- Q: Why is Summit, New Jersey named as such?
- A: Summit is named for its location at the summit of New Jersey’s Watchung Mountains.
- Q: What is Summit known for?
- A: Summit is known for its food, vibrant arts scene, and historic Summit Playhouse.
- Q: How big is Summit, and what does it offer?
- A: Summit spans just six square miles, offering unique outdoor activities and special events throughout the year.
- Q: What can visitors find in Summit’s downtown district?
- A: The downtown district boasts over two hundred unique restaurants and boutiques.
- Q: What outdoor attraction is recommended in Summit?
- A: The Reeves-Reed Arboretum features several specialty gardens for a relaxing outdoor experience.
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1. Reeves-Reed Arboretum
Walk along garden paths and admire spring flowers during a peaceful weekend trip.
The Reeves-Reed Arboretum in Summit, New Jersey is noted on the country’s National and State Registers of Historic Places, thanks to its gardens and estate representing the design trends used by the prominent landscaping architects during the late nineteenth century and the early twentieth century, as well as other historical significance. Free of charge and open from dawn until dusk, specialty gardens at the Reeves-Reed Arboretum include the Susie Graham Reeves Rose Garden and the Gretchen Keller Azalea Garden, in addition to the Herb Garden, the Lilac Garden, the Wesson Nature Grove, the Woodland Trails, and the Vernal Pool.
165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 908-273-8787
2. The Summit Antiques Center
Explore vintage treasures and discover unusual stuff in this charming indoor market.
The beginnings of the Summit Antiques Center date back to 1990 when around a dozen of the area’s local antiques dealers together decided to establish The Summit Antiques Center at 511 Morris Avenue in the building’s rear wing. Dozens of additional antiques dealers added more inventories and visions to the center over the following decade, adding to its charm and character, eventually forming one of the greatest quality antiques collections with the area of New York City. Today, The Summit Antiques Center is open seven days a week from 11:00am until 5:00pm, but closed on major holidays.
511 Morris Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 908-273-9373
3. Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre
See live performances and enjoy affordable cultural attractions with couples or friends.
The Dreamcatcher Repertory Theatre in the town of Summit, New Jersey is a professional ensemble made up of eight professional actors. The mission of the theatre group is to build community with their audience through sharing life-affirming and contemporary stories that entertain, energize, and challenge. The Dreamcatcher was created to “be a model of a true ensemble theater,” made up of artists that are dedicated to “working together on a permanent basis,” as well as being a place that nurtured the collective creativity and individual growth of artists. The theatre also invites its audience to get closer to the creative process.
120 Morris Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 800-838-3006
4. The Summit Playhouse
Visit this historic venue and admire exciting local theater on a quick night out.
The Summit Playhouse was established back in the year 1918, making it one of the country’s oldest continuously operating community theaters. This nonprofit community theater was founded as a relief organization during World War I. Since its beginnings, The Summit Playhouse has put on more than three hundred productions and today produces three shows every year, with performances taking place in February/March, April/May, and November. The Kaleidoscope Theatre for Youth also presents their own productions at The Summit Playhouse during the summer and winter seasons. Visitors and locals alike who appreciate the theater can enjoy a good show here.
10 New England Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 908-273-2192
5. Fiorino
Savor Italian cuisine and enjoy a romantic dinner in an elegant setting.
Situated in the downtown area of Summit, New Jersey, the Fiorino Ristorante and Bar provides fine Tuscan dining within a relaxed setting from Restaurateur John Bitici and Chef Carlos Espinoza. The restaurant first opened its doors in the community in September of 1995, featuring a warm interior and the “clubby sensibilities” of its surrounding area. Fiorino also pays tribute to the cities of Florence and Siena, and the storied past of Italy’s region of Tuscany. The Italian restaurant offers multiple seating areas, including the main dining room with its al fresco artwork, the 20-seat mahogany bar, and by the glass storefront.
38 Maple Street, Summit, NJ, 07901, Phone: 908-277-1900
6. Summit House
Dine on seasonal dishes and admire upscale sights during a special weekend meal.
The Summit House serves elegant cuisine that is created out of inspiration from the diverse edible bounty of the “Garden State.” This is offered within a lively, yet warm atmosphere with care. Ingredients used in dishes at the Summit House are sourced from select purveyors, local fishermen, and local farms, providing a menu that includes humanely raised meats, peak-season vegetables, and a raw bar with an emphasis on oysters from the East Coast. Boasting a motto of “Community Through Cuisine,” the Summit House bar also serves local beers, as well as wines focused on organic and biodynamic farming practices.
395 Springfield Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 908-273-6000
7. Winberie's
Enjoy casual fare and relax with family in this easygoing neighborhood spot.
Winberie's is located within the historic and beautiful Opera House of Summit, New Jersey and offers a casual and comfortable dining experience, offering a blend of the richness of American flavors and the quality expected from a “classic neighborhood restaurant.” Winberie’s has dedicated itself to craft American beverage and food for over thirty years, serving rustic recipes, wines, craft beers, and barrel-aged whiskeys. Further embracing their belief in quality time, the restaurant also focuses on providing a personalized and warm dining experience, encouraging customers dining at Winberie’s to take their time and truly enjoy their food and drinks.
2 Kent Place Blvd, Summit, NJ 07901, Phone: 908-277-4224
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