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Historic Smithville Village

For decades visitors to Historic Smithville Village have taken home with them lasting memories; memories that bring them back today to create new memories with their children and grandchildren…Many marriage proposals have taken place in the Village…Many wedding too. For Smithville holds a romantic charm all its own. Time stands still as we stroll down the brick paths through the Village; past the old barber shop built in 1840; the apothecary shop (drug store) and the meat market both circa 1885. The chapel dates back to 1874 and the red schoolhouse to 1871. A walk over the bridge leads us to the Historic Smithville Inn, a landmark since 1787. We take a moment to pause on the bridge to view the paddleboats gliding by with the music of the carousel in the background.

Although today Smithville’s more than sixty historic buildings house shoppes, eateries, theatres and a museum, it is more than a shopping experience. It is truly a family destination offering something for every family member to enjoy with its year round attractions and weekend festivals. Riding the train through the Village is fun for all. At the puppet theatre you may be greeted by Annabelle Bear or Sara the Turtle. The Brownstone Puppet Theatre and Museum is located in the old red schoolhouse on the Village Greene. The Museum’s collection includes over 100 puppets, posters, photographs and music boxes. The shows are presented year round with an array of puppet characters that interact with children and grown-ups alike. “Pinocchio’s Tale” and “There’s a Whale Under My Bed” with Annabelle Bear are featured shows this summer. The theatre is one of the only 36 permanent puppet theatres in the U.S. and the entertainment is magical, lighthearted fare for the entire family.

There are seven eateries at the Village from fine dining at the Inn to hot dogs and pizza. The Jersey Shore Seafood Company serves only the freshest fish and seafood from local waters. Most popular on the menu are the lump crab cakes, lobster salad sandwiches, clam chowders (red or white) and the raw bar. The children’s menu offers popcorn shrimp in the basket, chicken fingers, as well as burgers and hot dogs. There is outdoor dining and a fish market.

Not far from the carousel is a charming octagonal structure that appears to house another carousel but instead you will find Sandy Kids, a magical world of children’s clothing extraordinaire, for girls and boys newborn to pre-teen. Traditional frocks from April Cornell and Baby Lulu; sundresses, great hats; bathing suits, trendy rain gear and surf wear for boys; accessories and great gifts including wooden puzzles that no grandmother can resist.

The British Connection is your ticket to the best of British, Scottish and Welsh imports. From fine bone china, woolens and chess sets, to novelty items such as Bobbi hats, union jack clothing, dog collars and humorous greeting cars. There are toiletries from Woods of Windsor and Bromley. Delectable food biscuits, jams and of course tea. You can find Yorkshire pudding and scone mixes. Bring your coolers for the port pies and other frozen foods, and don’t forget the vintage British music Hall CD on the way out.

The James B. Johnson House built in 1820 with its two fireplaces and colonial charm is the perfect setting for Cranberry Hill of Smithville, a fine home and gift gallery. Candles made from soy, lamps, pottery and pillows designed to bring a sense of romance to the home are just a few of the accessories you’ll find in the delightful shop. Christening gowns, teddy bears and other baby gifts can be found in the baby room on the second floor.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway in the fall come back. The Colonial Inn will be opening in late summer with eight luxurious rooms and a continental breakfast.