Things To Do
in Upper Montclair
Upper Montclair is an affluent suburban community located in Montclair, New Jersey. It is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful homes, and vibrant downtown area. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community with access to parks, schools, and cultural amenities.
The area is well-connected to New York City via public transportation, making it a popular choice for commuters.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hike at the nearby Hilltop Reservation, soaking in the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. The fresh air will invigorate you and set a positive tone for the day.
After lunch, visit the Montclair Art Museum to immerse yourself in local artistry and culture. The exhibits showcase a blend of contemporary and historical works that are sure to inspire.
Wrap up your day by dining at a cozy local restaurant, enjoying the flavors of seasonal dishes. Take a leisurely stroll in the neighborhood to appreciate the charming architecture.
Kick off your morning with a visit to the Montclair Art Museum for a guided tour. Discover the rich artistic heritage of the area and learn about notable artists.
Grab lunch at a local café, then spend the afternoon exploring the Thomas Edison National Historical Park. Walk through the labs and realize the genius innovations from this iconic inventor.
Dine at a restaurant that features New Jersey wines. Enjoy the ambiance and engage in conversation about your favorite exhibits from the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful, tree-lined streets and a charming suburban atmosphere
- Strong sense of community with local events and gatherings
- Highly rated schools and educational opportunities
- Proximity to New York City for easy access to urban amenities
- Variety of parks and recreational facilities
- Diverse dining and shopping options that cater to different tastes
- Higher cost of living compared to surrounding areas
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, especially for commuters
- Limited nightlife options for younger residents
- Property taxes can be relatively high
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities
- Occasional issues with flooding in certain areas after heavy rains
Best Activities in Upper Montclair
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the life and achievements of baseball legend Yogi Berra while enjoying a leisurely walk around the museum grounds.
Hike or bike along the scenic trails of Glen Ridge provided by the local conservancy, perfect for nature lovers.
Visit the beautifully landscaped gardens for a peaceful stroll, picnics, or photography opportunities in an exquisite setting.
Participate in various outdoor recreation activities hosted by the university such as kayaking, hiking trips, and adventure challenges.
Enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities including walking, jogging, cycling, and sports fields in one of the largest parks in the area.
A local favorite for families, this park features playgrounds, walking trails, and plenty of space for outdoor gatherings and events.
Tours
Uncover the best of Upper Montclair with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Upper Montclair
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park offering stunning panoramic views of the New York City skyline, particularly impressive at sunset.
Not only is the museum itself an architectural beauty, but the surrounding gardens provide excellent photography options.
A charming park with serene landscapes, perfect for nature photography and capturing the beauty of Upper Montclair.
Features trails and a tranquil environment, ideal for scenic nature photos, especially during the fall.
This estate boasts beautiful gardens that offer countless opportunities for floral photography and picturesque landscapes.
A scenic spot with walking paths and open areas, providing a peaceful backdrop for outdoor photography.
Food in Upper Montclair
Upper Montclair Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A breakfast staple in New Jersey, often enjoyed on a kaiser roll with salt, pepper, and ketchup. Try it at Raymond's in Montclair for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
A thin-crust pizza topped with crushed tomato sauce and Romano cheese, a unique local specialty. Get a slice at Ah' Pizz for a taste of tradition.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Upper Montclair better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open on Saturdays, this market offers fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food stands serving up dishes like empanadas, tamales, and wood-fired pizza.
Look out for the vibrant food truck parked on Glenridge Avenue, serving up delicious falafel wraps, shawarma platters, and crispy falafel.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Upper Montclair residents value community involvement. Participating in local events and supporting neighborhood initiatives is a great way to show respect for local culture and build relationships.
Always greet neighbors and engage in polite conversation. Basic etiquette such as saying 'please' and 'thank you' is highly appreciated and reflects an understanding of respectful interactions.
Residents of Upper Montclair are generally environmentally conscious. Respect local norms by properly disposing of waste, recycling, and showing care for the natural surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Upper Montclair with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Upper Montclair
Ensure a smooth experience
In Upper Montclair, tipping practices are generally aligned with those across the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers around 15-20% of the total bill. In fine dining establishments, tipping at the higher end of this range is common, while for casual dining, tips of around 15% may suffice. Tipping is also common for other services, including hairdressers and delivery drivers.
Payment methods in Upper Montclair are diverse, with options for cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment apps widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and other service venues. Many establishments also offer contactless payment options for convenience. When it comes to making reservations, some restaurants may require a deposit, which is often applied to the final bill.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Upper Montclair.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Upper Montclair. Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant greenery. This season is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting parks. Local events like farmers’ markets start to emerge, creating a lively atmosphere.
Summer (June to August) offers warm to hot weather, perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor concerts. Expect a lively community spirit with various events taking place. Beaches and nearby lakes can be popular destinations, alongside numerous outdoor dining options.
Fall (September to November) is marked by stunning foliage as the leaves change color. The temperatures are cool, making it comfortable for activities like apple picking and attending fall festivals. Expect a picturesque landscape perfect for photography and enjoying nature.
Winter (December to February) brings colder temperatures, and while snow can be common, it also provides opportunities for winter sports in nearby areas. The holiday season sees festive decorations and local events, creating a charming atmosphere. Expect to enjoy cozy indoor activities, such as dining and shopping.
Upper Montclair at Night
Hiking in Upper Montclair
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park offering a variety of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and picnic areas. Features the famous Turtle Back Zoo and multiple waterfalls.
A picturesque park with numerous hiking trails, beautiful woodlands, a lake, and historic sites. Great for hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
A serene park area with easy walking and hiking trails that winds through woodlands and along the banks of the Rahway River.
Features a range of trails for hiking and biking, with swampy wetlands, scenic views, and opportunities for fishing.
A smaller park featuring various trails that offer views of the surrounding area and a peaceful atmosphere for hiking and nature exploration.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Upper Montclair through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Upper Montclair by plane.
Located approximately 16 miles southwest of Upper Montclair, EWR is one of the major international airports serving the New York City metropolitan area.
Located about 24 miles southeast of Upper Montclair, JFK is another major international airport serving the New York City area.
Approximately 21 miles southeast of Upper Montclair, LGA primarily serves domestic flights but also offers some international services.
Situated about 80 miles southwest of Upper Montclair, PHL is a significant international airport serving the Philadelphia area and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Upper Montclair, predominantly consisting of individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group, which includes individuals of East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian descent.
This group includes individuals of Spanish or Latin American origin.
A demographic group consisting of individuals with African ancestry.
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories.
Includes individuals who may not fit into the standard racial categories defined.
The Soul of Upper Montclair
Discover the essence of Upper Montclair through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in Upper Montclair, youth and adult leagues are common, with community support for local teams.
Upper Montclair features several tennis courts and clubs, making it a popular sport among residents, especially in the summer months.
Local baseball leagues for kids and adults provide opportunities for competition and community engagement.
Basketball courts are available in parks, and the sport is popular among youth and adults for recreation and organized play.
With local pools and water activities, swimming is a favored sport, especially during the warm months.
Many residents participate in running clubs and events, taking advantage of the scenic neighborhoods and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Upper Montclair.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Upper Montclair offer diverse vegetarian and vegan menus, catering to plant-based diets with options like plant-based burgers, vegetable curries, and tofu stir-fries.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy gluten-free pizza, pasta, and baked goods at various eateries like Ah' Pizz and Plum on Park.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Upper Montclair with these cultural adventures.