New Jersey’s biggest cities have some pretty big attractions. In Jersey City, you’ll find Liberty State Park and Liberty Science Center. In Newark, you’ll find the beautiful Branch Brook Park and the Prudential Center. However, our small towns also have plenty to enjoy. One tiny town with a ton to do is Clinton, New Jersey.
Clinton captured from above.
Clinton is a picturesque small town located along the Raritan River in Hunterdon County. The town is just 1.4 square miles and is home to about 2,700 residents. It may not sound big enough to be a day trip destination but it most certainly is. The town boasts several cultural attractions, natural beauty and New Jersey's most compact (and easily walkable) Main Street.
An amazing art scene...
The creative hub of this artsy little town is the Hunterdon Art Museum. Housed in a 19th century stone mill, the museum showcases the work of talented contemporary artists. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., suggested admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors/veterans and free for children 12 and under. Your admission includes access to the ArtZone, a family friendly space where children and adults can make art. Free guided tours of the museum are often offered on Sundays, whenever a volunteer is available. The museum also offers a wide range of art classes for children and adults along with a popular summer camp. The town of Clinton is also dotted with modern art galleries including Clinton Falls Frame & Art Gallery.
History abounds!
One of the town's most popular attractions is the Red Mill Museum Village. The mill operated from 1810-1928 and served several functions throughout its history including wool production and grist milling. Today, the mill and its outbuildings (including a schoolhouse and log cabin) are home to over 40,000 agricultural, industrial and domestic artifacts. Many of these help to paint a picture of life in the area while the mill was in operation. Working at the mill wasn't easy and few safety measures were in place. Employees were maimed and occasionally killed, with several verifiable deaths occurring on the property. The grounds are believed to be haunted and the mill is a frequent destination for those fascinated by paranormal activity. On June 16th, the museum will be hosting one if its ghost and folklore tours, telling the stories of spirits said to reside on the premises. Tours will be held at 8:00 and 9:30 p.m.. Other upcoming events include free outdoor yoga on June 22nd and an Agro-Industry day on June 24th.
Delicious dining options...
There are several fantastic restaurants in this little town including The Clean Plate Kitchen. A popular waterfront eatery, patrons can enjoy outdoor dining on the river in warmer months. Open for lunch and dinner 6 days a week (closed Tuesdays), the restaurant offers seasonal, locally sourced menu items. There are dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options available. From wraps to burgers, the food is fresh and delicious. Other wonderful options including Dora's Restaurant, serving up Italian cuisine and Towne Restaurant, offering American and Greek favorites for breakfast and lunch.
Shop for unique goods and gifts.
There may not be dozens and dozens of shops in this small New Jersey town, but there are some good ones - quality over quantity! Local businesses include Fourchette (gourmet cheese), Clinton Book Shop, Greens & Beans (floral arrangements), Balic of Clinton (wine & gifts) and Made To Order Jewelers (jewelry and pottery).
Natural and man-made beauty...
In addition to the 200-foot-long waterfall in the heart of downtown Clinton, you'll find smaller parks like Hunts Mills Park and portions of larger parks like the Spruce Run Recreation Area (pictured). Right on the Spruce Run Reservoir, popular activities here include hiking, camping, fishing, swimming and boating. Tent and trail sites start at $20 per night and you'll also find fantastic, family-friendly programs.
Have you ever visited Clinton? What was your favorite thing to do? For more of the Red Mill’s haunted history, check out this article .
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