The Bridgewater Township in Somerset County, NJ might be a peaceful and laid back locale, but like any desirable neighborhood, it offers recreational options you and your family will enjoy. Plan your downtime and check out some of our favorite destinations listed below:
Washington Valley Park
This gorgeous 719-acre public park boasts lush greenery, healthy freshwater wetland, impressive rock formations, and a 21-acre reservoir. Located between the First and Second Watchung Mountain ridges, the park is a must-visit destination if you want to connect with nature. The top attractions and activities here include:
- Over seven miles of hike trails and some of the best mountain biking trails in New Jersey
- Chimney Rock Hawk Watch along Miller lane, where thousands of migrating hawks, falcons, and eagles – including the majestic bald eagle – fly overhead during the autumn months
- Sport fishing in the boat-restricted Washington Valley Reservoir
Bridgewater Commons
Boasting more than 175 stores and restaurants, this is the premier shopping destination across the township and all of Somerset County. It is home to top retail names like Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, Bose, and Lego. Built in 1988, it underwent major renovations in the mid-2000s. The lifestyle center called The Village at Bridgewater Commons was added, featuring new stores like Crate and Barrel and Brooks Brothers.
Middlebrook Encampment
Being a crucial location for several events in the American Revolution, New Jersey features many storied areas which are certainly worth visiting. One of these is the Middlebrook encampment, where the Continental Army held station in 1777 and in 1778-79. Its location along the ridge of the First Watchung Mountain provided both natural protection and a strategic view, contributing to the ultimate success of the Continental Army. A portion of the encampment, the Washington Camp Ground, is listed under the National Register of Historic Places.
Green Knoll Tennis Center
The Green Knoll Tennis Center presents a fun way to incorporate sports in the cozy Bridgewater suburban lifestyle. During the summer, the center offers instructional clinics and camps, as well as competitive tournaments for players of all ages.
Duke Island Park
Like the Washington Valley Park, Duke Island Park is breathtaking. The main portion of the 340-acre green space is bordered by the Raritan River and the Raritan Water Power Canal, a three-mile-long man-made canal originally intended to power industries in the surrounding areas. Its forested area is a natural sanctuary for the unique and fascinating flora and fauna native to this part of the country.
Duke Island Park is known for its exciting and picturesque trails perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. It also has five picnic groves along the river trail, setting the scene for a nice weekend afternoon with the family. The park is also home to a variety of annual events, from concert series and softball tournaments in the summer, to ice skating and cross-country skiing events in the winter.
There’s a whole lot more to explore in Bridgewater. Talk to Cindy Pagnotta and her team to learn about other great opportunities here.
