Ridgewood Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, and more in Ridgewood, New Jersey with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ridgewood

Located in Bergen County, New Jersey, Ridgewood is a quaint borough nestled in the picturesque Gateway region of Mid-Atlantic, United States. The town boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, pristine natural landscapes, hiking/biking trails, and a vibrant food and drink scene. It attracts locals and tourists alike with its unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm.

List of Places to Visit in Ridgewood

From museums and historical attractions to natural landmarks and outdoor excursions, Ridgewood has something for everyone. Check out our list of top places to visit in Ridgewood:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ridgewood Historical Society and Museum - Step back in time and explore the borough’s fascinating history and culture through exhibitions, events, and educational programs.
  • The Schoolhouse Museum - A gem of a museum that celebrates the town’s educational heritage, featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents from the early 1900s.
  • Graydon Pool - An iconic landmark and popular summer destination for both locals and visitors, this historic pool has been a Ridgewood landmark for more than 90 years.

Natural Attractions of Ridgewood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Saddle River County Park - Spend a day biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the picturesque Saddle River County Park, which includes several smaller parks connected by a bike path.
  • Ridgewood Wild Duck Pond - A nature lover’s paradise, this pond is a great spot for bird watching, picnicking, and relaxing.
  • Van Neste Square - This charming downtown square is home to beautifully manicured gardens, a gazebo, and a fountain, making it a perfect photo spot for visitors.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ridgewood

Ridgewood is home to several well-maintained hiking and biking trails that offer beautiful scenic views of the borough’s natural landscapes. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Ridgewood:

  • The Ridgewood Trail System - This interconnected trail system consists of over 12 miles of pathways, perfect for hiking, trail running, biking, or horseback riding.
  • The Ho-Ho-Kus-Brook Trail - This 4-mile trail runs through the Saddle River County Park and is great for hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Ridgewood: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors engaged and entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Ridgewood:

  • Craft beer tour - Explore Ridgewood’s craft beer scene and taste the unique flavors of local breweries
  • Cooking classes - Learn how to cook local cuisine and take home valuable skills and knowledge
  • Nightlife scene - Enjoy live music or dance the night away at some of the top bars and clubs in Ridgewood.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ridgewood

A week-long itinerary in Ridgewood must include visiting top attractions such as the Ridgewood Historical Society and Museum, Saddle River County Park, and Graydon Pool. Be sure to spend a day biking or hiking along the Ridgewood Trail system, explore the local food and drink scene, and visit some of the popular shopping districts. You can also take a day-trip to nearby destinations such as Hoboken, Jersey City, or New York City.

Food and Drink Scene of Ridgewood

Ridgewood’s food and drink scene is always full of surprises. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages that should be on your list:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Birchwood Grilled Asparagus - a dish served at Maple Leaf Diner that combines crunchy asparagus spears with perfectly grilled tomatoes
  • Tofu Tacos - available at Esty Street, these tacos are the perfect vegan or vegetarian option
  • Ridgewood Red Pepper and Cheese Omelet - this classic dish by East Coast Pancake House is perfect for breakfast or brunch

Local Beverages

  • Ridgewood Red Pale Ale - brewed by the Alementary Brewing Company, this beer is perfect for craft beer lovers
  • Kilimajaro Blend Coffee - created by Kaldi’s Coffee Roasting Company, this coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers

Where to Stay in Ridgewood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ridgewood has several accommodation options for visitors. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Ridgewood:

  • The Wilshire Grand Hotel - a luxurious hotel offering all the comfort and amenities you need
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton - a perfect option for visitors who prefer a home-away-from-home experience
  • Ridgewood YMCA - a budget-friendly option for visitors who prefer a simple and comfortable stay

What to Buy in Ridgewood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ridgewood is home to several shops and stores that offer unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Ridgewood:

  • Old Time Photos - a great way to remember your visit to Ridgewood
  • Gourmet Chocolate - locally produced by Sweet Bliss Chocolates, these chocolates are a perfect gift for friends and family back home
  • Handmade Jewelry & Accessories - available at several boutiques in Ridgewood, these pieces are perfect for fashion lovers

Local Culture and Customs of Ridgewood

Ridgewood residents are known for their warmth and hospitality. It is important to observe common courtesy when visiting the borough, such as respecting local customs and traditions, and adhering to local laws and regulations.

Best Time to Visit Ridgewood

The best time to visit Ridgewood is between May and October when the weather is warm, and the foliage is in full bloom. However, visitors can also enjoy the town’s holiday festivities, including the Christmas Tree Lighting and the Fourth of July Parade.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ridgewood

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Enjoy the natural landscapes and outdoor activities in Ridgewood
  • Make sure to try the local food and drink scene

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural landscapes
  • Disrespect local laws or regulations
  • Treat the local people and residents without respect.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ridgewood

Ridgewood is a safe and crime-free borough. Visitors are encouraged to use common sense and take normal precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Health in Ridgewood

Ridgewood has several medical facilities and hospitals that visitors can access during their stay. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies.

Getting to Ridgewood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ridgewood can be easily accessed through various means of transportation. Here are some of the best options:

  • Airports Near Ridgewood - The closest airport to Ridgewood is Newark Liberty International Airport, located just 22 miles away.
  • Bus Stations Near Ridgewood - Visitors can take the NJ Transit Bus or Coach USA Bus to reach Ridgewood from various neighboring cities.
  • Other Options - Driving to Ridgewood is also an option, with easy access to major highways such as I-80 and the Garden State Parkway.

How to Get Around in Ridgewood

Ridgewood is a walkable borough, with several transportation options available to visitors who want to explore the borough at a faster pace. Visitors can rent a bike, take a taxi or rideshare service, or use public transport such as the NJ Transit Bus or train.

Where to Go Next from Ridgewood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ridgewood is close to several neighboring cities and attractions, making it a perfect base for excursions. Here are some of the nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Hoboken - a lively waterfront city with beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline
  • Paramus - a great shopping destination with several malls and stores
  • Bear Mountain State Park - a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities

Conclusion

Ridgewood is a perfect destination for visitors looking for a blend of urban amenities and rural charm. With its rich cultural and historical heritage, outdoor excursions, unique food and drink scene, and shopping districts, the borough has something for everyone. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a longer stay, Ridgewood will be sure to leave you enchanted.

Downtown Ridgewood Downtown Ridgewood