Montclair has so much to enjoy, almost a little too much and that can put a strain on the finances. So how does one take in the eats and wander the streets in one of North Jersey’s most buzzing communities? Here at the Montclair Girl, we’ve devised 5 different day-long itineraries that showcase the best of Montclair’s sights and tastes, all under $50 for the whole day. Here’s our second option, which totals $48.25 and explores South End, Upper Montclair, and other areas by car. Keep reading to find out how to have a day in Montclair while spending $50 or less.
The challenge: Eat at least 2 meals and enjoy at least 1 activity for $50 or less in Montclair (tip+tax will be extra).
Activity 1 – Free
Start the day off by exploring Eagle Rock Reservation, located in Verona, West Orange, and Montclair. Take in the immaculate vantage points of Manhattan and explore the park’s trails. Once hunger strikes, drive about 10-minutes to The Corner.
Read More: How to Have a $50 Day in Montclair: Part 1
Breakfast – $12
The Corner located at 115 Grove Street is a Montclair brunch must. Order the Baked Eggs. This warm dish comes with crispy corn tortilla, black beans, roasted tomato, crema, and queso fresco.
Activity 2 – Free
After a hearty meal, drive five minutes over to Nishuane Park. This park features public walking paths, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a baseball field. If you get hungry just walk right over to the South End Neighborhood for lunch. It should take roughly 10 minutes to reach your lunch spot.
Lunch – $10
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Sofia’s Pizzeria located at 322 Orange Road is great for the Lunch Special which runs from 10AM to 4PM. For $10 one can get a Tuna Salad Wrap, Caesar Salad, House Salad, Penne Vodka, Linguine Marinara, Tacos de Pollo, Tacos de Carnitas, Quesadilla, Chicken Parmesan, or Eggplant Parmesan. After lunch, drive roughly 5 minutes to your third activity of the day.
Avis-Campbell Gardens – Free
Montclair has many hidden gems, but one that even longtime residents have never heard of — is a secret garden on South Fullerton. Around the corner from the Montclair Public Library, at 60 S Fullerton Avenue, resides the Avis-Campbell Gardens, a 70-year-old property dutifully cared for by The Garden Club of Montclair.
Snack – $3.50
Starting your day off at Eagle Rock Reservation means you’ve got to head over to Eagle Rock Cafe at some point. After a scenic nature walk, hop in your car and drive about 10 minutes north. Located at 202 Bellevue Avenue, Eagle Rock Cafe is open daily serving coffee, lattes, and tea. For just $3.50 or less, order the Americano, Espresso, Hot Cocoa, Macchiato, or Drip Coffee.
Activity 4 – Free
With a coffee in hand, it’s now time to explore Upper Montclair and all its historic charm. Using the Montclair History Center’s Upper Montclair Self-Guided Walking Tour, pass by and learn all about Bellevue Theater, Bond’s, St. James Episcopal Church, and many other spots.
See More: 24 Foodie Activities in Hoboken + Jersey City
Dinner – $18
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After a good walk around Upper Montclair, it’s time to eat. Hop in the car and drive about eight minutes to Brick + Dough located at 110 Walnut Street. For $18 or less, you can try the NY Style, Margherita. Five Cheese White, Vodka Style, Ruby’s Mariana, or Crispy Pepperoni.
Dessert – $4.75
After pizza, more Italian food is always a must. Hop in your car and drive about five minutes to Benvenuti Montclair, a gelateria located at 20 Church Street. This spot has strawberry, vanilla, hazelnut, matcha, and salted peanut butter flavors. Grab a small-sized cup and head outside to enjoy the traffic rolling by.
Stay tuned for Part 3 of our $50, one-day series in Montclair!
