Hamilton Hot Spots
Hamilton has some of the most picturesque spots that I have seen in New Jersey. It has a lot of history and well maintained parks that are well worth a visit. Here are some of my favorite places to frequent when I am in Hamilton. I have also listed some of my favorite events we have attended throughout the year in Hamilton. After you have finished reading see my map at the end to pick out which of these places you would like to visit next.
Best Outdoor Areas in Hamilton
Sayen Gardens
These are beautiful gardens that have different flowers blooming at different times of the year. They make me feel as if I have stepped into one of Monet’s paintings. It is easy to access a lot of the prettiest areas since they are close to the parking lot. There are an assortment of bridges, fountains and flowers as you walk. The best thing about it is that it is free!
Veterans Park
This park is much larger than meets the eye. I used to play some of my tennis matches here in high school and had never realized the actual size of the park. It actually has four different entrances with different things to offer such as trails, sports fields and more. One of the best parts is its large trees that offer a lot of shade in the summer. It is a park where you are also very likely to see deer if you stay quiet as you walk along its trails. Kids will enjoy its multiple playgrounds that have lots of play equipment so it rarely gets very crowded.
Grounds for Sculpture
The Grounds for Sculpture has an admission fee but it is well worth a visit. From peacocks roaming to lots of outdoor art sculptures there are things for everyone to be interested in. When walking around there are lots of nooks and crannies so it is a great place for a game of hide and seek. There are often different unique events happening here as well such as their recent Night Forms exhibition. There are also different events geared towards kids throughout the year. If you want to eat a fancy meal Rat’s is an amazing restaurant with amazing views of the Grounds as well as outdoor seating options.
Tulpehaking Nature Center
This Nature center has a great kids play area inside that is awesome if you have kids under 5. There are some turtles and other things to see inside as well and bathrooms inside the center. There are walking trails to explore the Abbott Marshlands as well. My kids have enjoyed some for their free family programming and doing crafts at the Nature Center. There is also a gazebo outside and other places to sit and have a picnic.
Kuser Farm Park
This is a must to visit around Christmas. There are lots of lights and decorations around the park, a tree that is lit up and a radio station on which you can listen to Christmas music. During that time there are also many times that the Mansion is open for tours as well as the Jersey Valley Model Railroad. The decorations inside of the mansion look beautiful around Christmas. These are other places that are also free to visit.
Best Indoor Places to go in Hamilton
Halo Pub
This is my favorite place to get ice cream in New Jersey. It has plenty of indoor seating and a large selection of ice cream and coffee as well. My friends and I have often hung out till the final bell. On the weekends there is often live music as well. The decor is rustic with dairy farm vibes. Be sure to try my favorite flavor, coffee chip, when you are there.
Hamilton Township Public Library
If you need a place to cool down in the summer this is the place to go. There is a large adult section and the children’s section always has interesting programs throughout the year. We love their Stage a Story program they usually offer as part of their Summer Reading events. This library also has amazing book sales throughout the year where you can get cheap deals on all of your favorite authors. If you are a town resident there are also lots of great Museum Passes you can take out with your library card.
Best Hamilton Events throughout the Year
Azalea Festival at Sayen Gardens
This is a festival that is held in the Spring each year at Sayen Gardens on the weekend of Mother’s Day. It is a beautiful time to visit amongst the azaleas. The year we went they also had Sayen House open for the event and were taking free pictures of kids with their moms as well.
Independence Day Concert & Fireworks at Veterans Park
Hamilton always has great outdoor music before its Fourth of July fireworks. There is always a huge show set off in Veterans Park. I have often seen them from afar even if I am just driving around the area. Read more about it in the Top Free Fourth of July Events in and around Jersey.
Winter Wonderland at Kuser Park
Each December this fun event occurs with activities such as photos with Santa, train rides, a petting zoo, food trucks, a tree lighting and more. Sometimes they have the mansion open for tours during the event as well. It is also not far from the Martels Christmas Wonderland house that always has impressive displays each year.
Where should I go first?
Check out this map to plan your Hamilton adventure.
Stay tuned for more articles and videos about these places to go in Hamilton. If you want to try going somewhere else nearby that is fun try heading into this fountain.