Broadway Street, Pitman, NJ
The Borough of Pitman, NJ, located near Rowan University and a South Jersey farmland and winery, is a popular spot known for its historic Broadway Theatre and welcoming small businesses.
PITMAN'S HISTORY
Did you know that Pitman originally started in 1871 as a summer camp for Methodists that wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of Philadelphia? These ministers sought a nice location for their annual meeting, and found one with plenty of shade and a local railroad. They built many small homes along streets that jutted out from a circle around a central auditorium, and the area became known as Pitman Grove. It still exists to this day and is listed on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places.
The Pitman Grove grew more and more each year with new permanent buildings being added and a strong community coming to fruition. The people had petitioned for the area to become its own town in the early 1900s, and on May 24, 1905, Governor Edward C. Stokes officially established Pitman Borough.
BROADWAY: PITMAN'S BUSINESS DISTRICT
The main thoroughfare that serves as the home for many of Pitman’s businesses is known as Broadway. This is also the location of the historic Broadway Theatre that was built in 1920 and known for its distinguished architecture, beautiful chandeliers, old fashioned balcony and seating boxes. The Theatre offers a variety of shows including musicals, children’s plays, and nationally-known musical acts.
Along both sides of this street are many stores, eateries, and other town buildings. Here visitors can shop at bookstores, card and gift shops, convenience stores, antique shops, clothing stores, and more. One can enjoy fine dining restaurants, various ethnic cuisine eateries, homemade ice cream and baked goods, as well as craft beers and live music. The small-town atmosphere provides a warm welcome and something to enjoy for people of all ages and backgrounds.
A VARIETY OF COMMUNITY EVENTS
A charming and diverse area such as Pitman is one to have a variety of events for its visitors. People of all ages show up to Pitman’s streets to partake in festivities and enjoyment while indulging in all that the Borough has to offer. Here are some of the events one can expect to experience:
- Brews Cruise: This “cruise” is a 25 mile bike ride through South Jersey on October 12, 2024 that ends in Uptown Pitman and followed by a festival at Merryman’s Pub, Martini’s on Broadway, and Beer Garden on Theatre Avenue. It is a great time to get together with friends and enjoy a fun day seeing the sights of the region.
- Pitman Craft Show: Each spring and fall, there is a craft show displaying a variety of artisans who sell quality handmade goods. These vendors line up on Broadway, Pitman Avenue, and Ballard Avenue to showcase their wares on September 21, 2024.
- Fourth Friday: Every fourth Friday of the month, Pitman hosts an event showcasing activities such as balloon twisting, face painting, hair chalk, selfie stations, live music, beer garden, and much more. It takes place at Ballard Park and Theater Ave from 5 pm to 8 pm and provides a great opportunity for visitors and locals to show support for businesses in Uptown Pitman.
- Witches of Pitman Shoppe Hop: On October 12, 2024, there will be a great event for the spooky season in Pitman. There are haunted carriage rides, moonlit markets, and costume contests to entertain visitors.
Pitman provides an exciting atmosphere around the year and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to explore. There is no shortage of enjoyment for all people to find in this walkable South Jersey town.
BROADWAY SMALL BUSINESSES
ALAURA KITCHEN HOMEMADE ICE CREAM
Homemade ice cream shop offering a variety of flavors as well as hot dogs, sandwiches, and more
CROSSROAD COMICS & COLLECTIBLES
Sellers, buyers, and traders of vintage comic books, toys, games, and other pop culture collectibles
MAMA MARIE'S ITALIAN MARKET
Welcoming deli shop that makes delicious hoagies, sandwiches, and more with locally-sourced ingredients
MAGGIE PAIGE BOUTIQUE
Women's clothing and accessories store committed to offering quality and personal customer service
FAHRENHEIT CERAMIC STUDIO
A paint-your-own pottery studio for people of all ages that also hosts birthday parties and other events
THE GENTLE GIANT CAFE
First 100% vegan restaurant located in Gloucester County, offering breakfast, lunch, and desserts