Forty miles west of NYC, the skyline fades, and something softer takes shape—rolling forests, mirror-still lakes, and winding backroads that lead to a new state of mind. The NJ Highlands stretches across seven beautiful counties in New Jersey’s north—and it’s nothing like you expected.
And situated on the banks of Lake Musconetcong in downtown Netcong, a jewel box theatre adorned with fairy tale murals awaits you and your family. The rich history of The Growing Stage is equally matched to its home, The Palace Theatre. In their 44 year history, TGS has provided professional, quality arts education and theatrical productions to children and their families with a dedication to the craft that they truly deserve.
Polo’s Bar & Grill
Enjoy American pub-style food indoors or outdoors, a beverage at the bar, or watch the game on numerous screens in the dining room.
Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant
Dedicated to bringing authentic Mexican cuisine to every plate, you can expect amazing dishes that have made Don José a beloved dining destination.
Bell’s Mansion
Seasonally-inspired new-world cuisine meets vintage antiques. Don’t miss the mirrored oak bar originating from the Palmerton Hotel in PA from the 1800’s.
Stonewood Tavern
Featuring cuisine best described as creative American with a Mediterranean flair, a twist on popular comfort foods, and a selection of innovative specials.
Shakey Jake’s
Enjoy American pub-style food indoors or outdoors, a beverage at the bar, or watch the game on numerous screens in the dining room.
Black Forest Inn
Old-world German beer hall with traditional sausages, Continental dishes & plenty of brews on tap.
Redwoods Grill and Bar
Each day, Redwoods builds a fire with NJ hardwoods, consisting of mainly oak and cherry. Visit to see why Redwoods cuisine has been a neighborhood staple for the past 27 years.
Whistling Swan Inn
Nestled in the heart of NJ's Highlands Region, The Whistling Swan Inn has been welcoming guests like family since opening as a bed and breakfast in 1985.
Residence Inn of Mt. Olive
Ease into extended stays at the Residence Inn Mt. Olive at the International Trade Center. With their location along I-80, they offer easy access to your next adventure!
Holiday Inn Express of Mt. Arlington
The Holiday Inn® Budd Lake - Rockaway's location allows you to discover the quaint small towns of neighboring Hackettstown, Stanhope, and Netcong that surround the largest lake in NJ
Courtyard Marriott of Mt. Arlington
Settle in for a relaxing, invigorating stay at the Courtyard Rockaway-Mt. Arlington. Vacationing guests will enjoy our convenient hotel location in Morris County, NJ, near Rockaway, Sparta, Flanders/Mt. Olive, and Dover.
Airbnb
Enjoy lakeside tranquility and small- town warmth as you explore area lakes, enchanting hiking trails, and the region’s scenic beauty.
Lake Musconetcong
Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, grilling picnic areas, a handicap-access boat launch at Arbolino Park, and playground equipment.
Arbolino Park
With its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Dominick Arbolino Memorial Park serves as a quiet retreat for those seeking a moment of solace away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This park offers a peaceful setting for all who visit.
Waterloo Village
Visit this authentic 19th century village on the banks of the Morris Canal, overflowing with wildflowers, and wildlife. See the Fields at Waterloo, event complex, and Quarry Lake.
Lake Hopatcong Adventure Tours
From hiking to biking to our unique water experiences, their adventure tour company is committed to providing you with one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences you’ll never forget.
Shopping in Downtown Chester
Historic Downtown Chester is a charming, walkable district renowned for over 80 specialty boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants, offering a quintessential small-town experience.
Shopping on Routes 10 & 46 in Ledgewood
This retail hub features a mix of large-anchor stores, specialty retailers, and dining options. Numerous restaurants, pharmacies, and service providers are along both highways.
Alstede Farm
This farm comprises 68 acres with half of their orchards still nurturing big old seedling apple trees planted nearly a century ago. The old trees are genuine antiques and provide our farm with a 19th century feeling.
Alstede Farm
Alstede Farms is focused on being the best farm in the northeast. We are dedicated to providing high-quality homegrown local fruits and vegetables and memorable farm experiences.
Ort Farms
Nestled in a scenic area of Morris County, they farm 400 acres of land to give our customers fresh fruit and vegetables, blooming annuals and perennials, delicious baked goods, giant pumpkins and family fun in our corn maze, and handmade holiday decorations.
Tranquillity Farms
Tranquillity Farms, located in Allamuchy, NJ, is home to a diverse third-generation, family-run agriculture business. Set on 600 acres and farming 800 acres total, the farm prides itself on its vegetables and continual expansion of crops, homemade ice cream, and beautiful Farm Market.
Stony Hill Farms
Along with our Sunflower Festival, Jersey Fresh vegetables and fruit, we offer pick-your-own strawberries, apples, and pumpkins and sell pre-cut Christmas trees, wreaths, and roping at the end of the season.
Download the Brochure
View sample itineraries and tasThe New Jersey Highlands region is a scenic and diverse area, encompassing 88 municipalities in parts of seven counties in northern New Jersey. More than 70% of New Jersey residents get some or all of their drinking water from the Highlands, including 8 out of every 10 people living in a designated Overburdened Community. For this reason, the region is protected by law. The 2004 New Jersey Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act safeguards the New Jersey Highlands from excessive development and environmental degradation. The New Jersey Highlands Council is the state agency responsible for overseeing implementation of the Act. The agency is staffed by a team of professional planners, environmental scientists, and GIS experts
