Bergen County, New Jersey is an exciting place to visit for people of all ages. From the amazing restaurants and shopping to the plethora of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to explore the culture and history of the area, take in breathtaking views, or go shopping for antiques, Bergen County’s attractions are something special. Read on to learn about the best things to do in Bergen County, New Jersey!
Family-Friendly Things To Do
If you’re looking for a great family-friendly destination in Bergen County, NJ, look no further than Van Saun Park in Paramus. Visitors of all ages can enjoy train rides, a carousel, mini golf, a petting zoo, a playground, large swimming area, and more. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, and movie nights. In addition to its entertainment options, the park boasts lovely views of the Ramapo Mountains and boasts plenty of trails for hiking and biking.
Speaking of fun activities, don’t forget about Medieval Times in Lyndhurst, NJ. This dinner and show are the perfect way for kids and adults alike to explore the Middle Ages. The venue features an impressive arena, beautiful horses, jousting knights, and a lavish dinner fit for royalty. Plus, you’ll be able to cheer for your favorite knight as they battle for glory!
Another great place for families is Bergen County Zoo, just a few miles away from Washington Promenade in Dumont, NJ. This 32-acre facility features more than 250 animals from around the world, including tigers, lions, lemurs, flamingos, and much more. You’ll also find educational exhibits, an on-site café, a gift shop, and special events throughout the year. If you’re looking for a fun day trip with the family, Bergen County Zoo is the perfect spot!
Glen Rock Pool in Glen Rock, NJ is another great family-friendly Bergen County attraction. The pool offers a range of activities for all ages, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool with slides and other water features, a kiddie pool, a snack bar, beach volleyball courts, a picnic area, and a playground. Glen Rock Pool also offers swimming lessons and summer camps for kids. So, if you’re looking for a place to cool off during the sizzling summer months or a fun place for your family to have a day out, this is it!
Bergen County Museums
It’s common knowledge that Bergen County, NJ is home to a variety of museums, offering something for everyone. From art galleries to interactive science and history museums, there’s plenty to explore in the area.
The Hermitage Museum in Ho-Ho-Kus is an 18th century Dutch Colonial mansion that houses a large collection of historical artifacts. Visitors can explore the mansion’s gardens and learn about the history of the area while viewing items from Native American culture, early settlers, and more.
The Mahwah Museum is dedicated to the history of Mahwah Township and features historical documents, photographs, and artifacts relating to the area’s past. The museum also offers special events throughout the year, such as lectures and workshops.
The Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey in Teterboro, right near The Jefferson, is a great place for aviation enthusiasts. This interactive museum features an extensive collection of aircraft and artifacts that trace the history of flight in the Garden State. The Hall of Fame also hosts special events throughout the year and offers an educational program for children. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and learn about the people who have made important contributions to aviation in the state.
Parks & Recreation
In Bergen County you’ll find a variety a variety of parks and recreation options. Whether you’re looking for a place to ski, hike, go boating, or take a bike ride, you’ll find plenty of opportunities in the county.
Cyclists will find plenty of trails to explore in Bergen County. At Palisades Interstate Park, the Long Path runs through the area, providing easy access to many of the parks and natural areas. This sprawling park also offers up some incredible views of the Hudson River, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas. There are also many mountain biking trails throughout the region, such as those at Ramapo Valley County Reservation.
Not far from Ramapo Valley County Reservation is the Ramapo Mountain State Forest. This 1,272-acre forest has over 30 miles of trails, making it a beautiful place for hiking and mountain biking. In addition to the trails, there are plenty of opportunities for camping, bird watching, and even hunting in certain areas. The forest is also home to several lakes and rivers that offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities. No matter what type of outdoor activity you’re looking for, you’ll find it in the Ramapo Mountain State Forest!
Birdwatchers should also be sure to check out the Celery Farm Natural Area. This scenic nature preserve is home to a wide variety of bird species, as well as mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The Celery Farm is an especially popular spot for bird watchers during spring and fall migration seasons. There are also plenty of trails that run through the area, giving visitors an up close and personal view of the wildlife. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Celery Farm Natural Area.
Education in Bergen County
This historic county is home to many wonderful educational options for students of all ages. From specialty schools to performing arts centers, the county offers something for everyone.
Cutting Edge Ice Academy is an ice sports complex with a focus on hockey and figure skating instruction. They also offer public ice-skating sessions, as well as birthday parties and special events. For martial arts, Blue Dragon School of Martial Arts in Bergenfield, NJ offers a range of classes for children and adults. They offer classes in taekwondo, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, and Krav Maga. The instructors are highly-trained and certified and strive to help students reach their goals in a safe and fun environment.
The Performing Arts School at Bergen Performing Arts Center offers classes in singing, dance, theatre, music theory, acting, and much more. Gym Elite Gymnastics offers gymnastics classes for all ages and skill levels, as well as competitive teams and summer camps.
Bergen Community College is a two-year public institution that offers a range of associate degree programs. Their curriculum focuses on career-oriented education, and they have transfer agreements with several four-year universities.
Fairleigh Dickinson University is a private university that offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. They also have campuses located in both Madison and Teaneck, NJ. FDU has a rich history of academic excellence, and their programs are tailored to meet the needs of the modern student. Both educational institutions offer outstanding learning opportunities and a wealth of resources for their students.
Performing Arts
Did you know that Bergen County is home to the renowned Bergen Performing Arts Center (BPAC), a premier performing arts center located in Englewood, New Jersey? The BPAC offers world-class performances and events, such as symphony orchestras, ballet, concerts, comedy, lectures, and more.
If you’re looking for something closer to home, The Players Guild of Leonia in neighboring Leonia offers a variety of live performances. This family-friendly theatre group puts on shows such as musicals, children’s theater productions, plays, and even murder mysteries! Whether you’re looking for a date night or a family outing, The Players Guild of Leonia has something for everyone.
For something more low-key, check out The Orange Lantern in Paramus. This cozy bar has live music almost every night of the week and features everything from classic rock to jazz, with one night a week dedicated to karaoke. There’s also a full menu of delicious cocktails and bar snacks. Stop by for an evening of live music and a great atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a bigger venue with a wider variety of music genres, check out Debonair Music Hall in Teaneck. From rock and roll to pop and hip-hop, there’s something for everyone. It’s also one of the most unique venues in the area with its industrial-chic decor and top-of-the-line sound system.
Bergen County Is A Shopping Mecca
Ridgewood, NJ is a wonderful place to find some unique and special items. Right next to The Dayton, Downtown Ridgewood is home to a variety of boutiques offering fashion and accessories, home decor stores, art galleries, and unique gifts. There are also several grocery stores, drugstores, and other everyday retail options. The downtown area has been undergoing revitalization, with several new shops and restaurants opening in recent years. The area is also home to several farmers markets and flea markets, allowing you to find local produce and handmade goods. Check out Bookends for an incredible bookstore.
Just southeast of Ridgewood is downtown Englewood. Here, you’ll find an abundance of small businesses and mom-and-pop stores. There are several antique stores, art galleries, and boutiques offering fashion and accessories. You can also find several local restaurants, a variety of small grocery stores, and everyday retail stores. Englewood, too, hosts farmers markets and flea markets throughout the warmer months. Located downtown, Marcia’s Attic for Kids was recently voted among the Best of Bergen.
Just a few miles away, downtown Westwood has become a destination for both locals and tourists alike. The main street is lined with high-end clothing stores, cafes, and unique stores. There are also several bookstores and record stores, so you can find your favorite books and albums. Downtown Westwood also hosts several events throughout the year, such as the yearly Westwood Street Fair, where you can find artisanal products, food trucks, and more. With a renowned Habitat for Humanity ReStore, you’ll find gorgeous antiques while supporting a great cause.
For more well-known name brands, visit nearby Paramus, with the Westfield Garden State Plaza, where you’ll find stores like All Saints, Burberry, Coach, Free People, Madewell, and Gucci. But keep in mind that the mall is closed on Sundays!
Restaurants & Bars
With so many restaurants offering such a wide variety of delicious cuisines, it’s no wonder Bergen County has become one of the best places for foodies. You’re sure to find something you love from the county’s amazing selection of eateries. Whether you’re looking for a cozy craft beer spot or a high-end dining experience, Bergen County is sure to satisfy your cravings.
If you are looking for a great place to grab a bite to eat or grab drinks with friends, Bergen County is the perfect destination. One of the best restaurants in the county is Stone and Rail in Glen Rock, NJ, just a short distance from both Fair Lawn Commons and Fair Lawn Promenade. This upscale gastropub offers a delicious selection of modern American cuisine, as well as an impressive craft beer selection.
If craft beer is your thing and you want more of it, then you’ll want to check out Five Dimes Brewery in Westwood. This cozy taproom features a rotating list of creative beer styles on tap, as well as occasional events like comedy nights and trivia nights. You’ll be able to find something you love among their selection of classic ales and lagers or bolder IPAs and stouts.
For a more upscale dining experience, check out Saddle River Inn in Saddle River, NJ, close to The Commons. This award-winning restaurant specializes in fine French American cuisine in an elegant, cozy setting. Their menu changes seasonally, with dishes like wood-grilled salmon, smoked short rib, and wild mushroom risotto.
Public Transportation
Were you aware that Bergen County, NJ offers excellent public transportation options for residents and visitors alike? The New Jersey Transit trains and buses provide direct access to and from New York City and Secaucus Junction, as well as service to Newark Liberty International Airport.
NJ Transit buses and trains serve over 70 communities in Bergen County and offer local bus lines that connect several major towns, such as Paramus, Teaneck, Hackensack, Ridgewood, and more. With convenient stops throughout the county, you can get anywhere you need to go easily and efficiently. Also, through NJ Transit, Bergen County is connected to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in midtown Manhattan, which gives you easy access to Long Island and other nearby destinations. You can find public transportation tickets online or at local NJ Transit stations.
The county also has several commuter van services that run through the region. These services are reliable and reasonably priced and provide a great alternative to carpooling or relying on personal vehicles.
Find Home in Bergen County
Bergen County, NJ offers a unique combination of suburban life, excellent schools, and close proximity to New York City. With a population of nearly 900,000 people and several distinct communities, it is an ideal place to live for families, young adults, empty nesters, and more. No matter who you are or what stage of life you’re in, it’s no surprise that Bergen County is one of the most desirable places to live in the United States.