Somerset County, NJ is a great destination for locals and visitors alike. From outdoor activities to cultural attractions, the county offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, parks and recreation, museums, education, performing arts, shopping, dining, or public transportation, Somerset County has it all! Join us as we explore some of the best things to do in Somerset County, NJ!
Family Friendly
Somerset County is a great place to explore with your family. From outdoor adventures to fun-filled indoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. No matter what your family enjoys doing, Somerset County has plenty of options for fun and adventure. Check out these family-friendly activities in Somerset County and make some unforgettable memories with your loved ones:
Branchburg Sports Complex
This sports complex offers a variety of activities for all ages, including a laser tag arena, an indoor playground, and arcade games.
Somerset Patriots
Take your family out to the ballgame and enjoy the Somerset Patriots’ AA baseball team. The stadium offers a fun and lively atmosphere for all ages.
Michael Lepp Park Splash Pad and Waterpark
The splash pad and waterpark at Michael Lepp Park are perfect for those hot summer days. Your kids will love splashing around in the fountains and water features.
Museums
If you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun and educational activity, Somerset County has plenty of museums to explore. No matter what your interests are, there’s a museum in Somerset County that’s sure to pique your curiosity. Plan a visit to one of these fascinating institutions and learn something new today!
For art enthusiasts, the Fleetwood Museum of Art and Photographica in North Plainfield is a must-see. This museum showcases an impressive collection of antique cameras, photographs, and other vintage photography equipment. Visitors can learn about the history of photography and see how technology has evolved over time. The museum also features rotating exhibits by local artists, and it’s a quick trip from West End Gardens, Cypress Gardens, Malcolm Gardens, and Terrace View Gardens.
If you’re interested in local history, don’t miss the Brick Academy Museum in Basking Ridge, close by to The Enclave at Dewy Meadows and Crown Court. This historic building was once a schoolhouse and now serves as a museum dedicated to the history of Bernards Township. Exhibits cover topics like the American Revolution, early settlement, and agriculture in the area. The museum is run by the Historical Society of the Somerset Hills and offers regular tours and events.
Parks and Recreation
Somerset County offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature and stay active. Whether you’re looking for a quick walk in the park or an all-day adventure in the great outdoors, don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the beautiful scenery along the way! Here are three must-visit parks for hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and more:
Colonial Park, located in Somerset and near Whitehall Gardens, is a beautiful 685-acre park that features scenic gardens, walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing lake. Kids will love the playgrounds and splash pad, while adults can enjoy a round of golf or tennis at the park’s facilities.
For a longer adventure, head to Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, also in Somerset. The park stretches for over 70 miles and includes trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It also offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities along the historic canal, which dates back to the early 19th century.
Finally, nature lovers shouldn’t miss Leonard J. Buck Garden, a stunning 33-acre garden in Far Hills that’s known for its unusual rock formations, water features, and rare plants. The garden is open year-round and offers guided tours, special events, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Education
Education is an important aspect of life, and Somerset County, NJ offers a diverse range of educational opportunities for people of all ages and interests. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a degree or simply looking to learn a new skill, Somerset County has plenty of options for you.
For those interested in the arts, The Center for Contemporary Art in Bedminster offers a variety of classes and workshops in painting, drawing, printmaking, photography, and more. The Art Academy in Hillsborough also provides art classes and workshops for both adults and children.
If you’re interested in dance, Flair Dance Academy in Hillsborough Township offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and more. For those looking for something a little more unique, Hillsborough Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers martial arts classes for all levels of experience.
For someone looking to further their academic pursuits, Somerset County is home to Raritan Valley Community College, which offers a variety of associate degree programs, as well as continuing education courses.
Performing Arts
Somerset County offers a diverse selection of performing arts experiences. No matter what kind of performing arts experience you’re looking for, Somerset County has something for you, so grab your friends and family and get ready to be entertained.
If you’re looking for a live theater experience, be sure to check out the Somerset Valley Playhouse and Villagers Theater. The Somerset Valley Playhouse offers a range of performances throughout the year, from classic plays to contemporary works. The Villagers Theater is a community theater that offers a variety of productions, including musicals and dramas.
For those looking to combine dining and entertainment, the Stage House Tavern is a popular option. Located in Somerset, this venue offers live music, comedy, and theater performances while you enjoy delicious food and drinks.
If you’re looking for an outdoor performance, Duke Island Park Summer Concert Series is the perfect place to enjoy live music under the stars. Held in the beautiful Duke Island Park, this series features a variety of musical acts throughout the summer months.
Shopping
Looking to do some retail therapy? You’re in luck! With plenty of options to choose from, you’ll be able to find just what you’re looking for. Whether you prefer quaint downtown shops or large shopping centers, Somerset County has something for everyone. Be sure to check out these popular shopping destinations and see what you can find.
One popular shopping destination is downtown Somerville. This charming town is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, all located within walking distance of each other. You can find everything from clothing and jewelry to unique home decor and handmade gifts. The farmers market, held on weekends, is a must-visit for fresh produce and artisanal food products.
Downtown Bernardsville is another great option for shopping in Somerset County. Here you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and small specialty stores. From designer fashion to home furnishings and antiques, this quaint town has something for everyone. The Bernardsville Farmers Market is a must-visit for locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and other gourmet treats.
If you’re looking for a more traditional shopping experience, head to Bridgewater Commons. This large indoor mall is home to over 170 stores and restaurants, including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Crate & Barrel. You can spend the day shopping for clothes, shoes, electronics, and more, then grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes.
Dining
If you’re a foodie looking for great places to eat in Somerset County, you won’t be disappointed. There are a wide range of culinary options available, from fine dining to street food. With so many dining options in Somerset County, there is something to please everyone’s taste buds. These three restaurants are just a small sampling of what the county has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a casual meal with family and friends, Somerset County has plenty of options to choose from.
Trattoria Mediterranea in Bedminster is one of the top Italian restaurants in the area. You can savor delicious pasta dishes, flavorful pizzas, and mouth-watering seafood options here. This cozy restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food you’ll enjoy.
For lovers of Thai food, head to Kuay Tiew Noodles & More in Somerville. The menu is vast, and you can choose from delicious noodle dishes, soups, and stir-fries. This place is a hit with locals and visitors alike, and it has a fun, laid-back atmosphere that makes for a memorable dining experience.
Finally, for those looking for something unique, try the Grub Hut Unique BBQ & Mexican Grill in Manville. As the name suggests, you can savor BBQ and Mexican cuisine here. The portions are generous, and the flavors are bold. If you’re a meat lover, the brisket is a must-try!
Public Transportation
Somerset County, NJ has several convenient public transportation options to help both visitors and locals explore the area with ease. NJ Transit operates a network of buses and trains that serve the county and beyond, including stops in cities like Newark, New York City, and Philadelphia.
In addition to traditional forms of transportation, visitors can also take advantage of the county’s many bike trails and pedestrian-friendly streets. Rent a bike from one of the local rental shops and ride through charming downtowns like Somerville or Bernardsville.
Could Somerset County Be Right for You?
If you’re looking for a beautiful and convenient place to live in New Jersey, Somerset County, NJ should definitely be on your list. With so much to do, from parks and museums to shopping and dining, there’s something for everyone. With its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities, it’s no wonder that so many people fall in love with this charming Central New Jersey county.