Escape the Hustle: A Day Trip to the Hills

Just beyond the bustling cityscapes is beautiful Somerset County. Situated just an hour outside of both Philadelphia and New York City, Somerset County is filled with natural beauty, storied historical sites, and charming downtowns. Check out the below locations to create an itinerary that offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and even some foodie experiences. So get ready to trade the urban hustle for a day of tranquility and discovery!

Escape to tranquility in our gardens

May and June are some of the best times to come to Somerset County for garden lovers, and the rolling hills of northern Somerset County are in their prime during this time. For the garden lovers, start your day off at one of our gardens including Cross Estate Gardens or Peony’s Envy in Bernardsville (or the cut flower fields in Liberty Corner). The wisteria pergola at Cross Estate blooms in late April to early May followed by gorgeous rhododendron in late May (around Memorial Day). As part of Morristown National Historic Park, Cross Estate also boats some history! Check out the water tower and mansion also on site. Travelers may also seek enjoyment at Jockey Hollow wondering the trails and the historic park. While a car is always our #1 recommendation for getting around Somerset County, visitors may also find a car to get to this park is extremely valuable.

Another garden up in the northern part of Somerset County (roughly 15-minutes from Cross Estate) is Peony’s Envy. These display gardens are open from May to early June for visitors and guests to enjoy during normal business hours. For those interested in a cut-flower experience, their fields are located in Liberty Corner about 20-minutes from the primary property.

Suggested time spent at each location: 1-2 hours.

Discover America’s First Military Academy

New Jersey is rich with in history, particularly Colonial history. Jacobus Vanderveer House and Museum was the headquarters of General Henry Knox during the winter of 1778-79 and the only surviving building associated with the Pluckemin Artillery Cantonment. While the house does not currently have regularly operating hours, visitors are able to walk the grounds. From Memorial Day through Independence Day, the Field of Honor is on display in the front lawn.

Suggested time spent at this location: About one hour.

Sip Back and Relax at our Cidery

Burnt Mills Cider offers superior crafted drinks with bucolic settings, moody firepits, and over a dozen ciders to try. Check out food trucks on site or bring your own food with you.

This location is also part of our Sip & See Somerset trail – so visitors may earn stamps on their passports to collect a prize!

Suggested time spent at location: About two hours.

Shop and Dine on Main Street Bernardsville

After a day in the outdoors, stroll the streets of Main Street Bernardsville to grab a bite to eat, something to drink, and check out the boutique shops. Foodie highlights here include the Red Horse by David Burke – Bernards Inn if you’re looking for a fine dining option and wonderfully crafted drinks. Some local favorites include Bistro 73, the Bernard’s Cafe, and Nicoletta Pizzeria. Bernardsville is prime for shopping too! For some eclectic shopping and gifts Lupa Apothecary has all the fun tarot, candles, clothing. Rebecca Collection has lot of localized flair and tons of gifts.

From luxurious country inns to contemporary hotels, Somerset County is ready to welcome you back to safe and comfortable accommodations to suit every travel style and budget. Explore our hotels.

Before you go…

Refer to our Destination Guide to help create a stay in Somerset County that is perfectly tailored to you.