The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chester, New Jersey and Short Hills, New Jersey

The scenic drive from Chester, New Jersey to Short Hills, New Jersey is filled with beautiful landscapes and numerous attractions. This road trip covers a distance of approximately 34 miles and takes around 45 minutes to complete. The picturesque towns of Chester and Short Hills are known for their history, culture, and natural beauty. Warren, NJ falls at the halfway point, with plenty of options to explore and grab a bite to eat. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

Visit the Frelinghuysen Arboretum

The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is a 127-acre estate that is home to over 10,000 diverse plant species. Located in Morris Township, the Arboretum features several beautiful gardens, greenhouses, walking trails, and a mansion. The arboretum also hosts various educational programs and events throughout the year. The Arboretum is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers, photographers and families.

Interesting fact: The Frelinghuysen Arboretum was once home to the prominent Frelinghuysen family, who were instrumental in the early American government.

Shop at the Mall at Short Hills

The Mall at Short Hills is an upscale shopping center that is home to over 150 stores and restaurants. This mall is a favorite hot spot for fashion enthusiasts and food lovers. The mall features luxury brands like Gucci, Prada, and Chanel. It also has numerous restaurants that offer delectable food and drink options, including Shake Shack and The Cheesecake Factory.

Interesting fact: The Mall at Short Hills is one of the most profitable malls in the country, generating over $1 billion in sales annually.

Hike at Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a 7,600-acre park that is a haven for birds and wildlife. Located in Morris County, the refuge features several hiking trails, boardwalks, observation platforms, and picnic areas. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including bald eagles, during the spring and fall migration periods. The refuge also hosts a range of educational programs and events.

Interesting fact: Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is home to the largest continuous stretch of forested wetland in New Jersey.

Visit Morristown National Historical Park

Morristown National Historical Park is a 1,676-acre park that is a tribute to the American Revolution. Located in Morristown, the park features several historic sites, including Fort Nonsense, Jockey Hollow, and the Ford Mansion. Visitors can learn about the history of the American Revolution and the lives of the soldiers who fought for the cause. The park is open year-round, and visitors can participate in various events and programs.

Interesting fact: Morristown National Historical Park served as the winter encampment for General George Washington and his army during the American Revolution.

Visit the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is a professional theatre company that is renowned for its productions of Shakespearean plays. Located in Madison, the theatre features a 308-seat mainstage theatre and a 50-seat black box theatre. Visitors can enjoy performances by world-class actors and participate in various educational programs.

Interesting fact: The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is a member of the Theatre Communications Group, the national organization for nonprofit theatres.

On this road trip, visitors can experience a blend of culture, history, and nature. The route is meticulously planned to ensure maximum enjoyment and minimal travel time. The attractions listed above are a testament to the vast array of experiences that can be had in Short Hills and Chester. The road trip takes about 45 minutes to complete and is a perfect weekend getaway for people looking to unwind.