Over summer we decided we wanted a quick getaway that wasn’t too far from home. At some point I heard about Wild West City and saw that it was in Stanhope. After doing a little more research for the area we opted to go.
North Jersey, day trip or two day getaway for couples or families.
- Excursion: Wild West City
- Excursion: Waterloo Village Historic Site
- Hotel: Whistling Swann Inn (great for couples)
- Dinner: Bell’s Mansion
A family-owned and operated western theme park, in existence since 1957, opens its gates seven days a week during the summer months. Tickets can be purchased either in advance or at the front booth, granting access to the park, Main Street shows, entertainment, shopping, live demonstrations, and museums. For an extra fee, visitors can enjoy mini golf, pony rides, a train ride, and a stagecoach ride. The park also has an on-site restaurant.
Throughout the day, we engaged with numerous volunteers and families, all echoing the same sentiment: their love for Wild West City. The volunteers, were friendly and enthusiastic to share their knowledge and commitment to preserving its history. Conversations with families revealed that Wild West City has become a cherished tradition, with parents revisiting the park with their teenagers, recalling their childhood enjoyment. Grandparents were there with their adult children and grandchildren, experiencing the park as a family.
The memories forged by these families transcend value, with Wild West City, despite its inherent cheesiness, offering a spectrum of experiences. Children revel in the thrill and excitement of their first visit, parents bask in nostalgic feelings, and grandparents blend recollections of past visits with the joy of cultivating new memories. Undoubtedly, Wild West City proves to be an excursion worthy of multiple visits over time.
Waterloo Village Historic Site:
Waterloo Village is a restored 19th-century canal town just west of Stanhope. It stands as an open-air museum, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. The village serves as a time capsule, featuring a working mill, a general store, a blacksmith shop, an active church, and several historic houses. The property, is covered with overflowing native wildflowers, that invites leisurely strolls.
Regrettably, during our summer visit on a weekday, we discovered that the visitor center and walking tours were exclusively available on Saturdays and Sundays, from June through September. The Canal Society Museum is only open on select weekends. However on the website there is number provided to arrange private or group tours.
Fortunately, during our visit, a lady in the visitor center provided us with an impromptu tour and a brief history of the town. Beyond its breathtaking beauty, Waterloo Village’s history proved to be a roller coaster ride through the ages. It’s a place I would revisit on a weekend to take a tour to help enrich and deepen your appreciate for this historic site.
Nevertheless, we thoroughly enjoyed our time wandering the grounds, captivated by the sheer beauty of the property.
A Victorian home, now transformed into a bed and breakfast, offers a range of accommodations, from standard rooms to luxurious suites. Each room is uniquely decorated in Victorian themes with meticulous attention to detail.
The pillared porch is enchanting, providing a perfect spot to relax with a cup of tea. The family room boasts a functioning record player from the 1930s or 1940s, adding a touch of vintage. An old photo album showcases images from before, during, and after renovations. The small grounds are beautifully landscaped, creating a charming atmosphere. The bed and breakfast is conveniently located within walking distance of various restaurants.
We eagerly anticipate our future visit. During our conversation with the owners, they mentioned hosting a murder mystery dinner, an event we are excited to attend in the future.
A fine dining restaurant, complete with a garden bar and outdoor seating, is conveniently located just a short walk from the Whistling Swan Inn. We sampled a variety of dishes, ranging from appetizers and salads to sandwiches. Upon being seated, we were delighted with the scrumptious, freshly baked homemade bread.
As we perused the menu, we noted its seasonal updates, piquing our interest in returning to savor their latest offerings
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