Summit City Guide

Food is diverse with many international options reflecting NYC's influence. Vegetarian and vegan choices are common. Late-night food options are limited to mainly fast food.

Modest nightlife with local bars and restaurants with bar areas. Not a major nightlife spot but good for quiet evenings.

Good mix of local cafes and chains. Some specialty coffee shops nearby. Focus is on community rather than unique local culture.

Tipping is expected in most services. 15-20% for restaurants, taxis, and personal services. Optional at counter service where service is minimal.

SIMs can be bought at carrier stores (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) or Best Buy nearby. Coverage is strong from these providers. eSIMs are generally available. Valid ID is needed for post-paid plans; pre-paid plans have fewer rules.

Summit is very clean with regular waste and recycling services. Sanitation issues are minimal.

Some convenience stores are open 24/7 or late. Pharmacies sometimes have extended hours but few are 24/7. Emergency rooms at the hospital are open all day. Late-night food options are very limited.

Supermarkets like Kings Food Markets and ShopRite offer a good range, including international products nearby. Farmers' markets run in warmer months. Stores usually open 7 AM to 9 or 10 PM, open Sundays and most holidays with shorter hours. Bargaining is not part of the culture.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is rarely needed for daily buys.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase, plus some convenience stores. Using out-of-network ATMs can cost $2.50 to $5.00 in fees.

Summit has highly-rated public schools mainly taught in English. No notable international schools nearby. Enrollment for public schools depends on residency; private schools have their own admission rules.

Summit lacks a big digital nomad scene. It's mostly for families and commuters. Few meetups or co-living spaces. Nomad-friendly cafes and community centers offer remote work spots.

Major parks like Briant Park, Tatlock Park, and Watchung Reservation offer green spaces, shade, and good running paths.

Good running spots in parks like Briant Park and Watchung Reservation. Safe with well-maintained sidewalks and occasional local running groups.

Gym options range from community YMCA to high-end fitness clubs and group training.

Public courts are available at parks like Tatlock Park, mostly hard courts. Private clubs offer memberships and coaching.

No notable padel facilities reported.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles, including meditation and wellness services. Classes usually have English-speaking instructors.

Several dojos offer Karate, Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and others. Competitions are mostly local. English-speaking instructors are standard.

Several ski resorts within 1-2 hours, with Mountain Creek about 1 hour away. Season runs December to March. Snow quality varies, with rentals at resorts.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are available on local lakes and rivers, with rentals and some guided tours in warmer months.

Surf spots are along the Jersey Shore, about 1 to 1.5 hours' drive. Water temps vary; wetsuits needed outside summer. Both beginner and advanced spots exist. Surf schools and rentals available at towns like Belmar.

Limited diving spots nearby; ocean wreck diving is possible along the Jersey Shore but visibility and marine life are limited.

Healthcare quality is high with private providers. Overlook Medical Center has English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common, some with drive-thrus. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water meets federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Lots of playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Baby supplies are easy to find. Popular spots include Reeves-Reed Arboretum and Summit Family Aquatic Center.

Generally accepting and inclusive. Legal protections are strong. Pride events happen mostly in nearby cities.

Many parks allow leashed dogs. Veterinary clinics and pet supplies are easy to find. Some pet-friendly restaurants and off-leash areas.