Hopewell is built on small businesses and there’s a bustling sense of community that shines in every aspect of this historic town.
Start your daytrip with a little bit of history by checking out the Hopewell Railroad Station, (2 Railroad Pl.) a beautiful historic train station built in 1876. The Hopewell Museum is currently closed due to COVID but is a great place for a free visit to see Delaware Indian artifacts, early tools and needlework and old photos of the area.
The Watershed Institute in nearby Pennington offers nature trails, environmental programs for families and a butterfly house. Sourland Cycles is a strong part of the Hopewell community. More than just a bike shop, they host rides, coordinate bike donations for kids and are committed to empowering women cyclists.
The Hopewell Theater is the hub of the community and hosts live performances, movies and talks. They are temporarily closed but hope to be reopening soon. Another favorite spot among locals is Art Sparks Studio where kids can take classes, attend birthday parties and enjoy art camp and mini camps.
If you’re looking to spend some time outdoors, the Lawrence Hopewell Trail is perfect for families who want to walk or bike to explore nature.
When you’re ready to eat, E. Broad Street has so many options for all different palates. Nomad Pizza is the perfect spot for a wood-fired oven pie – BYOB and sit out on the patio. For your caffeine fix and homemade muffins, a visit to Boro Bean is an absolute must! Aunt Chubby’s is the best spot in town for breakfast. If you’re visiting on the later side, they are also open for lunch.
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Chefs and owners Aaron and Rory Philipson will treat you like family at the Blue Bottle Café. The simple yet elevated cuisine makes us of NJ’s freshest ingredients – get a babysitter and BYOB for this special occasion meal. At Ottoburger, owners Otto and Maria make everything they sell and grow all their fresh ingredients on their farm. Right next door is Tomatello’s Latin Cuisine (get the enchiladas, you won’t be disappointed!).
The Peasant Grill is a great lunch spot for sandwiches, salads and pastries with outdoor seating. Brick Farm Tavern offers new American cuisine in an historic farmhouse. You can easily spend an afternoon here, sitting outside with a drink and playing bocce. Be sure to take a tour of Sourland Mountain Spirits on the weekends (try the bourbon!). If you want something smaller, their nearby Brick Farm Market offers casual bites and coffee. Be sure to hit up Kerr’s Kornstand on your way out of town for the freshest Jersey corn you’ve ever tasted.