Destination: Southern New Jersey

My Trip:

Cliché as the phrase is, South Jersey is experiencing a renaissance. But you have to experience it to believe it. Of course, I would never ask you to be the Ginny pig; that's my job.

I spent a few days in South Jersey to find out if all the positive news articles (about South Jersey) I had been reading were true. Much to my surprise, I found the region to be charming, friendly and a great value for my hard earned dollar.

Because I live in New York City , my South Jersey trip began on New Jersey transit from Penn Station. I was in Trenton in about 75 minutes (on a local train) and was pleased to discover construction is underway for brand new train station. Yes, the one now is functional and is need of a makeover, the good news is, NJ Transit folks are all over it. It was at this point that I transferred to the new River Line. This line is brand new and it is beautiful. This is where I recommend you start your South Jersey experience. On my trip, my first destination was Haddonfield. It took about 50 minutes and the ride was smooth and care-free. I got to see all the quiet towns along the way that were a part of my itinerary for the following day. Talk about Main Street USA ! I couldn't wait to hop off and explore.

Upon my arrival in Haddonfield, I had just enough time to do some window shopping and check in to the Haddonfield Inn. This giant Victorian home was the perfect spot for an inn. I was greeted by Fred (the owner) and escorted to my room. The room was spacious, clean, tastefully decorated and just perfect (I especially enjoyed the Jacuzzi in my room).

Then it was off to dinner at The Little Tuna. What a great place (right in the heart of town). The food was top notch. We had calamari (that was out of this world); fresh salads and I enjoyed the beef tenderloin with shrimp. My dining mate had grouper and reported EXCELLENT presentation and flavor.

After a relaxing meal, it was of to slumber. The next morning I was greeted by fresh coffee and pumpkin bread and the Haddonfield Inn manager, Sarah. She was very helpful and extremely knowledgeable about the Inn and the community.

After a short trip on PATCO, breakfast was served at The Pop Stop in Collingswood . The owner and his wife were great to meet and the breakfast was amazing. This 50's diner reminded me of my days back home working at a similar place in Des Moines . What a great time! And I hear on Saturday mornings kids eat free! While in Collingswood , make sure to take time to check out the eclectic shops.

To cap off the guided part of my trip, it was on to Camden to explore the waterfront. The Adventure Aquarium was first on the list. My favorite aquarium in the Northeast had been in Baltimore until now. My new favorite is in Camden . It is beautiful. It is completely renovated with live Hippos (both on land and in water) and a HUGE shark tank. The kids (and kids at heart) will love the hands on exhibits and you can even snorkel with the SHARKS! Brilliantly fascinating and educational! Speaking of education, I learned you can have a sleep over on the giant battleship docked right next to the aquarium. The Battleship New Jersey has lots of tour options and is a must-see for the entire family.

After Camden , I was on my own to explore and discover as much of Southern Jersey as the schedule allowed. I had a great time stepping into shops, buying locally made products and talking with the residents of these charming towns.

With just a little planning, I am certain you will have a great trip (as I did) to Southern New Jersey ! Thanks to Judi, John and Jake for great planning and accommodating my long list of demands. :)

Erik Hastings

WEEKEND GETAWAY TO SOUTH JERSEY BY RAIL

A two-day retreat from New York City to some of South Jersey 's best destinations - no cars needed!

SATURDAY:

Catch an NJ TRANSIT train from Penn Station to Trenton . Pick up the River LINE in Trenton and stop for a quick lunch in Bordentown at any of these great eateries .

Continue South on the River LINE to Broadway Station in Camden and pick up the PATCO Speedline . Take the PATCO Speedline to Haddonfield and check in to The Haddonfield Inn .

Browse the upscale shops of downtown Haddonfield and pick up a romantic gift at Georgie Girl or one of more than a dozen jewelry stores . Then settle down for a romantic dinner for two at one of Haddonfield's fine dining restaurants .

Before heading back to your room, stop by one of the candy shops or ice cream parlors for dessert, or Starbucks for a cup of your favorite coffee. Then nestle into you themed room with your sweetheart and enjoy what's left of your fun-filled first day in South Jersey !

SUNDAY:

Hop back on the PATCO Speedline for a short ride to Collingswood for breakfast - The Pop Shop and 5th Corner Creperie Cafe come highly recommended. Then hit the streets to experience a kitschy, eclectic mix of shops or see the current exhibitions at the Perkins Center for the Arts (after noon on Sundays).

Continue back into Camden on the PATCO Speedline and make a connection to the River LINE at the Broadway Station. Take the River LINE to the Camden Waterfront and visit the Adventure Aquarium and Battleship New Jersey .

Get back on the River LINE and head north to Riverside for dinner and cocktails at The Madison Pub , where River LINE passengers are their favorite guests!

Then head back to the Trenton station and pick up your train at the NJ TRANSIT station across the street. Climb aboard and relax on your ride back to Penn Station. 

ALTERNATIVES FOR EITHER DAY:

Visit Riverton - Have a casual lunch or dinner at Tony's Seafood Café and grab some pastries from Zena's Patisserie & Cafe to enjoy later in your hotel room or during your train ride.

 Visit Historic Burlington City - Stop by and take a walking tour of this historic city, then dine at Café Gallery , overlooking the river. Afterward take a stroll along the scenic river walkway. Burlington City also makes a great mid-ride pit stop between Camden and Trenton . Weary travelers can refuel with coffee and pastries at My Sticky Buns, just a few steps from the station.

Visit Trenton - Enjoy a meal where New Jersey 's high-level politicos dine at Carmine's Café or Lorenzo's Restaurant - both on Clinton Ave. , within walking distance of the Trenton station. Also nearby are Old Barracks Museum and New Jersey State Museum . And be sure to check the events lineup at the Sovereign Bank Arena to see if any of your favorite performances are in town while you're here. If not, it's also a great place to catch a Trenton Titans minor league hockey game.

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