Things To Do
in Howell
Howell, New Jersey is a suburban township in Monmouth County known for its leafy neighborhoods and family-friendly vibe. It sits near the Manasquan Reservoir and a network of parks that attract outdoor lovers year-round. The town benefits from convenient road access, placing it within easy reach of both the Jersey Shore and major cities like NYC and Philadelphia.
Visitors will find a quiet, community-focused atmosphere with a mix of farms, diners, and locally owned shops.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the famous Howell Diner, where you can indulge in their renowned pancakes and fresh coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the historic downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and unique boutiques. Be sure to stop by the Howell Historical Museum to learn about the rich local history and culture.
In the afternoon, grab a light lunch at a local café before heading to the Howell Main Street for some shopping. Explore the various shops offering handmade goods, antiques, and local art, perfect for finding a unique souvenir. As you wander, keep an eye out for seasonal events or festivals that might be happening.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant like Cleary's Pub, known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious comfort food. After dinner, consider catching a live performance at the Howell Opera House, where you can experience local talent in a beautifully restored venue. Cap off your evening with a relaxing walk along the streets, soaking in the small-town charm.
Begin your day with a picnic breakfast at Howell City Park, surrounded by beautiful greenery and serene lakes. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore the extensive trails within the park. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and vibrant wildlife.
In the afternoon, enjoy some outdoor activities like frisbee, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake. If you're traveling with family, let the kids play at the park’s playground while you relax on a bench with a good book. For lunch, pack a picnic or visit a nearby food truck for some delicious street food.
As evening approaches, settle in for a peaceful time by the water, perhaps fishing or enjoying a sunset over the lake. After the sun sets, head back into town for dinner at a local steakhouse, savoring a hearty meal. To end your day, consider a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,500-2,400 |
| 🧾Grocery bill for one person per week | $40-80 |
| 🚌Monthly local transit pass or equivalent | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to outdoor spaces and parks
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with safe streets
- Good road connections to NYC and the Jersey Shore
- Limited nightlife and dense urban punch
- Public transit options can be spotty outside peak hours
Places to Visit in Howell
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide-water views and wildlife abundant at sunrise or late afternoon, with a peaceful backdrop for landscape shots.
Forest trails and a historic ironworks village offer rustic, period-accurate photo opportunities.
Crops, equipment, and farm families in period attire provide authentic rural photography moments.
Food in Howell
Howell Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential New Jersey breakfast sandwich that you’ll find in many diners and delis.
Must-Try!
A hearty cold-cut sandwich with meats, cheese, and vegetables—great for a quick lunch.
Classic American diner fare that’s popular across Howell and nearby towns.
Seafood platters, fish sandwiches, and seasonal catches available at coastal-adjacent spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from local vendors.
Seasonal produce, flowers, honey, and local specialties to stock your pantry.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or small talk is common; being on time is appreciated in meetings and reservations.
Tipping is standard in dining; waitstaff rely on tips. Polite behavior in restaurants and shops is expected.
Respect personal space; small talk about local events or sports is common and friendly.
Safety
Tipping in Howell
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a gratuity of 15-20% before tax is customary. For delivery or takeout, tipping is appreciated but not always expected; check local practices.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common at smaller establishments. Contactless payments are increasingly popular, and ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity. Seek shade, bring water, and start activities early to beat the heat. Mosquitoes can be present in damp areas and near water.
Pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. Great for outdoor walks, photography, and harvest markets.
Cold with possible snow or icy days. Outdoor activities reduce, but parks and trails remain accessible with proper footwear.
Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. A good time for hikes, cycling, and visiting farmers markets.
Howell at Night
Hiking in Howell
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, relatively easy loop around the reservoir with water views and birdwatching.
Forest trails with a mix of easy to moderate routes near historic Allaire Village.
Airports
How to reach Howell by plane.
Major international hub approximately 30-50 miles from Howell; reachable by car or public transit via NJ Transit/air connections.
Another major option about 70-90 miles away; typically reachable by car or combination of highways.
Smaller regional airport about 40-60 miles away; serves short-haul flights and private aircraft.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the larger groups in suburban Howell.
Growing community with diverse cultural offerings and bilingual services.
Smaller but increasing presence in the region with a range of cultural influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in local leagues and school programs; plenty of parks host games in season.
Seasonal games and pickup play in community gyms and schools.
Youth and adult leagues active in parks and recreational areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Howell.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie burgers, salads, veggie sandwiches, and pasta dishes; ask for dairy-free options where needed and request substitutions (no meat, no fish). Many diners and cafes can accommodate vegetarian diets with advance notice.