The Cranford center point is about 4 miles west of Elizabeth, NJ and 5 miles west of Elizabeth.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Below are reviews of the city of Cranford, NJ from an actual visitor's perspective.
Good location to the where event was being held.
I was close to wherever I was going to be utilizing.
The nice shops and restaurants in this little town make for a great weekend getaway.