WEST ORANGE NJ - Historic Main Street to Skyline Views
West Orange is a community of diverse neighborhoods, ranging from recently built condominium communities to Llewellyn Park, a 400+ acre residential planned community built in 1853 and the former home of Thomas Edison, arguably its most famous citizen. West Orange, with its approximately 44,000 residents, spans 12.1 square miles over two ridges and valleys of the Watchung Mountains. Its hilly terrain provides many stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
Approximately 20 percent of land in West Orange is open space, consisting of parks, playgrounds, golf courses and undeveloped acreage. Hiking trails, bridle paths and picnic areas are available in the South Mountain and Eagle Rock Reservations. West Orange is also home to the South Mountain Skating Arena and the Turtleback Zoo.
West Orange has a thriving business district on Main Street, known as “Historic Downtown”, with a variety of restaurants, retail establishments and the Edison National Historic Site. In addition, there are many other shopping enclaves throughout the town, including the Essex Green Shopping Center, a traditional suburban mall.
Route 280 traverses West Orange, providing easy access to Newark, New York and other NJ roadways. For commuters, the township provides jitney service from the Gregory section to the Orange and South Orange train stations during the morning and evening commute. Bus service is also available to Newark and New York City.
West Orange’s school system is comprised of 7 elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school; kindergarten is a full-day program. West Orange High School has been recognized for its Advanced Placement program and innovative curriculum.
Links:
• West Orange Official Town Website
• West Orange Public Schools
• West Orange Public Library
• West Orange Shuttle Bus Schedule
• Decamp Bus Lines
• Community Coach Bus
• Edison National Historic Site
• Turtleback Zoo
• Llewellyn Park Information
• Living in West Orange NJ - From NY Times 12/14/208
Harder to Get to, Easier to Pay For
