No matter the season, Maplewood has a pulse. Consistently rated as one of the most vibrant small towns in the country, it’s no surprise Maplewood has become one of the most desirable communities in New Jersey.
Just 20 miles from New York City, Maplewood—sometimes referred to as “Brooklyn West”—is bursting with urban convenience, community amenities, and of the most dynamic downtown corridors in the state. And that’s not to mention the flourishing culinary scene, convenient transportation networks, and the access to sprawling park space and recreation.
Overview of Maplewood, NJ
The origins of Maplewood township date back to the late 1600s when European settlers purchased land stretching from Newark Bay to the foothills of the Watchung Mountains. The small farming community was one of the first three townships that formed Essex County, and in the late 1700s it was named Jefferson Village.
Like many towns outside of New York City, the advent of the railroads in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries transformed what ultimately became Maplewood, leading to a boom in population and real estate. Today, the Maplewood’s population hovers around 25,000, and the township’s evolution is evident in the turn-of-the-century architecture that brings the town a unique charm.
The Community and Atmosphere of Maplewood
The downtown core of Maplewood is among the most active in Essex County, with a bevy of galleries and cultural institutions like the 1978 Maplewood Arts Center, as well as theaters including the Woodland Great Hall and the Burgdorff Center for Performing Arts. The Maplewood Division of Arts and Culture keeps a robust calendar of events throughout the year, including “Maplewoodstock,” a popular two-day music festival each July. And the community is routinely the host of book readings, live performances, networking events, as well as countless kid-friendly activities scheduled throughout the year.
The Schools in Maplewood, New Jersey
Maplewood is part of the South Orange-Maplewood School District, which serves more than 7,200 students across ten schools. The school district has earned national recognition for its extracurricular offerings—including music programs, robotics, and performing arts programs.
Each of the Maplewood schools works closely with community partners, including the Achieve Foundation and various parent and alumni associations, to support students in the classroom and beyond.
There are also several options for private early education in Maplewood, including Our Lady of Sorrows, a pre-kindergarten through 8th grade Catholic school, and several Montessori options, including Maplewood Outside School.
Commuting and Transportation in Maplewood
Of course, once you’re in Maplewood, there are plenty of reasons to stay put. But the ease of access to public transportation and international travel is also a major draw for newcomers. Via NJ Transit, commuters can get from Maplewood Station to Manhattan in less than 35 minutes and can reach downtown Newark in under 20.
Moreover, Newark Liberty International Airport is a stone’s throw away. A mere 15 minutes from downtown Maplewood by car, the airport offers access to all corners of the world, which makes Maplewood an ideal basecamp for travelers of any kind.
Recreation, Parks, and Open Space in Maplewood
For families who want to get outside and stay active, Maplewood has a myriad of options, including sprawling park space, athletic fields, community pools, and a full docket of youth and adult activities.
Memorial Park is among the prized attractions near downtown. It features 25 acres of open space with softball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, and more. The world-renowned Olmsted Brothers firm designed it in the early twentieth century.
Moreover, each summer, the Maplewood Community Pool facility, which features three pools as well as a multi-storied diving platform, is a draw for community members of all ages. But perhaps the greatest outdoor attraction in the entire Essex County Park System is South Mountain Reservation—a 2,110-acre nature reserve that borders Maplewood. The open space area features many miles of walking and hiking trails, expansive views of the New York City skyline, and even a zoo, a dog park, an ice-skating arena, and a ropes course.
Open spaces and the many recreational activities offered throughout the year are essential to Maplewood residents’ identity. Youth programs include basketball, tennis, and wrestling, while adults can get involved with pickleball, tennis, goat yoga, and more. The Maplewood Country Club also offers a variety of ways for families to spend time together outside.
Culinary and Shopping Experiences in Maplewood
Throughout “The Village”— the walkable downtown corridor in Maplewood— residents and visitors alike will encounter an impressive lineup of local shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries.
True foodies will not want to miss Lorena’s, which for three years running has been voted one of the “Best of the Best” restaurants in the state by New Jersey Monthly. A high-end French dining experience, Lorena’s seasonally-inspired menu offers dinner options like steak “au poivre” and butternut squash bisque. For those looking for sweet treats, the Able Baker is a community treasure—the go-to spot for made-to-order scones, pies, cakes, and more.
The Village is also replete with local boutiques, including Maker + Muse, which sells handmade jewelry, fine art, home decor, and more. Perch Home & Co features high-end gifts and household items and a cafe with an elevated brunch menu.
In nearly every season, shops and restaurants in Maplewood participate in sidewalk events, art tours, and other gatherings (don’t miss the Taste of Maplewood Street Festival) that have earned downtown a sterling reputation.
Are You Ready to Move to Maplewood, NJ?
Whether you’re a nature lover looking for open space, an artist looking to engage with a creative community or a foodie who desires a walkable downtown with high-end culinary offerings, Maplewood should be on your radar.
Even better, it’s an excellent place to raise children, and the access it provides to New York City is exceptional. If it’s a balance between suburban charm and the urban connection you desire, Maplewood offers a unique blend of community, convenience, and culture.
Whether you are hoping to relocate or just explore, this township provides a welcoming environment for everyone. Contact a local expert strategist for more information on available properties or to discover your perfect home in Maplewood.
