By Elizabeth Ponce
Of course when you think of the States you imagine all the big cities. You picture the skyscrapers touching the sky in New York City, and the Hollywood Sign hanging over the valley of Los Angeles. We think the charming towns scattered around America deserve a little attention as well. If you ever find yourself stateside, we recommend you look for the hidden gems, like the small New Jersey town by the name of Westfield.
Westfield is not as glitzy as the typical tourist hot spots, but it has more going on than you may think. Westfield is a family filled community situated in central Jersey, just a 50 minute train ride away from NYC, and less than an hour drive from the New Jersey’s beaches. This town is anything but boring. Here are the best ways to spend your time in this charming town…
Grab some grub at the Westfield Diner
Westfield has over 40 restaurants to choose from and with so many good options, you may have trouble picking only one place to go. For an authentic Jersey meal, I would recommend the Westfield Diner. New Jersey is often referred to as the diner capital of the world, as you can always find one within ten minutes of wherever you are. Here, you can find a dish to satisfy pretty much any craving you have. Whether you want a stack of pancakes or a plate full of the best disco fries you’ve ever had, the Westfield Diner has got you covered.
Take a stroll in Mindowaskin Park
Considered a communter town, many Westfield residents take the train in and out of New York City every day. Coming out of the hustle and bustle in the city, Westfield parks have a relaxed, holiday feel. Mindowaskin Park is only one of the beautiful parks Westfield offers. You can often catch wedding photos being taken at the park’s Gazebo and a pack of kids playing on the playground. It sounds like it’s straight out of a rom-com, so obviously this park is a must see.
Shop ’til you drop in Downtown Westfield
Downtown Westfield has become a regional destination with over 200 shopping stores. Westfield’s Mayor Andrew Skibitsky says, “If you can’t find it in downtown Westfield, you don’t need it.” Clothing, jewelry, makeup, shoes, fitness gear – Downtown Westfield truly has a store for everything. You can go to Urban Outfitters and pick up a new outfit, or find a birthday gift for your bestie at an American boutique. This is a great place to update your wardrobe, just be careful not to drain your wallet.
Catch a film at the Rialto Movie Theater
The Rialto is considered a historic sight to see in Westfield. Originally opening in 1922, the Rialto Movie Theater used to screen silent films for 30 cents. These days, the Rialto charges a little bit more for films and has made a few renovations here and there. They may have changed the seats, but almost 100 years later, the Rialto hasn’t lost it’s character and old school charm.
Blend in with the townies
Westfield is a great place to visit at any time of the year, and when you do visit, I recommend you do as the locals do. In September and again in May, you can walk through the street fairs held downtown. Definitely try to get your hands on some funnel cake and fresh squeezed lemonade. In November, you can find yourself in the midst of the annual Homecoming celebrations. After a parade marching through town and a bonfire lit on the southside of town, you can cheer on the Westfield Blue Devils in an American football game.
If you want a true taste of America, I think a small town visit is the best way to go. If you want to hit some American tourist attractions as well, you can go from the bright lights of NYC’s Times Square to the calmness of Westfield, NJ in just under an hour.