Welcome to Bloomfield
Bustling and close to the city, yet charming and authentic.
Located less than 20 miles from Midtown, Bloomfield, the western neighbor of Montclair, has become a popular destination for city dwellers and Montclair and Glen Ridge downsizers alike. Attracted to the charming architecture of the homes, the parks and lively restaurant scene. this vibrant community is more affordable than neighboring Montclair and Glen Ridge, without sacrificing charm and community. Favorite areas include The Brookdale Section, The Oakview Section, a historic Central District as well as Essex and Stonehouse neighborhoods.
With a colonial history spanning back over three centuries, several English and Dutch immigrants called Bloomfield home. Many residents served in the Revolutionary War, and several locations standing today are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, this buzzing community is packed with modern conveniences, excellent public transportation, good schools, a variety of locally-owned restaurants, festivals, making this a bustling 21st-century town the new favorite.
What to Love
- Charming neighborhoods with modest sized homes that retain their original decorative detail
- Retail and dining establishments along Bloomfield Avenue and Broad Street
- An affordable options compared to neighboring communities
- Ten miles from Newark Liberty International Airport and 20 from Midtown
- Excellent public transportation via many transit stations throughout town
Quick Links
Transportation
Bloomfield is just 20 miles from one of the largest cities in the world. Commuting into New York is simple, thanks to the town shuttle to one of the two (Bloomfield & Watsessing) NYC direct train rail station. Effective September 2, NJ TRANSIT the former West Essex/West Hudson will now have their own bus routes to and from Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT)
Local Lifestyle, Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
One of the more diverse communities in New Jersey, Bloomfield enjoys an assortment of cuisine options from traditional Italian and Greek restaurants to sushi, Thai or comforting pub favorites. Bloomfield is an active community — afternoons can be spent wandering Olmsted’s Brookdale Park’s many trails, learning Archery, playing tennis on the park courts, running on the track are among the park’s popular attractions. At day's end, locals retreat to one of Bloomfield’s cozy taverns or a sleek wine bar in neighboring Montclair. Locals love Bloomfield Steak & Seafood House. Situated in what was once a Revolutionary War hideout, this historic building features patio dining and a cozy fireplace. In addition to perfectly seared cuts of beef, patrons enjoy crab cakes, shrimp scampi, lobster tails, and other seafood favorites.
Aki Sushi is another local favorite whose creative dishes include the sushi pizza and unique rolls like the True Love, Dream, and Honolulu rolls. Authentic Greek fare from Stamna Tavern is another winning option for a night out. Whether you are craving a light Greek salad or a more hearty helping of moussaka, Stamna offers generous portions.
Bloomfield is home to several bakeries, all offering delicious options to top off hearty meals. Pure Love Pies, Gencarelli’s Bakery, and Holsten’s Ice Cream, famous for the iconic finale of “The Sopranos,” are all within walking distance of one another. .Wander down Broad Street and into one of the community’s locally owned boutiques or shops. Urban Natural Home Furnishings features a selection of all-natural furniture and accessories. Everything within the store is sustainably produced, American-made, and free from chemicals or other harmful materials.
Things To Do
New Jersey is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the northeast, and Bloomfield is no exception. Country clubs within the area are exclusive ways to experience this beauty and scenery. The Glen Ridge Country Club has been one of the area’s more prestigious clubs since 1894, boasting an 18-hole championship golf course, PGA Professional staff, award-winning programs, and many other amenities. The Forest Hills Field Club is another beautiful option, referred to as “the oasis of Bloomfield” with similar amenities. Bloomfield also features several peaceful parks. Brookdale Park stretches across 121 acres, while Brookside Park is a cozier five-acre option with picnic areas, dog park, archery, walking paths, and a tot playground. Watsessing Park features a more extensive playground, splash pad, and athletic facilities. More uniquely, the recently renovated Bloomfield Skatepark is a favorite spot for showing off skating and biking tricks, with a variety of ramps available for all levels.Work out your frustrations at Bury the Hatchet on Bloomfield Ave. Bloomfield has also launched a Tuesday evening farmers market at the public library courtyard on Broad Street.
Schools
Bloomfield is home to high-performing schools. Bloomfield Township School District, prekindergarten-12th grade is one of New Jersey’s more diverse districts also features one of the best-educated staffs. Oakview and Brookdale elementary are among the favorites. Private Schools include:
- Montclair Kimberley Academy, prekindergarten-12th grade; one of the best private schools in Essex County also boasts a staggeringly low 6:1 student-teacher ratio
- Seton Hall Prep (Boys only)
- Kent Place School, kindergarten-12th grade; this private all-girls school has been named as the best all-girls school in New Jersey, the third-best overall private school, and fourth-best private college preparatory school by Niche.com
- Newark Academy, grades 6-12; Newark Academy offers the International Baccalaureate program, several honors courses, advanced placement programs, and dozens of extracurricular options
