Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgewater Township, NJ to New York, NY
If you're looking for a fun and unexpected road trip from Bridgewater Township, NJ to New York, NY, you've come to the right place. This drive will take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and it offers some stunning scenery, from rolling hills and green valleys to busy urban landscapes and towering skyscrapers. Besides, there are some off-the-beaten-path attractions that are worth a visit, each with their unique charm and personality. So, buckle up, grab your snacks, and hit the road for this exciting adventure!
Edison, NJ (Halfway Point)
Before we dive into the unexpected places to stop, let's start with the halfway point of your road trip, Edison, NJ. It's the fifth largest municipality in New Jersey, named after the famous inventor Thomas Edison, who had his laboratory there. If you're an art lover, don't miss the Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University, which houses an impressive collection of European and American paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photos. If you're in the mood for some shopping, the Menlo Park Mall is a great place to stop and browse. It has over 120 stores, including Macy's, Nordstrom, and Apple. Also, if you fancy some outdoor fun, the Roosevelt Park has a golf course, a lake for fishing, tennis courts, basketball courts, and picnic areas.
1. The Frelinghuysen Arboretum (Morristown, NJ)
The Frelinghuysen Arboretum is a horticultural gem located in Morristown, NJ, about 40 minutes away from Bridgewater Township. It features 127 acres of beautiful gardens, woodlands, and meadows, with over 4,000 kinds of plants, many of which are rare and exotic. You can admire the seasonal blooms, walk the miles of trails, visit the colonial Rev. Samuel Kennedy House, or take a class or workshop on gardening, art, or wellness. If you're hungry, check out the Jockey Hollow Bar and Kitchen, which is an upscale restaurant located in a historic 1770s estate adjacent to the arboretum. They serve a variety of American dishes, made with locally sourced ingredients.
2. Greenwood Gardens (Short Hills, NJ)
Greenwood Gardens is a hidden paradise tucked away in Short Hills, NJ, approximately 50 minutes from Bridgewater Township. It's a 28-acre public garden that was once a private estate and was restored to its original beauty by its owners. You can wander through the different formal and natural gardens, ponds, terraces, and historic buildings, such as the Tea House or the Summer House. There are also various events and activities that take place throughout the year, such as plant sales, concerts, art exhibits, or garden tours. If you're feeling peckish, you can grab a sandwich or salad at the Grotto Cafe, which serves fresh and healthy food on the go.
3. Manasquan Reservoir (Freehold, NJ)
If you're into outdoor adventures, you'll enjoy a stop at the Manasquan Reservoir, located in Freehold, NJ, about an hour away from Bridgewater Township. It's a 770-acre reservoir surrounded by a scenic park, perfect for hiking, biking, jogging, fishing, kayaking, or birdwatching. You can rent a boat or bring your own to explore the quiet waters and catch some fish, such as largemouth bass, black crappie, or sunfish. The park also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and a nature center, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. If you're in the mood for an ice cream cone, don't miss Hoffman's Ice Cream in nearby Point Pleasant Beach. They make the most delicious handcrafted ice cream, using only the freshest ingredients.
4. Piermont, NY
Piermont is a charming village nestled on the Hudson River, in Rockland County, NY, just 30 minutes away from New York City. It has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century, and it gained fame as a bustling port and manufacturing center. Today, it's a popular destination for boaters, cyclists, and nature lovers, who come to admire the breathtaking views of the Hudson, hike the nearby Tallman Mountain State Park, or explore the quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants of the village. If you're hungry, head to The Sidewalk Bistro, which offers French-inspired cuisine, such as escargots, beef bourguignon, or crème brûlée.
5. Wave Hill (Bronx, NY)
Wave Hill is a stunning public garden and cultural center located in the Bronx, NY, about 20 minutes away from New York City. It's a 28-acre estate that offers panoramic views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, as well as a diverse collection of gardens, greenhouses, and outdoor art installations. You can stroll through the flower gardens, the aquatic garden, the wild garden, or the herb garden, or attend a concert or performance at the Glyndor Gallery. If you're eager for a snack or a drink, check out the Cafe at Wave Hill, which serves light bites, sandwiches, salads, and pastries, made with local and organic ingredients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this road trip from Bridgewater Township, NJ to New York, NY, is filled with unexpected and delightful places that will satisfy your senses and your curiosity. From the man-made wonders of Edison, NJ, to the natural beauty of the arboretum and the reservoir, and the cultural gems of Piermont and Wave Hill, there's something for everyone. You'll appreciate the diversity, the history, and the creativity of these destinations, and you'll make memories that will last a lifetime. So, don't hesitate to plan your trip and enjoy the ride!