Bridgewater/
Martinsville
Bridgewater
Welcome to Bridgewater Township, NJ
The affluent Bridgewater Township sits just south of the intersection of Interstates 78 and 287, which means residents can easily be in New York, Philadelphia, or Newark for work or play. But with a school system that is considered to be one of the best in New Jersey, exciting shopping and entertainment opportunities, and acres of beautiful greenspace, you may find that there is not much reason to leave.
The historic township dates back to 1749, and up until the 1970s, it was a largely rural farming community. Its low crime rates and laid-back, peaceful way of life eventually attracted people from neighboring cities. Today, Bridgewater Townships is an eclectic mix of new and historic homes, gorgeous countryside, and convenient commercial areas.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment in Bridgewater Township
The most popular place for shopping in Bridgewater Township just happens to be one of the most popular malls in the state. Bridgewater Commons is an upscale 900,000 square foot facility that is home to stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Lord & Taylor, Pottery Barn, Coach, J. Crew, and Michael Kors. It also features a theater and food court.
Sports fans can catch an Atlantic League baseball game between the Somerset Patriots and a rival at TD Bank Ballpark in Bridgewater Township. It seats 6,100 and has a lawn, and you can even catch a concert there when the team is away or during the off-season.
For golfers, the Raritan Valley Country Club features a challenging course developed by famed architect Herbert H. Barker. It is also home to four tennis courts, and a pool and hosts numerous events throughout the year. Green Knoll Golf Course is also located in the township. The Somerset County Park Commission operates the 18-hole, 6,443-yard course.
Parks and Playgrounds in Bridgewater Township
Residents adore the ample greenspace in Bridgewater Township, which includes many parks, playgrounds, trails, and farms. One popular spot is the 715-acre Washington Valley Park. Fishing enthusiasts love to visit the reservoirs that restrict boat access, while birdwatchers come from all around to spots hawks and bald eagles at the park’s Chimney Rock Hawk Watch. There are also many trails among the park’s mostly undeveloped land.
The 343-acre Duke Island Park is another favorite space for locals. Mostly encompassed by the Raritan Power Canal and Raritan River, the park offers hiking and biking trails, a playground, multiple picnic areas, a softball field, and fishing opportunities.
Martinsville
Welcome to Martinsville, NJ
Situated between Interstates 78 and 287 in Bridgewater Township, Martinsville is an established, peaceful residential community that is rich with history and charm. It does have its own zip code, post office, and small commercial center, but most of Martinsville is made up of tree-lined residential streets with homes built on larger lots.
Martinsville is a highly-sought after community because of its desirable homes, great schools, and prime location. It is just under 30 miles from Newark and just under 40 miles from New York City. It is also just 25 miles from the coast. Residents also appreciate the natural beauty of Martinsville. The community of around 11,500 people is largely wooded, surrounded by mountains, and parts of Washington Valley Park overflow into its boundaries.
History buffs will enjoy the fact that Martinsville is home to the place where the first official United States flag was flown in 1777. The Continental Army used the area as a seasonal encampment where they could hide among the First Watchung Mountains and spy on the British forces in New Brunswick. Every July 4th since 1889, residents and visitors commemorate this event with a changing of the flag and a reading of the United States Declaration of Independence at the historic location.
Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment in Martinsville
Many of the attractions in Martinsville revolve around the area’s storied past, including a Revolutionary War era cemetery, where many soldiers from both sides are buried, as well as the Mount Bethel Baptist Meetinghouse, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
There are several restaurants located in the commercial area of Martinsville. For pizza, the Lombardi Pizza Co. is definitely a favorite with its fresh ingredients and delicious pies. Pizza Brothers of Martinsville and Joe’s Pizza are also favorites among the locals. There is plenty of fine Italian dining to be found in the community at restaurants like Fratellis Restaurant Bar & Grill, Trio Vera Cucina Italiana, and Panatieri Pizza & Pasta Italian Restaurant. Martinsville has a few delis, too, including Benny’s Kitchen and Martinsville Deli. For dessert, you must try the dozens of flavors of ice cream at Gabriel’s Fountain Restaurant.
While you will not find a large mall or shopping center in Martinsville, you can head a few minutes southwest to Bridgewater’s popular shopping mall, Bridgewater Commons. The mall has a dine-in theater, as well as several restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory, Maggiano’s Little Italy, and California Pizza Kitchen. Stores include Lord & Taylor, Macy’s, Bloomingdales, Guess, Michael Kors, Apple, the Lego Store, Bose, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, and Williams-Sonoma.
Parks and Playgrounds in Martinsville
Part of the 719-acre Washington Valley Park is located in Martinsville, and it is a favorite spot for local outdoors enthusiasts. Seven miles of trails are available for hiking and biking, and there are several spots that are ideal for watching hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey. A 21-acre reservoir, views of the Watchung Mountains, and freshwater wetland marshes add to the area’s scenic beauty.
Martinsville’s smaller Chimney Rock Park is a beautiful, mostly wild green space with a small playground and walking trails. It is a great place for a peaceful walk, winter fun in the snow and ice, or a family picnic.
Mountain Park on the northeast side of Martinsville features open fields where people of all ages can play soccer, baseball, softball, and lacrosse. It also has walking and jogging trails.
Real Estate Information
Many of the homes in Martinsville were built between the 1950s and 1990s, meaning you will find quality craftsmanship on established streets. You will also find a selection of new construction with spacious floor plans and inviting amenities. Many of the homes sit on larger lots with wooded backyards. The average home price is around $620,000, but you will find a selection of million-dollar homes and scattered throughout Martinsville.
Helpful Links
https://www.bridgewatercommons.com
http://www.somersetpatriots.com/
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