Over the past couple of decades, Sparta has been steadily growing. Between the 2000 and 2010 U.S. censuses, the township's population increased roughly 9 percent from 18,080 to 19,722. This followed a 19 percent increase from 1990, when the population was counted at 15,157, to the time of the 2000 census.
Despite its recent growth, Sparta still has a small-town feel with its abundance of small businesses and local eateries. Notably, many pilots who work out of John F. Kennedy International Airport have settled in Sparta. The relative peace and quiet in Sparta are appealing for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.
When should you visit Sparta, NJ?
Given its location in New England, Sparta experiences its most pleasant weather from late spring to mid-summer. Unfortunately, because of that, summer tends to be the busiest season for tourism — which in turn means higher hotel prices. Spring, on the other hand, is a fairly slow season. Temperatures might be a bit chilly in early spring, but you'll find better deals and smaller crowds.
If you're interested in seeing the fall foliage of New Jersey, visit during late September or early October. Keep in mind, though, that because of the changing leaves, more tourists are drawn to Sparta during fall than during spring. Temperatures are comfortable during these months. When winter rolls around, the weather gets much colder, with highs in the upper 30s to upper 40s. Hotel rates will be lowest during this season, though, so if you don't plan on spending much time outdoors — or if you're specifically interested in cold-weather activities like skiing — this can be a good time to visit Sparta.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Sparta, NJ:
Sparta by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Sparta, NJ. You can use these charts to evaluate the best dates to book in Sparta throughout the year.
Where are the luxury hotels around Sparta, NJ?
4 Star Average Prices: $161.38
As you might expect, the most luxurious hotels near Sparta can be found in New York City. However, although some of these five-star hotels may look nearby on a map, you'll have to travel an hour or longer to reach them from Sparta. Fortunately, you can find a few four-star hotels much closer to Sparta.
One example is the Sheraton Parsippany Hotel, which is located 20 miles away. This gorgeous suburban hotel resembles a castle, making it an especially memorable place to stay during your visit to Sparta. Adding to the high-class ambiance is the long list of amenities offered by the hotel, including both an indoor and outdoor pool. Relax in the hotel's sauna, spa tub, or steam room, or book one of the other on-site spa services. Get some work done in the business center, workout in the health club, or enjoy your room's cable programming and video game console.
Room service is available during select hours, and breakfast is available each morning for a surcharge. You can also grab a drink or a meal at the hotel's restaurant and bar. Pets can be accommodated, but you need to call the hotel directly after booking your room to make arrangements. You'll also have a pay a per-stay fee.
The Hanover Marriott is another option. It's located it Whippany, New Jersey, just a little further away than Parsippany. Like the Sheraton Parsippany Hotel, the Hanover Marriott features an indoor pool, an on-site bar and restaurant, and a business center. Self-parking is free, but the daily breakfast and in-room Wi-Fi costs extra. Rounding out the list of amenities is a terrace, 24-hour fitness facilities, and a snack bar.
What are the most affordable hotel options in Sparta, New Jersey?
3 Star Average Prices: $142.97
Although you'll be hard-pressed to find any hotels in Sparta itself, the surrounding area boasts several affordable hotel options. Two examples are the Econo Lodge in Newton and the Quality Inn Near Mountain Creek in Vernon. The former is about 16 minutes from Sparta, while the latter is about 30 minutes away.
The Econo Lodge is a two-star mountain hotel and provides guests with free Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast. Coffee and tea can be found in the lobby area, and pets are welcome for a per-pet, per-night fee. RV, bus, and truck parking is available on-site, as are laundry facilities. Room options include two double beds, two queen beds, one queen bed, or one king bed.
The Quality Inn Near Mountain Creek, meanwhile, is a 2.5-star hotel with a slightly longer list of amenities. In addition to free Wi-Fi and self-parking, the hotel offers laundry facilities and a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning. It also features a 24-hour front desk and fitness facilities. Choose from rooms with two double beds, one queen bed, two queen beds, or one king bed. Each includes a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, and DVD players as well as cable programming. Pets are also allowed, but not every room is pet-friendly.
