There are many things I love about living in New Jersey, but one of them is that it may just be the country's best melting pot of immigrant cultures. Every group who calls New Jersey their home leaves their mark, and it's impossible to miss - in food, in culture, and in architecture. That's why one of the most interesting spots in the entire Garden State may be Long Valley. This small community in Washington Township, with a population of under 2,000, is home to the remnants of one of the first immigrant groups to come to the area - a unique German village in New Jersey, full of buildings built in the 18th and 19th centuries. But touring these historic buildings isn't all you can experience in Long Valley's German Valley Historic District - you can enjoy some delicious tastes of German culture today!
As you explore Long Valley, you might notice a distinct German character to the architecture. That's because the town used to be called German Valley, and was a hub of German immigration in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The name was changed during World War I due to anti-German sentiment, but many of the historic buildings remained and the town's German character remains strong.
You can explore the German Valley Historic District and see sites like the ruins of the Old Stone Union Church, built before the American Revolution.
This old schoolhouse, built in 1830, now serves a key role as the town's historical society headquarters and museum.
You can see the German character of the town in many of the modern buildings, like this popular restaurant.
However, for the ultimate German experience in Long Valley, head to the Long Valley Pub & Brewery in Restaurant Village!
This popular brewpub feels like an old alpine beer hall, and it serves great food and drink alike!
Sure enough, the schnitzel here is delicious. You'll also want to try the ribs and the soft pretzel sticks.
And of course, a beer flight is the perfect way to finish this meal!
Have you visited the German Valley Historic District in Long Valley? Tell us about your visit to this unique German village in New Jersey in the comments section! You can find out more on the Washington Township Land Trust website, and check out the Long Valley Pub website for the full German-accented menu. While you're in the area, you're close to the oldest General Store in New Jersey. You can also stay at one of New Jersey's best Bed and Breakfasts.
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