There are a few top-ranking college towns in New Jersey, and while we may be biased, Montclair is at the top of our list. For Montclair State University students, there is so much to do on and off campus — from the sporting events and arts available to the awesome food, drink, and activities students can find around town. We created a local guide of things to do in and around the college, applicable to everyone from the budding freshman to the tenured grad student. Keep reading to get the local guide for Montclair State University students.
On Campus
For many students, attending sporting events is a quintessential part of the college experience. There are several opportunities to see the Montclair State Red Hawks excel at sports. The Montclair State football team hosts home games in the fall at Sprague Field. In addition to watching some great football, there’s also a lively halftime show featuring routines from the cheerleading and dance teams. Pro tip: you can usually catch people tailgating before or after the game on the roof of the Red Hawk Parking Deck. Other Montclair State sports teams that play at Sprague Field include lacrosse and field hockey.
To catch some men’s and women’s soccer, head to the MSU Soccer Park at Pittser Field. Or, you may be able to watch the occasional game at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, NJ. Montclair State’s men’s and women’s club hockey teams play at Montclair State Ice Arena. The men’s team typically plays on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays, making it a great fall and winter weekend activity.
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For those interested in the arts, perusing the University Galleries is a great way to spend an afternoon (but please note that it is temporarily closed). Its flagship exhibition space is called The George Segal Gallery, and the space frequently hosts different exhibitions. The next exhibition held by the University Galleries will be in the Alexander Kasser Theater lobby — Case Studies 4: Hilliary Gabryel – Side Sleeper will open this February. Students can also head to Alexander Kasser Theater to catch PEAK Performances, a wide-ranging program of professional theater, music, dance, and public events for the university and surrounding communities.
For dining on campus, the Red Hawk Diner is a must. Head here for all of your classic diner food and delicious milkshakes. The University also recently revamped its food offerings around campus in partnership with EATS by Gourmet Dining, available everywhere from the Student Center Food Court to Freeman Dining Hall. There are now healthier and more diverse options than ever before.
Around Town
When venturing off campus, Montclair Diner is an Upper Montclair staple and gives Montclair State students 10% off when they show their ID. While in the area, swing by Java Love for a hot beverage and walk a lap around Anderson Park.
^ Java Love
There are also a ton of spots in downtown Montclair to get a quick bite in between classes. Grab tacos at Tacoria, a gyro at Efi’s, a slice at Teglia Pizza Bar, a sandwich at Rooster’s Hot Chicken, a smoothie at BoomChia — the list goes on. To eat something sweet, Absolute Zero Ice Cream and Let’s Yo! are both local favorites.
^ Efi’s Gyro
Those over 21 can dance the night away at a late-night live show at Just Jake’s, where live bands perform every Friday and Saturday night. There are other local pubs that periodically draw the college crowd, including The Grasshopper in Cedar Grove and Murph’s Tavern in Totowa. Plus, several spots in Montclair and beyond have happy-hour drink specials throughout the week.
^ Just Jake’s
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Another fun way to spend the night out is at The Wellmont Theater, Montclair’s live music and comedy venue. Browse all of the upcoming shows here. Or, catch a movie at The Clairidge, Montclair’s cinema which shows a range of new releases and old films.
No guide would be complete without a shopping list. There are basics like Urban Outfitters and Athleta, along with local boutiques. Shops like Dot Reeder, Haus of Hilights, and Oasis are all great for shopping the latest trends.
