9 Activities for Seniors in Mountainside, New Jersey

A small, affluent community, Mountainside, New Jersey, boasts an inviting culture, low crime, and high property values. Families in Mountainside call it a hidden gem, citing waterfront views, walkable paths, and plenty of great local businesses. Here are 9 great senior activities in Mountainside for those who are planning a retirement in this sleepy community. 

Watchung Reservation

The Watchung Reservation History Trail offers 6 miles of historic sites, allowing you to tour New Jersey history while getting some exercise. Take the grandkids for a picnic, or bring your dog for a friendly trail companion. 

Trailside Nature & Science Center

The Trailside Nature & Science Center offers a wide range of family-friendly programs, making it a great place to hang out with the grandkids. Attend a Trailside Talk and learn about the trail’s wildlife and history, or take a grandkid with sensory needs to the sensory-friendly trail. The Center also hosts birthday parties and special events. 

The Mall at Short Hills

Living in a small community doesn’t mean you have to give up luxury shopping. The Mall at Short Hills is a meticulously maintained mall that offers 40 stores that are unique to New Jersey. A local cultural touchpoint, Short Hills offers a number of special events and classes, including talks by designers, cooking classes, and free exhibitions. 

Recreation Clubs 

Senior recreation clubs offer easy access to a network of friends, as well as fun activities year-round. Mountainside offers two recreation clubs: Mountainside Active Retirees and the Senior Citizen Club. Both clubs sponsor speakers and classes, as well as group trips. 

Turtle Back Zoo 

Voted the No. 1 zoo in New Jersey, Turtle Back Zoo is the perfect choice for kids, animal lovers, and conservation advocates. The zoo features a big cat exhibit, a sea turtle rehabilitation and recovery center, and a wide range of animals small and large. Attend a family night for family-friendly fun, or take the grandkids to Zoo-vies, the zoo’s regular movies-at-the-zoo event. 

Mountainside Public Library

The perfect stop for book lovers on a budget, Mountainside Public Library offers a well-curated collection of books and movies, as well as internet access and 3D printing. Seniors can take the grandkids to story time, or join one of the library’s book clubs. 

Thomas Edison National Historical Park 

Visit the home of Thomas Edison, and learn about the life and contributions of one of our nation’s most prolific inventors. The Thomas Edison National Historical Park features laboratory space, historical and scientific exhibits, and a wide range of year-round events. 

Echo Lake Park 

Echo Lake Park consistently tops lists of the best parks in New Jersey. Yet it remains a bit of a hidden treasure, allowing visitors some quiet serenity. Watch families of friendly ducks paddle by, or select from a range of hiking trails designed for every fitness and experience level. In the winter, the park transforms into a powder-dusted wonderland, offering an ice-skating rink and plenty of cool-weather picnic space.

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary

The Cora Hartshorn Arboretum & Bird Sanctuary has protected New Jersey wildlife for nearly 100 years. Its stunning trails offer breathtaking natural beauty for those who love birds and their songs. After a walk, head inside to learn about the birds and other animals who call the Arboretum home. 

Senior Living Activities

In a small community like Mountainside, finding the right activities requires some planning and sleuthing. The right senior living community takes the work out of finding activities for Mountainside seniors. You don’t have to worry about scheduling dates with friends or arranging transportation. There’s always something happening down the hall.