Things To Do
in The Hills
The Hills is a suburban town in northern New Jersey known for its riverfront charm and tree-lined streets. It blends historic neighborhoods with modern shops, waterfront parks, and easy access to regional rail. The town serves as a calm base for exploring both nature and the nearby city sights of the greater New York area.
Visitors will find a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and plenty of photo-worthy corners along Main Street and the riverwalk.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Austin and settle into a boutique hotel near Congress Avenue. Indulge in breakfast tacos and fresh-squeezed juice from a local food truck. Watch street musicians and snap photos of quirky storefronts that define the SoCo vibe.
Explore indie galleries, vintage shops and the iconic “I love you so much” mural. Sip cold brew at a sidewalk café while people-watching. Treat yourself to homemade ice cream at a celebrated Austin creamery.
Enjoy live music at a cozy honky-tonk on Sixth Street. Savor Tex-Mex specialties with a spicy margarita at a family-run eatery. Stroll along Congress Avenue under the glow of streetlights and neon signs.
Drive through rolling hills to the German-inspired town of Fredericksburg. Sample sparkling wines at a hillside vineyard while overlooking the vineyard panorama. Learn about local winemaking history during a guided cellar tour.
Lunch on a shaded patio with charcuterie paired to a crisp blanc de blanc. Wander the charming Main Street shops for handmade jams and local pottery. Pop into a tasting room to try a bold Texas Tempranillo.
Dine on schnitzel or bratwurst at a cozy biergarten. Sip a flight of port-style dessert wines under twinkling lights. Share stories around a fire pit with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🚆One-way local transport ticket | $2-5 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $3-6 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to NYC via rail
- Green spaces and riverside charm
- Strong local dining scene with markets
- Parking can be challenging in peak season
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
Places to Visit in The Hills
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views at golden hour with the skyline reflecting on calm water and passing boats.
Historic brick storefronts and lampposts provide timeless street photography opportunities.
Panoramic city and river views from a gentle hillside, perfect for sunset shots.
An ironwork bridge with decorative arches and nearby greenery ideal for architectural and nature photos.
Food in The Hills
The Hills Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty submarine piled with cold cuts, provolone, lettuce, and tomato, best enjoyed at a local deli on Main Street.
Must-Try!
A pan-seared crab cake with lemon-dill remoulade, reflecting coastal influences in riverfront eateries.
Warm, doughy pretzel bites perfect as a street-food snack or at casual gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly or weekend market offering seasonal produce, prepared foods, and artisanal snacks.
A rotating lineup of food trucks serving global bites, from tacos to Asian-inspired dishes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting and polite conversation go a long way; addresses using Mr./Ms. are common in first meetings, and quiet conversations in public spaces are appreciated.
Keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas, dispose of trash properly, and respect private property on street corners.
Safety
Tipping in The Hills
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 15-20% for good service. Bus and ride-share drivers, bartenders, and hotel staff typically receive small tips. Tipping is customary in person and is often expected for quality service.
Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets are widely accepted; cash is still welcomed at many venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with humidity; afternoon thunderstorms possible. Bring light clothing, stay hydrated, and seek shaded parks and riverfront breezes.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; great for outdoor walks and photography along tree-lined streets and overlooks.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow; layering is essential, and indoor venues shine as cozy refuges.
Mild days and blooming gardens; ideal for market strolls, café patios, and park trails.
The Hills at Night
Hiking in The Hills
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with gentle elevations, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.
Rugged rocky outcrops and city views, offering rewarding viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach The Hills by plane.
Major international hub about 14-25 miles away with rail and car access.
City-area airport approximately 25-30 miles away via highway and transit.
Further but accessible about 45-60 miles away by car or express train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents and newcomers alike, with good schools and safe neighborhoods.
Commuters who work in nearby cities and suburbs, attracted by the balance of city access and quieter neighborhoods.
Local colleges in the metro area bring a youthful presence and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in community centers and schools, with pickup games and youth leagues.
Local leagues and Little League fields flourish in spring and summer.
Common in parks and recreation programs throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Hills.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer clearly labeled veg options; ask for seasonal vegetable plates or adaptable pasta dishes, and check markets for fresh produce and plant-based snacks.