The New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism (NJTT) is proud to announce that Glassboro, New Jersey, earned recognition in the Smithsonian Magazine’s much celebrated, “The 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2024” annual editorial feature, authored by renowned Travel Correspondent Laura Kiniry and published on June 11.
“To share company among the many incredible and dynamic small towns across the country in the Smithsonian Magazine this year is not only a win for Glassboro, but also a win for all of New Jersey,” said New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism Executive Director Jeff Vasser. “Such acknowledgement is a testament to the dedication and leadership of the Borough of Glassboro, Gloucester County and our tourism partners at Visit South Jersey. We may be small, but we are indeed a little state that wows big!”
“The small town of Glassboro holds a big place in our hearts here in South Jersey, and we could not be prouder of its incredible recognition in the Smithsonian Magazine,” said Visit South Jersey Director of Operations Mike Snyder. “Glassboro continues to gain popularity among visitors to our state and with the anticipated opening of the one-of-a-kind Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University this year, we expect even more travelers to our region from all parts of the world. Our local hotels, restaurants and attractions are ready to welcome visitors to experience both the history and future of Glassboro today.”
Located in Gloucester County in the southern portion of the Garden State, Glassboro’s population tops just 23,987 residents. Founded in 1923, Rowan University is a Carnegie-classified national doctoral research institution and remains the town’s centerpiece. Within this charming “quintessential college town,” Smithsonian Magazine’s Kiniry spotlights the highly anticipated 2024 opening of the Jean & Ric Edelman Fossil Park & Museum of Rowan University.
The 65-acre fossil park will be the only site east of the Mississippi to allow locals and visitors to dig for fossils from over 66 million years ago, lending Glassboro to be called by the magazine a “fossil-filled small town.” The Edelman Park & Museum of Rowan University is also noted for its “eco-friendly structure,” as the space features geothermal heating and cooling systems, readying it the largest public net-zero facility in the entire state.
Glassboro earns attention by the outlet for its many diverse establishments, including the Heritage Glass Museum, which is located in the Downtown District and showcases local antiques and handblown glass, paying homage to the town’s 1779 roots and century’s long history in glass manufacturing. Fine eateries like LaScala’s Fire and Angelo’s Glassboro Diner are highlighted in the piece, as well as Glassboro’s Town Square, which serves as a hosting ground for community events.
Go to VisitNJ.org to find your Summer Wow in New Jersey: “Little State, Lotta Wow,”