Wallington, NJ

Wallington enjoys a long, rich history dating back to 1687 when Walling Jocobse Van Winkle purchased the tract of land. Throughout the years, the area – which hosts portions of both the Saddle and Passiac Rivers – evolved from a Shaueehank Native American hunting, fishing and camping site to a Dutch farming area to a progressive, mostly Irish settlement around the time of the area's 1895 incorporation. Today, the mostly Polish neighborhood retains a historical feel and supports a handful of locally owned-businesses that entice both residents and visitors.

Although you won't find a museum in Wallington, visit the Meadowland Museum in neighboring Rutherford to view local relic collections in the converted 19th-century farmhouse.

Savor the local flavor at the annual New Jersey State Fair in nearby East Rutherford. Here, you find signature food selections from area restaurants, thrilling rides, and local live music entertainment.

Main Avenue and Patterson Avenue act as the central restaurant hubs of Wallington, hosting a small assortment of independently-owned eateries. When you have a craving that only a slab of exquisitely-cooked steak can cure, head over to Kathie & Glenn's Steakhouse. Situated in a charming 200-year-old house, this local gem serves up "like butter" fillets of beef on sizzling plates. Order yours topped with tomatoes and mozzarella for an impressive Italian spin on the classic cut of beef.

When you have a mix of meat lovers, die-hard Italian fans and an up-for-anything foodie in your entourage, Stingers Classic Grill will fit the bill. Here, you'll find an extensive menu with house-made pizza, steaks, pasta dishes, salads, burgers, sandwiches, and daily specials. Chances are you'll find something to satiate even the pickiest member of your group. Although this sports bar and grill has a grown-up feel, the restaurant's extensive kid's menu featuring a junior filet mignon steak makes this place a great family-friendly spot before 9 p.m.

You'll absolutely wonder how you ever lived without Lansheng Szechuan Restaurant. This upscale Chinese restaurant's contemporary decor instantly relaxes the senses and gets your party in the mood to chow down on chow mein. Expect to see a lot of traditional Chinese foods on the menu in addition to a few amazing house specials, including the soup dumplings that release warm, flavorful broth when you bite into them. Other must-try Lansheng dishes include scallion pancakes and the surprisingly succulent - though unusual - duck tongue.

When you're ready for a few drinks with new friends, check out Offsidez Sports Bar on Main Avenue. This local hotspot appeals to bargoers of all ages - provided they're 21, of course. If you're more in the mood for music and dancing, venture out to nearby Carlstadt to paint the town red at The Balcony. This white chandelier-decked club has a highly skilled DJ and puts on themed events, including Latin Fridays, a fusion of South and Central American dance tunes and specialty cocktails.

The area's convenient proximity to Country Route 624 and New Jersey Route 21 makes getting in and out of the community a breeze. Residents of Wallington primarily drive to their destinations throughout the community and enjoy free parking at most local businesses. While walking down Main Street and the surrounding commerce-oriented streets is a viable option, this area is not as bicyclist-friendly and does not provide biking lanes. Unfortunately, since Uber is not an option, you'll have more luck calling a cab to come to get you than you will hailing one on the street corner.

If you're looking to get out of the house for a brisk stroll, try the pedestrian walkway at the Samuel Nelkin County Park. This free, 17-acre park also features two tennis courts, picnic pavilions, children's play areas, and an ice-skating rink. The moderately exercise-centric facility also has two dog parks, one for large dogs and one for small dogs. Although the park is open year-round, it does not host any annual events.

Wallington residents experience higher-than-average living expenses, with the average price for a one-bedroom rental running about $1304 a month. You'll remain in line with the rest of the country with gas prices running approximately 1 percent below the national average, or save a few bucks by snagging a $1.50 ride into the center of town on the 703, 707, or 780 bus routes. The cost of a pint at a local pub and grill sets you back about $5.50.

There are few modest shopping opportunities in Wallington. An Avenue women's apparel store and a 16 Plus young lady's store can both be found on Paterson Avenue. If you're in the mood for more, head to nearby Passiac to browse through clothing, accessory and shoe boutiques.

When you need a fresh pair of kicks to complete your new workout gear or casual weekend outfits, go to the Magic Sneaker on Lexington Avenue. While this store's a bit pricey, you do find the best and largest assortment of on-trend sneakers and street-hip T-shirts and caps in one convenient trip without having to head into Manhattan.

For a special occasion or a first date, treat yourself to something truly unique from Pink Orchid Fashions on Main Avenue in nearby Passaic. From one-of-a-kind vintage finds to brand-spanking-new sophisticated fashions, you'll leave here with a bag full of goodies that makes you the envy of all your friends and co-workers.

Finally, don't leave the area without stopping at Saint John's Thrift Stop on Lafayette Avenue. Just a few minutes is all you need to peruse this gem located behind the church for meticulously kept vintage clothing, accessory, and home décor items.

For big grocery trips, you'll want to run out to the Walmart in Garfield or the ShopRite in Passaic. Locally, Adam's Food Market on Maple Avenue sells daily cooking staples and - rumor has it - the best homemade Polish sausage in town. Hit up the Wallington Farmer's Market on Main Avenue to stock up on seasonal produce and grab sushi to go.