Live in or around the Somerset County area and you’re looking for some ideas for the weekend with a significant other? Or maybe you’re from New York City or Philadelphia, and you’re looking to break away from the hustle and bustle of the city. In Somerset County, we like to think of ourselves as a weekend getaway destination. So what can you do in a weekend in the heart of New Jersey? Check out this itinerary where you’ll find all things recreation, food, overnight stays, and more!
Friday Night:
Take a stroll in Downtown Somerville
There’s always something to see in Downtown Somerville. Arriving on a Friday evening? Classic cars line the streets in the summer months (begins Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend). Peruse the cars and duck into Village Brewing where you can grab a pint. Then head on over to YESTERcades where you can unleash your inner kid and play all the classic arcade games, pinball, skee ball, and more (it’s also BYOB so you can grab a growler to go at Village to bring in!). End the evening with dinner at Verve and the perfect cocktail.
Saturday Morning:
Explore beautiful Duke Farms
Burn off breakfast at Duke Farms in Hillsborough. If you’re arriving by car, make sure you reserve a pass (it’s free!) before heading over. Explore the property on foot or by bike. You can bring your bike, or rent one there. We recommend navigating the property by bike to make getting around easier. Check out the meditation garden, the mermaid fountain, Great Falls, and a fan favorite: the orchid range. You can learn all about the eccentric heiress, Doris Duke, and her lifestyle with various stops along the property. Duke Farms runs their farmers market on Sundays in the summer (the park trails however will remain closed on Sunday), so you can shop the local farmers’ produce and products.
Estimated time: 4-5 hours by foot / 2-3 hours by bike
Saturday Afternoon
Grab a flight at Flounder Brewing
Just 10 minutes down the road from Duke Farms is Flounder Brewing where you can join them at their new location at Carriage Farm! While Flounder does not sell food, you can always order from one of the food trucks on-site during the weekend or some to-go from some local restaurants along the way such as The Landing conveniently located less than 5 minutes down the road. Take a growler to-go for later!
Saturday Evening
Throwdown at Stumpy’s
You’re still not tired? How about a few rounds of hatchet throwing? Stumpy’s Hatchet House in Green Brook will give you a therapeutic experience you’ll want to talk to your friends and family about. Hatchets not your thing? Check out so many other entertainment options around such as live shows the Brook Arts Center or the State Theatre of New Jersey or enjoy music on Division Street at Downtown Somerville’s Summer Concert Series. Got a group with you?
Hit the rooftop
One of the most Instagrammable locations in Somerset County is The Bradford located at AC Hotel in Bridgewater. This place is not only visually stunning, but you’ll also find an eclectic food and drink menu with the freshest of ingredients. Our recommendation: make a reservation during sunset for a vibe you’ll be telling your friends and family about. Retire for the evening at one of AC Hotel’s swanky rooms.
Sunday Morning
Brunch it up at Project PUB
Back in Downtown Somerville, stop in at Project PUB for brunch (we recommend making a reservation to ensure availability). Try their Bloody Mary board to get a sampling of everything, or if you want a direct recommendation, try the bananas foster french toast!
Take a garden stroll
With gardens strategically located all over Somerset County, you’re bound to find one (or two!) on your way home. Check our list of garden itineraries to find one that suits your needs. There’s everything from roses, to peonies, wisteria, and more.
