Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cherry Hill Township to Toms River
If you're looking to break up the monotony of a drive from Cherry Hill Township to Toms River in New Jersey, there are plenty of unexpected places to explore along the way. This drive takes about an hour and a half and covers a distance of about 70 miles. You can take the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway to get there. Along the way, you'll see picturesque forested hills, bustling suburban areas, and coastal landscapes. Here are five unexpected places that will add some fun and excitement to your journey, along with some delicious food options.
Halfway Point: Browns Mills, NJ
Before we dive into the specific locations on this drive, it's important to note that the halfway point between Cherry Hill Township and Toms River is Browns Mills, NJ. This small town is located in Pemberton Township and has a population of around 11,000 people. There are plenty of local shops, farm stands, and restaurants here to explore if you're in the mood for a quick break.
1. Whitesbog Village
Whitesbog Village is located in Brendan T. Byrne State Forest and is a historic cranberry and blueberry farm. The village dates back to the 1800s and has been restored to showcase what life was like during the time it was established. Visitors can tour the village and learn more about the history of the area. It's also a great place for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. When it comes to food at Whitesbog, you won't want to miss their freshly-made blueberry ice cream.
2. Batsto Village
Batsto Village is another historic site that visitors won't want to miss. This is a former iron and glass-making community that dates back to 1766. Walking through the village feels like stepping back in time, as many of the buildings have been restored to their original state. Visitors can take a guided tour of the village and learn more about the area's history. When it comes to food options, the nearby Blueberry Barn offers some delicious blueberry and peach pies.
3. Pine Barrens Nature Preserve
The Pine Barrens Nature Preserve is a 1.1 million-acre protected area in southern New Jersey. This preserve is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, making it a great place for nature lovers to explore. There are hiking trails, birdwatching areas, and even canoeing and kayaking opportunities. Food options in the area are limited, but there are plenty of local farm stands where visitors can purchase fresh produce to snack on.
4. Island Beach State Park
Island Beach State Park is a 10-mile-long peninsula that sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. This state park offers visitors a chance to relax on pristine beaches, hike through sand dunes, and spot wildlife in their natural habitats. There's even a bay side of the park where you can swim, fish, and paddleboard. When it comes to food, visitors won't want to miss the classic New Jersey dish: pork roll, egg, and cheese sandwiches at Lighthouse Deli.
5. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a great place to visit for history buffs and beachgoers alike. This 32-acre park is home to a historic lighthouse that dates back to 1857. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding bay and ocean. There are also nearby beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and fish. For food, visitors can't go wrong with the local seafood at Kubel's Too.
Conclusion
While a drive from Cherry Hill Township to Toms River may not seem like the most exciting journey, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore along the way. From historic villages to nature preserves to stunning beaches, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And with all these delicious food options, you won't leave hungry. So next time you're looking to get out of town, consider taking a drive down this New Jersey route and see what surprises you can find.