Cranford was incorporated as a township in 1871 from portions of surrounding townships, including Union, Westfield, Clark, Linden, and Springfield. The name Cranford is supposedly derived from the Crane family who settled in the area. John Crane, in particular, built a mill along the Rahway River in 1720, helping to establish the community.
Today, Cranford features numerous historic sites that are overseen by the Cranford Historic Preservation Advisory Board. It's also home to several parks, some of which feature memorials, kayak rentals, and children's playgrounds. Overall, the township's recreational facilities include an indoor pool, two outdoor pools, a canoe club, fitness complex, tennis club, and sports fields. Living in such a close-knit community, Cranford residents are actively involved in community organizations, sports, schools, and events.
Whatever your reason for visiting Cranford, it's essential to find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this wonderful community has to offer.
When would be the best time to visit the city of Cranford, NJ?
The best time to visit Cranford is in the spring and early summer before the tourist crowds drive up hotel rates. Cranford is located about 15 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport via U.S. Route 22, and just 20 miles from New York City, so the area tends to get crowded in the summer. Keep in mind, however, that although spring in New Jersey is usually pleasant, it can be unpredictable. You'll want to pack plenty of layers and keep an eye on the weather ahead of your trip to ensure you're dressing appropriately.
Summers in Cranford are hot and humid, but don't let that fact deter you from visiting. Despite the humidity, temperatures aren't scorching like in many parts of the country, so you can enjoy the area's many outdoor recreational activities without overheating. Just be mindful of increased hotel rates and traffic.
Early fall in Cranford is quite pleasant, with average highs hovering in the mid-60s in October. You can also enjoy the Cranford Street Fair and Craft Show in the downtown area. This popular event features crafters, artists, food, rides, vendors, live music, and more, all with free admission for visitors. Fall also ushers in rock-bottom hotel rates for the area, helping you save money on your trip.
New Jersey winters are cold and damp with the occasional snowfall. While you won't get to enjoy Cranford's outdoor activities as much, winter provides the perfect chance to enjoy local attractions without the big tourist crowds. Just be mindful of holidays and winter weekends as hotel rates tend to skyrocket the closer you stay to Newark and New York.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Cranford, NJ:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Cranford, NJ. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the best time to make a reservation in Cranford throughout the year.
What are the Cranford, NJ luxury hotel options?
4 Star Average Prices: $148.33
If you'd prefer a luxury hotel in the Cranford area, you don't have to look far.
The Kenilworth is a uniquely decorated boutique hotel situated in a countryside setting, which may seem surprising given its short distance from Newark International Airport and New York City. Featured amenities include a 24-hour fitness center, the on-site Trellis Bar, a coffee shop, garden, meeting rooms, and conference spaces. Guests can also enjoy a variety of services, including a complimentary 24-hour roundtrip airport shuttle, concierge services, wedding services, and a limo and town-car service.
Guest rooms at The Kenilworth are spacious and well-appointed, offering free Wi-Fi, flat-screen LCD TVs, MP3 docking stations, coffee makers, microwaves, mini fridges, premium bedding, blackout drapes, hair dryers, and designer toiletries. Choose from a king or two-queen bedroom, an accessible deluxe king room, or an executive king suite. Connecting rooms are available upon request.
Located minutes from the Union County Performing Arts Center, Watt Hotel is a stunning four-star property offering a range of guest amenities. You'll enjoy a 24-hour business center, fitness facilities, concierge services, laundry services, luggage storage, bellhop services, express check-in, free newspapers in the lobby, a meeting room, common areas with TVs, and a free buffet breakfast. The exceptionally decorated guest rooms boast modern furnishings with individual NEST thermostats, free Wi-Fi access, safes, work desks, designer toiletries, hair dryers, and cable TVs.
What affordable hotels are in Cranford, New Jersey?
3 Star Average Prices: $134.44
With so many high-end hotels near Cranford, you may be wondering how to find a more affordable option. The key is to be flexible and consider nearby areas.
Located about 4 miles from Cranford in Rahway, Super 8 by Wyndham Rahway/Newark is a smart roadside accommodation without the costly bells and whistles. Guests enjoy a free breakfast each morning of their stay as well as amenities like a 24-hour front desk, express check-in, and free self-parking. Guest rooms are nicely decorated with modern furnishings and offer wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, mini refrigerators, microwaves, and desks with ergonomic chairs. You'll also enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, satellite TV programming, a provided hair dryer, and free toiletries.
Another budget-friendly option is Clinton Manor Hotel Union by Magnuson Worldwide. Although dated, the hotel provides guests with free breakfast, an on-site business center, meeting facilities, free self-parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Guest rooms include mini fridges, microwaves, cable TVs coffee makers, ironing facilities, and free Wi-Fi.
Located close to downtown Newark in Irvington, Red Carpet Inn Newark Airport is an affordable option 6 miles from Cranford. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi access, a business center, express check-out, free newspapers, and a TV in the common area. Guest rooms feature LCD TVs with cable, complimentary toiletries, coffee makers, work desks, and phones with free local calls.
2 Star Average Prices: $90.69
Which hotels offer the best discounts around Cranford, NJ?
Hoping to save as much money as possible during your trip to New Jersey? See if you qualify for a discount.
Seniors can save on regular room rates at Best Western Riverview Inn & Suites. Located about 4 miles from Cranford, this Best Western features an indoor pool, on-site fitness facilities, a business center, conference space, laundry services, and free newspapers in the lobby. A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily. Guest rooms feature mini fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, coffee makers, cable TVs, and phones with free local calls.
AAA members can save on numerous area hotels, including APA Hotel Woodbridge. Situated in the heart of Iselin, APA Hotel Woodbridge offers an indoor pool, fitness facilities, spa services, wedding services, free Wi-Fi access, and a complimentary area shuttle. The property also boasts three restaurants, including the popular AOI Japanese Restaurant. Buffet breakfast is served daily and is available for an extra fee. Guest rooms are well-appointed with LCD TVs, iPod docking stations, designer toiletries, safes, work desks, and hair dryers.
What hotels provide the best value near Cranford, NJ?
The Cranford area has many mid-range hotels that give you plenty of value for your money.
Located close to the airport, Holiday Inn Carteret Rahway boasts 24-hour fitness facilities, an outdoor seasonal pool, an on-site bar, a business center, conference space, laundry services, free airport transportation, and the popular Julian's Restaurant. A cooked-to-order breakfast is available for an extra surcharge. Relax in your comfy guest room featuring a flat-screen TV, satellite programming, wired and wireless internet, hair dryer, free toiletries, and free local calls.
The upscale Best Western Westfield Inn is a great option offering luxurious amenities at great rates. Located in Westfield, just over 2 miles from Cranford, this hotel features an array of amenities, including one of the state's most renowned French restaurants on the premises: Chez Catherine. Enjoy a free breakfast, a fireplace in the lobby, free wireless internet access, and a steam room. The hotel also offers a computer station for guest use, conference space, laundry services, free newspapers in the lobby, luggage storage, and a safe-deposit box at the front desk.
Guest rooms at the Best Western Westfield Inn include flat-screen TVs with cable programming, hair dryers, well-lit work desks, microwaves, firm mattresses, and comfy duvets.
Other mid-priced options include Hilton Garden Inn Springfield, Hampton Inn Linden, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Woodbridge.
Where are the best places in Cranford for outdoor fun?
It's no secret that Cranford offers the perfect opportunity for outdoor recreation, but where should you go to the make the most of your visit?
Nomahegan Park offers a children's playground, sports fields, a bicycle path, and scenic trails that make it perfect for the entire family. Bring some charcoal to utilize the barbecue grills and picnic tables. The park features Wi-Fi access and restrooms for guest convenience.
If you want to go fishing, kayaking, or canoeing, head to McConnell Park. The scenic location provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy an afternoon on the water.
It also wouldn't be a trip to Union County without stopping at Watchung Reservation. The vast reserve features cross-country skiing, outdoor ice skating, fishing, camping, hiking, and more.
Exploring everything Cranford has to offer will take some time, but it's always an adventure. Whether you're looking for a hotel near the airport or closer to Cranford's township center, you can find the perfect hotel that meets your travel needs and budget.
FAQs about hotels in Cranford