First established in 1926, the Little Silver Public Library relocated from the old firehouse on Church St. in 1960 to its new home adjacent to the Borough of Little Silver Municipal Building, where it currently houses a large collection, and offers Internet privileges for those with a library card and children's programs on Tuesdays from 9am - 4:30pm.
Originally formed in 1820, Embury United Methodist Church had several relocations and renovations before moving to its current loation in Little Silver. Pastor for the church for over four years, Kyewoon Choi leads Sunday sermons weekly.
A visit to Allaire State Park in Monmouth County, New Jersey offers visitors a plethora of activities to choose from. You can step back in time at historic 19th Century Allaire Village, take a ride on an antique steam train at the Pine Creek Railroad, go hiking on a network of trails, or fish on the picturesque Manasquan River. There is something for everyone at the 3,000-plus acres park that is maintained by the New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry.
How to get to Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park is located in Farmingdale, New Jersey. Traveling by car is the best way to get to the facility since public transportation does not have stops within a safe and manageable walking distance to the park. Once you arrive at Allaire State Park, there is ample parking available in lots throughout the facility. Visitors can easily locate the lots via the signs strategically placed in the park or by obtaining a map of the park from the Visitor Center. Since the Visitor Center is only open seasonably and during special events, the Allaire State Park recommends that visitors call the Allaire State Park Office at 732-938-2371 for operating hours.
Best and worst times to go to Allaire State Park
Allaire State Park is open daily from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The facility attracts a large amount of visitors annually especially when a special event is running, such as Santa Claus riding the rails at the Pine Creek Railroad or a craft fair at Historic Allaire Village. Warm weekends tend to be more popular especially during the time frame between Memorial Day and Labor Day, but you can always find joggers, hikers, fishermen, and walkers taking advantage of the trails in the park. However, even with increased attendance, there is always plenty of parking and open space available to enjoy the laid back atmosphere of the park.
Admission to Allaire State Park
Entrance to Allaire State Park is free and there is not a charge for parking for the majority of the year, however, from Memorial Day through Labor Day a small fee is applied for parking. Admission to the popular Historic Allaire Village is usually free. However, a minimal charge is collected when the village is running a special event such as a flea market, craft fair, or other cultural activity. The Pine Creek Railroad is operated and maintained by the New Jersey Museum of Transportation. A fee is charged for a ride on the train for everyone three years of age and up. Fees also apply for visitors who wish to use the camping facilities. Rates vary according for New Jersey residents and non-residents as well as for the type of camping shelter involved.
Must see/do at Allaire State Park
Definitely, explore the Historic Allaire Village when you visit Allaire State Park. The village was actually a factory-town that was build around the Howell Iron Works Co. It was a self-sufficient community that had a post office, school, bakery, and church along with other buildings. Visitors will really enjoy their time spent here especially during a special event. Don't miss the Pine Creek Railroad. It is run by the New Jersey Museum of Transportation and is a real treat for kids and train enthusiasts. Make sure to take a ride on the steam train.
Other places to visit near Allaire State Park
Only about three miles away from Allaire State Park is the Manasquan Reservoir. This is another great place to explore if you love the outdoors, offering bike paths, kayaking, and picnic areas as well as a fabulous and informative Visitor Center. If there is a pirate lover in your midst, travel down to the Riverfront Marina in Brick where your little ones can experience what it truly means to be a pirate at Jersey Shore Pirates.
Insider tip for visitors to Allaire State Park
If you a looking for a unique place for a birthday party or a wedding, give some serious thought to Allaire State Park. At Pine Creek Railroad, your child or train lover can have his or her birthday party in an authentic train station and then ride the rails. The chapel in Historic Allaire Village has been hosting nuptials since the 19th Century and it welcomes couples of all denominations. Couples should also consider the park for wedding photos. It provides an excellent backdrop.
Author's bio: Dawn Miller is a freelance writer and mystery author. She lives in New Jersey.