Lambertville’s charm is steeped in its Victorian architecture, its eclectic mix of old and new and a citywide pride that shines through every nook and cranny — and there are plenty of them.
Named Jersey’s Best Destination of the Year, Lambertville is a Jersey gem, a Delaware River town that oozes charm, inviting visitors to sample its diverse dining, peruse its art galleries, shop for antiques and other wares and stroll along the river.
“It’s exciting to see the place you live and work awarded the distinction of being New Jersey’s best destination,’’ said Lisa Voorhees, president, Lambertville Chamber of Commerce. “This recognition gives us an opportunity to showcase all we have to offer — the river, towpath, a culinary scene that ranges from fine dining to local places that have been around for decades. There’s art, antiques, shops, a bit of everything.’’
Lambertville hosts one of New Jersey’s most popular events — Shad Fest, set this year for April 22 and 23.
Lambertville’s charm is steeped in its Victorian architecture, its eclectic mix of old and new and a citywide pride that shines through every nook and cranny — and there are plenty of them.
The city boasts a collection of mostly locally owned antique shops, curated boutiques and art galleries. The restaurant scene is sure to delight. Whether it’s a candle-lit dinner or a juicy burger at a local joint, Lambertville has an eatery to please every palate and budget. Wine tasting and breweries are also part of the mix.
Outdoor activities abound. The Delaware & Raritan Canal towpath attracts walkers and bikers who can cycle along the flat, gravel path that runs about 15 miles from Lambertville to Frenchtown.
Named Jersey’s Best Destination of the Year, Lambertville is a Jersey gem, a Delaware River town that oozes charm, inviting visitors to sample its diverse dining, peruse its art galleries, shop for antiques and other wares and stroll along the river.
Visitors feel the affection that people who live and work here have for this small city, a welcome that is palatable whether dining at one of Lambertville’s iconic restaurants or stepping into a small shop to browse.
“It’s a close-knit community,’’ said Voorhees, a Lambertville native. “The businesses work together. They promote and support each other. And that is reflected in how we welcome visitors.’’
Lambertville hosts one of New Jersey’s most popular events — Shad Fest, set this year for April 22 and 23. What began as a showcase for the local art scene has evolved into an award-winning extravaganza of food, art, music, games and, of course, shad — a sweet, salty fish that returns to the Delaware River each spring to spawn before returning to the ocean.
This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with handcrafted art, jewelry, home goods, music and fun for the whole family.
The festival food court and local restaurants will be serving up the city’s best fare, including the famous shad. Children will find plenty to keep them busy, with games, face painting and other activities. Local musicians will liven the festival on both the streets and in local restaurants.
This year, a portion of the festival’s proceeds will go to support the Lewis family, which has been nurturing the only remaining shad fishery on the Delaware River since 1888. Family members will be on hand to provide shad hauling demonstrations during the festival.
“The Lewis family does so much to protect the fishery and promote Shad Fest,’’ Voorhees said. “We want to support their critical work.’’
Whether you visit Lambertville during Shad Fest or any other time during the year, it’s a destination that will not disappoint.
