Things To Do
in North Arlington

North Arlington is a small, family-friendly borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, just across the Hudson from Manhattan. It blends quiet residential streets with convenient access to urban amenities in nearby cities. The town is easy to reach by car or public transit, with straightforward connections to Newark, Jersey City, and NYC.

Expect a suburban atmosphere with a diverse community and a range of dining options.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Riverfront Park Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely walk along North Arlington’s scenic riverfront trail, watching the early morning light glint off the Hudson River. Enjoy the crisp air as you spot Manhattan’s skyline across the water and listen to the gentle lapping of the river. Capture photos of the historic barges and nearby sailboats to start your journey on a peaceful note.

afternoon
:

Set up a picnic on one of the grassy knolls overlooking the water, complete with local pastries and fresh fruit from a nearby market. Spend time birdwatching or sketching the ferries making their way to and from Manhattan. Take a moment to relax on a park bench, read a book, and soak in the calm river ambiance.

evening
:

Return at dusk to witness a breathtaking sunset that paints the sky in shades of pink and orange. As the city lights begin to shimmer across the river, savor a warm beverage from a local vendor. Reflect on the day’s discoveries and feel recharged by the tranquil riverside setting.

day 2
Roosevelt Stadium Park Walk
morning
:

Start with a guided stroll through the historic grounds of Roosevelt Stadium Park, once a famed sport venue in North Arlington. Learn about its storied past, from baseball games to civic events, by following informative plaques along the loop trail. Enjoy the soft morning light filtering through mature oak and maple trees.

afternoon
:

Continue along the winding paths as you visit the small amphitheater and war memorial installations. Pause on the central green for a relaxing lunch break, sampling sandwiches from a nearby deli. Take photos of the refurbished stadium seating and imagine the cheers of past crowds echoing here.

evening
:

Conclude your day by joining an open-air community concert or movie night if scheduled, often hosted in summer months. Mingle with locals, sample snacks from food trucks, and soak up the friendly small-town atmosphere. Leave with new stories about this cherished community landmark.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee in café$3-6
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center)$1,600-2,500/mo
🚌Public transport monthly pass$70-120
🛒Groceries (1 month)$250-450

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to NYC, Newark, and Jersey City providing easy access to world-class attractions
  • Diverse dining options and a family-friendly suburban vibe
  • Limited nightlife within North Arlington itself
  • Predominantly residential with some reliance on cars for longer trips

Places to Visit in North Arlington

Visit one of these nice places.

Hudson River overlook viewpoints near the North Arlington border

Elevated spots along the river provide skyline silhouettes of Manhattan and passing ferries on clear days.

Parks and residential street scenes in the borough

Quiet tree-lined avenues and small-town moments offer authentic NJ suburban photography opportunities.

Nearby Palisades and riverfront parks (short drive away)

Ridges and water views with dramatic sunsets over the Hudson River.

Culinary Guide

Food in North Arlington

North Arlington’s culinary scene reflects a classic New Jersey mix: Italian-American staples, suburban diners, and diverse immigrant flavors. Expect hearty portions, robust cheeses, and an emphasis on casual dining and takeout. Dishes commonly found here include deli favorites, pizza by the slice, and comforting pasta dishes. For a complete experience, venture to nearby towns for additional ethnic cuisines and markets.

North Arlington Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Taylor ham, egg, and cheese

A quintessential New Jersey breakfast sandwich, widely available at local delis and diners.

Must-Try!

Pizza by the slice

Classic hot-slice pies with melting mozzarella and a crisp crust, common at local pizzerias.

Deli roast beef on rye

Sliced roast beef stacked high on rye with mustard or mayonnaise, a staple at NJ delis.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nearby markets (Hudson County and neighboring towns)

Seasonal markets and shops offering fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and ready-to-eat street foods from a variety of cuisines.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers and cold winters, with mild springs and autumns. Precipitation occurs throughout the year, including snow in winter and thunderstorms in summer. Humidity can be high in summer, while winter can bring occasional windy days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite hello or wave is common in both casual and business contexts; handshakes are typical in professional settings.

Queueing

Respect lines and wait your turn; cutting in line is viewed negatively.

Noise and privacy

Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas, especially late at night; privacy and courtesy are valued in neighborhood interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

General urban-suburban safety applies: stay aware of surroundings in transit areas, keep valuables secure, and report suspicious activity to local authorities. 911 is the emergency number in the United States. Use well-lit routes at night and coordinate travel with trusted companions when possible.

Tipping in North Arlington

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Standard practice in the U.S.: 15-20% at sit-down restaurants; tip more for exceptional service; consider rounding up for smaller takeout orders.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small shops and tips; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot, with humidity and occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.

Winter

Cold with potential snow or ice; layering is essential and indoor venues become popular gathering spots.

Spring

Mild temperatures with budding trees; showers are common, so carry a light rain jacket.

Nightlife Guide

North Arlington at Night

North Arlington itself offers limited nightlife, with casual dining and coffee spots. For more vibrant options, residents typically travel to nearby Newark, Hoboken, Jersey City, or Manhattan for bars, live music, clubs, and breweries within convenient transit reach.

Hiking in North Arlington

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Palisades Interstate Park – Overpeck Area

Ridge trails with river views and access to scenic overlooks along the Hudson.

Eagle Rock Reservation (West Orange)

Hilly terrain with overlooks and several loop trails close to North Arlington.

Fort Lee Historic Park

Hudson River vistas and easy to moderate trails suitable for panoramic photography.

Airports

How to reach North Arlington by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Major international airport located roughly 15-25 miles away; accessible by car, train, or shuttle services.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Queens-based airport about 25-40 miles away depending on traffic.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Major international hub approximately 30-40 miles away; accessible by car, rail connections, and shuttle services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable in residential streets with sidewalks and local shops, but the borough lacks a dense urban core. Short walks around neighborhoods are pleasant, while longer trips typically require a car or public transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A substantial share of households with children; good local schools and parks support family life.

Diverse immigrant communities

A mix of Hispanic, Asian, and European backgrounds contributing to a varied cultural landscape.

Commuters to NYC and Newark

Many residents travel daily for work in nearby urban centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Common in schools, gyms, and community programs; casual leagues available.

Baseball/Softball

Spring and summer leagues in local parks and schools.

Soccer

Youth and adult leagues with local fields and clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic varies by time of day, with notable congestion around major arteries and during morning/evening commutes. Public transit options, including buses and trains to Manhattan, Newark, and Jersey City, provide alternatives to driving. Parking is generally easier in residential zones, but can be challenging near commercial corridors during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting North Arlington.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local eateries offer veggie pizzas, pasta dishes, salads, and sides. When ordering, ask for cheese substitutes or dairy-free options if needed.

Vegan

Vegan choices may be limited in some spots; look for salads, veggie sandwiches, and pasta with olive oil or tomato-based sauces. Staff can often accommodate, or you can opt for simple pasta with olive oil and vegetables.

Gluten-free

Gluten-free crusts and menu items are increasingly available at larger pizzerias and diners—confirm cross-contamination practices with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Access to healthcare is available in nearby Newark, Hackensack and other Bergen County facilities, with several urgent care clinics in the region. Major hospitals such as Hackensack University Medical Center and Newark-area hospitals are within a short drive. Primary care and specialty clinics are dispersed across neighboring towns.

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