New Jersey’s Somerset County is located within the New York metropolitan area but its strong environmental ethos, abundance of green space and quaint Dutch settlements make it feel like a world away from the bustle of Times Square.
Tour Somerset County’s historic Revolutionary War sites or enjoy your days hiking, biking and camping in the area’s excellent parks. Visit 17th-century settlements or browse one of many galleries in the county’s small towns.
Those who love the outdoors will find a wealth of parks. Colonial Park, which abuts the Delaware and Raritan Canal and the Millstone River, offers a championship golf course. Duke Island Park, located between the Raritan Canal and Raritan River, features fishing and bike trails.
Somerset County is indeed a golfer’s paradise, with wide green spaces and rolling terrain perfect for several luxury courses. Between days on the fairways pay a visit to the United States Golf Association Museum in Far Hills to investigate the history of the sport in America.
All Somerset’s 21 towns have good accommodation options, though you’ll find the greatest variety in the largest township, Franklin. While here, visit the Franklin Inn for a drink. The pub dates back to 1752 and served as headquarters for the British General Cornwallis in the Revolutionary War. Make sure to see the Van Wickle House, a fine example of the architecture of the early Dutch settlers.
Head to General Washington’s Revolutionary War headquarters at Rockingham or the historic Washington Rock State Park. This elevated location gave the general sweeping vistas across the Raritan Valley as he scoured the horizon for enemy troops. Somerset County’s landscape is a photographer’s dream in winter, with pristine snow covering the fields. Summers though are when the county is at its best, the perfect time to explore parks, gardens and quaint streets.
Somerset County is just 57 miles (92 kilometers) from New York City’s JFK airport. Buses do run throughout the county but driving is the easiest way to get around.
