{"id":228234,"date":"2026-07-22T17:09:34","date_gmt":"2026-07-22T21:09:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/?p=228234"},"modified":"2026-07-23T07:51:36","modified_gmt":"2026-07-23T11:51:36","slug":"things-to-do-near-montclair-state-university-where-to-eat-shop-and-explore","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/2026\/07\/22\/things-to-do-near-montclair-state-university-where-to-eat-shop-and-explore\/","title":{"rendered":"Things to Do Near 精品成人福利在线 University: Where to Eat, Shop and Explore"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong>Quick Summary:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>The Best of Both Worlds:<\/strong> 精品成人福利在线 University\u2019s 252-acre campus sits in New Jersey\u2019s top college town (WorldAtlas, 2025) and is just 12 miles from New York City via easy train or bus routes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vibrant Local Scene:<\/strong> Downtown Montclair Township provides world-class dining, iconic live music venues, cozy coffee shops, independent bookstores and rich cultural events.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Something for Every Budget:<\/strong> Explore budget-friendly and free nearby attractions, from breathtaking urban waterfalls to panoramic skyline views.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What to do around the Montclair campus<\/h2>\n<p>If you\u2019re <a href=\"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/admissions\/visit-us\/\">visiting 精品成人福利在线 University<\/a>, there\u2019s still plenty to see once you&#8217;re done with the campus tour. You could hop over to NYC, of course, or explore the dynamic area of Montclair Township, incorporated in 1868 and recognized as one of New Jersey&#8217;s most desirable places to live. Here are 10 great local spots for dining, shopping, sightseeing and more.<\/p>\n<h2>1. <a href=\"https:\/\/wellmonttheater.com\/upcoming-shows\/\">Wellmont Theater<\/a> (\u201cThe Wellmont\u201d)<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228231\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/110725_73029_ADM-Downtown-Montclair-Students_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/110725_73029_ADM-Downtown-Montclair-Students_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Two students stand in front of the Wellmont Theater.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Montclair students chat outside the Wellmont Theater, a music and comedy venue. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A 105-year old former vaudeville venue, now a premier theater for live-music and comedy shows hosting major and indie artists. For more live music:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Just Jakes<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 a favorite student hangout for live music, outdoor dining, and a dog- and family-friendly vibe<\/li>\n<li><strong>Meat Locker<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 an institution and go-to spot for an edgier, underground live music experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>2. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tierneystavern1934.com\/\">Tierney\u2019s Tavern<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228229\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_16344_Visit-Montclair-Tierneys_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_16344_Visit-Montclair-Tierneys_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Patrons sit around a bar at Tierney\u2019s.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A popular hangout among locals, Tierney\u2019s is legendary for food, live music and game-watching. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Established in 1934, this legendary family-owned spot is famous for big burgers, weekend live music and TV\/film fame.<\/p>\n<h2>3. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.montclairartmuseum.org\/\">Montclair Art Museum<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228228\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15852_Montclair-Art-Museum_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15852_Montclair-Art-Museum_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"The Montclair Art Museum.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Montclair Art Museum is located just three miles from campus. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Located just three miles from campus, MAM is one of this country\u2019s first art museums and features 14,000 works of art, student admission discounts and creative workshops. Similar spots:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Montclair Film<\/strong> \u2013 Hosts the famous, annual, celeb-studded Montclair Film Festival and operates three independent theaters screening films year-round. Montclair Film also delivers film study classes, improv, sketch-comedy writing and other workshops.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The Newark Museum of Art<\/strong> \u2013 Just 12 miles away, New Jersey\u2019s largest museum holds 300,000+ works and a natural history collection. It also hosts the historic Newark Black Film Festival, the longest-running Black film festival in the country, and the four-day Newark Arts Festival.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>4. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vanguardtheatercompany.org\/\">Vanguard Theater<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228233\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/54992768203_e5fbf20618_k.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/54992768203_e5fbf20618_k.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Montclair theater students perform on the Vanguard Theater stage.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Montclair theater students bring <em>The Quilt Keepers<\/em>, to the Vanguard Theater. (Photo by Julie Lemberger for 精品成人福利在线 University)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>An inclusive local theater featuring stage productions, including the <strong>Montclair Theater Festival<\/strong>, community partnerships and classes (with strong ties to Montclair faculty and alumni).<\/p>\n<h2>5. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperplanecoffee.com\/\">Paper Plane Coffee<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228232\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/110725_73372_ADM-Downtown-Montclair-Students_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/110725_73372_ADM-Downtown-Montclair-Students_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Two students chat while sitting at a coffee shop\u2019s outdoor table.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Montclair students enjoy a coffee and chat at Paper Plane Coffee. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Rated one of the best coffee shops in the state, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.paperplanecoffee.com\/\">Paper Plane Coffee<\/a> is an ideal outdoor or indoor spot to study, write that paper for class and fuel up. Bonus for classic eats:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Montclair Diner<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 An all-day breakfast spot serving traditional and Southern eats.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nicolo&#8217;s Italian Bakery &amp; Deli | Montclair NJ<\/strong> \u2013 Generous Italian sandwiches and baked goods.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Applegate Farms<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Operating since 1848, this historic dairy farm is a must-visit for ice cream lovers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Bonus spots for more special occasions (maybe celebrating the start of your journey at 精品成人福利在线 University?):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Faubourg<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Modern French dining featuring a stunning greenhouse and main dining room, great for special occasions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cuban Pete\u2019s<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 A loud, vibrant, party-style atmosphere with authentic flavor. It&#8217;s also BYOB, common for many restaurants in town and around North Jersey.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>6. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.watchungbooksellers.com\/\">Watchung Booksellers<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228226\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15742_Watchung-Booksellers_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15742_Watchung-Booksellers_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"A woman looks at books at Watchung Booksellers.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A shopper peruses the huge selection at Watchung Booksellers. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Named <em>Publishers Weekly<\/em> Bookstore of the Year, offering author events, book clubs and a podcast featuring writers and readers. (Tip for prospective students: The bookstore offers a college essay-writing workshop in the summer.) Also worth checking out is <strong>Montclair<\/strong><strong> Book Center<\/strong>, a massive independent bookstore where you can get lost exploring thousands of new, used and rare titles.<\/p>\n<h2>7. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.whiterabbitblackheart.com\/\">White Rabbit Black Heart<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228227\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15770_White-Rabbit-Black-Heart_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/071526_15770_White-Rabbit-Black-Heart_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"The entrance to White Rabbit Black Heart shop in Montclair.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The decorative entrance to White Rabbit Black Heart hints to the treasures inside. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A whimsical gift shop packed with unique items for loved ones back home (or maybe something for your future dorm room). This is just one option in Montclair&#8217;s vibrant retail scene. Other spots to check out:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Academy St. Thrift<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Owned by a former professor, it sells clothing, jewelry, accessories and even books.<\/li>\n<li><strong>2nd STREET Montclair<\/strong> \u2013 Part of the Japanese-owned chain, it&#8217;s probably the largest local thrift and is chock-full of American and Japanese design brands of clothes, shoes and accessories<\/li>\n<li><strong>Willowbrook Mall<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Located nearby in Wayne, featuring over 170 popular retail stores.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>8. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nps.gov\/pagr\/index.htm\">Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228230\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/102423_20804_Paterson-Great-Falls-NHP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/102423_20804_Paterson-Great-Falls-NHP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"The Great Falls in Paterson.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Visitors are dwarfed along a walkway at the Paterson Great Falls. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>Breathtaking, free-to-visit urban waterfalls in the heart of Paterson perfect for a quick head-clearing nature break. Learn about Alexander Hamilton\u2019s connection to the falls while you\u2019re there.<\/p>\n<h2>9. <a href=\"https:\/\/montclairfoundation.org\/\">Van Vleck House &amp; Gardens<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228244\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/Van-Vleck-Wisteria-Garden_ws.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/Van-Vleck-Wisteria-Garden_ws.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Wisteria Courtyard, featuring columns, at Van Vleck House &amp; Gardens.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The lovely Wisteria Courtyard at Van Vleck House &amp; Gardens. (Courtesy Elyse Fernandez)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A quiet, 12-acre country estate built in 1868 and a \u201cbeautiful oasis in the heart of Montclair.\u201d Free and open 365 days a year for peaceful walks, outdoor classes and concerts.<\/p>\n<h2>10. <a href=\"https:\/\/essexcountyparks.org\/parks\/eagle-rock-reservation\">Eagle Rock Reservation<\/a><\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_228225\" class=\"responsive-image-holder wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"mlt-responsive-image\" data-original-image=\"\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/072026_2937_Eagle-Rock-Overlook_MP.jpg\" src=\"\/responsive-media\/cache\/newscenter\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2026\/07\/072026_2937_Eagle-Rock-Overlook_MP.jpg.0.1x.generic.jpg\" alt=\"Visitors enjoy outdoor activities at the Eagle Rock Observation Deck against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Eagle Rock Reservation provides spectacular panoramic views of New York City. (Photo by University Photographer Mike Peters)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p>A 400-acre park featuring iconic panoramic views of the NYC skyline, summer music concerts and great outdoor activities. Eagle Rock is part of Essex County Parks, also home to the nearby <strong>Turtle Back Zoo<\/strong> and <strong>McLoone\u2019s Boathouse<\/strong>, where can you dine and rent pedal boats.<\/p>\n<h2>Take the next step and schedule your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/admissions\/visit-us\/\">visit to Montclair<\/a>.<\/h2>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\/\/ Output tags as a list for Google Analytics custom dimension\nwindow.MSU_TagList = [];\n<\/script>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Scheduling a campus tour of Montclair? Make the most of your visit and add these local restaurants, shops, parks and attractions to your itinerary<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":396,"featured_media":228224,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[122,10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-228234","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-admissions","category-university"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/228234","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/396"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=228234"}],"version-history":[{"count":42,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/228234\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":228282,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/228234\/revisions\/228282"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/228224"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=228234"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=228234"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/newscenter\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=228234"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}