Williamstown

A quaint area in southern New Jersey with a mantra of ‘Come Grow with Us,’ Williamstown oozes friendly charm. “It’s got that rural, small-town feel, but then it’s also accessible to Philadelphia when people want to venture into the city,” says Barbara McKale, sales associate with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, who has been selling homes in South Jersey for more than 10 years. Despite its convenience to major highways, Williamstown has been largely untouched by modern development. Instead, locals thrive on the area's tight-knit community feel.

Houses closer to Williamstown’s center sit on smaller lots than those you’ll find as you venture further out. There is an eclectic mix of split-levels, cottages, Cape Cods and bungalows, typically listed between $350,000 and $450,000. They’ve been developed on lots starting at a quarter-acre along main roadways, surrounded by densely wooded areas. “You get a little more bang for your buck because of the outdoor space, and it’s much more scenic than nearby small towns and Philadelphia,” McKale says. Side streets feature small subdivisions where homes are similar in style and feature sidewalks. However, having a car is vital to navigating Williamstown and surrounding areas. Many properties feature short, paved driveways or one- to two-car garages.

A quasi-downtown district sits along South Main Street. Catch an off-Broadway production at The Grand Theater, established in 1924. It’s been the site of silent movies and feature films before eventually becoming the home of the Road Company theater group. After the show, walk down the street to 13th Child Brewery. You’ll likely run into visitors stopping by as they make their way along the Two Bridges Wine, Beer & Spirits Trail, which runs between the Delaware Memorial and Ben Franklin bridges in New Jersey. For grocery essentials, stop by the ShopRite off nearby Black Horse Pike. Heading south along the thoroughfare, you’ll pass a CVS and family-owned Palermo’s Pizzeria & Restaurant, where the lively dining room is lined with murals of Italian cities. Larger shopping options can be found nearly 4 miles north in Turnersville, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Marshalls and Bath & Body Works.

If you’re looking to pick up a new hobby or sport, Owens Park gives you plenty of options. There are baseball fields for minor and senior leagues and two football fields. Locals get together to play a game of hockey on the rinks or catch some air at the concrete skate park. Kids can let loose on the playground, and there are nature trails for you to explore. McKale says Scotland Run Golf Club is another draw for outdoor enthusiasts. The 18-hole course has a unique landscape because it was developed on a sand quarry. After playing a round, golfers can relax with a meal at the club’s Highlander Pub & Grill.

Connect with neighbors and nature at the Williamstown Organic Community Garden. A $25 seasonal fee will allow you to grow produce, herbs and flowers. There is a shed full of tools on-site, so you can quickly start planting. In early 2023, garden organizers implemented a plot with wheelchair-accessible planters, as well as stone pavers and ramps for easy access. The garden is open from April through November and has become a venue for community events, including potlucks and yoga classes. You’ll also find fresh produce at the Williamstown Farmers Market off North Blackhorse Pike, open Thursday through Saturday.

Students are zoned for the Monroe Township School District. For kindergarten through fourth grades, they’ll attend one of three elementary schools – Holly Glen, Oak Knoll or Radix. Holly Glen earned a B-minus rating from Niche, while Oak Knoll and Radix Elementary schools were given B ratings. Williamstown Middle School serves fifth through eighth grades and has a C-plus from Niche. The site gives Williamstown High School an overall B rating. The high school’s football team has garnered attention after winning multiple state sectional championships over the last 10 years.

Due to Williamstown’s secluded location, you’ll have to travel for access to additional amenities, including a hospital. The closest is the Jefferson Washington Township Hospital, about 5 miles north. Reaching Philadelphia’s city center, packed with opportunities for entertainment, history and travel at the Philadelphia International Airport, will require a roughly 25-mile drive along New Jersey Route 42.

Written By

Christopher Kopczynski

Photography Contributed By

Mitchell Birnbaum

Video By

David Strayer