Top Five Popular Attractions between Chatham Township, NJ and Fairfield, CT

Are you looking for a road trip with charming small towns, scenic locations, and exciting places to explore? Look no further! This article will guide you through the top five popular attractions to see between Chatham Township, NJ, and Fairfield, CT.

Route and Halfway Point: Bronxville, NY

The route from Chatham Township, NJ, to Fairfield, CT, is approximately a 2-hour drive, covering 117 miles of beautiful countryside. The best route to take is via I-78 E and the Garden State Pkwy N, crossing the Hudson River in the north via the Tappan Zee Bridge. The halfway point of this journey is Bronxville, NY, a stunning village in Westchester County. Bronxville is famous for its Tudor-style homes, historic downtown, and cultural institutions like the Sarah Lawrence College Center for the Urban River.

Top Five Places to See List

1. Van Vleck House and Gardens, Montclair, NJ - Van Vleck House and Gardens is a hidden gem in Montclair, NJ, just a few miles from Chatham Township. This charming destination showcases a beautiful formal garden, a greenhouse, and a historic mansion, which was originally built in 1916. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house, learn about the history of the estate, and enjoy a tranquil stroll in the magnificent garden.
2. Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown, NY - Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival castle located in Tarrytown, NY, about midway between Bronxville and Fairfield. This lovely historic site, built in 1838, was once the home of New York City mayor and businessman William Paulding Jr. Visitors can take tours of the mansion, explore the magnificent grounds, and attend special events like the Scottish Games, Antiques Show, and Arts and Craft Fair.
3. Hudson River Museum, Yonkers, NY - Hudson River Museum is a premier cultural destination in Yonkers, NY, on the banks of the Hudson River. The museum houses a vast collection of art, science, and history exhibits, including paintings by Thomas Cole, sculptures by Alexander Calder, and interactive displays on astronomy and nature. Visitors can also enjoy a film screening at the planetarium, listen to live music, or attend one of the many educational programs offered by the museum.
4. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow, NY - Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is a famous burial ground in Westchester County, NY, which has been immortalized by Washington Irving's classic tale, "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Visitors can take a guided tour of the cemetery, visit the graves of famous people like Irving, Andrew Carnegie, and Walter Chrysler, and explore the beautiful landscapes, including hills, lakes, and valleys. The cemetery is also a popular destination for Halloween events, ghost tours, and storytelling.
5. Pequot Museum, Mashantucket, CT - Pequot Museum is a fascinating cultural center in Mashantucket, CT, which showcases the history and traditions of the Pequot tribe, one of the oldest indigenous groups in the United States. The museum has a large collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays, which provide insights into the Pequot way of life, their spiritual beliefs, and their struggles against colonization. Visitors can also attend cultural performances, festivals, and workshops organized by the museum.

Conclusion

The road trip from Chatham Township, NJ, to Fairfield, CT, is a delightful journey through the scenic countryside and picturesque towns of New York and Connecticut. The best way to enjoy the trip is by planning ahead and including these top five popular attractions on your itinerary. From the beautiful gardens of Van Vleck House and Lyndhurst Mansion to the cultural riches of Hudson River Museum, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, and Pequot Museum, there is something for everyone on this route. Safe travels!