Looking for historic charm, scenic hills, and a buzzing craft beer scene? Head to Hackettstown! Nestled in Warren County at the foot of the New Jersey Highlands, Hackettstown offers a blend of small-town charm, college-town energy, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking nearby trails, sipping local brews, or exploring downtown shops, Hackettstown makes for a refreshing escape in northwest New Jersey.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Hackettstown is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). These seasons offer mild weather, vibrant foliage, and great conditions for hiking, biking, and outdoor dining. Summer is also popular for events and brewery patios.

How to Get There

  • If you are traveling by car: Hackettstown is located along Route 46 and Route 57, about 1.5 hours west of New York City and 45 minutes from the Delaware Water Gap.
  • By Train: NJ Transit’s Hackettstown Station offers limited weekday service on the Morris & Essex Line to Hoboken and NYC (via transfer).
  • By Air: The nearest major airports are Newark Liberty International (EWR), about 1 hour and 15 minutes away, and Lehigh Valley International (ABE), about 45 minutes west.

Where to Stay

  • Comfort Inn Hackettstown – Convenient and comfortable lodging close to shopping, restaurants, and Route 46.
  • Everitt House Bed & Breakfast – Historic Victorian B&B in downtown Hackettstown with cozy rooms and a personal touch.
  • Hotels in Mt. Olive or Budd Lake – Additional hotel options just 10–15 minutes away for more national chain choices.

Top Attractions

Pick your own fruit at Donaldson Farms

Pick your own fruit at Donaldson Farms

© Donaldson Farms

Donaldson Farms is a family-owned and operated farm in Hackettstown, New Jersey that consists of hundreds of countryside acres of seasonal fresh vegetables and fruits. The farm market offers fresh vegetables and fruits, as well as salsa, sauces, jam, jellies, local honey, New Jersey and Vermont maple syrup, dairy products, and fresh baked pies. In addition to selling produce at the farm market, the farm is also a destination for u-pick opportunities, including apples, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and pumpkins. Donaldson Farms also offers private and group tours, farm education programs, and seasonal family events and activities, like hayrides and the corn maze.

358 Allen Rd, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-852-9122

Take a self-guided tour of the Czig Meister Brewing Company

Take a self-guided tour of the Czig Meister Brewing Company

© Czig Meister Brewing Company

The Czig Meister Brewing Company is a craft brewery featuring an outdoor biergarten and Old World-style tasting room. The spacious tasting room boasts a wide open atmosphere with community tables, designed to give a feeling of a beer hall in Germany, featuring full views of the brewery’s equipment floor. There are also barrels and standing tables, and all furniture found in the tasting room was hand built by the owners, their family, and their friends. The beautiful Biergarten offers an enjoyable place to relax as well during pleasant weather. Guests can also take a self-guided tour through part of the brewery.

106 Valentine St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-651-5492

See an exhibition at Rutherfurd Hall

See an exhibition at Rutherfurd Hall

© Rutherfurd Hall

Rutherfurd Hall (Video) in Hackettstown, New Jersey is a historic home of Warren County that once belonged to the wealthy Rutherford Family. In April of 2013, the country estate was added to the nation’s National Register of Historic Places as a historic district due to its significance in social history and architecture.

The home, which was designed by acclaimed architect Whitney Warren, entertained several important people over the years, such as President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Rutherfurd Hall is used today for hosting exhibitions, film screenings, developing formal gardens, music concerts, and educational programs for both adults and children.

1686 County Rd 517, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-852-1894

See a performance at the Hackettstown Center for the Arts

See a performance at the Hackettstown Center for the Arts

© Andrey Armyagov/stock.adobe.com

The Hackettstown Center for the Arts serves as a multi-purpose, non-profit cultural center that caters to the northern New Jersey region’s artistic needs. Housed inside of The Strand Theater on the quaint Main Street, the arts center is a hub for film festivals, photography and art shows, poetry readings, theatrical productions, recitals, concerts, and more. The hall features a HD cinematic projector, state-of-the-art stage lighting and sound, climate control, carpeted floor, and dimmable lights. The Strand Theater also houses The Strand Performance Group, Paladin Knight Entertainment, and the Strand Studios Learning Center for Music, Film and Acting.

181 Main St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-813-2626

Where to Eat

Have dinner at James on Main

Have dinner at James on Main

© James on Main

James on Main boasts that they serve “local food at its best.” The locally owned and operated restaurant in the heart of the town of Hackettstown creates New American cuisine for dinner and brunch designed around a champion tuff, American made, wood-fired grill. Known for being an elegant farm-to-table restaurant, James on Main features a seasonally inspired, locally sourced menu consisting of healthfully composed and handcrafted options. While reservations aren’t required, they are highly recommended.

105 Main St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-852-2131

Take the kids to Sizzle BBQ

Take the kids to Sizzle BBQ

© Sizzle BBQ

Sizzle BBQ is a Portuguese-Argentinian-style barbecue restaurant serving unique and delicious food to the Hackettstown community. The barbecue here is “cooked to perfection” how guests want it on a wood charcoal grill in order to get a unique flavor that’s hard to find anywhere else in the area. In addition to the quality meats grilled over the charcoal grill, Sizzle BBQ also offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, empanadas, and desserts.

268 Main St, Hackettstown, NJ 07840, Phone: 908-850-6000

Romantic Ideas:

Get some fresh air in Stephens State Park

Get some fresh air in Stephens State Park

© frank1crayon/stock.adobe.com

Explore the Musconetcong River when you take a trip to Stephens State Park (Video). Popular amongst fishermen, the Stephens State Park is well known for its excellent trout fishing opportunities, making it the perfect place to go for anglers who want to take a fishing trip for the weekend. Also found at the park are six miles of marked hiking trails, open terrain optimal for cross-country skiing during the winter months, several miles of horseback riding, and mountain biking trails to boot. Educational opportunities are also available to kids in the form of camping and ranger programs.

800 Willow Grove Street, Hackettstown, New Jersey 07840, Phone: 908-852-3790

Sample beers at Jersey Girl Brewing Company

Sample beers at Jersey Girl Brewing Company

© Jersey Girl Brewing Company

Nestled on the gorgeous Mount Olive, the Jersey Girl Brewing Company is a 10,000-square-foot brewery and is home to a 30-barrel brewing system. Known for their careful selection of ingredients and detailed inspection of grains and hops, Jersey Girl Brewing Company’s brewing system was developed with the goal of maximizing every beer flavor from brewery to glass. The tasting room, which can accommodate up to 75 guests, offers visitors the opportunity to taste the brewery's fine selection of pours. Some beers to sample include flagship brews like the Rake Breaker American IPA, the Sun Kissed Citra NE-Style IPA and the King Gambrinus Belgian Tripel. Overall, the brewery typically has up to 18 beers available to sample, half of which are typically limited releases.

426 Sand Shore Rd, Mt Olive, NJ 07840; Phone: 908-591-4186

Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:

  • Centenary University – A picturesque liberal arts college with a small campus and frequent public arts and theater events.
  • Donaldson Farms – Family-run farm offering seasonal produce, pick-your-own activities, and fall fun like hayrides and corn mazes.
  • Hackettstown Historical Society Museum – Learn about the town’s Revolutionary War roots, Victorian homes, and railroad history.
  • Stephens State Park – Hike along the Musconetcong River, enjoy picnic spots, or go trout fishing in a peaceful forested setting.
  • Hackettstown Brewing Co. – Visit this local brewery and enjoy craft beer flights in a relaxed taproom atmosphere.

If you are interested in local events:

  • Hackettstown Maifest (May) – A lively downtown celebration of spring with food, music, dancing, and craft beer.
  • Hackettstown Street Fair (September) – Enjoy live entertainment, local vendors, food trucks, and kids’ activities on Main Street.
  • Trunk or Treat & Halloween Parade (October) – Community fun with costumes, candy, and festive decorations.

If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hackettstown, New Jersey:

  • Allamuchy Mountain State Park (15 min) – Hike scenic trails, explore abandoned rail lines, or kayak on the Musconetcong River.
  • Historic Waterloo Village (25–30 min) – Step back in time at this restored 19th-century canal town in Allamuchy State Park.
  • Lake Hopatcong (25 min) – Go boating, grab lakeside dining, or enjoy waterfront recreation at New Jersey’s largest lake.
  • Long Valley (20 min) – Explore local wineries, farm markets, and scenic drives through pastoral countryside.
  • Jenny Jump State Forest (25–30 min) – Enjoy mountain views, stargazing, and hiking trails through rocky ridges and woodlands.

FAQ:

  • Question: What makes Hackettstown, New Jersey, an attractive destination?
    Answer: The quaint and historic town of Hackettstown offers a variety of things to do for both locals and visitors alike.
  • Question: What can visitors find in Hackettstown's Main Street district?
    Answer: The charming Main Street district is bustling with eclectic galleries, boutiques, clothing retailers, and antique shops.
  • Question: What dining options are available in Hackettstown?
    Answer: Dining experiences along Main Street include full-service restaurants, bistros, delis, and bakeries.
  • Question: How far is Hackettstown from Newark, NJ?
    Answer: Hackettstown is located 1 hour from Newark, NJ (42.7 miles via I-280 W and I-80 W).

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, great for outdoor activities. Inn at Millrace Pond – A charming and historic inn nearby. Visit Stephens State Park – Enjoy hiking, picnicking, and trout fishing.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, ideal for festivals and outdoor dining. Holiday Inn Budd Lake - Rockaway Area – A comfortable stay near Hackettstown. Explore Donaldson Farms – Pick fresh produce and enjoy farm events.
Fall (September-November) – Cool air and stunning autumn foliage, perfect for scenic drives. Whistling Swan Inn – A cozy bed & breakfast with a historic feel. Visit Hackettstown Oktoberfest – Enjoy live music, beer, and German food.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and cozy, great for holiday shopping and indoor activities. Quality Inn Hackettstown – A budget-friendly and convenient stay. Tour Czig Meister Brewing Company – Try craft beers in a warm, welcoming setting.

More events and things to do

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Plan Your Trip


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