Cranford is a smaller town with a lot to do, right at the heart of Union County. From shops to good eats to a fun day or night out, it’s possible to plan a whole day in this little town. Cranford is a spot that is good for all ages. There are parks for the little ones to play, coffee shops for work meetings and WFH days, bars for the next big game day, and shopping for those who need a treat-yourself day. Keep reading to learn more about how to spend a day in Cranford, New Jersey.

A Brief History of Cranford

Located in Union County, Cranford was established in 1871. It came from sections of Clark, Linden, Springfield, Union, + Westfield. The town was (and still is) located around the train station and Rahway River.

Cranford, originally + jokingly referred to as “Craneville, received its name from children who were having a picnic at Josiah Crane’s farm. After having the time of their lives, they jokingly named the land “Craneville,” which was misspelled as “Cranville” in the Crane farm deed. There is a theory that this mistake may have helped to name the town Cranford later.

By 1885 there were a total of 76 residents in the town commuting from Cranford to NYC. Today there are over 1,000 residents taking that same commute at Cranford’s train station.

The town is a close-knit community and prides itself on its recreational facilities including two outdoor pools, an indoor pool + fitness complex, a bike path, + more. The town also currently operates under a committee form of government. Commissioners decide mayor and deputy mayor for a one-year term.

Read More: How to Have a $50 Day in Bloomfield: Part I

Places to Eat

The Cranford Hotel | 1 South Union Avenue

Established in 1882, The Cranford Hotel sits on South Union Avenue where it connects with Walnut Avenue. This casual dining spot provides a rustic, historical feel with indoor/outdoor dining. Try ordering the crispy eggplant sandwich (with avocados, tomatoes, arugula, + balsamic vinaigrette), or the pork tenderloin (with braised fennel puree, fingerling potatoes, asparagus, + cinnamon caramel).

Cranford Station House | 7 North Avenue East

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Cranford Station House (@cranfordstation)

 

This brunch + breakfast spot is located on North Avenue East across the street from the Cranford train station. Cranford station house is BYOB and has indoor/outdoor seating available. For those who like a sweeter brunch try the Oreo pancakes or the stuffed French toast (thick-cut French toast stuffed with fresh bananas, strawberries, + sweet cream cheese filling). For those looking for something on the savory side try the Cali Panini (sliced turkey breast, bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomatoes, + pesto mayo) or one of its avocado toasts.

Garlic Rose Bistro | 28 North Avenue West

Garlic Rose Bistro built its menu around one important herb: garlic. Garlic is found in dishes + decor in this casual dining establishment. For some classic garlic dishes try the garlic shrimp + rice (saffron garlic shrimp over rice) or stuffed mushrooms (stuffed with sweet Italian sausage, mozzarella, garlic, red peppers, basil, + oregano). For those who want to try something new, try the garlic chowder cup of soup or Garlicious Chicken Rigatoni (Marsala cream sauce with mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, + garlic).

Old City Grill + Cafe | 20 North Avenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by & (@oldcitycafeandgrill)

 

Old City Grill is a two-minute walk away from Cranford’s train station. This establishment serves Middle Eastern + Mediterranean dishes and wines. Order a bottle of 2020 Estate Chardonnay to split with friends while trying one of the fish options like Branzino, a white Mediterranean roasted fish, served with tahini, almonds, parsley, + onion mix. For Reds, try the Revolutionary Red with lamb chops (Six fresh, dry-rubbed lamb chops, grilled to order, served with tahini dressing). There are also select wines available in half bottles. 

Riverside Inn Bar | 56 North Avenue East

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by The Dive (@riversideinnbar)

 

This little dive bar is a local favorite. Almost always packed with its indoor and outdoor seating areas, it’s a great spot to visit in nice weather. The front of the establishment has a large window that is usually open on warm days. Grab a beer on tap and bar food favorites like fish + chips, a hamburger, or Buffalo wings + fries for the table.

Rustic Mill Diner + Pancake House | 109 North Avenue West

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Rustic Mill & Pancake House (@rustic_mill_diner)

 

Rustic Mill Diner + Pancake House is located on North Avenue West, across the street from Thai Mama. This diner is open seven days a week at 7AM, making it a great spot to grab an early breakfast. It’s also open until 9PM most nights (and 10PM on Fridays + Saturdays). Rustic Mill has pancake options for all with over 28 different options on its menu including coconut, peanut butter, apple spiced, + a GF option. If stopping by for lunch, try the chicken Caesar wrap or the French onion soup.

Thai Mama | 110 North Avenue West

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Thai Mama (@thaimama_nj)

 

Thai Mama is open six days a week (closed on Tuesdays) and has two seatings: one for lunch and another for dinner. Start by ordering fried tofu bites (soft and crispy tofu, served with sweet chili sauce and ground peanut) and crispy spring rolls (crispy and crunchy spring roll carrot, cabbage, vermicelli served with a homemade plum sauce). Then move onto any of the curry dishes, before finishing with an order of mango + sticky rice.

The Thirsty Turtle | 3 South Avenue

This is the spot in Cranford for beer lovers. The Thirsty Turtle has over 26 beers on tap. From choosing a favorite to building a flight, there are plenty of options to explore. Maria, one of the managers at the Thirsty Turtle, said “there are also 16 or 17 televisions available and we’re one of the few places in town with the NFL package,” making this a great spot for the next game day. Try ordering the Irish Nachos (potato crisps, bacon, cheddar + monterey jack, scallions, red peppers, Guinness sour cream), the Turtle Pretzel Burger (American cheese, applewood smoked bacon, field greens, Russian dressing, soft pretzel bun, fries), or one of the ultra thin-crust pizzas.

Toast Cranford | 10 Walnut Avenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Toast Cranford (@toastcranford)

 

A Montclair staple recently expanded and opened its doors in Cranford, NJ. Toast sits on the corner of Walnut Avenue + South Avenue East. Toast is known for serving breakfast, brunch, + lunch items and is BYOB. For breakfast, try the whipped ricotta toast (sweetened whipped ricotta, chopped pecans, blueberries, and blueberry preserves topped with powdered sugar and a mint leaf). For lunch try the Harvest Wrap (roasted turkey, brie cheese, granny smith apples, maple bacon, and cranberry aioli in a whole wheat wrap). MG pro tip: whether dining alone or with friends, Wills GF Pancakes or waffles are a must-try. They’re great for sharing or to eat alone.

Track 5 Coffee | 5 Eastman Street 

Track 5 Coffee is located in Cranford’s town center. This coffee shop sells coffee + tea beverages, sandwiches, sweets, coffee beans, + merch. There are seats inside at tables and bar-style as well. Outside there are Adirondack chairs along with additional tables and chairs. It’s a great spot to have coffee with friends, WFH, or bring a book and have a morning or afternoon alone. For warm drinks, try one of the lattes like the Milky Way, Nutty Irshman, or Cafe Mocha. For something cold, try the cold brew coffee. For something sweet Track 5 has seasonal items available and go-tos like a cinnamon roll. There are also GF staples like the peanut butter + jelly tart.

Urban Burger | 13 Eastman Street

For those who love to live life between a bun, look no further than Urban Burger. This establishment is inspired by NYC decor from the industrial design, to chandeliers over tables, to bathroom decor. Bathroom decor was inspired by SoHo design and the Lower East Side. For those looking to leave their mark, Urban Burger has pens available for diners to “tag” themselves in the Lower East Side-inspired bathroom. For a plain and simple burger try the Biggie Smalls (Double patty, American cheese, dill pickles, chopped onions, mustard, + ketchup). If looking for something more try the Wicked Blue (with onion ring, sriracha, + blue cheese dressing). Urban Burger also serves sandwiches, shakes, and wings, and has a brunch menu available on Sundays.

Vine + Oak Tavern | 100 South Avenue East

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Vine & Oak Tavern (@vine_and_oak_tavern)

 

If looking for a place to eat that gives diners an excuse to get a little dressed up, Vine + Oak Tavern serves up American comfort food with Mediterranean + Italian influences. There are also cocktails and an extensive wine list available. Begin dinner with the Portuguese octopus (crispy potatoes, kalamata aioli, orange, and chimichurri sauce), + move on to the GF braised short ribs (polenta cake, glazed baby carrots, local wild mushrooms, + Cabernet braising sauce) or the swordfish (artichoke, farrotto, orange, and raisin chutney). For those looking to stop by earlier in the day, Vine + Oak also has lunch + brunch menus available.

 

Things to Do

Cíao Amící | 25 North Avenue West

Those who love to travel + learn should stop by Cíao Amící. This school-meets-travel agency is located on North Avenue West and has Italian classes for ages three to adults. There are also options to plan a trip to Italy. Schedule a consultation to learn more about this opportunity.

Cranford Theater | 25 North Avenue West

Movie buffs will appreciate checking out the latest movies at the Cranford Theater. The theater also shows some classics. For example on Mean Girls Day (October 3rd) the theater showed this classic in the evening. Cranford Theater also holds events for guests like a Rocky Horror Picture Show and an Elvis Tribute.

Lenape Park | 130 Kenilworth Boulevard

If traveling to Cranford on a day with nice weather take a stroll in Lenape Park. The park encompasses a total of 6,200 acres. There’s space to have a picnic, find a spot in the shade to do some yoga or read a book. There is also a fitness trail available in the park to squeeze a workout into the day.

Little Fox Kitchen | 4 South Union Avenue

Naming its storefront after the book titled The Fantastic Mr. Fox, Little Fox Kitchen is more than a professional kitchen; it’s an experience. This establishment has cooking + baking classes to teens + adults. Some classes available are Cook Italy: Florence; Korean Cuisine; Food of Morocco; Japanese Bento Box; Handmade Pasta; Gluten Free Baking, + more. Classes max at 14-15 people, which allows students to learn, participate, and receive hands-on instruction from the instructor.

Tomasello Winery Tasting Room | 109 Walnut Avenue

“Cultivating a passion for wine since 1933,” Tomasello Winery sits on Walnut Avenue. The winery has wines for sale as well as tastings on site. Some events the winery holds are Sips + Sounds (wine, live music, friends, and a tapas menu), Dueling Pianos (sing along to favorite songs with live dueling piano players), + Pairings with the Pro: Meeting the Windemaker. In addition to wine, Tomasello Winery also has wine-based creams such as butter pecan, mocha java, orange, pumpkin spice, + more. 

Yale Terrace Brewery | 26 Eastman Street

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Yale Terrace Brewery (@yaleterracebrewery)

 

What started as a hobby built into more than 35 years of craft brewing experience at Yale Terrace Brewery (YTB). The brewery has beer available by the glass or a flight. While there’s no food available at this brewery, it’s located in Cranford center, making it easy to grab food from local restaurants to enjoy with a freshly poured pint. Some beers to try are the #17 Cream Ale, #26 Oatmeal Stout, or the #44 Smoked IPA. Numbers exist as part of the beer names to add a touch of connection to each one, as they represent a number that corresponds with a YTB employee.

Places to Shop

Dovetails | 3 Eastman Street

If antiquing is a hobby, stop by Dovetails on Eastman Street. Grab a coffee at Track 5, and walk next store to this retail shop that has artifacts, antiques, gifts, accessories, + more for shoppers. There’s also a section on the website for upcoming estate sales so shoppers can plan their visit.

Dreyer Farms | 831 Springfield Avenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Dreyer Farms (@dreyerfarms)

 

This local, family-owned garden center opened its doors in Cranford in 1904. Dreyer Farms provides nursery care, baked goods, + prepared foods. With over 40 possibilities, this garden center can help anyone grow a green thumb with options like peonies, blueberries, grasses, grapes, + more. Pies, cookies, and dessert breads are available here as well. Apple cider mini doughnuts are baked fresh daily.

Hickory + Hill General Store | 21 North Avenue West

This general store sells items created by small businesses. From tote bags to baking mixes, cheese knives to candles, and apparel to jewelry, Hickory + Hill is a great spot to shop for a treat for oneself or a special someone.

Hilltop Bicycles | 30 Eastman Street

Hilltop Bicycles provides options for bikes + bike components like tires, saddles, brakes, + more. It also has clothing + bike accessories available such as helmets, protective gear, + shoes. In addition to its Cranford location, Hilltop also has storefronts in Madison + Summit.

Jumble Thrift Shop | 110 Walnut Avenue

Jumble Thrift Shop is located on Walnut Avenue and has served the Cranford community for over 80 years. This non-profit thrift shop has been used to aid those in the community. Some options available in the store are dresses, purses, and other accessories. Possible brands available in-store are North Face, Vineyard Vines, + more.

Rogue Comics + Collectibles | 105 North Union Avenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Rogue Comics (@roguecomicsnj)

 

Rogue Comics opened its doors in 2003 and sits near the corner of North Union Avenue + Alden Street. This comics + collectible shop has comics such as Powerpuff Girls, Thundercats Cheetara, and more. New books arrive in the store every Wednesday. The store also has collectibles like action figures, plushies, + toys available for shoppers.

Sweet n Fancy Emporium | 1 South Avenue East

Those who have a sweet tooth should stop by Sweet n Fancy Emporium on South Avenue East. This candy store has candy and baking supplies available. The emporium also has events like Decorate a Cupcake, + Kid’s Day Off Baking Camp. There are also seasonal events available like Breakfast with Santa + Friends.

Tiffany Pinero Style Co. | 4 Centennial Avenue

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by @tiffanypinerostyleco

Tiffany Pinero Style Co. is a full-service interior design and styling company that opened up a storefront on Centennial Avenue earlier this year. The retail shop has a variety of home goods including pillows, planters + vases, scented candles, and so much more.

See More: How to Have a $50 Day in Jersey City

Witch Baby | 11 Eastman Street

For those who like to celebrate Halloween all-year round, look no further than Witch Baby. This soap store has bath bombs, lotions, essential oils, stones, crystals, apparel, + more. It also has a book selection including topics like astrology, witchery, apothecary, spells, numerology, and healing. The table in the middle of the store is usually where newer + seasonal items are placed.