroelectric power tycoon James Buchanan Duke. Today, the park is managed by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art, which is dedicated to promoting cross-cultural understanding.
2. Explore Morristown National Historical Park
History buffs won't want to miss Morristown National Historical Park, which offers a glimpse into the Revolutionary War-era activities of George Washington and his troops. The park includes two historic sites: Jockey Hollow, which served as a winter encampment for Washington's army in 1779-80, and the Ford Mansion, which was used as Washington's headquarters during the winter of 1779-80.
Interesting Fact:
Jockey Hollow was home to over 10,000 soldiers and civilians during the winter of 1779-80, making it one of the largest encampments of the Revolutionary War.
3. Visit the Leonard J. Buck Garden
The Leonard J. Buck Garden is a hidden gem located in Far Hills, NJ. This 33-acre garden features naturalistic woodland walks, rock gardens, and a picturesque pond. Visitors can also see a variety of plant species from around the world, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and wildflowers.
Interesting Fact:
The garden was originally designed by Leonard J. Buck, a financier who purchased the property in 1933 as a weekend retreat. Buck's vision for the garden was to create a space that would blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.
4. Tour the United States Golf Association Museum
Golf enthusiasts will love the United States Golf Association Museum, located in Far Hills, NJ. The museum features exhibits that highlight the history of golf in America, including information about famous players, tournaments, and equipment. Visitors can also see rare artifacts, like golf balls from the early 1900s and antique clubs.
Interesting Fact:
The museum's collection includes over 70,000 items related to the sport of golf, making it one of the largest collections in the world.
5. Take a Hike in Sourland Mountain Preserve
Sourland Mountain Preserve is a 4,000-acre nature preserve located in Hillsborough, NJ. The preserve features miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, meadows, and rocky terrain. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and wild turkeys.
Interesting Fact:
The Sourland Mountain region is one of the largest contiguous forests remaining in central New Jersey. It also serves as a crucial migratory stopover for birds like the wood thrush and Baltimore oriole.
Conclusion
This road trip from Cedar Grove, NJ to South Bound Brook, NJ may be short, but it's packed with exciting things to do. From visiting historic sites and museums to exploring nature preserves and gardens, there's something for everyone. The trip takes around an hour, so it's a perfect day trip from either starting point. So, hop in the car, turn up the tunes, and embark on this unforgettable journey through the heart of New Jersey.