NJ READY 2 PLAY
Indoor play space perfect for toddlers and young children. Clean, spacious facility with age-appropriate play equipment, climbing structures, slides, and imaginative play areas. Open play sessions and birthday party packages available. Family-owned and operated with a focus on safe, engaging playtime for little ones.
IMC KIDS GYM
Perfect 5-star rating! Kids gym specializing in movement classes for toddlers and young children. Obstacle courses, tumbling, balance activities, and creative movement in a fun, noncompetitive environment. Small class sizes with patient instructors. Birthday parties and open gym times available.
One River School of Art + Design
Professional art studio offering year-round classes in drawing, painting, digital art, manga, and sculpture. Second location joins successful Millburn studio. Expert instructors teach contemporary techniques in modern facilities. Summer camps, after-school programs, and portfolio prep for serious artists. All materials included.
The Tutor Shack
Perfect 5-star rating from 135 reviews! Comprehensive tutoring in all subjects for elementary through high school. Expert tutors match to student's learning style and needs. SAT/ACT prep with score guarantees. Homework help and study skills coaching. Welcoming environment where students feel comfortable asking questions.
Fractal Science and Math Academy
STEM-focused learning center offering hands-on science and math enrichment. Interactive experiments, problem-solving challenges, and project-based learning. Small group classes foster curiosity and critical thinking. Advanced programs for gifted students. Summer camps and after-school sessions.
The Fine Art Academy of Montclair
Professional art academy offering classes in drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media for children through adults. Small class sizes with experienced art instructors. Portfolio development for advanced students. Summer art camps and after-school programs. Holiday workshops and special events. Nurturing environment that encourages creativity and technical skill development. Gallery showcases student work throughout the year.
Math Momentum
Specialized math tutoring center focusing on building strong foundations and confidence in mathematics. Small group and one-on-one instruction for elementary through high school students. Test prep for SAT, ACT, and standardized testing. Homework help and enrichment programs. Experienced certified teachers. Customized learning plans based on individual needs. Creates positive learning environment where students actually enjoy math.
The Little Gym of Montclair
Highly rated children's gym with 293 five-star reviews. Gymnastics, karate, dance, and sports skills classes for all ages. Birthday parties include exclusive gym time, games, obstacle courses, and parachute play. Energetic instructors create supportive environment where every child succeeds. Progressive curriculum builds confidence and motor skills.
School of Rock
Performance-based music school where kids learn guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, and vocals while preparing for live shows. Kids play in bands from day one. Seasonal programs culminate in professional rock concerts. Summer camps, private lessons, and group rehearsals. Builds confidence and musicianship in a fun, supportive environment.
DanceWorks Studios
Dance studio offering ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip-hop, and musical theater. Welcoming environment for all skill levels from preschool through teens. Experienced instructors focus on technique and artistry. Annual recitals showcase student growth. Birthday party packages with dance games and activities.
Glen Ridge Taekwon-do
Traditional taekwondo instruction emphasizing discipline, respect, and physical fitness. Classes for children, teens, and adults taught by experienced black belt instructors. Character development integrated into martial arts training. Birthday party packages with board breaking and martial arts games. Belt testing and tournaments available.
Mathnasium
Math-only learning center using proven curriculum to build number sense and problem-solving skills. Custom learning plans based on assessment. Patient instructors make math make sense. Students typically see improved grades and confidence. Homework help, test prep, and enrichment for advanced students.
MAKER PIZZA
Highly rated artisan pizza spot with wood-fired oven. Creative flavor combinations using high-quality ingredients. Small, focused menu ensures consistency. Cozy atmosphere with counter seating. Perfect for quick family dinners. Takeout available. Often busy — arrive early or order ahead.
Arthur Murray Dance Studio Montclair
Renowned dance studio offering ballroom, Latin, and social dance classes for all ages. Kids' programs teach coordination, rhythm, and social skills through dance. Private lessons and group classes available. Professional instructors with decades of experience. Performance opportunities and showcases. Friendly, encouraging atmosphere. Perfect for children interested in competitive dance or just having fun learning new skills.
Montclair Mud Clay Studio
Pottery studio offering wheel throwing, hand-building, and ceramic painting classes. Birthday parties include guided clay projects that kids glaze and take home. Adult classes and open studio time also available. Friendly instructors make ceramics accessible for beginners. Kiln-fired pieces ready for pickup in one week.
Montclair Public Library
Excellent public library with extensive children's programming. Storytimes for babies and toddlers, LEGO club, craft programs, homework help, and teen events. Modern facility with comfortable reading areas. Free WiFi and computers. Summer reading programs with prizes. Meeting rooms available for community use.
Cornbread Montclair
Beloved Southern comfort food restaurant with 2,700+ five-star reviews. Fried chicken, mac & cheese, cornbread, and BBQ favorites in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Kids menu available. Generous portions perfect for sharing. BYOB friendly. Weekend brunch is extremely popular — expect a wait but worth it!
Watchung Booksellers
Beloved independent bookstore featuring extensive children's section with knowledgeable staff recommendations. Separate Kids' Room next door offers storytimes, author visits, and book clubs. Cozy reading nooks and carefully curated selection. Community gathering place supporting local authors. Gift wrapping available.
Edgemont Park
Beautiful 12-acre park with modern playground, basketball courts, baseball fields, walking paths, and picnic areas. The playground features age-separated play structures for toddlers and bigger kids. Scenic views, well-maintained facilities, and plenty of shade. Popular spot for birthday parties and community gatherings.
Anderson Park
Upper Montclair park featuring playground, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and basketball courts. Covered pavilion for birthday parties. Beautiful mature trees provide shade. Well-maintained facilities popular with local sports leagues and families. Free parking available.
Absolute Zero Ice Cream
Liquid nitrogen ice cream shop creating ultra-smooth, made-to-order ice cream right before your eyes. Kids love watching the dramatic fog effect. Unique flavors and custom creations. Vegan and dairy-free options available. Instagram-worthy presentations. Open late on weekends.
Brookdale Park Rose Garden
Beautiful formal rose garden within Brookdale Park featuring hundreds of rose bushes in bloom throughout the growing season. Peak bloom in June and September. Wide pathways perfect for strollers. Adjacent playgrounds and open fields for picnicking and play. Free admission. Popular spot for family photos and nature walks. Part of Essex County park system.
Kidville
Multi-purpose center offering classes, open play, and birthday parties for babies through kindergarten. Music classes, art, movement, and themed playrooms. Clean facility with age-appropriate toys and equipment. Popular for birthday celebrations with party packages and dedicated hosts.
Glenfield Park
Spacious neighborhood park with playground, open fields, tennis courts, and walking paths. Great for letting kids run and play. Clean bathrooms and ample parking. Walking distance to downtown Montclair shops and restaurants. Community events held throughout the year.
Pinot's Palette
Paint and sip studio offering step-by-step painting classes for all skill levels. Kids' sessions (no alcohol) create age-appropriate art projects. Birthday parties include guided painting with all supplies provided. Family paint nights bring everyone together. No experience necessary — instructors make it easy and fun.
Van Vleck House & Gardens
Historic 11-acre garden estate featuring formal Mediterranean-style gardens, naturalistic landscapes, rhododendron collection, and scenic ponds. One of 16 gardens endorsed by the Garden Conservancy as exceptional in the US. Family programs, guided tours, and seasonal events throughout the year. Educational workshops on horticulture and nature. Peaceful oasis in the heart of Montclair perfect for walks and picnics.
Yantacaw Brook Park
Natural woodland park featuring walking trails along Yantacaw Brook, wildlife observation areas, and native plant habitats. Educational signage about local ecology and wildlife. Popular with families for nature walks and birdwatching. Connects to larger trail network in Upper Montclair. Quiet retreat from urban areas. Great for teaching kids about nature and conservation.
YMCA of Montclair
Community center offering swimming lessons, youth sports, gymnastics, summer camps, and family programs. Indoor pool, gymnasium, fitness center, and multipurpose rooms. Afterschool care and childcare available. Financial assistance offered. Two locations serve Montclair families with comprehensive youth development programs.
Centercourt Montclair
Indoor sports facility offering soccer, basketball, volleyball, and multi-sport programs for kids. Climate-controlled turf fields and courts. Birthday party packages with private court time and sports activities. Leagues, clinics, and camps for all skill levels. Professional coaching staff.
Applegate Farm
Montclair institution serving homemade ice cream since 1848. Huge variety of creative flavors made on-site. Generous portions at reasonable prices. Outdoor seating perfect for summer nights. Long lines on weekends but move quickly. Cash only. A must-visit for families and ice cream lovers.
Meet Me at Madison's
Charming breakfast and brunch spot in Upper Montclair. Pancakes, French toast, omelets, and creative breakfast dishes. Warm atmosphere with friendly service. Popular with families on weekend mornings. Coffee bar with specialty drinks. Limited seating — expect a wait on weekends but worth it.
Nishuane Park
Popular neighborhood park with playground equipment for multiple age groups, open fields for sports and play, basketball courts, and picnic areas. Summer pool for residents. Shaded areas with mature trees. Active Montclair Recreation programs run here including summer camps and sports leagues. Dog-friendly. Well-maintained and family-oriented atmosphere.
Alonzo F Bonsal Wildlife Preserve
Protected wetland and woodland preserve featuring boardwalk trails through diverse habitats. Wildlife viewing opportunities include birds, turtles, and aquatic life. Educational programs about wetland ecology. Maintained by Montclair Audubon Society. Accessible trails suitable for families with young children. Beautiful natural setting perfect for introducing kids to environmental conservation and wildlife.
Geyer Family Branch YMCA
Second Montclair YMCA location offering aquatics programs, youth sports, fitness classes, and childcare. Indoor pool with swim lessons for all ages. Gymnastics, basketball, and enrichment programs. After-school care and summer camps. Family memberships available. Smaller, more intimate setting than main branch. Strong community atmosphere with programs designed for families.
Nishuane Pool
Community outdoor pool open during summer months. Lap swimming, recreational swim, and kiddie pool area. Swim lessons and water safety programs available. Locker rooms and snack bar. Lifeguards on duty. Resident membership required. Popular gathering spot for Montclair families during hot summer days. Great place for kids to cool off and make friends.
The Clairidge
Historic independent movie theater showing art films, documentaries, classics, and family-friendly features. Comfortable seating and excellent sound. Special kids' matinee screenings on weekends. Concession stand with traditional movie snacks. Community gathering space supporting independent cinema. Affordable ticket prices.
Montclair Diner
Classic New Jersey diner serving breakfast all day, burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food. Huge menu with something for everyone. Kid-friendly with crayons and coloring sheets. Friendly service and generous portions. Late-night hours perfect for post-event meals. Affordable prices.
Ah' Pizz Montclair
Popular pizzeria serving Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh ingredients and creative toppings. Casual atmosphere perfect for families. Indoor and outdoor seating. Kids' menu and salads available. Takeout and delivery offered. Weekend nights get busy — call ahead or expect a wait.
Raymond's
Upscale casual restaurant with excellent brunch and dinner. Avocado toast, burgers, entree salads, and seasonal specials. Kids menu available. Modern atmosphere with attentive service. Outdoor patio seating. Weekend brunch is very popular — reservations recommended. BYOB friendly.
theCoderSchool
Coding school offering personalized instruction in Python, JavaScript, web development, game design, and app creation. Small group and one-on-one mentoring sessions. Kids learn at their own pace with expert Code Coaches. Summer camps and after-school programs. Projects tailored to each student's interests and goals.
milk+mayhem play café
New play café combining indoor play space with coffee bar for parents. Toddler play equipment, reading nooks, and comfortable seating for grown-ups. Snacks and beverages available. Drop-in play sessions welcome. Birthday party packages offered.
Clary Anderson Arena
Ice rink offering public skating sessions, figure skating lessons, hockey programs, and birthday parties. Year-round indoor skating. Learn-to-skate classes for all ages. Skate rentals available. Popular venue for school trips and youth hockey leagues. Snack bar on site.
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Browse All Essex County Activities →Best Things to Do with Kids in Montclair, NJ
Looking for family-friendly activities in Montclair? You're in the right place. Montclair offers 42 amazing spots for families with children of all ages — from toddlers to teens.
Indoor Activities for Kids in Montclair
When the weather's not cooperating, Montclair has plenty of indoor options. Indoor play spaces offer climate-controlled fun year-round, while art studios and music schools provide creative outlets for young minds. Many venues offer drop-in sessions, making it easy to plan last-minute activities.
Outdoor Fun in Montclair
Montclair's parks and playgrounds are perfect for burning off energy. From modern playgrounds with innovative equipment to nature trails for family hikes, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. Most parks are free and offer amenities like picnic areas and clean restrooms.
Classes and Enrichment Programs
Beyond drop-in play, Montclair is home to excellent enrichment programs. Swim schools help children build water confidence, gymnastics centers develop coordination and strength, and arts programs foster creativity. Many offer trial classes so you can find the perfect fit for your child.
Planning Your Visit: Things to Do with Kids in Montclair
Best Times to Visit
Weekday mornings are typically less crowded at indoor play spaces, while weekends see more activity. Parks are busiest between 10 AM and 2 PM on Saturdays. For swim lessons and classes, evening and weekend spots fill up quickly, so book ahead.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
Montclair offers 12 free or budget-friendly options perfect for families watching their spending. Public parks, playgrounds, and walking trails provide hours of entertainment without breaking the bank. Library storytimes and town recreation programs also offer excellent value.
Birthday Party Venues in Montclair
Planning a birthday? Many Montclair venues offer party packages that handle everything from setup to cleanup. Indoor play spaces, gymnastics centers, and art studios are popular choices. Most venues provide party hosts, age-appropriate activities, and dedicated party spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do with kids in Montclair, NJ?
Montclair offers 42 family-friendly activities including indoor play spaces, parks and playgrounds, swim schools, gymnastics centers, art studios, and more. Popular options include venues with high Google ratings and verified reviews from local parents.
What are free things to do with kids in Montclair?
Montclair has 12 free or low-cost activities perfect for budget-conscious families. Public parks and playgrounds are always free and offer climbing structures, swings, and open spaces for running. Many venues also offer free trial classes or open house events.
What indoor activities are available for kids in Montclair?
Montclair offers several indoor options including play spaces, art studios, gymnastics centers, and swim schools. These venues provide year-round entertainment regardless of weather and are particularly popular during winter months and rainy days.
Where can I host a kids' birthday party in Montclair?
Many Montclair venues offer birthday party packages including indoor play spaces, gymnastics centers, art studios, and swim schools. Packages typically include a party host, activities, dedicated party space, and sometimes food options. Most venues require booking 2-4 weeks in advance.
Are these activities suitable for toddlers?
Yes! Many Montclair activities cater specifically to toddlers and young children. Look for venues marked "Ages 0-3" or "Toddlers" in the age range. Indoor play spaces often have separate areas for younger children, and many classes offer parent-and-me sessions.