New Jersey has so many fantastic towns, both big and small. If you’re a frequent reader, you know I’ve fallen in love with Haddonfield, Hoboken, Morristown, Somerville, Cape May and many more. My current crush is a tiny town that may just be the best place in New Jersey.
Atlantic Highlands is a beautiful shore area town, located on the Sandy Hook Bay.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
It encompasses only about 1.2 square miles of land and is home to approximately 4,385 residents (based on 2010 census data).
Flickr/Jazz Guy
It offers diverse architecture, ranging from Victorian to Queen Anne and Colonial Revival styles.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
You definitely don’t want to miss the Strauss Mansion, which operates as a museum and serves as the headquarters for the Atlantic Highlands Historical Society. Find it at 27 Prospect Circle.
Wikipedia/Jerrye & Roy Klotz MD
The Atlantic Highlands Historical Society hosts architectural walking tours in town every first and third Wednesday of the month. Check them out when the weather gets warm.
Wikipedia/Mr. Matte
Another notable attraction is Mount Mitchill; at 266 feet, it is the highest headland of the United States east coast south of Maine. You’ll find a scenic overlook with a panoramic view of the Raritan Bay, New York City and Sandy Hook.
Flickr/SimpleThrill
Atlantic Highlands is also home to the historic Henry Hudson Springs. While little remains, the water (now unsafe for consumption) still flows.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
Henry Hudson stopped here for refreshment in 1609, when natives to the area believed the spring had healing powers. It was used for drinking water until the 1900s.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
Into fitness and nature? You can access a portion of the Henry Hudson Trail from Atlantic Highlands, where you can head down to the waterfront.
Image/Google Maps
If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck! Head to Philly’s Famous Cheesesteaks, Cheng’s Garden or Zoe’s Vintage Kitchen for casual eats.
Facebook/Philly’s Famous Cheesesteaks
For upscale Italian cuisine, head to Christine’s. 1st Cup Coffee is a great breakfast spot with open mic nights and Jus Organic is perfect for fresh fruit bowls, smoothies and more.
Facebook/Christines Italian
More of a drinker? This little town has its own brewery - Carton Brewing (6 East Washington Avenue). They offer free tours and $5 tasting flights.
Facebook/Carton Brewing
If you’re into theater, First Avenue Playhouse (123 1st Avenue) offers frequent live shows with dessert, coffee and tea included. For first run films, head to Atlantic Cinemas (82 1st Avenue).
Facebook/First Avenue Playhouse
And if you want to take a quick day trip into New York City, Seastreak Ferry can get you to Wall Street in 40 minutes.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
Who knew a tiny town could be so awesome? New Jerseyans, of course! Have you been to Atlantic Highlands yet? What’s your favorite small town in the Garden State? To discover 25 of our favorite little towns in New Jersey, click here.
Flickr/Jazz Guy
Wikipedia/Jerrye & Roy Klotz MD
Wikipedia/Mr. Matte
Flickr/SimpleThrill
Image/Google Maps
Facebook/Philly’s Famous Cheesesteaks
Facebook/Christines Italian
Facebook/Carton Brewing
Facebook/First Avenue Playhouse
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