Ideal Lodge 470 Elks

In Englewood, New Jersey, local establishments often serve as much more than just a place of business; they become integral parts of the community's social fabric. Ideal Lodge 470 Elks, located at 17 Bennett Rd, embodies this spirit, functioning as a fraternal organization with a strong local presence. While the term "lodging" might typically suggest overnight accommodation, in the context of an "Elks Lodge," it primarily refers to a gathering place, a community hub, and a social venue for its members and their guests. This article will explore what makes Ideal Lodge 470 Elks a unique and cherished spot for many in the New Jersey area, highlighting its role as a place for camaraderie, entertainment, and local engagement.

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (BPOE) is a national fraternal order known for its community service, patriotism, and charitable initiatives. Local lodges, like Ideal Lodge 470 Elks, serve as the physical embodiment of these principles, providing a space where members can connect, enjoy social activities, and contribute to their local community. For residents of Englewood and surrounding towns, Ideal Lodge 470 Elks offers a distinct atmosphere, often described by patrons as a friendly, relaxed, and welcoming environment, making it a "go-to hang out spot" for many.

Customer reviews provide a vivid picture of the experience at Ideal Lodge 470 Elks. One loyal patron expressed, "This use to be my favorite go to hang out spot when I couldn't get to Harlem. I haven't been here since the pandemic. The drinks are very good, great prices and cool music." This review highlights the lodge's appeal as a local entertainment venue, recognized for its quality offerings and inviting ambiance. Another review enthusiastically noted, "It was great of seeing some people I haven't seen in a while. The music was ok and bartender was excellent service." These testimonials underscore the lodge's strength as a place for social connection, friendly service, and enjoyable evenings, solidifying its reputation as a valuable community resource in Englewood.

Location and Accessibility

Ideal Lodge 470 Elks is conveniently located at 17 Bennett Rd, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA. This address places the lodge within the vibrant and accessible city of Englewood in Bergen County, a highly populated and well-connected region of Northern New Jersey.

The lodge's location on Bennett Road provides excellent accessibility for both local members and guests. Bennett Road itself is a quiet street, but it branches off from major thoroughfares in Englewood, ensuring easy navigation. For those traveling by car, the lodge is situated with good proximity to key routes. It's just a short drive from Grand Avenue, a main road that connects to various parts of Englewood and leads directly to Route 4. Route 4 is a significant east-west highway in Northern New Jersey, offering seamless connections to other major arteries like the Palisades Interstate Parkway and Route 17. Crucially, Route 4 provides a direct link to the George Washington Bridge, making Ideal Lodge 470 Elks highly accessible for members coming from or going to New York City. On-site parking is typically available at such establishments, providing convenience for members and guests who drive.

For those utilizing public transportation, Englewood offers robust NJ Transit bus services, and several bus stops are likely within a reasonable walking distance of 17 Bennett Road. Major bus routes serving Englewood provide connections to other towns in Bergen County and direct service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. This public transit accessibility means that members and their guests can easily reach the lodge without the need for a personal vehicle, enhancing its inclusivity and convenience for the wider community. The surrounding residential and mixed-use areas also mean that the lodge is integrated into the local neighborhood, making it a familiar and approachable destination for many Englewood residents. This combination of convenient road access and public transport options underscores the lodge's strategic and accessible location within Northern New Jersey.

Services Offered

Ideal Lodge 470 Elks, as a fraternal organization, offers a distinct set of services and amenities primarily geared towards its members and their guests, fostering community, social interaction, and shared activities. While not a traditional "lodging" in the sense of overnight stays, it provides a welcoming and active communal space. Based on general information about Elks Lodges and customer reviews, the services offered typically include:

• Social Lounge/Bar Area:

  A central feature of Elks Lodges is a well-maintained social lounge or bar. Reviews for Ideal Lodge 470 Elks specifically mention "very good drinks" and "great prices," indicating a comfortable and affordable setting for members to socialize, enjoy beverages, and unwind. This area often serves as the primary gathering spot.

• Music and Entertainment:

  The lodge is noted for offering "cool music" and "music was ok" in reviews, suggesting it hosts various forms of entertainment, possibly including live music, DJs, or a jukebox. This contributes to a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for social evenings.

• Event Space and Rentals:

  Elks Lodges frequently have banquet halls or multi-purpose rooms available for various events. While not explicitly stated for Ideal Lodge 470, similar lodges offer their facilities for private parties, meetings, community gatherings, or charitable events. This provides a valuable service to both members and the broader community looking for event venues.

• Community and Charitable Programs:

  As part of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, the lodge is deeply involved in charitable activities and community service. This includes supporting veterans, providing youth scholarships (e.g., Hoop Shoot contests), engaging in disaster relief, and other local philanthropic efforts. These programs are a core "service" to the community.

• Membership Opportunities:

  The primary "service" of an Elks Lodge is the opportunity for eligible individuals to become members. Membership provides access to the lodge's facilities, social events, and a network of individuals dedicated to fellowship and community service.

• Dining Options (occasional):

  Some Elks Lodges offer regular dining services, such as Sunday breakfasts or special dinner events. While not a daily restaurant, Ideal Lodge 470 Elks might have periodic food offerings or catering for events. The Englewood Elks Lodge 2378, a separate but related entity, mentions a Sunday breakfast service, indicating this as a common lodge offering.

• Parking:

  Ample parking is typically available for members and guests attending events at the lodge, adding to the convenience of visiting the location.

Features / Highlights

Ideal Lodge 470 Elks in Englewood, NJ, distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its unique appeal as a community gathering place. These attributes go beyond typical commercial establishments, emphasizing its fraternal and social role.

• Vibrant Social Atmosphere:

  A primary highlight, consistently noted in reviews, is the lodge's lively and welcoming social atmosphere. Descriptions like "favorite go to hang out spot" and praise for "cool music" indicate a dynamic environment conducive to relaxation and camaraderie. It serves as a true social hub where members and their guests can unwind and enjoy good company.

• Affordable and Quality Drinks:

  The lodge is recognized for offering "very good drinks" at "great prices." This affordability, combined with quality, makes it an attractive and accessible venue for social evenings, distinguishing it from more expensive commercial bars or restaurants.

• Strong Community Connection:

  As an Elks Lodge, Ideal Lodge 470 is inherently a part of a larger fraternal order dedicated to community welfare. This means it's not just a place for entertainment but also a venue for members to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Reviews mentioning "seeing some people I haven't seen in a while" underscore its role as a reunion point for the community.

• Historical Significance:

  Ideal Elks Lodge #470/Temple #290 has a history dating back to 1924, and was founded by African American men, as noted in historical records. This rich heritage adds a layer of depth and significance to the lodge, reflecting its long-standing presence and contribution to the Englewood community.

• Excellent Bartender Service:

  Positive feedback on the "excellent service" from the bartender highlights the professional and friendly approach of the staff. Good service significantly enhances the overall experience, making guests feel valued and cared for.

• Flexible Event Hosting Potential:

  While primarily a members' social space, Elks Lodges often have facilities that can be rented for private events. This offers a valuable resource for locals planning gatherings, parties, or meetings, utilizing a familiar and community-oriented venue.

• Return to Normalcy Post-Pandemic:

  The review referencing the lodge as a "favorite go to hang out spot" that the patron hadn't visited since the pandemic indicates its resilience and importance as a familiar social space that the community is returning to. This speaks to its enduring appeal and ability to bring people back together.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a fraternal organization like Ideal Lodge 470 Elks, the concept of "promotions" or "special offers" differs significantly from a commercial business like a hotel or restaurant. The lodge's core value lies in its membership benefits and community contributions rather than transient discounts. However, aspects that could be considered "offers" for potential members and the community include:

• Membership Value:

  The primary "special offer" is the opportunity for eligible individuals to join the Elks. Membership provides access to the lodge's facilities, social events, and a network of individuals committed to fellowship and community service. While there are annual dues, the overall value includes affordable drinks, entertainment, and the intangible benefits of belonging to a supportive community.

• Affordable Socializing:

  Reviews explicitly mention "great prices" for drinks. This inherent affordability serves as a consistent "promotion" for members and their guests, making it a budget-friendly option for a night out compared to many commercial establishments in the area.

• Community Event Access:

  Elks Lodges regularly host community events, fundraisers, and social gatherings. While some may have a nominal fee for participation, many are designed to be accessible and provide entertainment or opportunities for engagement. Information on these events, such as "Bianca's Bingo Over the Rainbow" mentioned for another Englewood Elks Lodge, acts as an ongoing "promotion" for community involvement.

• Facility Rental Options:

  Many Elks Lodges offer their banquet or event spaces for rent to members and sometimes the public for private functions. These rentals often come at competitive rates, providing a valuable "offer" for local individuals or organizations seeking a venue for parties, meetings, or celebrations.

• Exclusive Member Events:

  Members often gain access to exclusive social events, themed nights, or specific programs that are not open to the general public. These exclusive experiences are a significant "perk" of membership.

• Charitable Opportunities:

  For those looking to give back, the lodge itself is a continuous "offer" of opportunities for charitable work and community service, aligning with the Elks' mission of "Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity." This is a promotion of purpose and impact.

To inquire about membership, upcoming events, or facility rental, it is best to contact Ideal Lodge 470 Elks directly using the provided contact information.

Contact Information

For direct inquiries regarding membership, event schedules, social hours, or any other information about Ideal Lodge 470 Elks in Englewood, New Jersey, please use the following contact details:

• Lodge Name:

  Ideal Lodge 470 Elks

• Address:

  17 Bennett Rd, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA

• Phone:

  (201) 608-5008

• Mobile Phone:

  +1 201-608-5008

It is recommended to call during typical operating hours to speak with a representative. For current event listings or more detailed information about the lodge's activities, checking any potential local social media pages or community event listings for the Elks in Englewood might also be beneficial.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Ideal Lodge 470 Elks at 17 Bennett Rd in Englewood, NJ, is exceptionally suitable for locals in New Jersey, particularly those in Bergen County, due to its multifaceted role as a social hub, community anchor, and fraternal organization. While it doesn't offer conventional overnight lodging, its value to the local community is immense, fulfilling various social and recreational needs.

For Englewood residents, Ideal Lodge 470 Elks provides a familiar and welcoming "hang out spot" that offers a refreshing alternative to typical commercial venues. The consistently praised "very good drinks" at "great prices," combined with "cool music" and "excellent service," create an inviting atmosphere for casual evenings out. This makes it an ideal place for locals to unwind after work, meet friends, or simply enjoy a relaxed social setting without having to venture far from home or into the more expensive nightlife of larger cities. The accessibility of the location, with on-site parking and proximity to public transit, further enhances its convenience for residents.

Beyond its social lounge, the lodge serves as a vital community connector. As a fraternal organization, it provides a structured environment for individuals to build relationships, engage in fellowship, and participate in local charitable initiatives. For locals seeking to expand their social circle, contribute to meaningful causes, or simply find a sense of belonging, the Elks offers a ready-made community. Reviews highlighting the joy of "seeing some people I haven't seen in a while" underscore its role as a beloved gathering spot that helps maintain existing friendships and forge new ones. This aspect is particularly valuable in fostering a strong, cohesive community.

Furthermore, the lodge's potential for hosting private events and community programs means it provides a versatile resource for locals. Whether it's a family celebration, a professional gathering, or a fundraiser, having a trusted, community-oriented venue like the Elks Lodge available for rental simplifies event planning for residents. The historical significance of Ideal Lodge 470, particularly its roots in the African American community in Englewood, adds another layer of local pride and cultural relevance, making it a landmark for many.

In essence, Ideal Lodge 470 Elks is suitable for locals because it offers an affordable, friendly, and engaging social environment; fosters strong community bonds through fellowship and shared activities; and serves as a local venue for private and public events. It's more than just a place; it's a vibrant component of Englewood's social life, consistently providing a welcoming space for residents to connect, celebrate, and contribute to their local New Jersey community.

Ideal Lodge 470 Elks

17 Bennett Rd, Englewood, NJ 07631, USA