Things To Do
in Dumont
Dumont, New Jersey is a small, residential borough in Bergen County located about 15–20 miles northwest of Manhattan, making it a quiet commuter community with easy access to New York City. The town features tree-lined streets, family-run shops, neighborhood parks and modest downtown commercial strips serving local needs. Dumont’s location provides quick access to regional green spaces like the Palisades and Saddle River County Park as well as larger shopping and cultural centers in nearby Hackensack and Paramus.
Visitors appreciate the small-town feel, local diners and bakeries, and the convenience of being close to major metropolitan amenities without staying inside the city itself.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Mount Evans, where you can drive up to the summit and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies. Engage in some light hiking on one of the trails to truly connect with the pristine nature surrounding you. After soaking in the morning sun, rejuvenate with a hearty breakfast at a local café that features fresh, farm-to-table options.
In the afternoon, head back to Dumont and explore the quaint local shops that showcase artisans and vintage treasures. Take a leisurely walk by the creek while enjoying the cool mountain breeze, or opt for an adrenaline-pumping activity like zip-lining. Stop for lunch at a popular diner where you can enjoy classic American cuisine with a mountain twist.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the creek or on a mountain overlook to witness the awe-inspiring transition of colors in the sky. Consider indulging in dinner at a rustic lodge that offers locally-sourced dishes paired with a fine selection of Colorado craft beers. Wrap up the night by attending a storytelling session or live music performance showcasing local talent.
Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast sandwich from a local bakery before embarking on an exhilarating mountain bike ride through the scenic trails. The crisp morning air will invigorate you as you navigate through winding paths surrounded by evergreen trees. Don't forget your camera, as the morning sunlight creates the perfect backdrop for photography.
Post-ride, grab a quick lunch from a nearby food truck serving gourmet burritos or fresh salads. Visit the Dumont Historical Society to delve into the rich history of the area, exploring exhibits that highlight its mining past. Spend time relaxing in a local park, where you can picnic or simply enjoy the serene surroundings.
As night falls, find your way to a charming mountain restaurant known for its stunning views and seasonal dishes. Enjoy a delightful meal while sharing stories with fellow travelers and locals. After dinner, consider joining a guided stargazing tour to marvel at the crystal-clear night sky, away from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $5-8 |
| 🚕Short taxi/ride-share trip (within town) | $8-20 |
| 🚌One-way public transit (bus to NYC area) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to New York City while offering a quieter, suburban experience
- Good access to regional parks and outdoor recreation (Palisades, Saddle River)
- Affordable, family-friendly neighborhoods with local bakeries, diners and small businesses
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions within the borough itself
- Rush-hour traffic can be heavy on commuter routes into NYC
- Fewer specialty dining options directly in town—may require travel to nearby towns or the city for more variety
Places to Visit in Dumont
Visit one of these nice places.
Charming small-town scenes, seasonal trees and community life—good for street and lifestyle photography.
Dramatic Hudson River cliffs and skyline views of Manhattan; excellent for sunrise/sunset and landscape shots.
Flat riverside paths, bridges and wetlands that offer nature shots, especially in spring and fall.
Colorful urban streets, historic buildings and a livelier commercial scene—great for candid city photography.
Food in Dumont
Dumont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh bagels, deli meats and classic sandwiches are staples; find them at neighborhood bakeries and delis that open early for commuters.
Must-Try!
Family-run pizzerias serving New Jersey/NY-style pizza, pasta and classic Italian-American dishes—great for casual dinners or takeout.
Cookies, pastries, and nostalgic treats from local bakeries; perfect with coffee for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal farmers markets in Bergen County offer produce, baked goods and prepared foods—check schedules for nearby pop-up markets in spring–fall.
Small food-truck gatherings and community events appear at parks or during borough festivals—good chances to sample varied street food without going into the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly but reserved social style: brief small talk is common, but respect personal space and privacy.
Being on time for appointments and meetups is appreciated—commute traffic is common, so plan extra travel time.
Follow posted park rules, leash laws and recycling/garbage guidelines; many towns enforce quiet hours in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Dumont
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard tipping in restaurants is 15–20% of the pre-tax bill for good service; bars typically expect $1–2 per drink or 15–20% on the tab. Tip taxi drivers around 10–15% and consider small daily tips for hotel housekeeping ($2–5).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Carry small cash for very small purchases, some market stalls or tipping.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blossoming parks make it a pleasant time to visit; some rain is possible, so bring a light jacket and umbrella for showers.
Warm to hot and often humid; expect busy travel times and comfortable outdoor activities early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
Cool, crisp weather with attractive fall foliage in local parks and nearby highlands—one of the best times for hiking and photography.
Cold with periodic snow and ice—plan for winter driving conditions, possible school or service closures during heavy snow, and bring warm clothing.
Dumont at Night
Hiking in Dumont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Cliffside trails with sweeping Hudson River views and varied difficulty—excellent for photography, picnics and sunset watches.
Flat, accessible paths along the Saddle River with bridges, playgrounds and picnic areas—good for families and casual cyclists.
More rugged trails and scenic overlooks in the Ramapo Mountains—offers longer hikes and deeper nature experiences within an hour's drive.
Airports
How to reach Dumont by plane.
Major international airport approximately 20–35 minutes by car depending on traffic; offers domestic and international flights and good ground transport links.
Closer to Manhattan but generally 30–45 minutes away by car (traffic dependent); convenient for many domestic flights to/from the New York metro area.
Major international hub located further away (typically 50–80 minutes by car), useful for many international flights but longer travel time from Dumont.
Small airport near the borough handling private and corporate aviation—useful for private flights and quick access for business travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are commuters who work in New York City or neighboring towns; families seeking suburban schools and community life are common.
Established multi-generational households and long-term residents contribute to the borough’s community feel.
Bergen County hosts diverse communities, including Hispanic and Asian populations; nearby towns offer cultural amenities and ethnic shops/restaurants.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local high school sports draw community support—football, baseball and basketball are seasonally popular and social focal points.
Soccer is widely played at youth and adult recreational levels, reflecting diverse community participation.
Ice sports are popular in the region, with nearby rinks hosting youth hockey and public skating sessions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dumont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available at diners, pizza places and many restaurants; call ahead for fully vegetarian or vegan menus if needed, or visit larger nearby towns for dedicated vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Gluten-free choices exist but can be limited at older bakeries and some delis—look for larger chain-friendly restaurants or specialty bakeries in Hackensack/Paramus for better options.
Halal and kosher options are available in the broader Bergen County area; Dumont itself is small but nearby towns have markets and restaurants catering to these needs.