Founded by the venturesome, it has never become provincial; built by the successful, it has never become stuffy. In spite of being one of the wealthiest towns in the world, it has never become ostentatious.
The first mountains to rise above the Meadowlands west of New York City serve as the crown for the community of Montclair. The name is translated literally as "bright mountain?, and the township sparkles with a bustling, diverse population, tree-lined streets and fine custom-built homes. Evening breezes sweep down the mountainside to cool the hillside community, which offers Manhattan views from many of its estates.
Montclair has evolved into the diverse and dynamic community that continues to offer the best accessibility for commuters to Manhattan, as well as points north and south. Our town boasts of stately homes, many houses of worship, award-winning schools, and restaurants that range from four-star elegant to family-style. Easy access to cultural and recreational activities can keep the most active family busy.
The attraction of Montclair's sophisticated population and aesthetic appeal have enticed leaders from many professions to the community. Educators, scientist, sport notables, artists, business and commerce leaders, heads of world and national groups and presidents of educational organizations mingle on a daily basis with shopkeepers and local business and professional people.
Today, Montclair is a community of about 38,000 residents. Never content to be merely a "bedroom community?, Montclair is a family-centered town. Its innovative public and private school education, programs, and the expanded offerings at Montclair State University have enhanced its heritage in education. A haven for artists and writers, it is a seasoned community whose many stately homes express its charm. At the dawn of a new century, Montclair remains alive to the spirit of the times.
Over two decades ago, the Montclair magnet school system was implemented. This concept was at the forefront of educational reform at the time and still is in the U.S., and Internationally. The Montclair Board of Education believed that a school system based on choice would be most equitable system to promote its goals of diversity and academic excellence. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a town committed to offering a high quality education for all its citizens, the Montclair Public Schools were awarded a $1.5 million renewable grant to enhance its magnet school system.With a total of eleven schools in the Montclair Public School System- seven elementary, three middle schools, and one high school- the Montclair school system remains a national role model for integrated public education where every child has an opportunity to exceed.
Montclair is a shopper's paradise for two reasons. First, it is conveniently located 10-20 minutes away from five major shopping area and malls including the upscale Short Hills Mall, Livingston and Willowbrook Malls, the Secaucus Outlet Center and the Essex Green Shopping Center. But Montclair is best known for its own two outstanding shopping areas in downtown and upper Montclair. With galleries, boutiques and specialty shops that suit the most sophisticated shoppers, Montclair has become a shopping destination for people who appreciate the convenience of fine shopping within minutes of home.
There are more than forty houses of worship, including synagogues and churches of every denomination, representing the enormous diversity of the Montclair community.
For entertainment and cultural attractions, with the world class Montclair Art Museum, the new Yogi Berra Museum, the historic and beautiful Van Vleck Mansion, three professional theatre companies, art galleries and seasonal artists? studio tours, one finds cause to leave town to find stimulating and thought provoking diversion.
Montclair was the first town in New Jersey to offer First Night Celebrations and it continues to be a must-do for families on New Year's Eve with the entire town's cultural and entertainment resources presented, and fireworks as the dramatic climax.
In the performing arts alone there are many professional and community groups theatre and music performances, among them Luna Stage, 12 Miles West, Pushcart Players, The Montclair Operetta Club and The Studio Players. In nearby Millburn, The Paper Mill Playhouse offers a full season that rivals the best that Broadway has to offer. The New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Newark Museum are just a short twenty-minute ride away.
Montclair is ideally situated a mere 12 miles west of the cultural capital of the world, Manhattan. In addition, with more than 167 acres of parkland, 21 tennis courts, 4 skating rinks, and 3 town pools, a YMCA and YWCA, Montclair residents can choose from the widest selection of non-stop recreation and entertainment activities.
Montclair is unquestionably the restaurant capital of northern New Jersey with every cuisine from French to Thai, to Italian, to Ethiopian. People come from miles around to experience the finest dining next to Manhattan. There is a plethora of excellent restaurants of which Montclair is very proud.
Montclair is a commuter's dream. We are conveniently located mere minutes away from Routes 3,46,80, 280 and the Garden State Parkway, affording commuters easy access to all points east, west, north, and south. Also, Newark International Airport is only 25 minutes away. Access to Manhattan by bus and train is also a snap with New Jersey Transit's Booton and Dover lines running right through town. Midtown Direct Service already exists from downtown Montclair. The great news for train travelers is that the Montclair Connection on the Boonton Line is presently under construction and upon completion in 2002 will directly connect to Manhattan's Penn Station through Newark, providing one more easy travel option. Bus service is also convenient with New Jersey Transit and the DeCamp Bus lines offering almost door-to-door service from Montclair to Newark and other towns, and to New York's Port Authority.
- NUMBER1EXPERT™ 
