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Historic Smithville in Galloway Township is one of Atlantic County’s favorite day trips, a lakeside village of cobblestone walks, specialty shops and restaurants about 15 minutes north of Atlantic City. Here is what to see, eat and do on your visit.
Stroll the Village Shops
- Where: Historic Smithville, Route 9 and Moss Mill Road, Smithville
- When: Open every day except Christmas. Shop hours vary by season, so call 609-748-8999.
More than 50 shops line the village paths, including The Christmas Shoppe, The Candle Shoppe, Smithville Jeweler, The Smiling Llama with fair trade goods from Peruvian and Chilean artisans, and Smithville Pickle Co. Food lovers can stock up at Smithville Peanut Butter Co., known for peanut butter candies and brittle, and Tomasello Winery’s tasting room.
Explore Lake Meone
- Where: Center of Historic Smithville
- When: Year round. Holiday Light Show nightly 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. from Nov. 27, 2026 to Jan. 6, 2027.
The lake at the heart of the village has paddle boats in warm weather and an authentic covered bridge that makes a classic photo stop. During the holidays it becomes the stage for a free light and music show you can watch from either shore.
Dine at the Smithville Inn
- Where: 1 N. New York Road, Galloway Township
- When: Monday to Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The village’s anchor restaurant dates to 1787 and was revived in 1997 by the Coppola and Bushar families. The lakeside dining rooms serve classic continental and American dishes, and an indoor fireplace makes it a natural pick on cold nights.
Grab a Bite or a Drink
- Where: Historic Smithville
Fred and Ethel’s Lantern Light Tavern, named for the founders of the village, has live music on weekends. Smithville Bakery serves breakfast from 7 a.m., and The Colonial Coffee Cafe, Lakeside Grill and Scoop’s Place round out the casual options.
Ride the Train and Carousel
- Where: The Village Greene, Historic Smithville
- When: Seasonal. Holiday train rides run through December, weather permitting, for $4 per person.
Kids love the village train ride and the carousel in The Village Greene, and the Antique Arcade and shooting gallery add old fashioned fun. Check the events page for operating days in the off season.
Stay the Night
- Where: Historic Smithville
The Colonial Inn has 35 rooms with private baths and continental breakfast, and the village also offers suites in The Village Greene, Boathouse Rooms and The Barn and Cottage. A new property, The Fitzgerald House, is planned for 2027.
Holiday Season in the Village
- Where: Historic Smithville
- When: Dickens Fest Nov. 28 and 29, Hospitality Night Saturday, Dec. 5 (6 to 9 p.m.), Girls Night Out Thursday, Dec. 10 (6 to 9 p.m.), 2026
The holidays are Smithville’s busiest season. Dickens Fest brings performances inspired by A Christmas Carol on Black Friday weekend, the free Magic Talking Tree greets kids on December weekends, and S’mores on the Greene runs Fridays to Sundays in December from 5 to 8 p.m., weather permitting. Breakfast with Santa at Fred and Ethel’s requires reservations at 609-652-0544.
Add a Stop at Renault Winery
- Where: 72 N. Bremen Ave., Egg Harbor City
- When: Vintner Wonderland runs Nov. 13, 2026 to Jan. 18, 2027
A short drive west of Smithville, Renault Winery and Resort turns into a winter village each holiday season with an outdoor ice rink, an artisan market and fire pit dining.
Getting There
The village sits at Route 9 and Moss Mill Road in the Smithville section of Galloway Township, about 15 minutes north of Atlantic City. The village can be reached at 609-652-7777 or 609-748-8999.
More in Atlantic County: Christmas lights, holiday markets and craft fairs, and cozy winter restaurants.
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