Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brick Township to Cranford, NJ
Driving from Brick Township, New Jersey to Cranford, New Jersey may seem like just another car trip on the highway. However, with a few unexpected stops along the way, this journey can be an adventure. This road trip covers around 65 miles and should take about an hour and a half without any stops. Here are five unexpected places you can stop to enjoy on your drive.
Halfway Point: Long Island City, NY
As you cross into New York City, Long Island City is the perfect mid-point for this road trip. It is here that one can experience the iconic skyline NYC has to offer. Guests can book a few hours of sailing beneath several of the city’s popular bridges with Classic Harbor Line's sailboat, the Schooner America 2.0. You can also check out the famous graffiti wall on Pulaski Bridge or Riverwalk Park for breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
1. Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash (Red Bank, NJ)
Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash is the comic book store made famous by the film Clerks and owned by filmmaker Kevin Smith in Red Bank, NJ. Inside, it is filled with the perfect mix of memorabilia from his films and comics both old and new. The staff is pleasant and well-informed, making it an enjoyable experience for seasoned and novice comic book fans. Be sure to grab a Clerks-themed shirt or hat from the shop.
Favorite food to eat: There are several great places in Red Bank to grab a bite to eat. Grab a slice of pizza from Urban Coalhouse Pizza and Bar, where they make a delicious coal-fired pizza with fresh dough and choice toppings.
2. Count Basie Center for the Arts (Red Bank, NJ)
The Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ, is a hub for the arts, music, and drama in the state. Named after jazz legend William "Count" Basie, the venue's theater hosts several performances all year round, from dance performances, concerts, and drama, among others. Count Basie Center for the Arts promises to provide an all-round experience in the arts and entertainment industry.
Favorite food to eat: The Cheese steak from Jamians Food and Drink has the right amount of meat-to-cheese ratio, and it comes with a side of chips or fries.
3. Allaire State Park (Wall Township, NJ)
Looking for a piece of serenity on your drive? Stop by Allaire State Park in Wall Township, NJ. With over thirty miles of hiking trails and picnic areas, visitors can soak in the simple pleasures of nature. If you’re up for the challenge, try mountain biking in the exhilarating bike trails reserved for Intermediate and advanced riders.
Favorite food to eat: Make a pit-stop at The Grill, located within the park, and have a quick, delicious breakfast. They offer mouth-watering bacon and egg sandwiches and great coffee.
4. Fort Monmouth (Tinton Falls, NJ)
Fort Monmouth in Tinton Falls, NJ, is a decommissioned Army station that has since become home to the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Here you can pay your respects to the servicemen and women who fought for the nation. The museum gives insight into the war and service, making it a valuable stop for history enthusiasts.
Favorite food to eat: Head to the Gianni’s Pizzeria II and enjoy a dish of classic garlic knots of crispy and buttery goodness.
5. Reeves-Reed Arboretum (Summit, NJ)
Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, NJ, is a hidden gem in a quaint township. The arboretum is beautifully landscaped and is perfect for nature lovers, with plenty of space for a leisurely stroll and picnics. The rose garden, frog pond, woodland trail make it a little paradise any time of the year.
Favorite food to eat: Grab a burger from Summit House, a gastropub that serves quality, locally-sourced food. They have a variety of drink options, but you can't go wrong with one of their local beers.
Driving from Brick Township, New Jersey, to Cranford, New Jersey, can feel tedious, but with the right stops, it’s a fun and exquisite journey to appreciate all that New Jersey has to offer. Embark on this journey, and you will not be disappointed.