Stockton - Camden, NJ Area Guide

Stockton was named after Robert Field Stockton, a former U.S. Senator who helped with the creation of the Delaware and Raritan Canal, which connects the Delaware River and the Raritan River. Originally, the old railroad town was called Reading Ferry, and then Howell's Ferry. The town incorporated in 1898 as Stockton.

Stockton prides itself on its many buildings listed with the National Historic Registry. For example, the aforementioned Stockton Inn, which was built in 1710. Rogers and Hammerstein sing a song about the charming and famous hotel in their musical, On Your Toes.

Stockton also keeps the oldest schoolhouse in New Jersey. Built in 1872, the schoolhouse has continuously been in operation since its inception- over 200 years.

For a small town, Stockton has no shortage of good places to eat, with a majority located on Main Street. For something casual, head to Cravings; although it's advertised as an ice cream parlor, it also offers burgers and sandwiches. Top off your meal with a raspberry chocolate chip cone, and bring the kids here for a fun family night.

If atmosphere is what you are looking for, you can't beat the historic Stockton Inn, which sits near the Delaware River. An outdoor dining area showcases a waterfall and twinkling lights to dine under, making it a perfect spot for date night. The menu has diverse offerings, but the fish dishes particularly stand out. Try the Chilean sea bass for a great meal.

If you want to leave the kids at home, head to NoLa by Brian, at the corner of Bridge and Main. Locally sourced ingredients promise you the freshest meal in town, and the creative menu features something intriguing for everyone in your party. The appetizer foccacia comes with house-made ricotta, and the scallops with marscapone ravioli wins raves as well. Bring your favorite wine, because NoLa remains BYOB for the time being.

There aren't any bars in Stockton, so for a late night out, locals head to one of the nearby towns. If you are looking for a place to watch the game, Jake's Restaurant and Bar in Flemington has giant TVs, cheap brews and world-class steaks.

Wine lovers should head down to Lambertville Station Pub in Lambertville, New Jersey, which has an extensive wine cellar. Bartenders are knowledgeable and help you pick the perfect drink for your palate. The cozy, dark and intimate atmosphere makes the pub a romantic place for a nightcap or two.

Driving is the main mode of transportation in Stockton, NJ, as there are numerous highways and interconnected roads, and parking is cheap and plentiful. Though there are cab companies that service the area, you would have to call them as they are not readily available to hail. UberX and Uber Black also operate here. The main street of Stockton is very walkable and safe for pedestrians.

For those who bicycle, the Stockton area is heaven. There are tons of bike trails and the roads are mostly very bicycle-friendly and have designated bike lanes. The highways can be a little more dangerous and have fewer paths, so use caution.

To get to New York City without driving the whole way, you can go to Trenton Station and hop on a NJ transit train to New York City. Another option involves parking at Flemington Station and taking the Trans-Bridge bus line. Both options have you in the Big Apple in less than 90 minutes.

Bull's Island Recreational Area is the main park in Stockton, NJ. Water remains the biggest attraction here, where families go tubing down the Delaware River. Fishing is also permitted in areas. Besides its running and walking paths, the park is also favorite among botanists, as numerous rare plants can be spotted along the trails.

Naturists and hunters would like Flemington's Westcott Wildlife Preserve, where you can observe exotic birds and animals. The park allows hunting to control for the deer population certain times of the year. There's also an easy half-mile loop for walkers and runners. The creeks are especially fun for kids to explore, little critters like frogs swim there frequently. Dogs are permitted in the parks on-leash.

The cost of living in Stockton is substantially cheaper than New York and even Philadelphia, so some find it worth the commute if they work in the cities. The average one-bedroom goes for about $720 a month. Gas prices in New Jersey are below the national average and you can get a domestic beer most places for $4 or so. All this makes Stockton fairly affordable.

Stockton and surrounding areas are full of unique locally-owned shops, as the area attracts many artists. Paperboat and Bird Art Shoppe owned by sculptor Kelley Roberts, is filled with great gift ideas, paper products, and fun artwork.

If you love vintage and used goods, you need to go to Sojourner in Lambertville. Don't miss the back room, where all the most interesting goods tend to be stored. You can also make your own jewelry with their extensive bead collection.

Farmer's markets are very popular in this area, as there's no shortage of local farms. Lambertville, New Hope and Stockton all have markets on their main streets in the warmer months. For fresh fruits and veggies all year, go to the Stockton Indoor Farmer's Market. Be sure to get the croissants along with your Jersey tomatoes. Another favorite year-round option, Homestead Farm in Lambertville which makes its own gluten-free treats, as well as provides affordable healthy food.

There are plenty of traditional grocery stores within close driving distance for your cupboard staples, too. Try Stockton Food Store to support a local business, or Giant Food Store and a SuperFresh are also close by.