Things To Do
in North Bergen
North Bergen is a densely populated township in Hudson County, New Jersey, sitting atop the Hudson Palisades with close, postcard views of the Manhattan skyline. It functions as a residential and working-class suburb with a strong mix of cultures, especially Latin American communities, and a variety of small businesses and eateries. Its proximity to New York City and major highways makes it a popular place for commuters who want lower rents than Manhattan while keeping easy access to the city.
Parks, waterfront viewpoints and quick access to regional transit make North Bergen a practical base for exploring the New York metropolitan area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the North Bergen Historical Society, where you can delve into the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture and charming homes. Stop by a local café for a warm cup of coffee and a freshly baked pastry to fuel your morning adventures.
Spend your afternoon at James J. Braddock Park, where you can enjoy a scenic walk or a relaxing picnic by the lake. The park's lush greenery and views of the Manhattan skyline provide a perfect backdrop for a peaceful afternoon. Consider renting a bike to explore more of the park or engaging in some outdoor activities like tennis or baseball.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant for a taste of local cuisine, perhaps trying some delicious Italian dishes that the area is known for. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Hudson River waterfront, soaking in the stunning views of the New York City skyline illuminated at night. Conclude your evening with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, perfect for a delightful end to your day.
Kick off your day with a visit to the North Bergen Arts and Culture Coalition, where you can explore local art exhibits showcasing the talent of community artists. Experience the creativity of the area through interactive displays and workshops that might be available. Enjoy a delicious brunch at a nearby café that features locally sourced ingredients to nourish your body for a day of cultural exploration.
In the afternoon, take part in an art workshop at one of the local galleries, where you can create your own masterpiece under the guidance of a talented instructor. Afterward, visit additional galleries in the area, each offering a unique perspective on contemporary art and local culture. Don't forget to engage with the artists and learn about their inspirations and techniques.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant that often features live music from local artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Savor the flavors of the region while enjoying a cocktail or a glass of wine. After your meal, stroll through the neighborhood to discover pop-up art installations or community events that may be happening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transit fare (to NYC) | $2.75-3.50 (bus), $5-10 (private shuttle/ferry varies) |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 (depends on proximity to Manhattan and season) |
| 🚕Taxi/ride-share short trip | $10-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Manhattan and regional transit for commuters and visitors
- Affordable dining with strong multicultural food options
- Good skyline and waterfront views from nearby overlooks
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks and community services
- Dense urban environment with busy roads and traffic congestion
- Limited large-scale nightlife or tourist attractions within the township itself
- Parking can be challenging and street parking rules are enforced
- Weather can be harsh in winter and humid in summer
Places to Visit in North Bergen
Visit one of these nice places.
Several high points in North Bergen and nearby give sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, ideal at sunrise or sunset for dramatic cityscapes.
The Palisades offer rugged cliffs and tree-lined overlooks with river vistas—excellent for nature and landscape photography just steps from urban areas.
Parks such as James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park provide greenery, sports fields, and open spaces for candid community photography and family scenes.
Colorful storefronts, murals, and everyday street life capture the multicultural character of North Bergen—great for street photography and portraits.
Food in North Bergen
North Bergen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork popular in Cuban and Puerto Rican kitchens; find it at local Cuban restaurants and Latin diners throughout town.
Must-Try!
Handheld fried or baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables (empanadas), and cornmeal pockets (arepas); common at bakeries, cafes, and street-food spots.
Subs, meatball sandwiches, and pasta available at family-run delis and restaurants that reflect the area's long-standing Italian-American influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Neighborhood bodegas sell quick sandwiches, coffee, and Latin snacks—ideal for grab-and-go bites and affordable meals.
Seasonal farmers markets and nearby city markets offer fresh produce, prepared foods, and specialty vendors; check schedules for weekend markets in Hudson County.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Locals are generally friendly and direct; brief small talk is common in shops and on buses, but privacy and personal space are also respected.
North Bergen is multicultural—be respectful of different languages, customs, and religious practices, and be mindful of noise in residential areas at night.
Offer seats to elderly or disabled passengers, and avoid blocking doors or aisles when using buses or trains.
Safety
Tipping in North Bergen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars or $2–5 for good service, and $2–5 for cab rides depending on distance; tip hotel staff and delivery drivers as appropriate.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; many small vendors and bodegas take cash only, so carry some cash for quick purchases. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; expect busy waterfronts and outdoor activities. Dress in lightweight clothing, use sunscreen, and plan for afternoon thunderstorms on some days.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies make this a great time for outdoor walks and photography; fall foliage along the Palisades and local parks is attractive.
Cold with occasional snow and icy conditions; bring warm layers and sturdy shoes. Commuting can be slower during snow events, and some outdoor attractions may be less accessible.
Mild weather with blooming trees and parks coming back to life—ideal for walking, bicycling, and exploring local markets.
North Bergen at Night
Hiking in North Bergen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate trails along the Palisades offer cliff-top views of the Hudson River and Manhattan, with picnic areas and scenic overlooks—one of the best nearby options for nature close to the city.
A larger park in the Meadowlands area (short drive away) with biking trails, sports fields, and wetlands—good for family outings and longer walks.
Paths and open green spaces in Jersey City with views of the Statue of Liberty and access to ferries; easy, flat walks suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach North Bergen by plane.
Primary international airport serving the region, about 15–25 minutes by car (depending on traffic) with convenient shuttles, taxis, and NJ Transit connections.
Located in Queens, LGA is often used for domestic flights and is reachable by car or public transit plus a short bus/train connection — travel time varies with traffic (typically 35–60+ minutes).
Major international airport farther in Queens, accessible by car or public transit/airtrain — typically longer travel time than EWR or LGA.
Smaller airport north of North Bergen used mostly for private and corporate flights; convenient for private aviation and quick ground access to Hudson County.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
North Bergen has a large and vibrant Hispanic/Latino population (including Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican and other Latin American backgrounds), which strongly influences local culture, cuisine, and businesses.
Many residents are long-term working families who commute to jobs in Manhattan and surrounding areas, contributing to a close-knit community atmosphere.
A mix of immigrant communities from various countries, bringing cultural diversity, small businesses, and multilingual environments (notably Spanish).
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is popular among youth and community leagues, reflecting local immigrant communities and strong participation in recreational leagues.
Little League and community baseball/softball are common in parks and school programs.
Residents commonly follow regional professional teams (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, MLS) with many fans traveling to games across the Hudson.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting North Bergen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but less prominent than meat dishes—look for salads, pastas, and many Latin vegetable sides; communicate preferences since many places will adapt dishes.
Vegan choices are growing; specialty cafes and some Latin spots can make plant-based versions, but options may require asking—nearby Jersey City and Manhattan have more vegan restaurants if needed.
Gluten-free requests can usually be accommodated at sit-down restaurants and some bakeries; check menus and ensure cross-contamination concerns are addressed.