Visit Clinton, New Jersey and Stay at Holiday Inn Select!

Clinton, New Jersey is located just off Interstate 78, which cuts across the middle of the state from the eastern coast, then on into Pennsylvania.

First step on arrival was to check into the local Holiday Inn Select on West Main Street, which turned out to be a very nice place to stay. The hotel has an indoor pool and a splashing waterfall area that will relax and mesmerize the weary traveler. The staff is friendly and helpful, the rooms and suites are fresh and crisp. On site are the Jitterbug Night Club (say yes to happy hour!), and the Main Street Garden Café. The Café offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as snacks. Room service is also available until 11 p.m., which makes me happy.

After choosing a queen room with two beds, I head for the downtown area. Downtown is about half a mile away with quaint shops, the Clinton Red Mill Village and Stone Mill, and a variety of eateries.

What a wonderful time of the year to visit Clinton! The leaves were falling with a slight breeze and locals were strolling about enjoying the colorful autumn day. There are friendly people in Clinton, New Jersey, eager to visit and share local points of interest as well as stories relating to the history and amenities of the area. Nearby are a few museums, but my focus this day was on the Crayola Factory (yep, that's crayons) which is about 15 miles away, and the American Ballooning Hot Air Balloon ride area about 3 miles from downtown. What could be more fun than an interactive Crayola factory tour and a viewing of hot air balloons!

These two tourist attractions are a must-do for individuals or families. Being surrounded by younger people did not slow me down. Falling in with a group of semi-seniors at Crayola we tried every interactive display there and had a wonderful time! Next, hot air ballooning! I find that this is quite a sport and visiting the American Ballooning site is a great way to spend a few hours. I had the pleasure of watching a number of balloons go up and was overwhelmed by the quiet, gracefulness of these huge bags of hot air.

This trip is not all for pleasure so some time must be set aside for business. This Holiday Inn Select is set up for the business traveler with meeting rooms for all sized groups as well as a full service office area. Meeting rooms are equipped with projectors, stage lighting, VCR's, microphones, etc. With prior arrangements refreshments are available for your business group.

On site is a Grand Ballroom for parties, weddings and banquets. Catering is available for any sized group, with arrangements being made through the Holiday Inn Select in advance. ( www.hiselect.com )

My time at this Holiday Inn Select in Clinton, New Jersey was too short. Usually my hotel stays are time for myself while traveling, but having business in Clinton brought me to this area, and took away from my usual touristy-time. However, I will return and I do recommend this Holiday Inn Select in Clinton, New Jersey (111 Main Street) to anyone traveling through the eastern states.

OOPs, almost forgot. At the front desk they offer Mrs. Taylor's fresh baked cookies! This alone makes it well worth the return trip!