Things To Do
in Summit

Summit, New Jersey, is a charming suburban city known for its vibrant downtown, lush parks, and strong sense of community. It boasts beautiful residential neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The city's location provides easy access to New York City while maintaining a small-town feel.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, cultural events, and local dining options that reflect the diversity of the area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown Summit
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then take a leisurely stroll through the Summit Village Green.

afternoon
:

Visit the Reeves-Reed Arboretum for a guided tour, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular Italian restaurant and catch a live performance at the Summit Playhouse.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike the trails at the nearby Watchung Reservation, taking in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Summit Historical Society for insights into the city’s past, then have lunch at a local deli.

evening
:

End your day with a relaxing drink at a local bar and enjoy some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🚕Taxi fare (within town)$10-$20
🏨Hotel (nightly rate)$150-$250
🚌Public transport ticket$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming suburban atmosphere
  • Rich history and community spirit
  • Proximity to New York City
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Higher cost of living compared to nearby areas
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours

Places to Visit in Summit

Visit one of these nice places.

Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Beautiful gardens and seasonal blooms make this arboretum a perfect spot for nature photography.

Summit Village Green

The central park area offers picturesque landscapes and vibrant community events, ideal for capturing local life.

Watchung Reservation

With its scenic trails and natural beauty, this area is a fantastic backdrop for outdoor photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Summit

Summit offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its diverse community, featuring everything from artisanal cafes to fine dining establishments.

Summit Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pasta Primavera

A fresh vegetable pasta dish that highlights seasonal ingredients, commonly found in local Italian restaurants.

Must-Try!

Bagels

New Jersey is famous for its bagels, and local shops serve them fresh with a variety of cream cheeses.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Summit Farmers Market

A seasonal market where local farmers and vendors sell fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Summit experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing, while summers are warm and humid, with highs reaching into the 80s°F (27°C). Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, making these seasons particularly enjoyable for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents value courteous interactions, so greetings and thank-yous are appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time is important in both social and business settings, reflecting respect for others' time.

Community Involvement

Participating in local events and supporting local businesses is encouraged as a way to foster community spirit.

Safety Guide

Safety

Summit is considered a safe community with a low crime rate. However, like any urban area, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services are readily available, and the local police department is responsive and community-oriented.

Tipping in Summit

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, while a dollar or two is appreciated for baristas and taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards; cash is also widely accepted, especially for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather brings outdoor concerts and farmers markets, perfect for enjoying the community vibe.

Fall

The foliage turns vibrant shades of orange and red, providing stunning views and photography opportunities.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow create a picturesque winter wonderland, ideal for holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Summit at Night

Summit's nightlife is relatively low-key but offers a variety of options, including cozy bars, restaurants with live music, and seasonal outdoor events. Popular spots like The Committed Pig often feature live performances, while other establishments host trivia nights and social gatherings. The local community enjoys a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to mingle and meet new people.

Hiking in Summit

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Watchung Reservation Trails

These trails offer various hiking options, with beautiful views and natural scenery perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Located a bit further out, this area features trails through wetlands and diverse wildlife, providing a unique hiking experience.

Airports

How to reach Summit by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Located about 20 miles from Summit, EWR is the nearest major airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Summit is highly walkable, with a compact downtown area that makes it easy to access shops, restaurants, and parks on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the community encourages pedestrian traffic, making it a pleasant experience for walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Summit has a strong family-oriented community, with many events and activities geared toward children and parents.

Young Professionals

A growing number of young professionals are moving to Summit due to its proximity to New York City and quality of life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Little League baseball is popular in the community, with local teams for youth and recreational leagues.

Soccer

Soccer is widely played among children and adults, with several clubs and recreational teams available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Summit can become congested during peak hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes. The city has a well-connected public transportation system, including NJ Transit trains and buses, making it easy to travel to nearby towns and New York City.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Summit.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many local restaurants offer gluten-free dishes, including salads and specialized pizzas.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Several cafes and eateries provide vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring inclusivity for all diners.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Summit is robust, with several medical facilities nearby, including Summit Medical Group and Overlook Medical Center. Emergency services are prompt, and there are various specialists available, ensuring residents and visitors have access to quality care.

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