The 11th largest city in New Jersey, Clifton is home to 84,000 residents, and it acts as a suburban getaway for people from New York City. However, it still offers tons of exciting recreational options for visitors. The city was incorporated in 1917 and combined several smaller municipalities under one name. Today, it's known for its stellar shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as its white-collar businesses and beautiful churches. Whether you're coming to Clifton on leisure or business, it's essential to find the perfect hotel so you can enjoy yourself for the duration of your visit.
When to Visit Clifton, NJ
The best time to visit Clifton is in the fall, when the leaves start to change color and the temperatures cool off. This provides the best weather for strolling through Clifton's downtown district, which features some great dining and shopping opportunities. During this season, temperatures range from 50 degrees to 70 degrees, and precipitation is at a minimum. However, this time is also popular for sports fans, as MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and New York Jets, fills to capacity with over 80,000 crazed fans. If you're visiting over the weekend, you may want to book your hotel room well in advance to ensure you get the hotel and room of your choice.
Another superb time to head to Clifton is during the summer when the surrounding area comes to life with a plethora of events and festivals. Because it's only a short train ride from the city, you can buy tickets to one of New York's top food festivals, concerts, or parades. The weather warms significantly during this season and the sun shines throughout the day, so a trip to the beach is also an excellent way to spend your free time. Once again, hotels fill up rather quickly during the season, so book early.
If you're a winter sports enthusiast, the area surrounding Clifton has some awesome skiing and snowboarding resorts. Nearby ski fields offer impressive slopes that cater to beginner and intermediate skiers, although advanced skiers will also have fun carving their way down the mountain. Since the weather is cold and snowfall is a definite possibility, many tourists tend to steer clear of the city from November to February, meaning that you can score a sweet deal on the hotel of your liking. However, Christmas and New Year's often see an uptick in guests, so plan accordingly.
In the spring, the weather warms up and provides excellent temperatures and a chance to go outdoors. Although precipitation increases, it provides a pleasant experience, and it doesn't usually last throughout the day. In addition, nearby markets and spring festivals are a big draw and an awesome pastime. Demand for hotel rooms varies during the season, so check ahead to see what hotels have to offer. Certain events may cause a shortage in hotel rooms, while weekdays may provide more affordable rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Clifton, NJ:
Clifton by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Clifton, NJ. You can use these illustrations to determine the cheapest seasons to stay in Clifton throughout the year.
Luxury Hotel Options Near Clifton, NJ
4 Star Average Prices: $165.57
If you're looking to bathe yourself in opulence and have a truly magical, luxurious experience, hotels near Clifton offer a one-of-a-kind experience. Built in 1927 in the heart of Manhattan's Midtown district, the Sherry Netherland was, at its opening, the largest hotel in the world. Today, it still offers a plethora of top-notch amenities as well as phenomenal location. When you step foot in the Sherry Netherland, you'll first notice the ornate, gothic architecture, exemplified by marble, paintings, and a fully restored mural that adorns the lobby's ceiling. All guests of this hotel have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center, a barbershop, a shoeshine service, the five-star Harry Cipriani Restaurant, valet parking and limousine service, a snack emporium, and full concierge services.
In your room, you'll find a flat panel LCD television, luxurious bedding and furniture, complimentary Wi-Fi, designer toiletries, free sodas and mineral water, and if you desire, a remarkable view of Manhattan. Plus, it's close to famous attractions, such as Rockefeller Center, the shopping on Fifth Avenue, Central Park, and various performing arts centers and museums.
Another boutique hotel option is the Hotel Chandler, located between the Empire State Building and Times Square. This 1905 Beaux-Arts building is one of the most majestic in the city, and you'll immediately notice the elaborate architecture and decor. When you aren't exploring the city or lounging in your room, the hotel offers several superb amenities, such as a cocktail and wine bar, an on-site restaurant, a library, free newspapers, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Each room, whether you opt for a guest room or a suite, provides a rainfall shower, a spacious layout, super comfortable bedding, a desk, bay windows, and a flatscreen television.
Budget Hotel Options in Clifton, New Jersey
3 Star Average Prices: $133.41
If you're looking for low-cost accommodation, Clifton has plenty of options to suit your budget. The Howard Johnson Inn is conveniently situated just a couple of miles from the Clifton city center. From here, you can explore several points of interest, including the Meadowlands, the MoMA PS1 contemporary art museum, the Cathedral of St. Michael the Archangel, Montclair State University, and the Yogi Berra Museum. Once you're done exploring for the day, head back to your room to enjoy amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, self-controlled air conditioning, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a television with cable programming, coffeemaker, and hair dryer. You'll also have the option to choose between several room layouts, including a king bed, a queen bed, two queen beds, or two double beds. On-site features include a fitness center, a business center, complimentary newspapers, and laundry facilities.
Another solid option if you don't mind being about 7 miles from Clifton is the Ramada East Orange. This hotel is close to many attractions and sites, including Seton Hall University, the New Jersey Children's Museum, Elmwood Park, Newark Museum, and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. When you check in to the Ramada, you'll notice the wide array of guest amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi in the lobby and room, a complimentary continental breakfast, a business center, and a complimentary airport shuttle. Each room offers a refrigerator, a microwave, a television with satellite programming, a desk, and free coffee and tea.
