Just ten miles from Philadelphia, Haddonfield stands out for its rich history, vibrant downtown, and strong sense of community. Kings Highway, the heart of town, is lined with colonial architecture, unique shops, and restaurants, while landmarks like the bronze dinosaur sculpture, “Haddy,” pay homage to the town’s history. From its role in shaping New Jersey’s early days to its thriving cultural scene, Haddonfield offers a distinctive blend of heritage and modern charm.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Joana McDonnell, the Communications Officer of Haddonfield, NJ, to gain insight into the charm and unique offerings of this historic town. Her insights provide a closer look at the community and its unique offerings.
What makes this town unique compared to other nearby towns?
Haddonfield has a picturesque Downtown area with boutiques and restaurants. Our main street, Kings Highway, is lined with colonial architecture and historic buildings, and we are only ten miles from Philadelphia. We are home to several historic sites, including being famous for the discovery of the first nearly complete dinosaur skeleton in North America. The Hadrosaurus Foulkii was discovered in a Marl Pit on Maple Avenue in the late 1800s. Twenty-one years ago, a local artist erected a large bronze dinosaur sculpture, which is affectionately known as Haddy and sits prominently in our Downtown. Haddonfield also has several parks and nature trails frequently used by residents and visitors. We were founded by a young Quaker woman, Elizabeth Haddon, who traveled from England alone at 19 and established this community. Haddonfield has an excellent school district which attracts many families and has a strong community spirit.
How would you describe the town’s identity or character?
Downtown Haddonfield is the heart of our community, which dates back to the 1700s. Indeed, Haddonfield has played a role in both the birth of the State of New Jersey and the United States of America. This rich history has generated a beautiful built environment that is designated on the National and New Jersey Registers of Historic Places. Our tree canopy, which has evolved over many years, also contributes to the charm of our Downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.
How has the town evolved or changed in the past few years?
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have focused and committed to hosting live, interactive, inventive events throughout the year in order to foster a strong sense of community among those within Haddonfield while also welcoming visitors from across the region. Building upon our historic charm, public transit access, and proximity to the City of Philadelphia, we strive to nurture & grow our reputation as the preeminent destination for arts & culture lovers in Southern New Jersey.
What are the top attractions or must-see spots in town?
Kings Highway runs through our Downtown Business District. Residents and visitors enjoy strolling the tree-lined street to shop or eat at one of our many restaurants. We are a town with a significant history to the State of New Jersey; Haddonfield is home to the Indian King Tavern Museum, where New Jersey completed its transition from colony to state. This almost 300-year-old building on Kings Highway is New Jersey’s first state-owned historic site (which was acquired in 1903) and is vital to our state and nation. Today, The Indian King Tavern Museum offers free tours and history lessons to all who knock on its solid oak door.
Are there any hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path places that visitors often overlook?
Artwalk is an initiative of the local non-profit Haddonfield Outdoor Sculpture Trust (HOST). It features fifty feet of wrought iron railing where artists exhibit their creations. You can find this hidden gem on Mechanic Street, just off of Kings Highway. Artwalk provides artists with exposure and opportunity to sell their work directly to interested buyers. The rotating exhibits enhance the town’s rich cultural tapestry, adding charm and creativity to the streetscape. This initiative offers a unique and dynamic experience for locals, visitors, and art enthusiasts alike.
What seasonal activities or events draw the most visitors?
Our active volunteer community is expansive. From our community farmers market to one of the area’s most popular historic re-enactments, The Skirmish. We have an ongoing, ever-evolving calendar of events and community engagement opportunities. Other examples include the annual antique car show, Independence Day Parade, Mayor’s Wellness Festival, our inaugural Haddonfield Music Festival (May 2024), and a String Band Parade in cooperation with our neighbor, Haddon Township, as well as Camden County. The Downtown Haddonfield business district hosts one of our signature events: the Crafts & Fine Art Festival each July on Kings Highway, with over 200 hundred artists showcasing the best fine art and craft from the region and beyond. This two-day outdoor festival celebrated its 30th Anniversary in July 2024.
How does the town promote its local businesses and attractions to visitors?
The Partnership for Haddonfield (PFH) is a business improvement district (BID) formed in accordance with New Jersey law. The PfH is a non-profit with an Executive Director who runs Downtown Haddonfield. The Executive Director promotes all the activities through its website, www.DowntownHaddonfield.com, and its social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram, with a combined 53,000 followers. The Borough of Haddonfield has a part-time Communications Officer who collaborates with the PfH to plan events and promote the activities in the Downtown.
Are there any new businesses or recent developments in town that are gaining attention?
A boutique Bed and breakfast with a restaurant is planned for historic Boxwood Hall, and this will be the Borough’s only hotel upon completion. Another exciting new development for the municipality is the planned Police Dept. Headquarters at 1 Walnut St., which will be constructed within the downtown area in a now-vacant building (formerly a Bank of America). This new police facility will expand the municipal footprint and provide a beautiful, functional public plaza while also providing a much-needed healthy, safe, and fully functional home for the PD.
What types of businesses or industries are thriving here?
Our business district is diverse, with restaurants, retail stores, personal services, and offices in historic buildings.
What is the best way for visitors to learn about things to do in the area, beyond traditional tourist guides?
They can follow Downtown Haddonfield for all the event information. The Haddonfield Historical Society is an excellent source for local history, and the Borough of Haddonfield, Haddofieldnj.org., for all information.