These 12 Towns In New Jersey Have The Best Main Streets You Gotta Visit

Main streets are the heart and soul of American cities and towns, serving as community hubs that offer shopping, dining, and entertainment, all in one convenient location. Though some of these streets are not called "Main Street" by name, they are Main Streets in spirit. Here are some of the best main streets in New Jersey.

1. Lambertville - Union Street

The entire town is charming, but Union Street is packed to the brim with quaint shops and restaurants. Manon, Bell's Tavern, and Thai Tida are great dining options. The People's Store Antiques Center, Panoply Books, La Chocolate Box, and A Touch of the Past Antiques are great for gifts. There are also many other antique shops as well as numerous galleries, ACME Screening Room (an indie movie theater) and Lambertville House hotel.

2. Montclair - Bloomfield Avenue

The dining options on Bloomfield Avenue are endless, offering cuisine from around the world. Consider Cuban Pete's, Chatni Indian, Mesob Ethiopian Restaurant, Dan Thai Cuisine, or Fascino. Choose from chain stores like Anthropologie or shop small at Inner Eye Boutique. The options are endless in Montclair, which is easily one of the most charming towns in New Jersey!

3. Haddonfield - Kings Highway

This street has it all! You'll find galleries, flower shops, yoga studios, boutiques, diverse dining options, and more. Visit The Candy Buffet, Maraki Market, Caroline's Luxuries, Amixx Boutique, Gorshin Trading Post & Supplies, The Little Tuna, or Oriental Pearl if you're in the area.

4. Newton - Spring Street

Entertainment options abound on Spring Street with Newton Fire Museum and Skylands Performing Arts Center. Dine at The Table, Spring Street Pub & Grill, or Mi Rancho Mexican Grill. Shop at The Beehive Thrift Shop, Feels Like Home, or Maxwell & Molly's Closet.

5. Hoboken - Washington Street

This may the busiest "Main Street" on the list. You'll almost always find crowds on the street and you'll never have trouble finding something to do. There are plenty of bars and lounges for the younger crowd, along with dining options everyone can enjoy. Eat at Vito's Italian Deli, The Cuban Restaurant and Bar, Mamoun's Falafel Restaurant, La Isla, or Crepe Guru. Shop at Cheap Maggies, Washington General Store, Luna Rosa Home, or Noellery. There are also salons, spas, fitness centers and much more!

6. Princeton - Nassau Street

Princeton is one of the most historic towns in New Jersey and, directly across from Princeton University, is Nassau Street, known for its historic buildings and high-end shops. Dine at Chez Alice, PJ's Pancake House, Blue Point Grill, or Nassau Sushi. You'll also find a Ralph Lauren and Lululemon.

7. Cape May - Washington Street

Washington Street Mall isn't your typical New Jersey mall - it is an open air strip of shops, and it is fantastic. You can find almost everything here, from books, to gifts, to clothing, to galleries and jewelry. Shop at Cape May Boutique, Casale's Shoes, or Across the Way. Dine at the seasonal Ristorante A Ca Mia or at Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant. Bath Time, Good Scents, Just For Laughs, Love The Cook, and A Place on Earth are great for gifts.

8. Chester - Main Street

Main Street in Chester is a bit smaller than others on the list, but still offers plenty to do. Dine at Lamplighter, Maria's, or Sweet Spot Bake Shop. Shop at Well Bred, Midnight Owl, or Objects of Desire.

9. Englewood - Palisade Avenue

This fairly long strip of road is packed with things to do. Dine at Noches De Columbia, Chatkaew Thai Cuisine, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, It's Greek To Me, Bennie's, or Baumgart's Cafe. Shop at a selection of chain stores or boutiques including Christina's Collections or Closet For Her.

10. Millville - High Street

At the corner of High Street and Oak Street, you'll find the quaint cottages of Village on High. These shops and galleries are truly unique! You won't want to miss Xanderlily Gifts. Along the road, you'll find Bogarts Bookstore and Cafe, Levoy Theater, Old Oar House Irish Pub, Glasstown Arts District, and more.

11. Rutherford - Park Avenue

The dining here is delightful! Eat at Cafe Matisse, Sweet Avenue Bake Shop, Paisanos Ristorante, or Greek Town Gyros. You'll also find small shops, markets and salons.

12. Collingswood - Haddon Avenue

This trendy town has so much to offer. Dine at Grooveground Coffeebar, Thai Basil, The Tortilla Press, or The Pop Shop. Visit Arts Plus Gallery for gifts, indulge at The Candy Jar by 1892, and get crafty at All Fired Up! pottery studio.

Two things to note: Other cities had charming downtown areas (Red Bank and  Westfield, for example) but the shops were not concentrated on a single street. Also, the photos reflect the towns mentioned, but not necessarily the streets. What are some of the other best main streets in New Jersey that we should all visit? Be sure to share the streets, and your favorite small shops, in the comments!

If you love antiquing, head to Main Street in Mullica Hill located in Gloucester County for some of the best antique shops in both the Garden State and the country.