Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesterfield Township, NJ to Lopatcong Township, NJ
Are you looking for a scenic road trip through the Garden State? If so, you are in luck. There are plenty of picturesque routes that you can embark on in the state of New Jersey. One such trip goes from Chesterfield Township to Lopatcong Township. This journey is about 70 miles long, and it takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes if you take I-78 W. Here are five unexpected places you might consider stopping at while on this road trip.
Ringoes, NJ - The Halfway Point
Ringoes is a small town located in Hunterdon County, NJ, and it's the halfway point between Chesterfield Township and Lopatcong Township. This quaint town offers visitors a beautiful countryside view of NJ. If you are interested in history, you might want to check out the old-fashioned Victorian-style buildings in the town center. There are also antique shops, art galleries, and craft stores to peruse. If you're a foodie, there's a fantastic spot to grab a bite to eat called Cafe Antonio. This cozy Italian restaurant has a great selection of traditional dishes, including pizza and pasta.
Stop 1: Red Mill Museum Village
The Red Mill Museum Village is one of Clinton's hidden gems. Located on the banks of the South Branch of the Raritan River, the Red Mill is a historic gristmill that has been converted into a museum. It has eleven galleries that feature a collection of over 40,000 objects, including old farming equipment, toys, and textiles. The main attraction, however, is the restored red mill building itself. This mill was built in the 1800s and is a classic example of a working gristmill. Admission is $10 per adult, and it's worth every penny. After touring the museum, grab a bite to eat at the Clean Plate Kitchen nearby. This restaurant is known for using locally sourced ingredients in their delicious menu items.
Stop 2: Feltville Historic District
Feltville Historic District, also known as the Deserted Village, is a fascinating place to explore. This once-thriving town was founded in the 1840s as a mill town. It's now a preserved historic village located within the Watchung Reservation of Union County. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of 10 of the original 16 buildings, including the general store, carriage barn, and church. During Halloween, the village also offers ghost tours to add a spooky twist to the experience. Before leaving the area, stop by Boxwood Coffee for a cup of coffee or tea, and their delicious homemade pastries.
Stop 3: Space Farms Zoo and Museum
Calling all animal lovers! Space Farms Zoo and Museum is a must-see. Located in Sussex County, it's one of the largest privately-owned zoos in the country. The zoo is home to over 500 animals from more than 100 different species, including lions, bears, tigers, and wolves. There's also a museum on the premises where visitors can learn about Native American history. The zoo is open every day from May through September and requires a $25 admission fee to enter. After a long day of exploring, grab a bite to eat at the Black Bear Deli and Cafe. Their sandwiches are a must-have.
Stop 4: Delaware River Railroad Excursions
The Delaware River Railroad Excursions offers a unique train experience. Routes depart from Phillipsburg, NJ, and offer scenic views of the countryside. There are different train rides to choose from, including the The Great Train Robbery, which depicts a wild west-style shootout, and The Polar Express, which operates during the holiday season. Along with the train ride, they also offer themed events such as Wine Train Excursions and Beer Train Excursions for those interested in a more adult-oriented experience. After a fun-filled day, head to Marianna's Pizza Cafe, known for their fantastic pizza, calzones, and garlic knots.
Stop 5: Cheesequake State Park
Cheesequake State Park is a beautiful and unique park located in Middlesex County. It features a mixture of swamps, salt marshes, open fields, and hardwood forests, all in one location. The park offers various activities, including camping, hiking, boating, and fishing. Their 5.5-mile Blue Trail is a popular hiking trail that takes hikers through a variety of environments in the park. This park is a great destination for families looking for boredom-busting fun. After exploring the park, grab a sandwich or wrap at Konecka's Deli.
Conclusion
If you're looking for an exciting and scenic road trip, look no further than the route from Chesterfield Township to Lopatcong Township in New Jersey. This route offers travelers a perfect blend of history, adventure, and local flair. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Red Mill Museum Village, Feltville Historic District, Space Farms Zoo and Museum, Delaware River Railroad Excursions, and Cheesequake State Park. Remember to take your time, explore each destination, and enjoy the sights and sounds of NJ.