Only 30 miles from Manhattan, Morristown is a New Jersey suburb steeped in history that offers a multitude of modern amenities and activities to enjoy. Known as the "Capital of the American Revolution," the city is a paradise for history buffs wishing to visit historic landmarks and themed museums. Walkable downtown streets are lined with shops and restaurants presenting unique finds and a variety of tempting meal choices. Nature attractions and public parks offer plenty to do outdoors. Cultural attractions range from museums and galleries to theaters and live music venues. With so many entertainment options within the town's borders, you may wonder where to begin your explorations. This list of activities highlights the most popular attractions and lesser-known venues in Morristown.
1. Morristown Green
Referred to by locals as "the Green," this two-and-a-half-acre park is located at the heart of downtown and is the home base for many local events. The Morristown Green has a rich history as the site of the county's first courthouse and a vital meeting place for citizens during the Revolutionary War. Today, it is an energetic hub where locals and visitors gather for outdoor fun.
The well-maintained park features multiple statues and monuments depicting the town's history. It's an excellent spot to picnic, explore nearby historic sights, or enjoy the scenery. The Green is the venue for multiple events and festivals each year, including the Jazz & Blues Festival, the Christmas Festival, and the famed Morristown Festival on the Green.
2. Washington National Historical Park
An ideal spot for history buffs and anyone who wants to know more about our nation's founding, the Morristown National Historical Park commemorates the encampment of General Washington and the Continental Army during the coldest winter on record. The 1,676-acre park features four American Revolutionary War sites, including the New Jersey Brigade Encampment Site, Jockey Hollow, Fort Nonsense, and the Ford Mansion. An 18th-century farm and reconstructed soldier huts, a three-mile tour road, 24 miles of hiking trails, and a visitor center are also located on the grounds. Visitors are free to wander the grounds or take guided tours. Special events and re-enactments of battles are scheduled routinely for guests to enjoy.
3. Frelinghuysen Arboretum
For those who enjoy nature, the Frelinghuysen Arboretum is an idyllic spot to explore 127 acres of gorgeous flower gardens, woodlands, groves, and shrubs. Guests can see a stately Colonial Revival mansion, explore serene walking trails, and see endless views of native and exotic plants, trees, ornamental grasses, and trees. The arboretum also hosts a calendar of events that includes educational programs, garden tours, cooking classes, and demonstrations.
4. Loantaka Brook Reservation
A nature preserve and public park encompassing 883 acres of land and nearly 10 miles of trails, this is the ideal spot to enjoy everything nature has to offer. One of the busiest parks in Morristown, the Loantaka Brook Reservation is ideal for bicycling, jogging, horseback riding, skiing, hiking, and more.
The park's four sections feature an array of different activities that encompass practically every type of outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore paved and unpaved trails to get exercise and view wildflowers and bird life. Bike rentals are available during the spring and summer months. At the five-acre Kitchell Pond, you can fish, picnic, or play at the nearby athletic field. Seaton Hackney Stables offers horseback riding along the trails of the adjoining property.
5. Mayo Performing Arts Center
The heartbeat of Morristown's cultural scene, the Mayo Performing Arts Center is a place for the community members to come together and be entertained and inspired by the performing arts. More than 200 events take place at this venue each year, ranging from classical music to modern dance and even Disney performances sure to delight local families. Entertainers include new and emerging performers, along with some of the most famous entertainers in the world. The center is also home to art galleries that can be viewed by appointment or between shows and during intermission.
6. Fosterfields Living Historical Farm
This farm is a working farm that doesn't depend on modern machines for daily tasks. The Fosterfields Living Historical Farm uses turn-of-the-century tools and methods to complete daily farm activities the same way they were done over a century ago. Guests can explore the 214-acre historic site to observe daily activities and antique machinery. Tours of the 1854 mansion are available, and visitors can perform tasks like grooming horses and collecting eggs.
7. Morristown Game Vault
With over 100 arcade games, the Morristown Game Vault is an enormous arcade featuring classic video games, pinball machines, and game consoles. Popular games include pinball, Q*bert, Donkey Kong, and Pac-Man. Visitors can leave their quarters at home as all games are set to "free play," and player time is tracked on a wristband. Players can choose any of the games and only pay for the amount of time they stay. While the venue features games of the past, it draws crowds of all ages who spend hours enjoying gameplay and competition.
8. South Street Creamery & Cafe
No matter how you spend your day, it's better when you top it off with ice cream. The South Street Creamery & Cafe is a favorite among locals. Find authentic homemade ice cream made with natural ingredients in a variety of flavors with countless toppings. Guests can choose a traditional cone or cup or choose from one of three specialty sundaes, which include Grandma's Kitchen (with cake batter, chocolate frosting, and cookie dough), Kahlua Madness, and Jockey Hollow (inspired by the Jockey Hollow Restaurant).
Connect with Shawn Chaconas to find your new home in Morristown
This popular New Jersey town is filled with interesting entertainment venues and is home to many annual festivals, including the Jazz & Blues Festival and Festival on the Green, which has drawn crowds of up to 60,000. It is also a charming town with several close-knit neighborhoods. Housing options are as varied and distinctive as the entertainment options around town. Available homes in Morristown range from townhouses, condos, and single-family homes to large estates and new builds in planned communities.
If you've considered making Morristown your home, there's no better time to make the move. The Chaconas Group is a team of experienced real estate agents committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals. Whether you are an experienced investor or a first-time home buyer, Shawn and his team can help you navigate your home search and guide you through each step of the buying process. Contact The Chaconas Group to learn more about how they can assist you in finding your dream home in Morristown.
