Park Ridge Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more in Park Ridge, New Jersey. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Park Ridge

Park Ridge, a borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, is a delightful place to visit for people of all ages. It is a small, peaceful borough surrounded by beautiful landscapes and eye-catching architecture that will leave you amazed. Park Ridge is a perfect destination to discover the beauty of nature, engage in outdoor activities, experience the local culture, and indulge in some delicious food and drinks.

This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Park Ridge. From the best places to visit to the top things to do, this guide covers everything.

List of Places to Visit in Park Ridge

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Park Ridge is home to some of the most culturally significant museums and historical places in the United States.

1. The Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum

The Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum is a small museum that displays art, artifacts, sculptures, and more. The museum aims to promote wildlife conservation, through art that portrays natural history and hunting. The collection includes works from past and contemporary artists like Carl Rungius, John James Audubon, and David Shepherd.

2. The Park Ridge Public Library

The Park Ridge Public Library is a notable place to visit for its resources on local history and culture. It is a well-maintained public library that houses over 60,000 books and periodicals, and it provides access to databases, e-books, and other educational resources.

3. The Old Stone House

The Old Stone House is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Park Ridge. It was built in the early 18th century and served as a tavern, post office, and general store. Today, it is a local museum that displays artifacts and exhibits about the history of the town.

Natural Attractions of Park Ridge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Park Ridge has a lot to offer in terms of natural attractions, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. Here are some of the top attractions:

1. Bear Swamp Natural Area

Bear Swamp Natural Area is a scenic preserve that is perfect for hiking, picnicking, bird watching, and photography. The natural area covers over 1,200 acres and has several trails that offer breathtaking views of the marshes, forests, and wildlife.

2. Park Ridge Nature Center

The Park Ridge Nature Center is a beautiful nature reserve that offers many recreational activities like hiking, bird watching, geological explorations, and outdoor education programs. It has several trails that go around streams, creeks, and other natural features that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

3. Wood Dale County Park

Wood Dale County Park is another scenic park with picnic areas, hiking trails, playgrounds, and a beautiful pond. Many people come here to run, bike, or simply walk around and enjoy the beautiful views of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Park Ridge

Park Ridge boasts several scenic hiking and biking routes, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the top options:

1. The Pascack Brook County Park Trail

The Pascack Brook County Park Trail is a paved trail that goes through a beautiful park and some residential areas. It offers a scenic view of Pascack Brook, which forms the border between Park Ridge and neighboring towns.

2. The Bear Swamp Trail

The Bear Swamp Trail is a scenic hike that goes through the Bear Swamp Natural Area. The trail offers scenic views of the marshes, forests, and wildlife.

3. The Hackensack River Greenway

The Hackensack River Greenway is a scenic route that follows along the Hackensack River and provides excellent views of the river, the surrounding marshes, and the New York City skyline.

Best Things to Do in Park Ridge: Activities and Tours

Park Ridge offers a wide range of things to do and places to visit. Here are some of the top things to do in Park Ridge:

1. Attend Local Events

Park Ridge hosts several local events throughout the year, including farmers’ markets, art festivals, and community concerts. Attending these events is a great way to experience the local culture and meet new people.

2. Visit Wineries and Distilleries

Park Ridge is home to many wineries and distilleries, making it an ideal destination for wine and spirits lovers. You can take tours, participate in wine tastings, or have a relaxing lunch or dinner at one of the wineries or distilleries in the area.

3. Explore Local Cuisine

Park Ridge has some excellent restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that offer a variety of cuisines. Don’t leave without trying some of the local specialties, like the Bagelwich from Town Bagel or the tasty pizza from Il Vizio’s.

Week-Long Itinerary for Park Ridge

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Park Ridge:

Day 1: Visit the The Hiram Blauvelt Art Museum and have dinner at Il Vizio’s. Day 2: Go hiking at Bear Swamp Natural Area and have lunch at Park West Tavern. Day 3: Take a tour of Pascack Hills Vineyard and have lunch at A Taste of Greece. Day 4: Visit The Park Ridge Public Library and spend the evening at the Park Ridge Community Center. Day 5: Explore Wood Dale County Park and have dinner at the Park West Tavern. Day 6: Visit the Old Stone House and spend the evening at the Park Ridge Farmer’s Market. Day 7: Take a day trip to New York City and have dinner at The Cook House.

Food and Drink Scene of Park Ridge

Park Ridge has a diverse food and drink scene, offering a range of cuisines and beverage options. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

1. Bagelwich from Town Bagel

The Bagelwich is a popular breakfast sandwich in Park Ridge that comes with a tasty combination of scrambled eggs, bacon, ham, and cheese on a fresh bagel.

2. Pizza from Il Vizio’s

Il Vizio’s is known for serving some of the best pizza in the area. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven, giving them a unique and authentic flavor.

Local Beverages

1. Wines from Pascack Hills Vineyard

Pascack Hills Vineyard offers a variety of wines made from locally-grown grapes. Their wines range from dry reds to sweet whites, and they offer tastings and tours for visitors.

2. Craft Beers from Park West Tavern

Park West Tavern is known for its selection of craft beers, with several local and regional breweries represented. They also offer a variety of appetizers and pub food to pair with your drinks.

Where to Stay in Park Ridge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Park Ridge has several accommodation options for travelers, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Park Ridge:

1. Hilton Woodcliff Lake

The Hilton Woodcliff Lake is a luxury hotel that offers an outdoor pool, a fitness center, several dining options, and spacious rooms with beautiful views of the surroundings.

2. Residence Inn by Marriott

The Residence Inn by Marriott offers apartment-style rooms with a kitchen, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

3. Courtyard by Marriott

The Courtyard by Marriott is an affordable option that offers comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and an onsite restaurant.

What to Buy in Park Ridge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are looking for souvenirs and locally-made products to bring home from Park Ridge, here are some suggestions:

1. Pottery and Ceramics from Katie’s Pottery

Katie’s Pottery is a ceramics studio that offers handmade pottery and ceramics. You can buy pre-made pieces or participate in a pottery-making workshop to create your own piece.

2. Handcrafted Candles from The Bird and The Bee Candle Company

The Bird and The Bee Candle Company is a local business that makes handcrafted soy candles with unique scents. Their candles make great gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Park Ridge

Park Ridge is a small town that values community, family, and traditions. The people of Park Ridge are warm and welcoming, and the town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and events.

Best Time to Visit Park Ridge

The best time to visit Park Ridge is during the summer and fall months, from June to November. This is when the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are many outdoor activities and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Park Ridge

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Park Ridge:

Do:

  • Explore the local parks and natural areas.
  • Visit the local museums and cultural attractions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Attend the local events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural areas.
  • Park in restricted areas or private property.
  • Ignore local customs and culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Park Ridge

Park Ridge is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it is still advisable to take normal safety precautions when traveling anywhere.

Health in Park Ridge

Park Ridge has several hospitals and medical facilities nearby, making it easy to access medical care if needed.

Getting to Park Ridge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Park Ridge

Park Ridge is accessible by several airports, including:

  • Newark Liberty International Airport, NJ
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport, NY
  • LaGuardia Airport, NY

Bus Stations Near Park Ridge

Park Ridge has several bus stations nearby that provide connections to major cities and destinations, including:

  • The Port Authority Bus Terminal, New York City
  • The George Washington Bridge Bus Station, New York City

Other Options

Other transportation options include:

  • Car rentals
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services

How to Get Around in Park Ridge

Park Ridge is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. You can also rent a car or use ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Park Ridge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Park Ridge is surrounded by several destinations and attractions in the area. Here are some nearby destinations:

1. New York City

New York City is less than an hour’s drive from Park Ridge, making it a popular day trip for visitors. Explore the city’s famous landmarks, museums, and attractions.

2. Ramapo Mountain State Forest

Ramapo Mountain State Forest is a beautiful natural area with several trails, picnic areas, and scenic views.

Conclusion

Park Ridge is a wonderful destination to experience the beauty of nature, engage in outdoor activities, discover the local culture, and indulge in some delicious food and drinks. This guide provides all the necessary information to plan your trip to Park Ridge and make the most of your time there.

Park Ridge Station Park Ridge Station