When it comes to New Jersey towns, Metuchen really has it all. The central Jersey borough is on both a train line and a bus line, and is in the center of Middlesex County’s bustling retail hubs. The borders in this area of New Jersey can be winding, and Metuchen expands all around the area, but at its heart is what might be the most walkable downtown in New Jersey. A charming main street containing restaurants and stores is only minutes away from a larger area containing a shopping plaza, an old-school diner, one of the state’s best libraries, a fascinating historical site – and even a hidden natural haven. All this combines to make a day trip to Metuchen’s downtown an absolute must-do experience for any explorer of the Garden State.
Metuchen is one of New Jersey’s most charming towns - feeling both in the middle of it all, and the perfect place for a peaceful retreat.
Metuchenpic/Wikipedia
The Metuchen library, still housed in an old-fashioned brick building, has a fascinating collection of books and regularly holds film screenings and children’s programs.
Zeete/Wikipedia
The Metuchen Diner is one of the state’s best old-school diners, and is only minutes away from the main street.
Kirk Vakantie/Google Local
You can sit down at the classic counter or booths and dig into a hearty breakfast. At lunch, the soup and sandwiches are not to be missed.
Obamagal/TripAdvisor
The District at Metuchen, only feet away from the diner, is a huge shopping plaza anchored by one of the state’s largest Whole Foods. You’ll find a unique collection of restaurants and retail spread out over several shopping strips.
Aravind Narayan/Google Local
The most intriguing spot in Metuchen is the Metuchen Colonial Cemetery, located only feet away from the train station. Some of these headstones have been standing here since before there was a United States.
Metuchen Colonial Cemetery/Facebook
Heading off the beaten path, those looking for some quiet time can take a short hike to Tommy’s Pond. This is a popular fishing hole with a fountain that runs during the summer months.
Lisa W/Foursquare
As the sun goes down, there is only one place to go for nightlife - Hailey’s Harp and Pub on Main Street.
Hailey’s Harp and Pub/Facebook
This classic Irish pub serves a full menu, and frequently plays host to live music. It’s the liveliest spot in town!
Hailey’s Harp and Pub/Facebook
Have you visited Metuchen and explored its downtown? Let us know about your visit, and tell us your favorite walkable downtown in New Jersey. If you want to learn more about the borough, you can visit the official website and check out the Facebook page of Hailey’s Harp and Pub for all the latest events. For another walkable downtown, check out this family-friendly day trip.
Metuchenpic/Wikipedia
Zeete/Wikipedia
Kirk Vakantie/Google Local
Obamagal/TripAdvisor
Aravind Narayan/Google Local
Metuchen Colonial Cemetery/Facebook
Lisa W/Foursquare
Hailey’s Harp and Pub/Facebook
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Address: Metuchen, NJ 08840, USA
