Day Trip: Mount Holly

A real, live history lesson: With fifteen historic sites in town, Mount Holly is a National Register of Historic Places gem. Visit the state’s oldest schoolhouse, dating from 1759, on its original site (35 Brainerd St, 609-267-6996), and the nation’s oldest continuously active volunteer fire company, founded in 1752 (pictured, 17 Pine St, 609-267-0480).

Become a wine and spirits expert: At Red White & Brew (33 High St, 609-702-9949), you can garner tips on pairing wine and food, and find many varieties of domestic and imported beer.

Occasions to remember: Mount Holly holds eleven special events each year, including First Night on New Year’s Eve, the Cirque de la Lune festival the second Saturday in October, and a Fantasy Tea and Art Faire on Mother’s Day Weekend.

Musical destination: There are tunes every day except Monday in Mount Holly. Bridgetown Pub (44 High St, 609-261-6900) hosts live music on Fridays and open-mic nights on Tuesdays; the nearby High Street Grill (64 High St, 609-265-9199) features pianists, guitarists, and jazz combos. At Pinelands Folk Music Center (31 White St, 609-518-7600, pinelandsfolkmusic.com) you can buy your own dulcimer and join in a front-yard jamboree.

Confections and coffee: At Robin’s Nest Restaurant & Catering (2 Washington St, 609-261-6149), save room after dinner for the Banana Mousse Cake; the Daily Grind (48 High St, 609-267-8330) offers bimonthly poetry readings, and occasional speed dating events to go with your java.

Stores galore: At the Mill Race Village shops (White and Church sts), you can hunt for the perfect traditional or whimsical gift at TLC Interiors (10 White St, 609-702-9005) or the year-round Spirit of Christmas shop (14 White St, 609-518-1700). Silver Lining (5 Church St, 609-518-0077) offers natural-fiber clothing and accessories for women, including contemporary sweaters, jackets, handbags, and jewelry; the Village Quilter (10 Charles St, 609-265-0011) stocks quilting kits and a vast variety of fabrics.

Offbeat Italian: At La Piazza Di Scotto (29 Mill St, 609-265-1630), try the Clams Casino gourmet pizza or the meatloaf, which may be better than Mom’s.