Ellen & Patrick
Things To Do
Natirar Park
Natirar Park is one of our favorite places to walk or run. There are over three miles of walking paths situated below a beautiful mansion, previously owned by the late King of Morocco. After your walk, stop at CocoLuxe for coffee and pastries! Ninety Acres, one of our favorite restaurants, is set in the original mansion's carriage house.
Duke Farms
Duke Farms is a wonderful place to experience New Jersey’s native landscape, with over 1,000 acres of land open to the public. You'll find miles of paved paths surrounded by flowers and trees that will lead you to an orchid range, waterfall, and Japanese garden. Duke Farms is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm. Saturday visits require a free parking pass found at dukefarms.org.
Burnt Mills Cider
Enjoy a hard cider tasting at Burnt Mills - we like the hibiscus rose!
Hacklebarney State Park
We love hiking at Hacklebarney! Nine hiking trails traverse a total of 5 miles in the northern portions of the 465-acre natural area and offer breathtaking views of the Black River, which lies deep within a shaded hemlock ravine. Rinehart and Trout Brooks empty into the Black River and several small waterfalls can be seen from the high trails. The diversity of upland and wetland habitats provides excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration. Since the topography of the park is rather rugged, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Our favorite birding spot in the area! 12-square-mile natural oasis in an area that is mostly suburban, making the refuge an outstanding area for migrating waterfowl to stop, rest and feed on their migration. Points of interest include the Helen Fenske Visitor Center, Wildlife Observation Center, Overlook Parking Area, and over eight miles of trails in the Wilderness area.
Beneduce Vineyards
Enjoy a wine tasting, food trucks and live music at Beneduce!
Downtown Somerville
Grab coffee at Ambee, eat at Turf Surf & Earth (featured on Diners, Drive ins and Dives!), and check out Spotted Leaf Plant Co - you won't be able to leave without a plant.
Downtown Morristown
Coffee shops (check out LOKL), bars, and great restaurants (we love Jockey Hollow, South & Pine, and End of Elm)!
Downtown Basking Ridge
Ellen's hometown! Check out Blue Cafe for breakfast/lunch and Washington House for dinner. If you find yourself in Basking Ridge, O'Bagel is a must!
Bedminster Farmers Market
Opens at 9am on Sunday
Melick's Town Farm
Seasonal pick-your-own produce and a farm market!
