Looking for a peaceful retreat with lakes, woods, and charming streets? Head to Medford! Nestled in the New Jersey Pinelands, Medford offers small-town warmth, scenic trails, and local flavor just 30 minutes from Philadelphia. Whether you’re hiking, shopping downtown, or sipping wine at a local vineyard, Medford blends natural beauty with community spirit.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Medford is from late spring through fall (May–October). Enjoy festivals, warm-weather hiking, lakeside fun, and stunning fall foliage. Winter brings quiet charm and cozy small-town vibes.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Medford is easily accessed via Route 70 and Route 541, about 30 minutes east of Philadelphia and 1.5 hours south of New York City.
- By Train: The nearest NJ Transit station is in Cherry Hill or Atco, with access to Philadelphia.
- By Air: Fly into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), about 45 minutes away by car.
Where to Stay
- Braddock’s Inn – Historic inn with rustic charm and a cozy on-site tavern.
- Hilton Garden Inn Mount Holly/Westampton – A modern and comfortable option about 20 minutes from Medford.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Mount Laurel – Convenient location near shopping and highways, just a short drive from downtown Medford.
Top Attractions
⮕ Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge
Explore Cedar Run and discover rescued wildlife in a peaceful setting.
The Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge offers an opportunity for guests to learn at the Woodford Nature Center, view resident wildlife, hiking nature trails, and more. The Nature Center features a variety of hands-on exhibits, as well as a Reptile Room with live turtles and snakes. Guests can also take a half-mile hike around Cedar Run Lake to the refuge’s Wildlife Housing Area, which is home to many animal residents that aren’t able to be released back into the wild due to injuries. The Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge also contains approximately three miles of nature trails that include interpretive signs.
4 Sawmill Rd, Medford, NJ 08055, Phone: 856-983-3329
Driving Times:
| City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 8-9 hours |
| Boston, MA | 4-5 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 2-3 hours |
| New York, NY | 1-2 hours |
| Albany, NY | 3-4 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 1-2 hours |
| Portland, ME | 7-8 hours |
Map:
⮕ Kirby’s Mill
Step back in time and admire this historic 18th-century gristmill.
Kirby’s Mill in the nature appreciating town of Medford, New Jersey is a historic grist mill, known originally as Haines Mill. Built by Isaac Haines and partners in 1778 along the Rancocas Creek’s Southwest Branch, the mill was the state’s last commercial operating mill. Kirby’s Mill is now owned and operated by the Medford Historical Society, who has carefully restored the historic mill to make it open to visitors. Today, the mill is part of a larger museum complex consisting of a sawmill, a working blacksmith shop, a carpenter shop, a print shop, a millner’s shop, and a country store.
279 Church Rd, Medford, NJ 08055
Driving Times:
| City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 8-9 hours |
| Boston, MA | 4-5 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 2-3 hours |
| New York, NY | 1-2 hours |
| Albany, NY | 3-4 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 1-2 hours |
| Portland, ME | 7-8 hours |
Map:
Where to Eat
⮕ ITA101
Savor authentic Italian dishes and enjoy a romantic dining experience.
ITA101 is a locally owned and operated authentic Italian restaurant serving a rotating, limited menu of dishes made with local and fresh ingredients, providing a real farm-to-table dining experience and a taste of Italy. Guests are invited to bring their own bottle of wine as well as they dine on the gourmet Italian fare. The menu at ITA101 is also changing due to only the best quality of in-season, farm fresh, locally sourced ingredients being used to prepare the cuisine. Along with offering high quality dishes, the restaurant has a mission to help support local small businesses and farms.
20 S Main St, Medford, NJ 08055, Phone: 609-654-0101
Driving Times:
| City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 8-9 hours |
| Boston, MA | 4-5 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 2-3 hours |
| New York, NY | 1-2 hours |
| Albany, NY | 3-4 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 1-2 hours |
| Portland, ME | 7-8 hours |
Map:
⮕ Whole Hog Cafe
Indulge in mouthwatering barbecue and savor award-winning smoked meats.
What started as a “hobby that got out of hand,” the Whole Hog Cafe. The founders of the cafe entered the Memphis-in-May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest in 2000, entering as “The Southern Gentlemen’s Culinary Society,” and came out with second place trophy. Two years later, the team came in second place again for their ribs, as well as first place in the competition’s “Whole Hog” category. After seeing success in the barbecue competition circuit, these “Southern Gentlemen” wanted to see if people would buy their delicious barbecue, and after almost instant success the Whole Hog Cafe was born.
192 NJ-70, Medford, NJ 08055, Phone: 609-678-1808
Driving Times:
| City | Driving Time |
|---|---|
| Rochester, NY | 6-7 hours |
| Cleveland, OH | 8-9 hours |
| Boston, MA | 4-5 hours |
| Washington, D.C. | 2-3 hours |
| New York, NY | 1-2 hours |
| Albany, NY | 3-4 hours |
| Philadelphia, PA | 1-2 hours |
| Portland, ME | 7-8 hours |
Map:
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Medford Village – Stroll this quaint downtown area filled with boutiques, cafés, and colonial architecture.
- Freedom Park – A popular community space with trails, playgrounds, sports fields, and dog-friendly areas.
- Medford Canoe Trail – Paddle along the South Branch of the Rancocas Creek for a peaceful nature experience.
If you are interested in local events:
- Medford Art, Wine & Music Festival (June) – A lively Main Street celebration with food, vendors, wine tasting, and local musicians.
- Apple Festival at Kirby's Mill (October) – Family fun, crafts, and seasonal treats at this popular fall tradition.
- Dickens Festival (December) – A magical downtown holiday event with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and Victorian costumes.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Medford, New Jersey:
- Smithville Park (Eastampton) (20 min) – Explore trails, gardens, and historic buildings at this scenic county park.
- Batsto Village (30 min) – Discover this preserved 18th-century ironworks village deep in the Pinelands.
- Collingswood (25–30 min) – Visit for farmers markets, a buzzing restaurant scene, and vintage shops.
- Mount Laurel's Laurel Acres Park (15–20 min) – Great for family picnics, fishing, and walking trails.
- Philadelphia (30 min) – Head west for museums, historic sites, and world-class dining in the City of Brotherly Love.
FAQ:
-
Where is Medford, New Jersey located?
- The town of Medford, New Jersey is situated between the Federal Pinelands Natural Reserve and the fertile farms in Burlington County.
-
What role does Medford play in the region?
- It acts as a hub for culture and business in the region between the Jersey Shore and Philadelphia.
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What can visitors find in Medford's Village area?
- With a bustling “Village” area, the town is home to several unique restaurants and shops along the historic original Main Street, such as the ITA101 Italian restaurant.
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Where can nature lovers explore in Medford?
- Medford is a great place to appreciate nature, particularly at the Cedar Run Wildlife Refuge.
-
Are there any events in Medford?
- Visitors and locals alike can enjoy numerous town events throughout the year.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming scenery.
Medford Inn – A cozy and convenient stay in the heart of Medford.
Explore Kirby's Mill – Visit this historic grist mill and learn about local history.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor recreation.
Hampton Inn Philadelphia/Mt. Laurel – A comfortable stay near Medford.
Visit Atsion Lake – Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and hiking in the Pine Barrens.
Fall (September-November) – Beautiful autumn colors and crisp air.
Flying W Airport & Resort – A unique stay with aviation-themed activities.
Attend the Medford Apple Festival – Experience local crafts, food, and entertainment.
Map:
Plan Your Trip
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