Only 33 minutes to New York City by train, South Orange is the perfect suburban escape. The town’s history dates back to 1666, and has historical vestiges throughout. The Old Stone House, the Chapel of Immaculate Conception, and the Village Hall are several of its notable historic buildings. This architecture is maintained throughout several parts of the town, including the Montrose section, known for its late nineteenth and early twentieth century homes on tree-lined streets, complete with Victorian gaslights. For those interested in more modern homes, Newstead offers midcentury and contemporary options.
South Orange is flush with nature, from its multiple parks and picturesque duck pond, to the South Mountain Reservation, a 2,000-plus acre nature reserve with trails, dog parks, and sculpture garden. Home to Seton Hall University, South Orange has a small-town meets college-town feel, with ample boutiques, shops, and restaurants. SOPAC, the South Orange Performing Arts Center, offers a variety of cultural and entertainment options in the heart of the downtown, including live- art performances, a movie theater, and an art gallery.