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Irises in every shade bloom along Upper Mountain Avenue each May, when the Presby Memorial Iris Gardens open their thousands of varieties to the public. It is a fitting introduction to Montclair, a leafy township on the first ridge of the Watchung Mountains, only about 12 miles from Manhattan yet full of parks, old houses and independent shops.
Montclair grew in the late 1800s as a railroad suburb for New York commuters, and its streets still show off Victorian, Tudor and Arts and Crafts homes. The Montclair Art Museum, founded in 1914, is known for its American and Native American collections, and the Yogi Berra Museum honors the baseball legend who lived in town for decades.
The township has two main downtowns, Montclair Center along Bloomfield Avenue and Church Street, and quieter Upper Montclair. Restaurants, the Wellmont Theater and the spring film festival keep evenings lively, while Eagle Rock Reservation offers sweeping views of the New York skyline.
Founded in 1914, this museum holds a respected collection of American paintings, including works by George Inness who lived in Montclair, along with Native American art and changing contemporary exhibitions. It also runs art classes. Allow about two hours and check for free admission days.
On the Montclair State University campus, this museum celebrates the Yankees catcher and Montclair resident Yogi Berra with his World Series rings, memorabilia and exhibits on baseball and character. A ballpark named for him stands next door. Allow about an hour and check opening hours, which vary by season.
A hillside garden with thousands of iris varieties planted in long beds, at its peak from mid May to early June. It is run by volunteers and supported by donations, and the historic Walther House serves as its visitor center. Visit in the morning during peak bloom to avoid crowds and harsh light.
A former private estate with a Mediterranean-style villa and several acres of mature gardens, including rhododendrons, azaleas, a wisteria arbor and specimen trees. The grounds are open to visitors free of charge most days. Spring is especially colorful, and the gardens make a calm stop after shopping in Montclair Center.
Designed by the Olmsted Brothers firm in the early 1900s, this Essex County park in Upper Montclair features rolling lawns, a pond, curving paths and large old trees. It hosts outdoor events and art fairs in summer. Bring a blanket for a picnic, and combine it with a walk through Upper Montclair Village.
A historic Bloomfield Avenue movie theater, restored and reopened by the nonprofit behind the Montclair Film Festival, now showing independent, foreign and documentary films across several screens. Q and A sessions with filmmakers are frequent. Check the program online and arrive early for popular weekend screenings.
A restored 1920s theater on Bloomfield Avenue that now hosts rock, indie, comedy and tribute acts in a standing-room and balcony setting. Its marquee is a Montclair landmark. Buy tickets in advance for popular shows, and grab dinner at one of the many restaurants within a few blocks.
A short, walkable street off Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair Center, packed with independent boutiques, bakeries, cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating in warm months. It is often closed to cars for events. Explore the side streets too, where you will find bookshops, galleries and more places to eat.
The smaller business district around the Upper Montclair train station has a village feel, with independent shops, cafes, bakeries and tree-lined streets of large older homes. Nearby Anderson Park offers green space. It is an easy stop by train, as NJ Transit stops right in the center of the village.
The Montclair History Center preserves several early buildings, including the Israel Crane House, a Federal-style home with period rooms and an open-hearth kitchen. Tours, workshops and walking tours explore the township's past and its diverse community. Check the event schedule for special tours and seasonal programs.
Each spring, this festival brings premieres, documentaries and conversations with filmmakers and actors to theaters across Montclair, drawing film lovers from around the region. The festival also runs year-round screenings and classes. Buy passes early, as talks with big-name guests sell out quickly.
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