Which South Jersey towns have the best downtowns for shopping and entertainment?

Top downtowns in South Jersey include Collingswood’s vibrant main street, historic Haddonfield’s boutiques and cafés, Moorestown’s community shops, Marlton/Evesham’s retail corridors, and Glassboro’s college-town entertainment scene. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

What makes Collingswood a standout downtown area?

Collingswood features a bustling main street filled with coffee shops, art galleries, craft breweries, boutique retail, and frequent community events — all within a walkable layout. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Are these downtown areas walkable?

Yes — many of these downtowns score high on walkability with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues close together, making them ideal for pedestrian lifestyles. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Do these downtown areas also offer nightlife and cultural events?

Many downtowns, like Glassboro with college-town flair and Collingswood with frequent markets and galleries, offer entertainment and cultural activities in addition to dining and shopping. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Which South Jersey towns have the best downtowns?

Top South Jersey downtowns include Collingswood, Haddonfield, Moorestown, Marlton/Evesham, and Glassboro — each offering walkable streets, shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Are South Jersey downtowns walkable?

Yes. Many South Jersey downtown areas are designed around pedestrian-friendly streets, with shops, restaurants, and entertainment clustered within walking distance.

Do downtown areas in South Jersey offer nightlife?

Several downtowns, including Collingswood and Glassboro, feature bars, live events, and evening dining options that support active nightlife scenes.

Is downtown living more expensive in South Jersey?

Downtown homes can vary in price, but many South Jersey downtowns remain more affordable than comparable urban neighborhoods while offering strong lifestyle value.

Published November 25, 2025

Best Downtown Areas for Shopping & Entertainment in South Jersey

Written by Mary Murphy

Modern two-story South Jersey suburban home with tan siding and an attached garage, set against a clear blue sky, overlaid with the text: Best Downtown Areas for Shopping & Entertainment in South Jersey

For buyers who value walkability, local culture, and vibrant community life, South Jersey offers several downtown areas that rival more expensive cities — but at a fraction of the cost. From historic main streets to redeveloped waterfronts, these towns combine shopping, dining, nightlife, and walkable living into a compelling package.

Mary Murphy, founder of The Murphy Group, explains:

“Many buyers aren’t just looking for a house — they’re looking for a lifestyle. The right downtown in South Jersey delivers community, convenience, and a sense of place. It’s the kind of living that brings joy year after year.”

Here are the top downtown neighborhoods for shopping and entertainment in South Jersey.

🏡 1. Collingswood (Camden County)

Why It’s a Downtown Gem:

Bustling main street with coffee shops, art galleries, craft breweries, and boutique retail
Frequent community events, farmers markets, and walkable streets make it ideal for weekend outings
Convenient PATCO access for easy commuting to Philadelphia

Home Life Perks:
Townhouses and historic homes give you the walkable lifestyle without sacrificing comfort. Weekends often mean brunch, shopping, and strolling — all without driving.

💬 Pro Tip: Look for homes within a 5–10 minute walk of Haddon Ave for full downtown convenience.

🍷 2. Haddonfield (Camden County)

Why It’s a Downtown Gem:

Quaint, historic main street with boutiques, cafés, unique shops, and a relaxed nightlife vibe
Great for families — safe streets, tree-lined sidewalks, and community events like holiday walks and local markets
A blend of old charm and new amenities

Home Life Perks:
Owners enjoy walkability, quiet streets, and easy access to shops and restaurants — all within a historic, community‑focused town center.

💬 Pro Tip: Homes near Kings Highway give the best mix of convenience and traditional charm.

🎨 3. Moorestown (Burlington County)

Why It’s a Downtown Gem:

Boutique shopping, cafes, eateries, and community events along Main Street
Parks, lakefront walking at Strawbridge Lake, and a calm, suburban-meets-downtown vibe
Excellent balance of nightlife, dining, and family‑friendly atmosphere

Home Life Perks:
Perfect for buyers who want suburban comfort with a downtown feel — and a mix of convenience, recreation, and community charm.

💬 Pro Tip: Townhomes near Main Street or routes to the lake often deliver the best overall lifestyle value.

🌆 4. Marlton / Evesham (Burlington County)

Why It’s a Downtown Gem:

New retail corridors, restaurants, and social hubs keep the area lively
Growing population of young professionals seeking convenience and modern living
Easy access to highways makes dining, social events, and commuting simple

Home Life Perks:
Newer townhouses and condos in walkable zones make this ideal for busy professionals who want convenience without high urban prices.

💬 Pro Tip: Look for housing near Route 70 / 73 for best access to shopping and nightlife.

🌊 5. Glassboro (Gloucester County)

Why It’s a Downtown Gem:

College-town energy (Rowan University) brings restaurants, bars, cultural events, and nightlife
More affordable home prices compared with coastal or high-demand suburbs
Continual growth with new retail, eateries, and community development

Home Life Perks:
Great for younger buyers or those wanting to stay socially active — you get value, energy, and easy walkability at a fraction of metropolitan prices.

💬 Pro Tip: Starter homes near Rowan Boulevard or the downtown corridor offer strong potential for both lifestyle and value.

📊 2025 Downtown Lifestyle Snapshot

Town	Typical Home Price	Walkability	Shopping & Dining Variety
Collingswood	$330K–$450K	Very High	Excellent — shops, cafés, nightlife
Haddonfield	$400K–$550K	High	Boutique retail, dining, family events
Moorestown	$550K–$750K	Moderate‑High	Mid-size shops, lakeside dining
Marlton / Evesham	$420K–$600K	Moderate	Retail corridors and modern amenities
Glassboro	$300K–$400K	Moderate	Nightlife, eateries, student-driven culture

💡 Buyer Insight

Mix of Convenience & Lifestyle: Choosing a downtown area means sacrificing less for convenience — you walk or bike instead of drive, enjoy more dining and nightlife, and often get better long-term value due to demand.
Balance Price vs. Lifestyle: Historic downtowns offer charm but often come at a price; newer towns strike a balance of value and amenities.
Community & Social Vibe: For singles, young families, or retirees — downtown living fosters social connection, local engagement, and a strong sense of place.

Mary Murphy adds:

“Whether you want a café on your corner, shops within walking distance, or easy access to transit — downtown South Jersey delivers options for every lifestyle. Our eyes are always on the neighborhoods that combine lifestyle, value, and community.”

📈 Outlook for 2026

Increased demand for walkable living as remote work continues to rise
New mixed-use development expanding in smaller towns — more shopping, dining, recreation near homes
Stable or growing home values in downtown areas due to lifestyle appeal and limited supply

📲 Ready to Explore South Jersey Downtown Living?

If you want to find a home in a South Jersey downtown — whether for walkability, nightlife, or convenience — The Murphy Group is your local expert. We’ll help you navigate neighborhoods, lifestyle trade‑offs, and find the right match for your needs.

Start your downtown‑living search today at www.mgsells.com