Scotch Plains was named one of the best places to live in America in 2019
Twenty-eight miles southwest of Manhattan lies the Union County Township of Scotch Plains. Its diverse population, charming downtown, safe neighborhoods, and highly-rated public schools radiate a magnetic charm to house hunters. In fact, Scotch Plains was named one of the best places to live in America in 2019 by Niche.com.
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According to Scotchplainsnj.gov, Scotch Plains was one of eight municipalities to earn the “2020 New Jersey Healthy Town” moniker for the third consecutive year. The Mayor’s Wellness Campaign is a local program designed to encourage active, healthy living in the community. Residents earn points for participating in activities including yoga, races, wellness programs, nutritional programs, and so forth. The resident with the most points wins the coveted Mayor’s Medal.
Scotch Plains golfers can hit the links at the Ash Brook Golf Course. The town is also home to the Scotch Hills Golf Club, formerly called the Shady Rest Golf and Country Club, which was the first African-American country club in the nation.
Nature lovers can enjoy themselves at any one of Scotch Plain’s many parks including Brookside Park, Farley Park, and Frazee House Park. The playground at Kramer Manor Park will surely impress the little ones. During the warmer months, youngsters will love the Ponderosa Sprayground – a sprinkler park that’s open from Memorial Day thru Labor Day.
With a town so keyed in on the balance and wellbeing of its 24k+ residents, it stands to reason that the highly-ranked public schools would follow. The Scotch Plains-Fanwood School District consists of five elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school, all of which endeavor to work arts, athletics and extracurriculars into their programming. The town also has a specialized magnet school––The Union County Magnet High School for Science, Mathematics, and Technology.
Scotch Plains’ historic shopping district is home to many small businesses, boutiques, antique stores and specialty shops. If you’re seeking additional entertainment, the Alan M. Augustine Village Green hosts movie nights, concerts, races and, of course, wellness fairs!
Commuters: the NJ Transit train runs from the neighboring town of Fanwood to Newark, where you can transfer to Penn Station or continue on to lower Manhattan via the PATH. Drivers appreciate the proximity to route 22 and the Garden State Parkway.
Fun Facts
The Shady Rest hosted some heavy-hitters back in the day, and we’re not talking about their golf swings. Greats such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Billie Holiday all performed there.