Welcome to Maplewood
Cool vibes and a charming sense of community.
Conveniently situated along Interstate 78 and a stone’s throw from New York, Maplewood is a lovely community with fairy-tale-like homes. Former city dwellers have found peace, refuge, and friendly neighbors in a community reminiscent of old-school Brooklyn.Charming downtown, walkable streets, and a localized economy have brought a strong sense of community to one of New Jersey’s more eclectic, hidden treasures.
Similar to many other surrounding towns, Maplewood was first a part of other townships before becoming its own separate community. This quiet farming region began to grow at the beginning of the 20th century, These endearing homes serve as the perfect metaphor for the rest of the community’s small-town manner, just miles from New York.
What to Love
- Charming architecture, old-fashioned storefronts, and walkable streets
- A close-knit sense of community well within reach of urban amenities
- Ample public transportation options to make getting around New Jersey and into the city simple
- Good variety of coffee shops, cafes, and eclectic boutiques
Quick Links
Maplewood & South Orange
Transportation
Like many of the train towns, Maplewood is less than 20 miles from NYC and is serviced by NJ Transit. Commuting into New York is simple, thanks to the NYC direct Morris-Essex line Train.
Local Lifestyle, Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Life in Maplewood truly features the best of all worlds. A glimpse into laid back, small-town life can be observed on Maplewood Avenue, the walkable heart of the community. Nail salons, children’s boutiques, French eateries and Italian restaurants are just a few of the gems to be uncovered. Within residential enclaves, the same classical, farmhouse and Tudor-inspired architecture can be enjoyed from tree-lined streets, where lucky locals retreat to at day’s end to enjoy evening walks and bike rides with family and friends.
From fine dining to more casual cafes, Maplewood has something to satisfy the appetite of even your most discerning houseguest. Village Coffee is a cozy exposed-brick stop for a simple cup of coffee or more extravagant espresso creations, also serving breakfast and lunch. The General Store Cooperative is a highly adored spot offering a selection of fine cheese, bakery items, and other trinkets from over 60 local businesses, all in one spot.
More special occasions are spent at Bistro D’azur. This fine French eatery places an emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients from the surrounding region. Lobster crepes, foie gras, roasted lamb, and an impressive array of desserts are served on white table cloths with a cozy ambiance. Casual Arturo’s touts a varied menu that will satisfy any craving. An Italian staple of the Maplewood community, this popular pizzeria has built a solid reputation for its handmade pies, pasta, and other traditional accompaniments.
Maplewood Avenue and the nearby cross streets are lined with mom-and-pop shops, like Words Bookstore. An award-winning independent shop, Words carries a popular selection of both popular and unique works not often found at other small shops. Carefully curated men’s clothing can be found at City Workshop and women’s at No. 165. Much more than your typical boutique, these shops also carry elevated apothecary items, homewares, and decor. Nearby, any other gifting needs can be taken care of with a trip to MEUS, featuring a selection of small businesses from across the globe.
Things To Do
Enjoying community, the beauty of nature and festivals are regular parts of life in Maplewood, ensuring there is something to look forward to every month of the year. Each July, Maplewoodstock is a highly anticipated celebration of music and art, featuring some of New Jersey’s best talent. In the autumn join in the Maplewood Art walk and at year’s end, Dickens Village brings “A Christmas Carol” to life with a miniature reenactment of scenes from the iconic holiday tale. On a more routine basis, an afternoon at the Maplewood Country Club is a fine way to waste away leisurely afternoons. A meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, swimming facilities, a busy social calendar, and both fine and casual dining options are just a few membership perks. More relaxing days at the South Mountain Reservation are also popular. Covering over 2,100 acres, this nature reserve features tranquil waterfalls, a zoo, untouched wildlife, and unmatched scenery, making for a perfect escape away from it all.
Schools
Maplewood boasts several great options for quality education. South Orange-Mapleton School District, prekindergarten-12th grade; schools within this district perform higher than others on state exams, place an emphasis on readiness for the next education level, and boast highly qualified teachers and staff members.
Private school choices include:
- 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
- Seton Hall Prepatory
- Montclair Kimberley Academy, prekindergarten-12th grade; one of the best private schools in the region boasts a staggeringly low student-teacher ratio, above-average scores on college entrance exams, and is highly rated on several of Niche.com’s rankings
- Golda Ochs Academy, prekindergarten-12th grade; this private Jewish day school is located on two campuses and has been ranked as the second-best Jewish school in the state
