Known for its charming downtown that resembles Main Street USA, Westfield is known to locals as Bestfield—and with tree-lined sidewalks, unique shops mixed with brand-name ones, and a generally convivial atmosphere, you can find plenty of reasons to make this a fun day trip with the fam. Boasting a rich history dating back to 1720, the town—which was once a popular trail for the Lenni-Lenape Indians—has a smattering of delicious and diverse restaurants, boutique shops, and plenty of spots where kids can spend time in the great outdoors. In fact, there are 211 acres devoted to parks, which makes the town of Westfield worth a visit in any season, where there’s always something going on. Keep reading to learn more about what to do when you visit Westfield with the family. Want more downtown places to explore? Check out our guide to downtowns in the Garden State. (featured photo credit: @meaghanbmurphy)
Things To Do In Westfield
Take a historic walking tour
With so much history seeping through Westfield, what better way to spend the day than taking a historical walking tour? Created in partnership between the Westfield Historical Society and Downtown Westfield, this tour highlights numerous historic buildings and historic features of the downtown district. Some notable sites include the Train Station and Underpass (1892), the Westfield Firehouse (1911), Memorial Plaza (1923), and the First United Methodist Church (1911). You can print out a walking tour map, which provides 16 stops with the history of each location included.
Shop for unique goodies
Kids and parents will love to scope out Baron’s Drug Store, a classic pharmacy with more than just meds. It’s got gifts, trinkets, toys, and candies, so your kids can experience shopping in a variety store pre-Amazon. Booklovers will want to make a pit stop at The Town Book Store, the longest-running bookstore in Union County. The bookstore first opened its doors on September 4, 1934, on East Broad Street, then moved a few decades later across the street to the former Westfield library. With an extensive children’s section full of popular favorites as well as unique finds, your little ones will have a blast exploring the shelves. There are also book signings and fun events throughout the year, so follow them on Instagram for all the latest events.
Stop for a delicious latte
Whether you are looking for a signature latte like the Dubai Chocolate Latte or your classic cup of coffee, you will find it at Boxwood Coffee in the heart of downtown Westfield. It’s the kind of place you can stay awhile, with cushy armchairs and pillows, and the coffee experience with single-origin coffees, custom pour-overs, and unique matchas. Want to bring home their unique blends? They sell coffee grounds, specialty tea leaves, or accessories like a coffee mill and stackable cups so you can experience the coffee culture at home.
Have a sweet treat
When it comes to a day trip, no day can be complete without stopping for a sweet treat. And the town of Westfield might only be 6.74 square miles, but there are lots of places to pop in and satisfy a sweet tooth. Perhaps one of the most well-known dessert spots in Westfield is Chocolate Bar, renowned for its exceptional gelato and chocolate offerings. You can sit down and enjoy a Pistachio or Caramel Chip gelato with the family. Looking for Italian pastries? Bovella’s Italian Pastry Shop is available for takeout or seating inside, and its menu boasts treats such as cannoli, biscotti, cookies, and even a sheet cake for special occasions.
Make time for play
Stop by YESTERCades of Westfield for vintage gaming fun, featuring classic video games like Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, and Ice Man, as well as an array of pinball machines and a pool table. All around the arcade, you will be transported back to fond moments and fun from your childhood, allowing you to share these memories with your little ones and immerse them in the experiences you enjoyed at their age. There is also the Small Town Play Cafe, where kids can run around and play while you sip coffee or enjoy a pastry and a light meal.
Spend time at Mindowaskin Park
Throughout the year, spending time in nature is always a peaceful way to spend time together as a family. At Mindowaskin Park, this is exactly what you will find. The park spans 12.6 acres and features a playground, a beautiful gazebo, memorial trees and gardens, and a tranquil pond. This is a very popular spot for families to come and go for a walk or bring lunch and have a picnic. In the fall, don’t miss the chance to see the gorgeous trees changing colors and putting on quite a show.
What to know before you go
Westfield has a beautiful downtown area that is easy to navigate with kids and strollers, offering plenty of activities, including restaurants, historic buildings, and spots to stop and take in the sights. When you visit Westfield, several parking options are available close to the main street in town, E. Broad Street, and there is free parking, metered parking, and daily parking permits. During the year, there are lots of events to check out, including Addams Fest in October, a celebration of Charles Addams, creator of the Addams Family, and a former Westfield resident—follow the town website or social media for upcoming events.
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