Hopewell Township Is A Charming Small Town In New Jersey Where Life Runs At Its Own Pace

Several years back, Cumberland County was ranked as the sleepiest county in New Jersey. How did it receive this designation? Lots of open spaces, outdoor activities, and a modest population per square mile (compared to more dense counties) were a few factors. It's less industry and business-oriented and much more laid back. You won't find mega malls everywhere (there's just one, Cumberland Mall) and there isn't a fast-food restaurant on every corner. While you will find a few bustling cities (Vineland, for example), you're more likely to find charming small towns like Hopewell Township.

Hopewell Township spans over 30 square miles but is home to just about 4,500 residents.

Much of its land is farmland...

But you'll also find over 100 acres of parks to explore including the beautiful Cohansey River Wildlife Management Area.

They're great for wildlife watching!

You'll also find the peaceful Piney Point Picnic Area on Sunset Lake.

There are benches, several tables, and a covered picnic area.

There may not be a massive mall, but you'll find a fantastic Amish market!

The Greater Bridgeton Amish Market is home to a variety of vendors including Balic Winery, Country Home Baking, Dienner's Bulk Candy & Food, D-Lee's Deli & Cheese, Dutch Country Meats, Dutch Family Furniture, Dutch Family Restaurant, Dutchway Structures, Everfresh Salads, Fern's Homemade Soft Pretzels, Kat's Kreations, Kingsway BBQ, and Sunny Ridge Farm. It's a great place for groceries and other goodies.

No McDonald's? No problem! You'll find local gems like The Green Olive Restaurant + Lounge.

Green Olive offers a fantastic bar and beautiful patio. Other favorites in town include Lucy's Mexican, Main Line Deli, Hopewell Custard, and Hopewell Sub & Pizzas.

So, what else is there to do in town?

All That Dance Studio offers classes for kids and adults! Learn jazz, tap, ballet, modern, musical theatre, pilates, aerial yoga, and more. And you don't want to miss local events like Hopewell Day or the Peach Festival.

Life moves at its own pace and community is important here, but it's far from boring. Residents are just minutes from the Cohanzick Zoo and Downtown Bridgeton. To discover more charming small towns in New Jersey, check out this list.