Thanks Sara Rall for this guest post!
Mobus Park, Brookdale Rd., near Mountain Blvd., Watchung, Union Co.
Mobus Park is a lovely little shady community playground next to Watchung Lake. They have two metal and plastic play structures with a little play house under the one for younger kids, and a steep climbing wall and inclined parallel bars on the larger one. There are 4 swings (2 infant) and a nice pavilion with bathrooms and water fountain.
It is right next to a small, shallow brook, and though my younger children hadn’t noticed this, my older ones spent most of the time throwing rocks and sticks in.
There is a very popular walking path around Watchung Lake that goes right past the playground. It’s about a mile long and features a couple of gazebos and a good view of a dam/waterfall and fountains. You can also park on Stirling Rd. near the Watchung circle and walk the path, with the playground falling about half-way around, if you are looking for more exercise.
Marino’s Pizza, about a mile south of the lake on Somerset St. has great pizza and Italian food. www.marinos-pizza.com
someone told me about the pavillion in wachung, nj where you can rent and have a party under this outdoor gazebo. do you know anything about this?
Watchung Lake has a utilitarian brick gazebo by the playground with several picnic tables. I have been to several parties there. They also have a large-ish gazebo on the other side of the lake by the waterfall. Finally there is a tiny gazebo at the side of the lake. I have seen people taking wedding pictures at both of these (the lakeside one is particularly lovely in spring) but never a party there. Don’t know if any of them are open to non-residents.
Just down the road in Warren is another utilitarian gazebo by a huge playground where we have hosted a party (apply at the police dept. and pay a modest fee).
Lyons which is part of Basking Ridge has a huge gazebo at their playground in Pleasant Valley park, and Harry Dunham in Liberty Corner also has a great gazebo for parties.
Finally, Mountain View Park in Middlesex has a gazebo, grills, and a decent playground, and Buckleigh down in New Brunswick has a gazebo by the playground, too.
Can anyone provide an update on your fall foliage? I am a photographer and am very interested in shooting at your location…
I am considering having my son’s first birthday party here. If you are interested call the township. The fee is reasonable but have your home owner’s/ renter’s insurance handy. We went to visit this park today and while having many pros there are also some cons.
Pros:
Brand new tennis courts
Basketball courts are nice
Restroom is located inside the pavilion (very convenient for a party)
Everything is close together (I like this because everyone won’t be spread out)
No graffiti
Cons:
Playground needs some definite TLC! They’ve used boards to patch up some faulty equipment including a side (preventing entrance). The equipment looks very aged.
One infant swing is missing
The pavilion could use a good scrub down or maybe a paint job. Birds have built some nests in the pavilion. A small board of the roof is missing.Lots of gum spots on the floor.
Last but not least, WATCH OUT FOR GEESE POOP!!