Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgewater Township, NJ to Chester, NJ
Have you ever taken a road trip where you just wanted to get to your destination without ever stopping to take a break? Well, not anymore! A journey from Bridgewater Township, NJ, to Chester, NJ, takes only about 30 minutes, but it's a beautiful drive that's worth stopping to explore a few hidden gems.
Starting from Bridgewater Township, NJ, the route takes you through rural roads and picturesque landscapes, with small towns and villages scattered throughout the drive. The countryside drive provides scenic views of nature, the historic villages, and the famous horse farms in the area. With ample time and an adventurous spirit, uncover some unexpected attractions, from hidden gardens to unique culinary experiences.
The Halfway (Bolded)
Bedminster, NJ, marks the halfway point of the drive from Bridgewater Township to Chester, NJ, and it's where the journey begins to reveal new surprises.
1. Duke Farms (Bolded)
Take exit 33 from I-78 West towards US-202/US-206, and you'll find Duke Farms, a historical state park featuring 1,000 acres of gardens, waterfalls, and greenery. With more than 32 miles of trails open year-round, visitors can hike, bike, and explore the century-old orchard and farm. Don't forget to bring your camera, as you'll come across several picturesque sites during your walk around the park. The on-site cafe serves delicious farm-to-table cuisine, a perfect refueling moment after exploring Duke Farms.
Favorite food to eat: A delightful and healthy salad from the seasonal menu.
2. Peapack Gladstone, NJ (Bolded)
A tiny village that packs a powerful historical punch, Peapack Gladstone, is situated between Chester and Bridgewater Township. Peapack Gladstone is home to some of the most impressive mansions in NJ and several award-winning restaurants. The most famous being The Gladstone Tavern, where the menu features non-traditional comfort foods.
Favorite food to eat: Angus Beef Burger paired with the homemade French fries.
3. Ralston Cider Mill (Bolded)
Just a short drive from downtown Chester, visitors can find an old-fashioned cider mill that dates back to 1848. The Ralston Cider Mill has an outdoor space to relax while enjoying fresh apple cider, cider donuts, and other homemade baked goods. The cider mill produces cider from a mix of different apples, with the end product resulting in an addictive taste.
Favorite food to eat: Signature hot apple cider with cinnamon sugar donuts - a perfect fall treat.
4. Hacklebarney State Park (Bolded)
Located in Long Valley, NJ, Hacklebarney State Park is a must-stop attraction for nature enthusiasts. The park features various hiking trails that lead visitors through dense woodland, striking waterfalls, beautiful rivers, and streams. Trails range from easy to moderate difficulty, and you can choose to hike them at your pace and preference. Prepare your hiking kit for an adrenaline and outdoor-packed adventure.
Favorite food to eat: Trail mix, of course!
5. Alstede Farms (Bolded)
Are you looking for a farm experience, ideal for both kids and adults? Alstede Farms provides visitors with a family-friendly outing that features a large host of activities that include wagon rides, pony rides, moonlight corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and strawberry festivals, among other fun-filled activities. The farm offers fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and meats, allowing you to shop for farm-fresh and organic produce.
Favorite food to eat: Freshly-picked strawberries; you can even take some home!
Conclusion
The drive from Bridgewater Township, NJ to Chester NJ, may seem short, but there are many hidden gems and exciting places to explore along the journey. It's a trip that every traveler should embark on and be amazed by the scenic views, the captivating historical sites, the outdoor adventure, and the farm experiences. The journey only lasts a short while, but the memories, experiences, and culinary delights will last a lifetime.