Clinton, High Bridge, Annandale and Lebanon New Jersey

Nestled in the hills of Hunterdon County, Clinton is the iconic American small town with its charming historic shopping district and cherry-tree lined neighborhood streets. Clinton's most famous landmarks are its two mills set just above the waterfall on the Raritan River running along the edge of Main Street. The view of these mills from Clinton's antique iron bridge is reported to be one of the most photographed sites in America.

The Red Mill, now a historical museum village, hosts several programs including living history reenactments while the Stone Mill houses a contemporary art museum. Only about an hour west of Manhattan, Clinton draws on the sophistication of the New Yorkers who have settled into the quiet country scene. The vibrant Victorian downtown, along the roaring river, is packed with interesting and upscale stores and restaurants catering to full time and weekend residents, many with ties to the city.

Right next to Clinton is the larger Township of Clinton. Without a proper downtown the Township does offer several smaller villages including part of Cokesbury and the lovely Annandale. Annandale, right at exit 18 on Route 78 is a small walking village with early American and Victorian architecture without much in the way of stores. The express bus stop to Wall Street is located in Annandale, as is one of the local train stations.

Just north of Clinton and Annandale, High Bridge was formed around an old iron works called the Union Tract. One of the main homes, the Solitude House, still stands on the banks of the Raritan River and is now a museum. Downtown High Bridge is slightly lazy but still offers some interesting shopping and dining. High Bridge also has the distinction of being the last stop on the Raritan Valley train line. One of their most fun festivals is the annual Dog Parade in the summer.

To the east of Clinton, and also on the Raritan Valley train line, Lebanon Borough is right off exit 20 on Route 78. With a very impressive Main Street full of early American and Victorian homes, Lebanon is locally famous for its Fourth of July and Halloween Parades.