Things To Do
in Parsippany
Parsippany-Troy Hills is a suburban township in Morris County, New Jersey, known for its leafy residential streets and family-friendly neighborhoods. It offers a mix of parks, shopping centers, and diverse dining that reflects its varied communities. The town sits at the crossroads of major highways, making day trips to nearby cities convenient.
Expect a quiet suburban atmosphere with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Parsippany-Troy Hills Historical Society, where you can learn about the rich history of the area. Afterward, stroll through the quaint downtown area, admiring the charming architecture and small-town vibe. Don't forget to grab a cup of coffee and a pastry from a local café to fuel your morning adventures.
In the afternoon, head to the Morris County Park Commission's Historic Speedwell to explore the beautiful grounds and learn about its role in the development of telegraph technology. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling some local cuisine. After lunch, take a short drive to the nearby Parsippany Library to browse through their collection or attend a scheduled workshop.
As evening approaches, relax at the Parsippany Community Center where you can catch a local performance or participate in a community event. For dinner, treat yourself to a delightful meal at a popular Italian restaurant in the area, savoring homemade pasta and fine wines. Wind down your day with a walk at the nearby Parsippany Lake, enjoying the serene views as the sun sets.
Begin your day at the Lewis Morris Park, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while hiking the scenic trails. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as deer and various bird species as you explore the lush surroundings. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy in a peaceful spot amidst the trees.
After a morning in the park, head to the nearby Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge for a guided tour or a self-led exploration of its diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Spend your afternoon birdwatching or taking photographs of the stunning flora and fauna.
In the evening, return to Parsippany and visit a local brewery to try some craft beers brewed right in town. Pair your drinks with a selection of appetizers for a laid-back dinner experience. End the night at a cozy pub where you can unwind with live music or a trivia night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | 2.75-5 |
| 🏡Rent for 1-bedroom apartment | $1,600-2,400 |
| 🧺Grocery basket for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Central location in New Jersey with easy access to NYC and surrounding towns
- Diverse dining options and abundant parks and family-friendly amenities
- Traffic congestion on major routes during peak hours
- Limited nightlife within Parsippany itself; may require trips to nearby towns for more venues
Places to Visit in Parsippany
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful formal gardens, seasonal blooms, and historic pavilions provide varied backdrops for garden and architectural photography.
Historic town square with stately trees, classic streetscapes, and nearby colonial-era architecture.
Extensive trail network through woods and meadows with creek views, ideal for landscape and nature photography.
Waterfront scenery and shoreline reflections, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Parsippany
Parsippany Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic dish widely featured in local Italian-American eateries; pair with pasta and a side salad.
Must-Try!
Thin-crust, cheese-forward slices from neighborhood pizzerias; many places offer re-heated leftovers as a hearty option.
Popular grilled Indian dish found in Parsippany’s Indian restaurants; flavorful and often served with chutneys.
A creamy tomato-based curry with paneer; a favorite for vegetarians visiting Indian restaurants here.
A hearty baked pasta common in NJ Italian dining; a comforting option for groups.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, breads, cheeses, and prepared foods sourced from regional growers and vendors.
Large Indian, Middle Eastern, and Asian markets nearby offering snacks, spices, and ready-to-eat items you can sample on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Punctuality is appreciated for appointments and social gatherings; plan travel time accordingly.
Stand in line and be courteous in interactions; casual and direct communication is common.
Maintain a comfortable distance in public and observe local norms in conversations and dining.
Safety
Tipping in Parsippany
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants and bars typically expect 15-20% pre-tax tip. Consider higher tips for exceptional service, and smaller tips for slower service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy for smaller establishments. Some places may accept mobile wallet payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot and often humid; afternoons can bring thunderstorms. Perfect for lake activities, outdoor dining, and park events.
Crisp air and vibrant fall foliage; ideal for hiking and scenic drives around county parks and arboretums.
Cold temperatures with potential snow; indoor attractions and cozy dining options are popular.
Mild weather with blooming flowers; great time for walking trails, outdoor markets, and garden photography.
Parsippany at Night
Hiking in Parsippany
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of trails through woods, meadows, and streams.
Marsh habitat with wildlife viewing and longer hiking routes nearby.
Airports
How to reach Parsippany by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-35 miles east; typically 40-60 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
Small public airport for private flights, about 15-20 miles south.
Nearby private-jet airport in Northern New Jersey, about 25-35 miles east.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Census-driven community with strong school systems and family-friendly activities.
A vibrant and growing community with diverse cultural events and dining options.
Long-established neighborhoods with cultural institutions and local eateries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at schools, parks, and community centers; youth and adult leagues abound.
Popular fall and spring leagues; fields are plentiful at local parks.
Local leagues and fields support family-friendly weekend games and practices.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parsippany.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Parsippany menus offer vegetarian options; look for paneer, lentils, chickpeas, and vegetable dishes. Ask for clear guidance on ingredients like ghee or butter, and request dairy-free preparations if needed.