Montclair New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Montclair, New Jersey.
1. Van Vleck House & Gardens
HISTORIC BOTANICAL OASIS
The Van Vleck House & Gardens, a 501(c) nonprofit organization, is housed in a historic Mediterranean-style villa once owned by the Van Vleck family. The property features lush botanical gardens open to the public from dawn until dusk, showcasing rare and exotic plants throughout the seasons. This peaceful destination serves as both a community resource and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
2. Montclair Art Museum
AMERICAN ART SHOWCASE
The Montclair Art Museum is a notable community-based institution with an international reputation, founded in 1914 as one of the first U.S. museums dedicated exclusively to American art. It boasts a renowned collection that uniquely highlights American and Native American art through rotating exhibitions and permanent displays. The museum offers various community programs and educational initiatives that attract art lovers from across the region.
3. Wellmont Theater
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Wellmont Theater stands as one of Montclair's premier entertainment venues, hosting a variety of performances ranging from concerts to comedy shows. Originally opened as a vaudeville theater in the 1920s, the venue has been renovated to preserve its historic charm while offering modern amenities. The theater's intimate setting provides spectators with an exceptional live entertainment experience, though sound quality may vary depending on performers' equipment.
4. Edgemont Memorial Park
PEACEFUL WAR MEMORIAL
Edgemont Memorial Park serves as a dedicated space honoring Montclair residents who served in World War I. The park features tranquil ponds, walking paths, and a commemorative monument that creates a perfect balance between recreational space and historical reflection. Visitors frequent this serene location for both casual gatherings and contemplative strolls through its beautifully maintained grounds.
5. Alexander Kasser Theater
CONTEMPORARY PERFORMING ARTS
Alexander Kasser Theater is a cutting-edge performing arts venue located on the campus of Montclair State University. The theater presents innovative dance, music, and theatrical performances from both international artists and university productions. Its modern architecture and exceptional acoustics provide an optimal setting for experiencing contemporary performances in an intimate environment.
6. Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church stands as a significant religious and architectural landmark in Montclair. The church features beautiful stained glass windows and traditional Italian-American Catholic design elements that reflect the community's heritage. Visitors appreciate both its spiritual significance and the artistic craftsmanship that has made it a beloved local landmark.
7. Montclair History Center
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVATION
The Montclair History Center is a private, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the preservation, study, and appreciation of local history. As stewards of four historic houses in Montclair, including the 1796 Crane House, the center offers visitors insight into different eras of the town's development. Their educational programs and exhibits illuminate Montclair's rich past, from its colonial origins to its role in civil rights history when the Crane House served as headquarters for the African American YWCA.
8. Montclair Brewery
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Montclair Brewery offers a unique craft beer experience with distinctive brews often inspired by African and Caribbean flavors. The family-owned establishment has become a community gathering space, hosting various events while serving their rotating selection of creative beers. Visitors appreciate both the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to sample innovative beverages that can't be found elsewhere in the region.
9. Alonzo F. Bonsal Wildlife Preserve
URBAN NATURE SANCTUARY
The Alonzo F. Bonsal Wildlife Preserve provides a surprisingly wild sanctuary within the suburban landscape of Montclair. This hidden gem offers walking trails through woodlands and wetlands, where visitors can observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitat. The preserve serves as an important ecological resource for environmental education and passive recreation in an otherwise developed area.
10. Presby Memorial Iris Gardens
COLORFUL FLORAL DISPLAY
Presby Memorial Iris Gardens showcases one of the largest public iris gardens in the world, with more than 10,000 plants representing approximately 1,500 varieties. The gardens burst into spectacular bloom each May, creating a living museum that preserves historic iris cultivars while displaying modern varieties. Visitors from around the world make pilgrimages to witness the rainbow of colors during peak bloom season, though the gardens remain beautiful throughout the growing months.
11. Nest & Company
CURATED HOME GOODS
Nest & Company offers a carefully curated selection of specialty home goods, gifts, and decorative items in downtown Montclair. The shop features unique merchandise ranging from handcrafted decor to sophisticated housewares that reflect current design trends with timeless appeal. Shoppers appreciate the personalized service and distinctive selection that makes this boutique a standout in Montclair's shopping district.
12. Mills Reservation
SCENIC HILLTOP VIEWS
Mills Reservation spans 157 acres of natural woodlands at the edge of Montclair, offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline from its eastern ridge. The park features several miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse habitats, attracting birdwatchers, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Once the site of a World War II aircraft spotting facility, the reservation now serves as an important green space for recreation and wildlife conservation.
13. Montclair Bread Company
ARTISANAL BAKERY DESTINATION
Montclair Bread Company has gained a devoted following for its artisanal breads and specialty donuts made from scratch daily. The bakery combines traditional techniques with creative flavor combinations, resulting in products that have earned regional acclaim and long weekend lines. Beyond baked goods, the establishment has created a community around food, offering baking classes and sponsoring running events that bring together local residents.
14. Watchung Booksellers
INDEPENDENT LITERARY HUB
Watchung Booksellers serves as Montclair's beloved independent bookstore, offering a carefully selected collection of titles in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The store hosts regular author events, book clubs, and readings that have made it a cultural centerpiece in the community for decades. Its knowledgeable staff provides personalized recommendations that keep loyal customers returning despite competition from online retailers.
15. Raymond's
CLASSIC AMERICAN EATERY
Raymond's has established itself as a Montclair dining institution, serving elevated American comfort food in a retro-inspired setting reminiscent of classic diners. The restaurant draws crowds for its legendary brunches featuring fluffy pancakes and creative egg dishes, as well as dinner options that blend nostalgia with contemporary culinary techniques. Its prominent location on Church Street makes it both a convenient meeting spot and a showcase of Montclair's vibrant downtown dining scene.