Things To Do
in Ridgewood
Ridgewood, New Jersey, is a charming suburban community located just 20 miles northwest of Manhattan. Known for its picturesque tree-lined streets and historic architecture, Ridgewood offers a blend of small-town charm and urban convenience. The area boasts a vibrant downtown filled with boutiques, cafes, and cultural attractions, making it a delightful destination for visitors.
With its excellent school system and strong sense of community, Ridgewood is a great place to explore both relaxation and local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ridgewood Farmers Market, where you can sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Stroll through Van Neste Park and enjoy a picnic or visit the nearby Ridgewood Historical Society to learn about the town's history.
Dine at one of Ridgewood's popular restaurants, followed by a show at the Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival.
Hike along the Saddle River County Park, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Visit the Ridgewood Art Institute to view local art exhibits and perhaps participate in a workshop.
Unwind at a local brewery or wine bar, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| šMeal at a restaurant | $20 |
| āCup of coffee | $4 |
| šPizza slice | $3 |
| šPublic transport ticket | $2.75 |
| š”Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment | $2,000 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.
- Proximity to New York City for additional attractions and activities.
- Rich in history and cultural events.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living, especially for housing.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
Places to Visit in Ridgewood
Visit one of these nice places.
With its scenic walking paths and beautiful river views, this park is perfect for capturing nature's beauty.
The charming gazebo surrounded by lush greenery offers a picturesque backdrop for photos.
The well-preserved architecture and vibrant storefronts create a delightful urban landscape for photography.
Food in Ridgewood
Ridgewood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A juicy, handmade burger topped with local ingredients, often served at various diners and restaurants.
Must-Try!
A fresh pasta dish featuring seasonal vegetables, available at many of Ridgewood's Italian restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held every Sunday, this market features local farmers and artisans offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and a smile are appreciated when interacting with locals.
Being on time is considered respectful, especially for social commitments.
Maintaining a comfortable distance during conversations is important as locals value personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Ridgewood
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip between 15-20% in restaurants, depending on service quality.
While cash is accepted, most establishments prefer credit or debit cards for payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Summer can be warm and humid, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and festivals, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Fall is known for its stunning foliage, providing a beautiful backdrop for hiking and photography.
Winter can be cold with occasional snowfall, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, but some outdoor activities may be limited.
Ridgewood at Night
Hiking in Ridgewood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Offering a variety of trails with scenic views, this reservation is a great spot for hiking, nature walks, and observing wildlife.
A shorter trail suitable for all ages, providing easy access to beautiful landscapes along the Hackensack River.
Airports
How to reach Ridgewood by plane.
Located about 25 miles from Ridgewood, EWR is the primary airport serving the New York metropolitan area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ridgewood is home to many families who appreciate the excellent school system and safe environment.
The proximity to New York City attracts young professionals who commute for work while enjoying the suburban lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school football games are a significant community event, with many locals attending to support their teams.
Youth soccer leagues are popular in Ridgewood, with many children participating in local clubs and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ridgewood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Ridgewood offer vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable meals.
Several cafes provide gluten-free menu items, but it's advisable to check with the staff for cross-contamination.