Attractions and Places To See around Upper Montclair - Top 20

Upper Montclair offers several beautiful natural spots. You can walk around Orange Reservoir, which has a path circling it, or visit Barbour Pond within Garret Mountain Reservation. The Presby Iris Memorial Garden is also a vibrant natural highlight, especially when its irises are in bloom. Other notable green spaces include Anderson Park, Brookdale Park, and Mills Reservation County Park for wooded trails.

Yes, the area around Upper Montclair is great for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like the Mills Reservation Loop or the Red Trail. For cycling, there are various routes, including the West Essex/Caldwell Branch loop for easy rides or more moderate options like the Cedar Grove Reservoir – Hilltop Reservation loop. You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes and cycling guides for Upper Montclair.

Upper Montclair is rich in history and architecture. The Christ Church Montclair is a notable religious building in a quiet, historic neighborhood. You can also explore the Upper Montclair Business Historic District, which features properties from the 1880s to the 1930s, showcasing styles like Colonial Revival and Queen Anne. Significant landmarks include the former Fox & Company dry goods store, the 1918 post office, and the rebuilt Upper Montclair train station, which is listed on the National Register.

Absolutely! Many attractions in Upper Montclair are suitable for families. The View of Paterson from Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook has recently upgraded features, including a playground for kids. Orange Reservoir and Barbour Pond offer paths for family walks, and the Presby Iris Memorial Garden is a colorful and vibrant space for all ages. Edgemont Memorial Park also features a children's playground.

For breathtaking vistas, head to the View of Paterson from Garrett Mountain Scenic Overlook, which provides a fantastic view of the city and offers public binoculars. Additionally, Eagle Rock Reservation, located along the First Watchung Mountain, offers dramatic views of the New York City skyline.

Upper Montclair has a vibrant cultural scene. Montclair Film operates The Clairidge, a renovated venue for film screenings and events. The Montclair History Center offers walking tours of historic districts and manages the Crane House & Historic YWCA. Art enthusiasts can visit the Montclair Art Museum or the Ria art gallery for rotating exhibits.

Yes, Upper Montclair is home to several parks perfect for walking and exercise. Anderson Park, designed by Olmsted, features open meadows and a nearly half-mile asphalt oval. Brookdale Park, another Olmsted design, offers a 1.5-mile running track and various walking trails. Edgemont Memorial Park has paths for walking and biking, while Yantacaw Brook Park provides wooded trails for quiet strolls.

The Presby Iris Memorial Garden is particularly stunning when its irises are in full bloom, which typically occurs in late spring and early summer. This is when you'll experience the most vibrant and colorful display of dozens of iris varieties.

Many of Upper Montclair's parks are popular with dog walkers. Anderson Park is a local favorite for dog walking, offering open meadows and paths. Always ensure to follow local leash laws and clean up after your pet to keep these spaces enjoyable for everyone.

Yes, Upper Montclair has charming local spots. The Montclair Diner has been a community staple since 1923, offering a classic dining experience. For coffee and quick bites, Eagle Rock Cafe is a popular choice. These establishments provide a taste of the local community's character.

Upper Montclair showcases a diverse range of architectural styles, particularly within its historic districts. You'll find examples of Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and Neo-Classical designs, especially in the Upper Montclair Business Historic District. Notable buildings include the 1908 Fox & Company dry goods store, the 1918 post office with its dominant Tudor architecture, and the 1902 Queen Anne style firehouse.

Yes, for impressive views of the New York City skyline, head to Eagle Rock Reservation. This 400-acre park, situated along the First Watchung Mountain, offers dramatic overlooks where you can clearly see the city in the distance.