Craving riverside charm, fine dining, and artistic flair? Head to Lambertville, New Jersey! Nestled along the Delaware River, this walkable town blends 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, award-winning restaurants, and scenic trails. Whether you’re antique hunting or enjoying sunset views with a glass of wine, Lambertville is a perfect weekend escape.
Lambertville, NJ Highlights:
- For Art Lovers: Browse galleries along Bridge Street – Discover local artists, handcrafted pieces, and rotating exhibitions.
- For History Buffs: Explore the James Wilson Marshall House – Visit the preserved home of the man who sparked the California Gold Rush.
- For Cyclists & Walkers: Enjoy the Delaware & Raritan Canal Towpath – Scenic path for biking, hiking, and spotting river wildlife.
- For Antique Shoppers: Hunt treasures at The People’s Store – A multi-level antique emporium with vintage finds and rare gems.
- For Romantic Strolls: Walk the bridge to New Hope, PA – Enjoy river views and easy access to another charming artsy town just across the water.
Best Time to Visit Lambertville, NJ
The best time to visit Lambertville is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October). You'll enjoy pleasant weather, seasonal festivals, and stunning views along the Delaware River. Fall foliage and spring blooms add to the town’s visual charm. Winters are quiet and cozy, while summer is lively and warm.
How to Get to Lambertville, NJ
- By Car: Located along Route 29, Lambertville is about 1 hour from Philadelphia and 1.5 hours from New York City.
- By Train: No direct train to Lambertville; nearest NJ Transit stop is in Trenton. From there, drive or take a cab/rideshare (30 min).
- By Bus: Trans-Bridge Lines runs limited service from NYC to nearby New Hope; walk across the bridge to Lambertville.
Where to Stay in Lambertville, NJ
- Recommended for Couples: Lambertville House – Elegant historic inn with fireplaces, balconies, and a central location downtown.
- For a Boutique Stay: The Chimney Hill Estate Inn – Romantic B&B in a restored farmhouse with cozy suites and rustic charm.
- For River Views: Lambertville Station Inn – Upscale hotel perched along the river with waterfront dining and scenic suites.
Best Things to Do in Lambertville, NJ
1. Howell Living History Farm
I like:
"Explore historic farm life and enjoy an affordable, hands-on trip with the family."
The Howell Living History Farm, also known as the Joseph Phillips Farm, is an open-air museum and living history farm in Hopewell Township. Set on 130 acres of beautiful landscapes near Titusville in Mercer County, New Jersey, the Howell Farm stands as a museum in its rural setting that showcases farm life and how farming was practiced in New Jersey from 1890 to 1910. The Howell Farm features the remnants of over 250 years of agricultural practice and life in the region and offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-737-3299
2. Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market
I recommend:
"Hunt for vintage treasures and enjoy an unusual, cheap weekend browsing adventure."
Established in 1967, the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market is an indoor/outdoor market specializing in art, antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. Considered as the premier market on the East Coast for one-of-a-kind vintage and hip retro items, New Jersey’s top flea market sells a wide range of goods ranging from ceramics, art deco, Victorian collectibles, and paintings to furniture and home décor, vinyl albums, garden items, and pottery. In addition to the market’s permanent dealers, friendly sellers visit each week to sell a variety of their wares, creating vibrant and welcoming energy.
1850 State highway 29, Lambertville, NJ, Phone: 609-397-0811
3. Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum
I love:
"Discover old-time tools and explore fascinating agricultural sights from early American history."
The Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead Museum is dedicated to the rich agricultural heritage of Hunterdon County between the 18th and 20th centuries. Housed in a beautifully restored three-story bank barn, the museum documents the history of the agriculture industry in the county dating back to 1711 with exhibits and displays of farming equipment, tools, farm clothing, and the process of preparing and preserving food. The museum is set on a property that features other buildings such as a blacksmith shop, a post office, a general store, a carriage shed, and a printing shop. The museum offers docent-led tours of the property.
1605 Daniel Bray Hwy, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-397-2752
Attractions for Couples
4. Jim's of Lambertville
I enjoy:
"Admire fine American art and explore an exciting collection of regional masterpieces."
Jim's of Lambertville is a locally owned art gallery in the heart of Lambertville that showcases a variety of artworks from different genres, including American and European art from the 18th to 20th centuries, Pennsylvania Impressionist and Modernist works, and period antiques. The 7,000 square-foot gallery has a wide variety of works in different materials from etchings and engravings to oil and watercolor paintings, wood carvings, and lithographs. The gallery has a dedicated section for custom framing and showcases fine period frames and tailor-made made frames for the galleries New Hope School paintings.
6 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-397-7700
5. James Marshall House Museum
I like:
"Visit a preserved home and learn about early history in a quick, easy stop."
The James Marshall House Museum is a house museum dedicated to the life of James Wilson Marshall, the man who discovered gold in California in 1848. Built in 1816, the Federal brick building features a brick kitchen, wide porches, period furniture, and several interesting architectural elements such as decorative Adams-style friezes, chimney cupboards, and a pegged front door. The museum also houses exhibits and photographs on Lambertville's history and is open to the public for free. The James Marshall House Museum is the headquarters of the Lambertville Historical Society and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
60 Bridge Street, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-397-0770
Date Ideas
6. The Michael Fratrich Fine Art Gallery
I Recommend:
"Look at vivid folk art and admire colorful works in a romantic setting."
The Michael Fratrich Fine Art Gallery is an upscale gallery that houses a collection of large-scale oil paintings and offers expert advice and services on building private and corporate collections. Located on Bridge Street in the heart of Lambertville, the gallery hosts permanent and rotating collections, as well as special exhibitions and art-related events and functions.
22 Bridge St, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 802-558-2608
7. Gallery Piquel Lambertville
I like:
"Explore contemporary art and savor striking, curated sights on an inspiring weekend trip."
Established in 2007, Gallery Piquel Lambertville is one of the longest-running fine art galleries in Lambertville and showcases an eclectic mix of artworks in a variety of mediums from acrylics and oils to bronzes, ceramics, and encaustics. Locally owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Jim and Tamara Cannon, the gallery exhibits original works from over 50 artists through permanent and rotating exhibitions.
24 Bridge St, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-483-2156
Where to Eat in Lambertville, NJ
8. Bell's Tavern
I enjoy:
"Enjoy classic Italian fare and savor a cozy, romantic evening with a loved one."
Bell's Tavern is a friendly, neighborhood eatery and bar that has been a long-standing favorite with the Lambertville community for over 80 years. Established by Jack Bell as an all-you-can-eat tavern for local factory workers, the restaurant has grown into a full-service restaurant serving handcrafted, traditional Italian and New American fare. A 30-seat oval bar takes center stage in the restaurant, and the menu features a variety of pasta, pizzas, fresh seafood, and meat dishes, along with a beverage selection of quality draft and bottled beers, casual wines by the bottle and glass, and classic cocktails. Bell's Tavern is open for dinner only, seven nights a week.
183 N Union St, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-397-2226
More Places to Eat in Lambertville, NJ
- Recommended for Upscale Dining: Hamilton’s Grill Room – Mediterranean-inspired fare and grilled specialties in a romantic riverside setting.
- For Creative Cuisine: Anton’s at the Swan – Charming historic tavern offering inventive American dishes with local flair.
- For Casual Eats: Lambertville Station Restaurant – Classic American fare in a converted train station overlooking the river.
If you are interested in local events:
- For Spring Lovers: Shad Festival (April) – Celebrate art, music, and the local shad run with food vendors and live entertainment.
- For Fall Fun: Art & Antiques Weekend (October) – Discover special exhibits, antique sales, and artist showcases throughout town.
- For Holiday Cheer: Winter Festival (January, shared with New Hope) – Parades, ice sculptures, tastings, and cozy events across the river towns.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Lambertville, NJ:
- For Hikers: Bull’s Island Recreation Area (10–15 min) – Enjoy scenic river trails and pedestrian bridge access to Pennsylvania.
- For Wine Lovers: Old York Cellars (25 min) – Sample wines with vineyard views and outdoor tastings in Ringoes.
- For Nature Lovers: Goat Hill Overlook (10 min) – Short hike to panoramic views of Lambertville and the Delaware River.
- For History Fans: Washington Crossing State Park (20 min) – Learn about George Washington’s famous river crossing during the Revolution.
- For Farm-to-Table Fans: Stockton Market (10 min) – Grab local produce, coffee, pastries, and artisanal goods in this vibrant indoor market.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What makes Lambertville, NJ, a unique destination?
- Nestled on the banks of the scenic Delaware River, Lambertville is a picturesque riverside town known for its artistic charm and vibrant community.
- It is a haven for artisans and craftsmen, featuring numerous quirky shops, art galleries, artisan stores, and artsy boutiques.
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What kind of architecture and dining experiences does Lambertville offer?
- The town is renowned for its beautiful architecture that reflects its rich history.
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Visitors can explore a wide range of interesting dining options, including:
- Laid-back cafés and bars where artists gather.
- Eclectic restaurants with diverse cuisines.
- Buzzing nightlife for evening entertainment.
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What are the top things to see and do in Lambertville?
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The town offers a variety of activities, such as:
- Exploring local art galleries and artisan boutiques.
- Strolling along the scenic Delaware River.
- Visiting historical sites and architectural landmarks.
- Enjoying unique shopping experiences in quirky stores.
- Indulging in local cuisine and craft beverages.
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The town offers a variety of activities, such as:
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for strolling the scenic town.
Lambertville Station Inn – A charming riverside hotel with elegant accommodations.
Explore the Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park – Enjoy biking, walking, and beautiful river views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, great for outdoor dining and river activities.
The Inn at Lambertville – A boutique stay with historic charm and modern comforts.
Visit the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market – Browse unique antiques and collectibles.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage, ideal for scenic drives.
Chimney Hill Estate Inn – A cozy bed & breakfast perfect for a romantic getaway.
Stroll across the Lambertville-New Hope Bridge – Enjoy picturesque views and visit neighboring New Hope, PA.
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