Samantha Bonizzi 
Uninterrupted girl time is hard to find, what with the demands of careers, families, and daily responsibilities that take over. So when we can get together with our girlfriends, we want to make the most of it. There are tons of fun things to do in our bustling town — so much so that the options can be overwhelming — so we did the legwork for you. We have thoughtfully curated a plan for a girls’ day out in Montclair, which can be followed hour by hour or used as inspiration. Grab your gals and bond over a delicious brunch, custom candle-making, shopping, and more. Read on to get the full MG plan for a girls’ day in downtown Montclair.
Photo Credit: @alchemy.scentbar
11:30AM: Grab brunch at Faubourg | 544 Bloomfield Avenue
We love this modern French brasserie for its eclectic menu and elevated setting. The brunch menu, including a prix-fixe with two courses and the diner’s choice of cocktail, includes dishes such as the duck + fig terrine, French toast, and beef bourguignon, to name a few. Sit in the enclosed patio, listen to live jazz music, and enjoy this lovely brunch with the girls.
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1:30PM: Make a custom candle or fragrance at Alchemy Scent Bar | 30 Church Street
Photo Credit: @alchemy.scentbar
This scent shop offers the unique experience of creating custom candles and fragrances. Guests start by choosing their favorite scents from the candle wall, then head to the fragrance bar, where one of the alchemists will help craft a custom-scented creation. In addition to being a great bonding activity, guests can take a memento home with them — to be burned or spritzed later as a reminder of the shared experience.
2:30PM: Shop at nearby boutiques | Downtown Montclair
Montclair is bustling with chic boutiques, many of which can be found downtown, including Parcel, The Eclectic Chic Boutique, and more. After Alchemy, we suggest checking out Acorn General Store at 41 Church Street. There’s something for everyone at this shop, which sells vintage, sustainably sourced, and eco-friendly brands and private label merchandise across multiple categories, including apparel and accessories, home goods, body care, packaged foods, gifts, and kids’ and pet toys. As a bonus, Java Love is just a few doors down in case the gang needs to refuel.
Next, head to the new Houss Freya location at 205 Glenridge Avenue, housed in a beautiful old church. The store’s wide range of offerings includes candle magick, bath and shower rituals, anointing oils, cleansing sprays, and incense, and there are often events and pop-ups like tarot card readers.
On the way to the last stop, drop by 2nd STREET at 10 South Park Street, a second-hand clothing chain known for its selection of vintage and thrifted designer items. Finally, as one last way to commemorate the day, visit Forever Welded at 314 Bloomfield Avenue to score some permanent friendship bracelets.
5PM: Have Dinner at The Splendid Rooftop | 690 Bloomfield Avenue
There’s a reason why The Spendid Rooftop, the rooftop bar at The MC Hotel, is a must-visit spot in Montclair. The outdoor patio makes for a great night outside with stunning views of the NYC skyline. Visit here for a cocktail paired with light bites and barside pizzas.
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7PM: Cap the Day at Local Bar | Downtown Montclair
In Downtown Montclair, adventurers will find options like Bar Franco, Pharmacie Bar, Just Jake’s, Egan + Son’s, Pineapple Express BBQ, and more. We suggest heading to one of these spots for a late-night cocktail and toasting to a day well spent with girlfriends.
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