A rich history, distinctive natural features, and pleasurable activities can all be found in Bridgewater Township in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Over the years, the population of the 33-square-mile township has increased dramatically, reflecting its diversity and growth.
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History claims that a Native American tribe gave the Bridgewater area to European settlers.
King George II of England granted a charter for the land in 1749; it was subsequently incorporated in 1798.
In the early years of the township, farming was its main industry.
Sanofi-Aventis and Phillips-Van Heusen are just two examples of the large corporations that call it home. Nevertheless, it has developed into a modern suburb.
Several municipal parks, county parks, and an athletic complex are among the historical and contemporary sites that visitors can explore.
Additionally, there are attractions in the municipality that outdoor enthusiasts and those who love the outdoors will undoubtedly enjoy.
Here are some fun things to do in Bridgewater, NJ.:
Table of Contents
Things to Do in Bridgewater, NJ
1. First, visit Darby Tract to get some fresh air
In Somerset, a preserve called Darby Tract serves as one of the local recreation areas. Imagine it as a park where you can unwind and enjoy being in nature and the fresh air from the woods.
Since the park is still very new, there aren’t many activities. However, you will adore going on hikes or runs or simply meandering through the woods while taking in the calming sounds of nature.
Address: 488 Steeplechase Lane, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey 08807, USA
2. Eat delicious Italian food at Maggiano’s Little Italy
Even though Bridgewater is located several miles from Italy, Maggiano’s Little Italy allows you to enjoy some delectable Italian cuisine.
In addition, experiencing the local cuisine of the areas you visit should always be a crucial component of any trip.
This is the ideal location to explore the region’s culinary diversity while in Bridgewater. Despite being mostly Italian, there are a wide variety of delicious foods, hand-crafted classic co*cktails, decadent desserts, and an outstanding wine list.
If you’re looking for a restaurant in Bridgewater for everyday meals or a romantic night, Maggiano’s Little Italy won’t let you down.
Address: 600 Commons Mall, Commons Way, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
3. Explore Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage to learn about American history.
The Wallace House & Old Dutch Parsonage Association is a must-see for history buffs as one of New Jersey’s and the nation’s most important historical sites.
It’s located in Somerville, New Jersey, seven minutes from Bridgewater.
General George Washington’s headquarters throughout the 18th century was The Wallace House, where he made plans for military victories.
Visit this historic location to see the general’s lodgings and the museum exhibits that detail his way of life at the time.
Rutgers University’s first president and one of its founders lived at the Old Dutch Parsonage.
Additionally, the important political dynasty from New Jersey, the Frelinghuysen family, had its origins there.
The National Register of Historic Places lists both landmarks.
Address: 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, New Jersey 08876, USA
4. Enjoy Your Time at the 4-H Fair
One of Somerset County’s much-awaited annual events is the 4-H Fair held at North Branch Park.
Recognizing the accomplishments of the county’s 4-H participants, the tradition was established in 1947.
Aside from seeing 4-H projects, visitors will also have a great time throughout the day.
Visit the tents dedicated to the arts, sciences, and preparation, packed with fascinating exhibits, enjoyable games, and outstanding performances.
Visit the other tents to see a range of animals, such as dairy cows, alpacas, horses, sheep, goats, dogs, poultry, and tiny animals.
Several of the animals are available for your children to pet.
You can also take in other family-friendly activities like twirling, go-kart racing, magic performances, model train & airplane displays, as well as R.C. car races.
Address: 355 Milltown Rd, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
5. Enjoy Sports on Ice at the Bridgewater Sports Arena
Visit the Bridgewater Sports Arena with your family to enjoy thrilling live sports entertainment.
The Rocket Sports Group runs the sports complex, and you may watch and enjoy organized ice hockey matches there.
Additionally, the rink offers programs for beginners to intermediate-level players as well as freestyle ice hockey sessions.
Your children can enroll in the hockey camp with a variety of schedules that meet their requirements and availability.
They also provide lessons in speed skating and summer skating camps to help your children develop their love of the sport.
Address: 1425 Frontier Rd #1425, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
6. Sip Savory Wine at Grape Expectations
If you enjoy drinking wine, check out Grape Expectations, a renowned winery in Bridgewater.
They’ll be there for you while you crush, press, rack, and bottle your wine as you make wine.
Jimmy and MaryAnn Lowney own the 8,000-square-foot winery.
Both have more than 20 years of combined winemaking experience and numerous honors.
Enjoy their collection of white grapes, such as the traditional Chardonnay, a premium buttery, full-bodied California fruit.
If not, consider Chenin Blanc, a grape variety used to make Chablis, or combine white wines that have a fruity and mildly sweet flavor.
Consider white blends like Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay or California Blanc, a combination of French Columbard, Chenin Blanc, and Muscat.
Drink a glass of one of their red grape varieties, such as Malbec or Barbera Full.
Then, experiment with different Red Blends, such as Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Bordeaux Blends.
Address: 25 Kearney St, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey 08807, USA
7. Enjoy the outdoors at Alfred S. Brown Park
Another public park in the heart of Bridgewater is Alfred S. Brown Park.
This ten-acre park, constructed in 1997, was formerly part of the Studdiford Farm, so named at Walter Studdiford’s request.
The park’s expansive green space is also a location for several neighborhood events.
Take a stroll along the walking route to see the park’s other features.
Bring your boisterous kids to the playground for some enjoyable playtime.
Additionally, you can engage in physical activities like tennis on the courts or baseball and soccer on the fields.
8. Sample great music & good food at Green Knoll Grille
Simply visit Green Knoll Grille to enjoy some delicious food and fantastic music. One of the best spots to eat while also nourishing your body & soul is here as the night fades away.
You may watch live games on more than 40 enormous screens in the grille, which also offers cozy lighting that is welcoming.
As it frequently offers a selection appropriate for younger visitors, it is also an excellent location for family outings.
Address: 645 US-202, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
9. Treat yourself to a real-life escape room adventure at the Escape Room Center
The Escape Room Center experience is one you must never pass up if you’re traveling with a family or a small group.
This is your time to demonstrate your sense of unity and your ability to tackle challenges as a team. In this facility, you will be imprisoned in chambers with props, puzzles, and clues that you must use to finish your objective before escaping.
This is a must-see location if you enjoy puzzles or tackling difficult challenges.
Address: 340 US-22, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
10. Score a Hole at the Green Knoll Golf Course
The first golf course built by the Somerset County Park Commission, The Green Knoll Golf Course, debuted in 1960.
On weekends and holidays, a nine-hole pitch and putt course with a par of 27 functions as a driving range at the facility on Garretson Road.
The par-71, William F. Gordon created a 6,443-yard course.
It provides a variety of thrilling holes for a fun tee game at every level of golf expertise.
Visit the pro shop for a wide selection of the necessary golf materials, equipment, and gear.
After your round on the tee, you can stop by the vending machines for some snacks and beverages.
Address: 587 Garretson Rd, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
11. Kidstreet Playground is the perfect place to provide the kids with a ton of fun
Young travelers need to have priceless experiences on the trip if you’re going to be traveling with them. Treating kids to a fun-filled day at Kidstreet Playground is one of the ways to enable them to do this.
The playground, a component of Slattery Park, has features that will satisfy the interests of children of all ages.
There are various picnic spaces, swings, gazebos with gliding chairs, a sizable castle-themed area, enormous climbing frames, and pyramid net climbing among the significant amenities.
Address:700 Garretson Road, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey 08807, USA
12. Somerset Patriots Baseball offers live baseball games you can attend with your family
Many Americans enjoy playing baseball; therefore, it is always fun to travel somewhere where there are baseball stadiums where you can watch a game or two.
The Somerset Patriots Baseball is the place to go if you want to watch some live, exhilarating baseball action while you are in Somerset.
To make time to go and play some of the games during your visit, you must check the timetable and modify your itinerary accordingly.
Address: 1 Patriots Park, Bridgewater, NJ 08807
13. Visit the Children’s Museum for a fun family day.
Bring the kids along for a weekend of learning and play at the Children’s Museum. Volunteers maintain the museum entirely on certain weekends, and are open to children.
It offers a variety of educational displays and activities specifically created to spark children’s imaginations and curiosities, as well as their love of learning new things.
There are exhibits on display covering various topics, including the outdoors, science, the natural world, and more.
Address: 120 Finderne Ave # 113, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States.
14. Experience serenity at Sri Venkateswara Temple
Whether or whether you practice Hinduism, you must see the Sri Venkateswara Temple. The sacred building, which has lovely traditional Indian architecture, is located in one of New Jersey’s most serene areas.
You will adore the amazing lessons about Indian culture that you will acquire at the temple, in addition to marveling at the architecture.
Address: 1 Balaji Temple Dr, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
15. Enjoy the outdoors at Middlebrook Trail
Spend some time in nature, unwind, and stroll the Middlebrook Trail.
The trail has been around for a while and is now well-liked by people for trekking.
The Eagle Scout troops have made significant contributions to the trail’s advancement.
All people may now enjoy the outdoors in the neighborhood thanks to the building of accessible bridges, boardwalks, and steps.
With the tranquil view of amazing flora and animals, you’ll discover the ideal location to relax.
You can navigate a variety of rocky routes.
On the river, you can witness a variety of wildlife.
16. Visit Bridgewater Commons to shop, eat, and have fun
Bridgewater Commons, a 16-year-old shopping center in the township’s heart, is the place to shop and eat to your heart’s content.
Here, you may find high-quality brands like Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, and Macy’s on a variety of clothing and goods.
You won’t run out of options for shopping with 160 specialty shops that carry, to mention a few, Apple, Pottery Barn, lululemon, Williams-Sonoma, and Swarovski.
AMC Theatre offers movies, as well as popular dining alternatives.
Visit the Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen, Shake Shack, or Seasons 52 for a family meal.
Alternative options include Uncle Julio’s Mexican From Scratch and Redstone American Grill.
Additionally, you might find fantastic offers, discounts, and promotions on certain products.
Address: 400 Commons Way, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
17. Visit Duke Island Park for outdoor activities
A variety of leisure activities suitable for both young and old may be found at Duke Island Park. When seeking fantastic sites for outdoor family excursions, it is one of the amazing places to go.
You may expect to enjoy ice skating during the winter, cycling, hiking, picnicking, and fishing on the Raritan River while visiting this park. It is a highly well-liked location in Bridgewater for both tourists and locals.
Address: 191 Old York Road, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey 08807, USA
18. Visit T.D. Bank Ballpark to watch a game
Catch the Somerset Patriots for thrilling baseball action at the T.D. Bank Ballpark.
The Somerset Patriots, six-time Atlantic League Champions, play their home games at the ballpark, which offers inexpensive family entertainment.
Seventy baseball games are played on the field from April to September.
Originally called the Commerce Bank Ballpark, the park was constructed in 1999.
A traditional exterior may be seen on this 6,100-seat stadium.
Once you get inside, you can see the park.
Take a look at the low-level but cozy sitting and the gabled green roof.
While you watch the game, the large concession offers a variety of ballpark snacks.
On the other hand, the Super Jersey Burger, pork roll, & Premio sausages should not be missed.
You may see Sparkle, the mascot dog, compared to Sparky Lyle by his handlebar mustache, as well as Sparky Lyle, the first manager of the Patriots.
Address: 860 E Main St, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
19. Take a Nature Hike at Washington Valley Park
You should visit Washington Valley Park, tucked away between the first and second ridges of Watchung Mountain if you enjoy being outside or would like a day of tranquility.
Either Millers Lane or Newmans Lane leads to the park
This 719-acre natural area has eight routes of varying degrees of difficulty, making it ideal for hiking & mountain biking.
Along with the extensive pine and hemlock forests, open freshwater, wetlands, marshes, and breathtaking rock outcroppings on its 21 acres, it also contains the former Bound Brook Elizabethtown Reservoir.
Visit the park’s Hawk Watch area in the fall to see thousands of raptors, including falcons, bald eagles, and ospreys, migrating.
It’s a great place to catch largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed in the reservoir at Newman’s Lane.
To fish, however, you must have a New Jersey fishing license.
Fortunately, you can purchase one at the local sports goods store.
There is no boat ramp at the reservoir, but fishermen can fish from the coastline along the perimeter.
Address: Bridgewater Township, New Jersey, 08807, USA
20. Visit the Van Veghten House to learn about historical events
The Van Veghten House is another historical monument in Bridgewater Township.
The residence, constructed in 1725, served as Quartermaster General Nathanael Greene’s command post during the second Middlebrook encampment.
The house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
Washington utilized this residence during the Middlebrook Encampment.
It is currently one of only five remaining residences from that period.
It conducts historical tours and is a component of the Somerset Historical Society’s experience.
Examine the donated items, historical and genealogical information, and library and archive collections.
Visit the gift shop to acquire one-of-a-kind mementos to take home.
Address: 9 Van Veghten Dr, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
21. Visit the Van Horne House’s Old Quarters
The Van Horne House, constructed in 1750, served as General Benjamin Lincoln’s command post in 1777 during the Battle of Bound Brook.
General William Alexander’s command center was also during the second Middlebrook encampment.
Native American presence, the expansion of colonial settlements, the twists and turns of the American Revolution, and the development of Somerset County have all been seen at the Van Horne Home.
Due to its distinctive Colonial Revival style, the historic property was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002.
The Heritage Trail Association now resides there; many relics and pieces of history are on display.
To learn more about the home’s history and historical artifacts on show, attend the tours, lectures, and other events.
Address: 941 E Main St, Bridgewater Township, NJ 08807, United States
22. Visit the Somerset Historical Society to learn more about Somerset’s rich history and culture
Finding out about a destination’s history and culture is always fascinating. This is how you come to understand the astounding diversity present in many civilizations all around the world.
The Somerset Historical Society is the ideal location to have this experience while you are in Somerset.
The Van Veghten House is located here; it is a significant historical building that is both a state and a national historic site. Over 300 years have passed since the home first graced the Somerset countryside.
It is one of five still-standing houses George Washington & his generals stayed in for a while at the Middlebrook Encampment.
The historical society also houses an extensive library, archival holdings, donor collections, historical family files, and even a gift shop where you can purchase incredibly rare mementos to remind you of your journey.
Address: 9 Van Veghten Drive, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey 08807, USA
23. Visit the Middlebrook Encampment’s Historical Landmarks
George Washington camped at the Middlebrook Encampment, commonly referred to as the Washington Camp Ground, in 1778.
The Continental Army’s use of the region during the American Revolutionary War was crucial.
You’ll witness the First Watchung Mountain crest, which served as a natural fortification for the army and a key observation point for the British troops.
In 1975, The National Register of Historic Places added the Washington Camp Ground.
The grounds take up a portion of the entire encampment.
Take a stroll over the routes taken by Continental soldiers during the Revolutionary War as they marched and battled.
View the ruins of the state’s surviving redoubt and learn about its past.
Address: Middlebrook Road, Bridgewater Township, New Jersey
Conclusion
A family trip can be pleasurable because of the many historical and natural attractions in Bridgewater Township.
The township also conducts interesting sporting events and yearly gatherings for the community that are enjoyable and memorable.
Whether you prefer sports, history, or the outdoors, Bridgewater has something for you to enjoy.
Visit Bridgewater, NJ, and engage in the activities that are on this list.
