Things To Do
in Closter
Closter is a small suburban village in Bergen County, New Jersey, just northwest of Manhattan. It blends tree lined residential streets with a quaint downtown and easy access to parks and nature. Visitors enjoy a relaxed, family friendly atmosphere with local shops and diverse dining options.
Its proximity to the Hudson River and the Palisades offers scenic views and quick getaways to the surrounding towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a freshly brewed espresso at a local café and admire the morning light dancing through the trees of Closter Commons Park. Watch joggers and families enjoying the early calm as you stroll along paved paths. Pause by the Little Red Schoolhouse Museum for a quick peek at local history.
Head to Closter Plaza for lunch and sample regional specialties from cozy diners and sandwich shops. Afterward, walk over to Tenakill Brook Park and explore its winding trails and wooden footbridges. Take a moment to sit by the brook and listen to the soothing flow of water.
Dine at a family-owned bistro featuring seasonal farm-to-table fare and homemade desserts. Catch a local open-mic night or acoustic performance at a neighborhood pub. Cap off the evening with a leisurely walk under the stars along the town’s tree-lined streets.
Start at the Closter Borough Hall, an elegant brick building dating back to the early 1900s, and learn about its role in community life. Snap photos of the period architecture as morning light highlights the ornate details. Step inside for a guided tour and chat with town historians about early Closter settlers.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds of the Old Closter Dock Road site, imagining 19th-century shipping along the Hudson River. Wander the nearby cemetery where stones mark the resting places of Revolutionary and Civil War veterans. Use a park bench to peruse your guidebook and take in panoramic views of the Palisades across the water.
Visit a local tavern serving craft beers and hearty pub fare in a historic stone building. Join a ghost-tour group to explore rumored haunted spots and hear chilling tales from Closter’s past. Finish with dessert at a family-run ice cream parlor back in the heart of town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Casual lunch or salad | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three course dinner for two | $60-100 |
| 🏨One night in a mid range hotel | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet suburban atmosphere with easy access to NYC.
- Family friendly with a charming downtown and parks.
- Limited nightlife within the village itself.
- Some services are concentrated in nearby towns, requiring short drives.
Places to Visit in Closter
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic river views framed by the Palisades cliffs, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Charming storefronts, historic lampposts, and tree lined sidewalks perfect for street photography.
Quaint residential blocks with vintage homes and well kept yards, ideal for golden hour photos.
Wooded trails and scenic overlooks offering seasonal color and wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Closter
Closter Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic eggs, potatoes, and pancakes served at local diners, ideal for a hearty start to the day.
Must-Try!
Juicy burgers with locally sourced herbs, available at several casual eateries.
Crispy fries with dipping sauces, popular in casual eateries near towns along the Hudson.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets offering local produce, cheeses, breads, and prepared foods in nearby towns.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep noise low in residential areas, especially evenings; greet neighbors with a friendly hello.
Being on time for appointments is appreciated; give others personal space in queues and public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Closter
Ensure a smooth experience
In most eateries, tipping 15-20 percent for good service is customary. Most restaurants accept cash or cards; many also support mobile payments. Small local shops often prefer cash, but cards are commonly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm days with humidity; bring water, sunscreen, and light layers for evenings. Storms can develop in the afternoons, so plan outdoor activities with flexible timing.
Fall brings crisp air and vibrant foliage; perfect for scenic drives and hikes. Check local harvest events and farmers markets.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow. Layered clothing, waterproof footwear, and safe driving conditions are advised.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; expect rain showers. Great for outdoor walks and outdoor photography.
Closter at Night
Hiking in Closter
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking trails range from easy to moderate with forests, streams, and scenic overlooks.
Waterfall trails and nature paths in a scenic area; suitable for families and casual hikers.
Classic cliffside trails and river views along the Hudson.
Airports
How to reach Closter by plane.
Major international hub about 25-40 minutes by car or train depending on traffic; connections to domestic and international destinations.
City airport offering extensive domestic flights; about 35-60 minutes by car or public transit from Closter, depending on traffic.
Small, general aviation airport very close to the area; convenient for private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with kids and multi generational living; good local schools and safe neighborhoods.
Commuters who work in NYC or Bergen County and enjoy a suburban lifestyle.
Active senior residents with local services and community groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community leagues and youth sports common in parks and school facilities.
Indoor and outdoor courts; popular among local teams and recreation leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Closter.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable forward dishes and request egg, dairy, or seafood free options; many menus offer vegetarian picks.