We like telling you about our favorite towns and all the fun things to do in them, towns like Montclair, Hoboken, and Long Branch. Today, it's Bloomfield, NJ and as the 18th largest township in New Jersey, Bloomfield is a growing, suburban community with plenty of history and even a moment of "Sopranos" celebrity. With its tree lined neighborhoods and historic district, it is less than a half hour from New York City and worth the trip. Here's 15 fun, family-friendly things to do in Bloomfield, NJ.

In the words of the great Cyndi Lauper, “Girls just wanna have fun!” We've told you about Best Birthday Party Ideas for Boys, and now it's the (miniature) women's turn. If you are looking for a fresh idea for your little lady’s upcoming celebration, check  out our ideas below. From a salon makeover to crafts to tea parties to a ballet lesson (or for our more hip chicks, a hip-hop class), there are endless options in the Garden State. And for more party ideas, visit our complete Birthday Guide!

Are you a savvy shopper looking to save a few dollars? It seems every day a t-shirt is covered in paint or a hemline is just a little too short. Either way, I am running out for new clothes at least once a month. A budget-friendly and eco-friendly option is to visit our local consignment shop.These unique stores offer families a way to purchase gently used clothing without breaking the bank. Consignment shops also allow for you to make money by giving clothing a second life. Every store has selling rules (dates, number of items and payback features),so make sure to check each store’s website for complete details. And check out Kids' Consignment Shops in Northern NJ, as well!

Tucked between Montclair and Clifton, Nutley is a charming small town located 10 miles from Manhattan. It may be known as the birthplace of Martha Stewart, but this quaint little Essex County village is also full of parks, annual events, and family-friendly eateries. If the idea of a sweet little village floats your boat, check out our other posts on Cranford, Millburn, Chester and Sparta. Get out there and explore our great state in one of these wonderful small towns!

Nestled in Sussex Country, Sparta is great little country town and lake community. Whether you are strolling the Lake Mohawk boardwalk or shopping at Olde Lafayette Village, the fresh country air and slower place is a refreshing change. You don’t need to board a plane to explore a new town. By travelling up Route 80, you’ll not only see the beautiful, serene fall foliage, but experience a ‘different’ New Jersey, so head out to Sparta, NJ!
 

Every time I saw Lorelai and Rory Gilmore stroll the streets of Stars Hollow I felt a ping of jealousy. This picturesque small town may have only been located on TV, but its local restaurants, town center, quirky shops and hopping Main Street gave it a remarkable hometown charm. New Jersey is home to many of the country’s oldest communities, so today we start a new series on Mommy Poppins New Jersey, "Great Small Towns in NJ". With summer destinations like Cape May, distinctive college towns like Princeton and more, the garden state represents small town USA from Sussex County down to Salem County.

We’re halfway through July, which means the dogs days of summer are quickly approaching (and may already be here, judging by the temperature). To beat the heat and humidity (and keep your sanity), check out one of the special exhibits at a local museum. You know we love The Morris Museum and Liberty Science Center and their summer exhibits Mega Model Trains and Grossology will keep your little ones entertained while you stay cool!

From the Montclair Art Museum to the Prudential Center; from the Turtle Back Zoo to Eagle Rock Reservation, Essex County is an eclectic mix of entertainment, business and of course, good eats. From Portuguese to Italian, you’ll find myriad restaurant options throughout this northeast area of the garden state. Many of these local eateries source their vegetation, meats and dairy products from New Jersey farms hosted at daily Farmers Markets.