“I didn’t know a college town could feel this calm.” That was my first thought walking through Centenary University’s campus, where brick paths cut between historic buildings and students lounged on the grass with coffee and earbuds. I had arrived in Hackettstown without expectations—just a loose list of places, a hunger for farm-fresh food and small-batch beer, and maybe a trail or two to wander. What I found was a town that blends youthful energy with rural charm and a healthy dose of well-aged curiosity.
Best Things to Do in Hackettstown
Centenary University
I started at Centenary University, a small liberal arts college tucked neatly into town. The campus was walkable and full of character—ivy, red brick, and quiet corners where students sat beneath leafy oaks. It wasn’t bustling, but it felt alive. I walked the perimeter slowly, thinking, “If I had to hit reset and do college again, this wouldn’t be a bad place to land.” You can feel the pull of books and beginnings here.
Hackettstown Historical Society Museum
A few blocks over, I found the Hackettstown Historical Society Museum. It’s small, sure—but packed with local detail. The woman at the front desk greeted me like a neighbor and gave me a quick rundown before letting me wander. Civil War relics, turn-of-the-century photos, and stories from the town’s early days filled the rooms. I lingered over a display about the local silk industry and a cabinet of well-worn baseball gloves. “This is the kind of museum that doesn’t need to impress you—it just tells you who it is,” I thought.
Donaldson Farms
Midday, I made my way to Donaldson Farms, where rows of produce stretched under wide skies and families picked berries with slow delight. I wandered through the market, tempted by cider donuts and corn salsa. I bought a small basket of peaches that smelled like sunshine and a jar of local honey. "This place could ruin supermarkets for me,” I thought, sticky-fingered and smiling. Outside, I sat on a wooden bench, the wind full of grass and the occasional distant moo from the nearby cows.
Lunch at James on Main
When it was time for lunch, I grabbed a table at James on Main, a cozy, modern American spot with an open kitchen and a wood-fired oven. I ordered the duck confit sandwich, and it was pure magic—tender, rich meat layered with pickled onions and arugula, all on fresh, crusty bread. I paired it with a seasonal salad: crisp greens, candied pecans, and tangy goat cheese. "This is destination dining disguised as a neighborhood joint,” I thought, sipping a ginger iced tea that had just the right bite.
Hackettstown Center for the Arts
After lunch, I walked over to the Hackettstown Center for the Arts. Posters lined the windows—musicals, chamber concerts, and community events. A local pianist was rehearsing inside, and I was lucky enough to sit quietly for a few minutes. It wasn’t a polished performance, just someone practicing scales and soft melodies, but it was enough to anchor me for the afternoon. "Art doesn't always need a ticketed audience,” I thought, lingering by the door as the notes faded.
Rutherfurd Hall
I made a short drive to Rutherfurd Hall, a historic mansion overlooking Allamuchy Pond. The house itself was stately without being cold—columns, stone walls, wide porches. Inside, antique furniture and historic exhibits gave the rooms a lived-in elegance. I took a guided tour and was particularly struck by the stories of women who had lived here—hosts, artists, stewards of the home. The lake view from the back lawn was something else: water shimmering in that late-afternoon way. "I could sit here with a book for hours,” I thought.
Stephens State Park
Later, I headed into the trees at Stephens State Park. I followed a trail along the Musconetcong River, the path soft underfoot, the water whispering alongside me. A couple of anglers stood waist-deep in a quiet bend, casting with methodical grace. I sat on a flat rock near the bank, pulled out a peach from earlier, and watched as the breeze combed through the leaves. "This feels earned,” I thought, finishing the fruit and tossing the pit into the brush.
Hackettstown Brewing Co. & Czig Meister Brewing Company
As golden hour approached, I started a casual brewery hop. First stop: Hackettstown Brewing Co., where I tried a flight of IPAs and one honey-lavender pale ale that surprised me in the best way—floral, citrusy, and clean. The space was relaxed: picnic tables, laughter, and board games in progress.
From there, I walked to Czig Meister Brewing Company. The tasting room was buzzing, and the staff was excited to talk hops and seasonal stouts. I tried their Blacksmith Porter—dark, roasty, and just a little smoky. “This is a beer you drink slow on purpose,” I thought, leaning back into the couch by the front window.
Dinner at Sizzle BBQ
I ended the day with dinner at Sizzle BBQ, a laid-back spot with bold flavor and zero pretense. I went for the brisket platter—smoky, juicy slices with a side of mac and cheese and collard greens that still had a little bite. The sauce was tangy and just spicy enough to wake you up. I ate slowly, happily, my day of walking and sipping catching up with me. "I’m full in every way,” I thought, not even trying to finish my cornbread. (I took it to go. You would’ve too.)
Jersey Girl Brewing Company
On my way out of town, I made one final stop at Jersey Girl Brewing Company. Their motto is “Work Hard, Drink Right,” and honestly, it fits. I took a short tour, tried a hazy IPA with grapefruit notes, and chatted with a couple who said they come every week. It felt like the kind of place where people don’t need an excuse to show up—just a good pour and a good mood. I left with a four-pack and the sense that Hackettstown had given me exactly the day I didn’t know I needed.
Hackettstown At a Glance
- Drive Time from NYC: ~1.5 hours west
- Vibe: College town ease with countryside edge
- Highlights: Brewery trifecta, hiking, historic homes, small-town arts
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for foliage and harvest season; spring for trails and festivals
- Cost: Affordable to moderate; food and drinks are well-priced for the quality
- Hours: Most breweries open afternoon–evening; state park open daily from dawn to dusk
- Address Base: Start near Main Street or Centenary University and branch out by car or bike
Travel Tips: Best Time to Visit
I usually head to Hackettstown in the spring or fall—you’ll get mild temps, blooming trees or vibrant foliage, and ideal weather for hiking or patio dining. I’ve also visited in summer for brewery events and food truck nights, and you’ll find the energy lively without being overwhelming.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: I drive in via Route 46 or Route 57—Hackettstown’s just about 1.5 hours from NYC and only 45 minutes from the Delaware Water Gap. You’ll enjoy the scenic drive, especially in fall.
- By Train: I’ve taken NJ Transit’s Morris & Essex Line to Hackettstown Station before. It’s limited during the week, but a nice, relaxed way to get into town if you time it right—you’ll transfer at Dover or Summit for NYC connections.
- By Air: I usually fly into Newark Liberty (EWR) if I’m flying—it’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes away. Lehigh Valley (ABE) is another great option, just 45 minutes west. Either way, you’ll be in town before you know it.
Where to Stay
- Comfort Inn Hackettstown – I’ve stayed here when I needed something simple and convenient. You’ll find it comfortable, clean, and close to shops and restaurants right off Route 46.
- Everitt House Bed & Breakfast – This is my favorite if I want something with character. You’ll love the Victorian charm, cozy rooms, and personal touches—it’s right downtown, so you can walk to just about everything.
- Hotels in Mt. Olive or Budd Lake – When I needed more national hotel options, I looked to Mt. Olive or Budd Lake. You’ll be just 10–15 minutes away, with more choices and easy highway access.
Final Thoughts
Hackettstown surprised me. It offered just the right balance of thoughtful history, down-to-earth charm, and hops-fueled creativity. From peach juice on my fingers to music echoing in a quiet theater, every part of the day felt unforced. This isn’t a place that performs for visitors—it just is. And that’s exactly why it works.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Donaldson Farms
- • Take a self-guided tour of the Czig Meister Brewing Company
- • Rutherfurd Hall
- • See a performance at the Hackettstown Center for the Arts
- • James on Main - Have dinner at James on Main
- • Dinner at Sizzle BBQ
- • Get some fresh air in Stephens State Park
- • Jersey Girl Brewing Company