This Union County gem has pretty old homes, downtown shopping, summertime jazz and more than 300 years of history. Stop by the Reeve History & Cultural Resource Center or visit the Miller-Cory House Museum for a slice of Westfield life spanning all the way back to 1720. The houses-turned museums are owned and operated by the Westfield Historical Society and offer tours all year.
Kick off the day with traditional chocolate chip pancakes at the retro Vicki’s Diner, sample some Maryland Eggs Benedict made with crab meat at the Westfield Diner or feast on Volcano French Toast at Turning Point.
Ono Bowls prides itself on healthy, clean living. Stick with the classic acai—a blend of granola, blueberries, strawberries and bananas, or go wild with the ginger-infused acai stuffed with granola, almond slices, goji berries and coconut flakes.
For an afternoon refuel, head to Boxwood Coffee Roasters to taste their specialty blends of coffees and teas, or kick back with a Nutty Irishman (it’s a drink!) in a hot, iced or frozen brew around the corner at Rock ‘n’ Joe on Prospect Street.
Westfield is home to nine parks which range in size and amenities—from Brightwood’s 44 acres of outdoor recreation including a dam, pond, picnic area and nature trails (rated 5-stars on alltrails.com) to the downtown 12-acre Mindowaskin Park with its pretty pond, fountain and gazebo.
Go to Spice Bazaar on Elm Street for a full-sensory dining experience with each dish beautifully prepared and loaded with exotic flavors. Try the turmeric, garlic and ginger-laced Salmon Tikka, or the Chicken Chettinad, a gluten-free dish steeped in a rich coconut sauce.
If traditional but unique and decadent cuisine is more your thing, walk around the corner to 16 Prospect. This bar/restaurant, reminiscent of a Manhattan jazz lounge, also boasts live music and local bands.
