Best Downtowns and Main Streets to Explore in New Jersey

November 5, 20225 min read

Jersey City | Image credit: Gautam Krishnan

New Jersey is a busy East Coast state with numerous large cities and towns that are cultural and commercial hubs. It is the 11th-most-populated state, yet has the 47th largest area, so it is dense with tons of urban areas to explore. There are many appealing communities in New Jersey, each with central areas that draw in visitors. The downtowns and main streets in New Jersey are vibrant places where business, entertainment, and culture collide.

Many of New Jersey’s towns and cities have gorgeous downtowns that provide tons of excitement. Let’s look at some of the communities in the state with downtowns and main street areas well worth a visit.

Red Bank

Red Bank is a small town on the Navesink River in North Jersey. Home to a modest population of around 12,000, it is a peaceful town with easy access to New York City. The Red Bank downtown is busy with art galleries and museums, performance venues, restaurants, shops, and more. It is a pleasant area with a high-quality selection of dining and shopping options.

Long Branch

Long Branch is a scenic Jersey Shore city home to around 30,000. This community draws in tourists who want to see its sandy beaches and excellent surf. Pier Village may be the heart of the city’s commerce, a luxury area with premier shopping and dining destinations. It has more than 30 shops, restaurants, and services, with options ranging from fine dining to boutique stores.

Long Branch | Image credit: Cathy Kenyon

Hoboken

Hoboken is a big city along the Hudson River with unmatched Manhattan skyline views. Hoboken is a cultural hub, and its downtown has many museums, galleries, and live music destinations. Washington Street is considered the town’s main street, and it is a pleasant, walkable area lined with local businesses, picturesque cafes, and gourmet restaurants. It also has nearby parks and trails, such as the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway.

Hoboken | Image credit: Ryan Stone

Maplewood

Maplewood is a suburb of New York City that is ideal for those that desire to live in a quiet, peaceful community convenient to Manhattan. Maplewood’s population of 25,000 and picturesque public green spaces make it perfect for families. The Village is the heart of the city, known for its pleasant shops, including antique stores and family-friendly restaurants. It is where many of the city’s events are held.

Jersey City

Jersey City is a massive urban area home to over 250,000 located just across the water from Manhattan. It is home to many of the most famous attractions in the country, including Ellis Island and Liberty Island National Park. The downtown is a large area with much to explore. It has an international food scene and thriving nightlife highlighted by Grove Street. It also has excellent art venues and a historic area with 19th-century buildings.

The Newport Waterfront in Jersey City | Image credit: Shane Lynes

Cranford

Cranford is another New Jersey town convenient to Manhattan. With a population of just under 25,000 residents, it is a quiet, affluent suburb with a nice main street area. Cranford’s downtown has more than 300 businesses, ranging from restaurants and shops to service areas and more. The local businesses include top-notch dining options and independently-owned stores with handmade goods.

Princeton

Princeton is a historic town known for Princeton University. The school is adjacent to downtown Princeton, a quaint area with a college-town feel. Nassau Street, Witherspoon Street, and Palmer Square are popular areas of Princeton’s downtown and offer a variety of unique dining and shopping destinations.

Princeton University’s Nassau Hall, which can be viewed along Nassau Street | Image credit: Roxana Crusemire

Denville

Denville is a historic little town that was an important transportation center in New Jersey. Downtown Denville is a uniquely appealing place with a classic Main Street USA feel. Even with a relatively small population of around 17,000, the downtown is a busy area with boutique shops, highly-regarded restaurants, and trendy cafes. Denville Dairy might be the area’s biggest draw, as it will be hard to resist getting a scoop of ice cream from this historic homemade ice cream store.

Sea Bright

Sea Bright is a tiny community along the water, only a short drive from New York City. It has a modest population of around 1,500, but many head to Sea Bright for its scenic beaches, boardwalk, and downtown. Downtown Sea Bright features many stores and restaurants convenient to the beach. It is a great place to enjoy seafood and browse products offered by small businesses.

Sea Bright | Image credit: Ryan Loughlin

Summit

Summit is a historic city in northern New Jersey known for its affluent residents. It has spacious homes, tree-lined streets, and an excellent school system. Summit’s downtown is an eclectic place with excellent shops and restaurants, many of which are locally-owned. The downtown hosts many of the city’s events and festivals, including annual holiday festivities.

Spring Lake

Spring Lake is a scenic gem on the Jersey Shore, known for its coastal setting and quaint town. It is one of the quieter parts of the Shore, with sandy beaches that don’t see massive crowds. The downtown of Spring Lake is a pleasant place with historical buildings and boutique shops. It has plenty of high-quality restaurants and locally-owned businesses.