Bergen County, New Jersey: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Introduction

Bergen County is a county in the northeastern part of New Jersey, located just across the George Washington Bridge from Manhattan. It is known for its beautiful parks, shopping centers, and diverse population. In this guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Bergen County is home to several top attractions that you should not miss. One of them is the Meadowlands Sports Complex, which is a 700-acre sports and entertainment complex that includes MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and Jets, and the Meadowlands Racetrack. Another must-visit attraction is the Bergen Performing Arts Center, which hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other events throughout the year.

Hidden Gems

If you are looking for some hidden gems in Bergen County, check out the Tenafly Nature Center, a 400-acre nature preserve that offers hiking trails and educational programs. Another hidden gem is the Teaneck Creek Conservancy, which is a 46-acre nature preserve that includes a 1.2-mile trail, a butterfly garden, and a bird-watching area.

Food Scene

Bergen County has a diverse food scene that offers something for everyone. Some of the top restaurants in the area include the Saddle River Inn, which serves French cuisine, and the White Manna, which is known for its sliders. For some authentic Italian food, check out Cafe Matisse in Rutherford.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are looking to explore Bergen County on a budget, there are several things you can do. One of them is to visit the local parks, such as Van Saun County Park in Paramus, which offers free admission. You can also check out the local farmers’ markets, such as the Ramsey Farmers’ Market, which offers fresh produce and other goods at affordable prices.

Outdoor Adventures

Bergen County is home to several outdoor adventures, including the Palisades Interstate Park, which offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Hudson River. You can also go kayaking or paddleboarding on the Hackensack River, or explore the Ramapo Mountains on horseback.

Historical Landmarks

Bergen County has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. One of the most notable is the Old Dutch Church in Tappan, which dates back to 1694. Another landmark is the New Bridge Landing in River Edge, which is a historic site that includes several buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you are traveling with kids, there are several family-friendly activities in Bergen County. The Bergen County Zoo in Paramus is a great place to take children, as it features over 100 species of animals. You can also visit the Field Station: Dinosaurs in Leonia, which offers a unique outdoor experience with life-sized animatronic dinosaurs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, check out the Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey in Teterboro, which features exhibits on aviation history and technology. Another unique experience is the Ghost Hunting Tour in Fort Lee, which takes you on a tour of haunted locations in the area.

Natural Wonders

Bergen County is home to several natural wonders, including the Ramapo Valley Reservation, which is a 4,000-acre park that offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping. You can also visit the Celery Farm in Allendale, which is a 107-acre freshwater wetland that is home to over 200 species of birds.

Vibrant Nightlife

Bergen County has a vibrant nightlife that includes several bars and clubs. Some of the top spots include the Brick House Tavern + Tap in Wyckoff, which offers craft beer and live music, and the The Shannon Rose Irish Pub in Ramsey, which is known for its Irish fare and lively atmosphere.

Local Markets

Bergen County is home to several local markets, where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and other goods. Some of the top markets include the Ridgewood Farmers’ Market, which features over 20 vendors, and the Englewood Farmers’ Market, which offers a wide variety of locally-sourced products.

Beaches and Mountains

Although Bergen County does not have any beaches of its own, it is located just a short drive away from some of the best beaches on the East Coast, including the Jersey Shore and Long Island. The county is also home to the Ramapo Mountains, which offer stunning views and hiking trails.

Cultural Immersion

Bergen County is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse population that includes people of all backgrounds. To immerse yourself in the local culture, check out the annual Bergen County Multicultural Festival in Teaneck, which features music, dance, and food from around the world.

Art and Music Scene

Bergen County has a thriving art and music scene, with several museums and galleries that showcase local and international artists. Some of the top spots include the Bergen Museum of Art and Science in Hackensack, and the Montclair Art Museum in Montclair.

Walking Tours

To explore Bergen County on foot, take a walking tour of some of the historic neighborhoods, such as the Ridgewood Historic District, which features over 350 homes that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the Fort Lee Historic Park, which includes several Revolutionary War-era buildings.

Architectural Marvels

Bergen County is home to several architectural marvels, including the Lambert Castle in Paterson, which was built in the late 19th century and features a museum and art gallery. Another notable building is the Becton Dickinson Corporate Headquarters in Franklin Lakes, which was designed by the famous architect I.M. Pei.

Historical Sites

Bergen County has a rich history, with several historical sites that are worth visiting. One of them is the Washington’s Headquarters Museum in Morristown, where George Washington and his troops spent the winter of 1779-80. Another site is the Steuben House in River Edge, which was built in the mid-18th century and served as a headquarters for the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

Biking Routes

Bergen County has several biking routes that offer scenic views and challenging terrain. Some of the top routes include the Saddle River County Park Bike Path, which runs for 6.7 miles through several towns, and the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, which offers views of the Manhattan skyline.

Wellness Retreats

For those looking for a wellness retreat, check out the Crystal Springs Resort in Hamburg, which offers spa treatments, fitness classes, and outdoor activities. Another option is the Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, which offers yoga classes and workshops on health and wellness.

Adventure Sports

Bergen County offers several adventure sports, including rock climbing at the Gravity Vault in Upper Saddle River, and zip-lining at the Treetop Adventure Course in West Orange. You can also go skiing or snowboarding at the nearby Mountain Creek Ski Resort in Vernon.