Just 30 Minutes From NYC, Montclair Is The Perfect New Jersey Day Trip Destination
By Kim Magaraci|Updated on April 29, 2024(Originally published May 03, 2022)
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Kim Magaraci
Author
Kim Magaraci graduated Rutgers University with a degree in Geography and has spent the last seven years as a freelance travel writer. Contact: kmagaraci@onlyinyourstate.com
We have some really wonderful NJ small towns, and today we’re featuring one of our favorites. Montclair is a small town in New Jersey of natural beauty, art, museums, and fine dining – which makes it the perfect spot for a day trip. It’s just half an hour away from New York City, and easy to get to from almost anywhere in the Garden State. Next time you find yourself Googling “small towns near me” for a day trip, this one’s a great option!
Be sure to visit the Montclair Art Museum while you're in town. It's one of the best in the Garden State, and the rotating exhibits mean there's always something new to see.
Montclair Art Museum, 3 S Mountain Ave, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA
Even if you aren't a baseball fan, you'll find all sorts of fascinating things on display here. Yogi was a Montclair native and led such an interesting life.
Yogi Berra Museum, 8 Yogi Berra Drive, Little Falls, NJ 07424, USA
The garden is open every day of the year from dawn to dusk, and admission is free. Though it sits on less than 6 acres of property, it's truly a wonder that will make you feel miles away from it all. The gardens are stunning, and the 140-year-old house is absolutely gorgeous.
Stop into the Carriage House to learn about the property and its history before going on to explore the many gardens. You'll find a beautiful butterfly garden, one packed with perennials, a forested woodland garden, and so much more as you walk around.
Van Vleck House & Gardens, 21 Van Vleck St, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA
Another fun spot to find is Kip's Castle. While technically it's in the town of Verona, it's less than a mile from downtown Montclair and well worth the detour.
Kip's Castle, 22 Crestmont Rd, Montclair, NJ 07042, USA
If you're getting hungry, Montclair is home to a multitude of restaurants that will suit any craving. De Novo, pictured below, is a Euro-style pub in the center of town.
There is so much to do in Montclair, New Jersey! What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip now! You can learn more about the sites listed above, along with other hidden treasures in town, on the Visit Montclair website.
Whether you’re heading on a short afternoon trip or heading out for a week-long road trip, it’s important to not get hungry on the road! Check out our favorite road trip snacks to pack along on your travels.
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