Top 8 Thing to Do in Hackettstown, NJ
July 14, 2023
Summer is officially in, bringing with it a myriad of opportunities to break from your daily routines and enjoy some fun in the sun. From hiking and kayaking to wineries and historical sites, here’s a roundup of our favorite summer activities for older adults near Hackettstown, NJ.
- 1. Explore Stephens State Park
Hugging the bank of the Musconetcong River, this leafy park provides plenty of welcome shade on warm summer days. You can meander around its trails on foot, mountain bike and horseback or enjoy a peaceful paddle on the water. Alternatively, try hooking a few fish — the river is well stocked with brown, rainbow and brook trout. The bonus for residents of Riverwalk Village at The House of the Good Shepherd? This park is right on your doorstep!
- 2. Take the Grandkids to Donaldson Farms
Hosting pint-sized relatives over the summer? If you’re searching for kid-friendly things to do in Hackettstown, NJ, look no further than Donaldson Farms. Youngsters will love picking (and munching) berries or racing rubber ducks using old-fashioned pumps. From late June through early September, “Friday Nights on the Farm” features outdoor dining, live music and fun activities like pony rides and balloon sculpting.
- 3. Wander Willowwood Arboretum
Created in the early 20th century by brothers Bob and Hal Tubbs, this tranquil green space sprawls across 130 acres of farmland. Stroll beneath mature oaks and willows in Hacklebarney Field and weave among shrubs and colorful blooms in the Cottage Garden. Native grasses and wildflowers fill bucolic meadows, while the Conservatory houses fragrant subtropical plants. On a cell phone tour, you can discover the gardens at your own pace.
- 4. Enjoy Tastings and Bites at Four Sisters Winery
Located 20 minutes from Hackettstown, this winery is a relaxing spot to while away several hours. Grab a table on the deck overlooking the vineyard and sip a selection of red, rosé and white wines with delicious meat and cheese nibbles. On weekends, you can order from a full bistro menu and listen to live music.
- 5. Hike the Morris Canal Greenway
The Morris Canal Greenway, open to pedestrians and cyclists, will eventually run 111 miles from the Delaware River to the Hudson River. The project is still in progress, but many sections are open, including the Waterloo Valley Trail, a five-mile route from Hackettstown to Waterloo Village that follows much of the original canal towpath. Look out for the old canal store along the way.
- 6. Tour Waterloo Village Historic Site
Combine your hike with a trip to one of the most fascinating things to do near Hackettstown, NJ. Set on the bank of the canal, Waterloo Village is a preserved 19th-century settlement in the native Winakung forest. Interpretive programs and walking tours take place every weekend in summer, giving you an insight into the historic farm buildings and surrounding plants and wildflowers.
- 7. Hit the Great Outdoors at Delaware Water Gap
The scenery at this national recreation area is extraordinary, with steep, forested slopes on either side of the winding Delaware River. Over 150 miles of hiking paths include the accessible Dingmans Creek Trail and the challenging Mt. Tammany Trail, which offers unforgettable views of the Gap. You could also bike the gravel McDade Recreational Trail or book a one-day kayaking tour.
- 8. Visit Hackettstown Historical Society
Need an escape from the summer heat? Pop into this local history museum, which chronicles Hackettstown’s story through various artifacts. In addition to memorabilia and books, you can browse vintage clothing and photos of Hackettstown’s earliest buildings and residents. The site also contains a wealth of genealogical records.
In the Hackettstown area, there’s no shortage of wonderful summer activities for older adults. While you’re out and about exploring this beautiful region, we also invite you to tour Riverwalk Village at The House of the Good Shepherd. Our well-appointed, maintenance-free homes give you the freedom to enjoy the vibrant lifestyle you deserve.
