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Now, the nitty-gritty. Summer begins in just a few short weeks so we’re making this post all about kicking off the season of fun in the sun! Summertime is undoubtably our favorite time of the year because it has something for everyone, and Mercer County has the season covered with endless recreation, dining options, festivals, swimming… so much to do, so little time. You ready? Here’s a list to help get your summer started.

Summer bike photoIce Cream

For Those Looking For Team Spirit

Trenton Thunder Baseball

1 Thunder Road, Trenton, NJ 08611

609.394.3300  www.trentonthunder.com

Full Ball Park
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/trentonthunder/

Trenton Thunder is back at full capacity, and they are now home to the Triple-A Buffalo Bisons! A perfect summer outing for all the fun foods (hotdogs, nachos, peanuts, cracker jackets…), cheers, laughs and family bonding. It’s great for a guy’s night, date night, and corporate event because it’s a fun time for everyone and for all ages. It’s an American pastime for a reason.

For Those Looking For Recreation

Hiking at Baldpate Mountain

28 Fiddlers Creek Rd, Hopewell Township, NJ 08560

609.303.0700  www.mercercountyparks.org

Blue Sys and an Open hiking path on Baldpate Mountain near Princeton, NJ
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/beautifulbuckscounty/

Over 12 miles of marked trails for hiking, trail running, mountain biking and more. It also offers the highest point in Mercer County, giving you a spectacular view of the Delaware River. A great place for dog lovers as well!

 

Golf at Mercer Oaks

725 Village Rd W, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550

609.936.9603 

Mercer Oaks offers an 18 hole championship course that’s open year round, but with the landscape of Lake Mercer and Mercer County Park, it’s best to see it during the summer months. The course measures over 7,000 yards with a par of 72, and gives two completely different course challenges for players of all levels. 

See Guide to Golfing in Mercer County

 

Princeton Canoe & Kayak Rental

483 Alexander St, Princeton, NJ 08540

609.452.2403 www.princetoncanoe.com

Easy access to a variety of local waterways, and canoes and kayaks to fit everyone. It’s also conveniently located next to hiking/biking baths, restaurants and attractions. Or you can enjoy your own eats at their picnic tables! An ideal day trip.

A group of children wearing life jackets standing by kayaks i Princeton

 

For Those Looking For Family Fun

Terhune Orchards

330 Cold Soil Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540

609.924.2310 www.terhuneorchards.com

Bring the kids and pick your own blueberries, flowers, cherries and more! You can also enjoy the various farm activities offered, see the barnyard animals, attend classes, enjoy the festivals and of course indulge in some food to eat (famous apple cider donuts anyone?). You can also grab some of their freshly picked vegetables, fruits, flowers or home-baked pies to bring home. And don’t forget every Friday is their Sips & Sounds event for those who enjoy wine and music with great scenery.

Little Boy picking Strawberries near Princeton, NJ
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/terhuneorchards/

 

Hopewell Tennis & Swim Center

111 Titus Mill Rd, Pennington, NJ 08534

609.737.3600 www.hopewelltennis.com

A great way to have fun in the sun is to get in the water! Hopewell Tennis & Swim Center is located on 12 acres and offers an Olympic-sized pool, wading pool, full-service snack bar and playground. They also offer private and group swim sessions, tennis lessons and summer camps for all ages and abilities. Note that membership is needed!

 

Live Music and Outdoor Movie Nights in Palmer Square

40 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542

609.921.2333 www.palmersquare.com

Palmer Square is much more than shopping and dining. It has an array of family events happening all season, including their Summer Music Series and Summer Movies on the Green. Check their website for specific dates and enjoy the Palmer Square experience!

 

People walking through Palmer Square in Princeton

For Those Looking For Good Eats

 

Rat’s Restaurant

16 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton Twp, NJ 08619

609.584.7800 www.ratsrestaurant.com

 

There are endless amazing restaurants in Mercer County, but we’re listing Rat’s here for its incredible outdoor dining experience and surrounding. The restaurant is embedded into a sculpture garden that’s reminiscent of Claude Monet’s beloved town of Giverny. The French cuisine and walk through the garden will have your heart (and stomach) singing.

 

Grounds for Sculpture Fountain in Princeton

 

Princeton Farmer’s Market

55 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ

609.924.8431 www.princetonfarmersmarket.com

The final item on our list is the Princeton Farmer’s Market because you’ll find fresh local and organic produce, homemade sweets, crafts, live entertainment and your lunch options are endless. Happens every Thursday and helps support local farmers. Come check out the goods for yourself!

Calzones from the Princeton Farmers Market
Photo via https://www.instagram.com/princetonfarmersmarket/