River Edge

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with River Edge's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Downtown River Edge
morning
:

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of downtown, admiring the small shops and vibrant murals that add character to the area. Be sure to stop by the local market for some unique artisan goods and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the nearby River Edge Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the scenic views of the river. You might also want to rent a kayak for an exciting paddle on the water, or simply relax on the shore while watching the world go by. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the walking trails that meander through the park.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head back downtown for dinner at one of the local restaurants offering a blend of cuisines. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with live music at a nearby bar or café, where you can sip on a craft cocktail while mingling with locals. Cap off the night with a peaceful walk along the river, taking in the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Dive into the local culture with a visit to the River Edge Historical Society, where you can learn about the town's rich history and heritage. Guided tours are available to provide you with in-depth knowledge about significant events and local figures. Spend some time browsing through unique artifacts and memorabilia.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby art gallery, which showcases both local and national artists. You can engage with artist talks or workshops if available, giving you a deeper understanding of the creative process. Make sure to grab lunch at a trendy bistro that serves locally sourced ingredients.

evening
:

Attend a performance at the local community theater, where talented performers bring stories to life. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you share the experience with fellow visitors and locals. After the show, grab a dessert at a local ice cream shop, cherishing the sweet end to a culturally enriching day.

day 3
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Set out early for a hike in the nearby Palisades Interstate Park, starting with a hearty breakfast packed with energy. The trails offer stunning views of the cliffs and the river, allowing you to connect with nature. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

afternoon
:

After your hike, take some time to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the park's picnic area surrounded by lush greenery. You can also explore the park's diverse wildlife by joining a guided nature walk, where a naturalist will provide insights into the local ecosystems. If you're up for it, try some birdwatching or simply bask in the tranquility.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation to freshen up before heading out for dinner at a cozy restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes. Consider participating in a guided stargazing event for a magical experience under the night sky. Reflect on the adventures of the day while enjoying a warm drink by a fire pit.

day 4
Family Fun Day
morning
:

Start the day with a family-friendly breakfast buffet at a local diner that offers something for everyone. After breakfast, head to the River Edge Community Center for a range of activities suitable for all ages, from arts and crafts to sports. It's a great way to engage with the community and have fun together.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a visit to the local science center where interactive exhibits will entertain and educate the entire family. Afterward, have a lunch break at a nearby family-friendly restaurant that features a kids' menu. Don’t forget to check out the children's play area or enjoy some games available on the premises.

evening
:

Conclude your family fun day with a trip to a mini-golf course or an arcade, where everyone can add a bit of friendly competition to the evening. After a day full of laughter and excitement, return to your lodging for a relaxing movie night with popcorn and treats. Share stories of your favorite moments of the day as you wind down.

day 5
Relaxing Spa Retreat
morning
:

Begin your day with a rejuvenating breakfast at a wellness café that focuses on healthy and organic options. Afterward, spend the morning at a spa indulging in massages and treatments designed to relax and refresh your body and mind. Take your time to unwind in the facilities, enjoying saunas or hot tubs.

afternoon
:

After your pampering session, enjoy a light lunch with fresh juices or smoothies to keep your energy up. Spend your afternoon at a yoga session or meditation workshop, designed to enhance your wellness journey. Embrace the relaxing ambiance and take time to reflect on your personal well-being.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, enjoy a quiet dinner at a serene restaurant that offers a menu filled with nourishing dishes. Afterward, take a stroll through a botanical garden if available, allowing the peaceful surroundings to enhance your relaxation experience. Wind down your day with a cup of herbal tea, savoring the tranquility created throughout your day.

day 6
Local Markets and Arts
morning
:

Head out to a nearby farmers' market offering a plethora of handmade goods, fresh produce, and artisanal treats. Spend your morning sampling local delicacies and chatting with friendly vendors, absorbing the wholesome community vibe. Don’t forget to pick up some unique items to take home as souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Continue your day by exploring local art studios and galleries that often host open house events. Admire various forms of art and perhaps even participate in a workshop to unleash your own creativity. Make sure to grab lunch at a cute café that supports local artists by featuring their work on the walls.

evening
:

As dusk sets in, attend a local arts and crafts fair or festival featuring music and performances by local talents. Interact with artists and artisans, gaining insight into their creative processes and stories. End the night with dinner at a nearby eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique dishes.

day 7
Historic Journey
morning
:

Start your historic journey with breakfast at a café that has retained its vintage charm, offering retro meals. After breakfast, join a guided walking tour that will highlight historical landmarks and the stories behind them, giving you a profound sense of the area’s past. Engage with your guide to glean insights about lesser-known facts and anecdotes.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby landmarked estate or museum that offers deeper insight into the local history and is set against beautiful landscaped gardens. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery that features historical décor and story-telling menus. Engage with docents and get involved in interactive exhibits that enhance your exploration.

evening
:

As the sun sets, join a ghost tour or paranormal investigation offering a spooky spin on local history. Learn about the ghost stories and legends that shaped River Edge while exploring historic buildings. To conclude the day, enjoy late-night bites at a diner that echoes the nostalgia of old-school diners.

day 8
Culinary Day
morning
:

Kick-start your culinary adventure with a breakfast tasting tour at various local eateries to sample their best morning offerings. Take this opportunity to have unique culinary experiences while meeting chefs and learning about local food culture. Each stop will reveal a new favorite dish to savor.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class with a local chef who will guide you through the preparation of traditional dishes. Enjoy a delightful lunch with the creations you’ve made during the class, paired with local wines. Explore more about the culinary arts while visiting specialty food shops in the area, picking up rare ingredients.

evening
:

Conclude your day with an exquisite dining experience at a fine restaurant known for its farm-to-table philosophy, where you can enjoy a multi-course meal. Share your culinary experiences with your dining companions, discussing your favorites from the day. Round off your meal with a unique dessert that highlights local flavors.

day 9
Sports and Recreation
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local diner known for fueling the adventurer's spirit. After breakfast, engage in a round of golf at a nearby course or head to a local sports facility for something more energetic, such as tennis or basketball. Friendly local players are often available to join you for a fun competition.

afternoon
:

Attend a local sporting event if available, experiencing the thrill of cheering for home teams and engaging with passionate fans. Settle down for lunch at a sports-themed café, re-energizing for the afternoon with delicious bar food. Enjoy the crowded yet cheery atmosphere as everyone celebrates the local sports culture.

evening
:

To wrap up your active day, consider a fun bowling night with friends or family at a local bowling alley, perfect for some light-hearted fun. Other options could include visiting an entertainment venue offering games and activities or simply unwinding at a sports bar, reliving the day’s highlights. Everyone can wind down with some hearty snacks and drinks before calling it a night.

Discover River Edge

Read more in our River Edge 2025 Travel Guide.

River Edge Travel Guide