Westfield, NJ Charm . With its quaint, Colonial-era buildings and lush parks, Westfield is an inviting New Jersey town that has something for everyone. Located about 20 miles southwest of Manhattan, Westfield offers residents a suburban lifestyle with close proximity to the attractions and amenities of NYC.
A Historic Town
The town of Westfield was initially developed in 1720 as part of Elizabethtown. It incorporated as a separate community in 1798 and today is home to more than 30,000 people. Although Westfield is located in Union County, it borders both Somerset and Middlesex counties.
Often referred to as a “cultural oasis,” Westfield has several historic sites that attract locals as well as visitors from surrounding states. Its downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and still maintains its 19th-century charm and character. Hallmarks of Westfield’s historic district include the First Baptist Church, the Presbyterian Church, Gumbert Park, East Broad Street Historic District, Hunterdon House, and numerous other sites.
Unique Shopping and Dining Options
Visitors and residents of Westfield alike can enjoy popular dining spots like Blue Fish Grill, Corso 98, Element, and Olives & Grace. For those looking to experience some of the area’s unique shopping options, Westfield offers everything from specialty boutiques to big-name stores. Popular retail destinations in the borough include Saks Fifth Avenue, Anthropologie, Lord & Taylor, and Williams-Sonoma.
For those who want to take an evening stroll outdoors, there are plenty of charming cafes and bookstores to explore. Westfield also has dozens of restaurants featuring ethnic cuisine, ranging from Italian to Mexican to Asian. This creates a diverse, eclectic atmosphere that appeals to all sorts of tastes and budgets.
Beautiful Parks and Recreation
Residents of Westfield enjoy access to several spacious parks and recreational facilities. The two main parks, J.L. Gumbert Park and Mindowaskin Park, feature baseball diamonds, walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Additionally, there are five other parks scattered throughout the borough.
The Westfield Recreation Department offers seasonal programs such as basketball, tennis, swimming, and field hockey. The department also sponsors events throughout the year, including holiday activities, movie nights, and music festivals. Regardless of age, Westfield residents can find plenty of ways to stay active and engaged in the community.
A Dynamic Education System
Families in Westfield are served by the Westfield Public School District, one of the top school districts in the state of New Jersey. The system consists of six elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. In 2019, US News & World Report ranked Westfield High School among the best 10% of public high schools in the country.
In addition to its excellent public school system, Westfield is also home to independent schools such as Westfield Friends School, Newark Academy, and The Wardlaw-Hartridge School. Furthermore, the area is conveniently located near several renowned colleges and universities, including Rutgers University, Princeton University, and Seton Hall University.
Enjoying All Westfield Has to Offer
From its vibrant culture to its exceptional schools, Westfield truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an evening of fine dining or a day of outdoor activities, this charming New Jersey town has much to offer. Come discover the Westfield, NJ charm!
