Things To Do
in Vernon
Vernon, New Jersey sits in western Sussex County along the Kittatinny Ridge, offering rolling hills, forests, and a strong outdoor tradition. The area serves as a gateway to parks, lakes, and small towns that maintain a quiet, rural charm. Mountain Creek Resort anchors a year-round outdoor scene with winter skiing and summer activities.
It is roughly a 60- to 75-minute drive from Manhattan, making it a popular escape for city visitors seeking fresh air and hillside scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up refreshed after your journey and settle into your charming Vernon accommodation. Step out onto Main Street for a fresh brew at a local café and watch the town come to life. Wander through boutique shops and grab a light pastry before your next stop.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a family-run diner renowned for its homemade pies. Explore the town square, browse artisan stalls, and pause for photos at the historic clock tower. Take a leisurely walk through Crescent Lake Park and admire the seasonal blooms.
Dine at a cozy bistro offering farm-to-table specialties and local craft beers. Attend a live performance or open-mic night at the Forum Theatre to soak up Vernon’s arts scene. Cap the evening with a nightcap on a rooftop patio overlooking the twinkling town lights.
Begin with a guided tour of the Vernon Historical Society Museum to uncover the town’s early settler stories. Examine vintage photographs, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that bring the past alive. Enjoy a complimentary coffee from the museum’s quaint café.
Head to the Heritage District for lunch at an old estate converted into a tearoom. Meander along the historic walking trail and admire restored Victorian homes with intricate gingerbread trim. Pop into specialty shops selling antiques and locally crafted goods.
Join a lantern-lit ghost tour through the old cemetery and hear spine-tingling local legends. Continue downtown for a flight of samplers at a nearby craft brewery. Relax back at your B&B with a slice of homemade pie and a tome from their small library.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧺Weekly groceries for a single person | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant outdoor recreation and scenic landscapes
- Proximity to NYC makes it an easy escape from the city
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Vernon itself
- Rural roads and longer drives to some services
Places to Visit in Vernon
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic 360-degree views from the highest point in New Jersey; ideal for sunrise and sunset silhouettes.
Calm waters, sailboats, and colorful skies reflecting on the water for tranquil landscape shots.
season.
Food in Vernon
Vernon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Jersey breakfast sandwich often enjoyed at local diners.
Must-Try!
A hearty sub featuring local deli meats, cheeses, and crunchy vegetables.
A dish that highlights produce from nearby farms, available at select restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and regional treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a polite demeanor are valued. Handshakes are common on introductions; say please and thank you.
Rural communities value privacy; keep noise levels reasonable, especially in residential areas and at night.
Ask for permission if photographing people or private property; respect posted signs and private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Vernon
Ensure a smooth experience
In Vernon and the U.S., tipping 15-20% at restaurants and bars is standard. Cash tips are appreciated, but tips added on credit card payments are common too. For hotel staff, consider tipping housekeeping daily and bellhops per bag. Tipping for others (taxis, guides) generally ranges from 10-20% depending on service quality.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and occasionally humid with strong afternoon thunderstorms. Expect busy lakes and resort areas; stay hydrated and apply sunscreen during hikes and outdoor activities.
Cold and snowy at times; Mountain Creek ski area is a winter draw. Dress in layers, check weather forecasts, and be prepared for icy roads.
Mild days with blooming trees and flowers. Great for hikes and birdwatching, though showers can occur; bring a light rain layer.
Classic foliage season with vibrant reds and golds. Ideal for scenic drives and photography, but temperatures can drop quickly in the evening.
Vernon at Night
Hiking in Vernon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multiple trailheads with expansive ridge views and forest scenery near Vernon.
Iconic long-distance trail along the ridge with dramatic overlooks and varied terrain.
Varied forest trails with streams, rocky outcrops, and seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Vernon by plane.
Major international gateway located roughly 60-75 miles east; extensive domestic and international connections with straightforward routes via major highways.
Regional airport in New Windsor/Newburgh area, about 45-60 miles north; convenient for regional flights and fewer crowds.
Relatively close to the New York metro area as a general aviation airport; about 50-60 miles east depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children; a mix of suburban and rural living with good access to outdoor spaces.
Quieter, scenic environment that attracts retirees seeking nature and a slower pace.
Some residents commute to NYC or northern NJ for work, often relying on highways for access.
Visitors and locals drawn to parks, trails, and water recreation year-round.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter staple at Mountain Creek with runs suitable for all levels.
Popular on Lake Hopatcong and local lakes during warmer months.
Several scenic courses in and around Sussex County offer challenging play in a rural setting.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vernon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Vernon restaurants offer vegetarian options; seek veggie burgers, salads, pasta, and seasonal vegetables; ask about egg, dairy, or honey use and call ahead if you’re coordinating a large meal.