Clifton, New Jersey: 10 Easy Road Trips for Weekend Getaways

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10 Easy Road Trips from Clifton, NJ: Fun Things To Do Just Outside Passaic County

If you live in or near Clifton, New Jersey and you’re itching to get out of town for a day, you’re in a great spot. In less than an hour, you can hit cute river towns, mountain lakes, hiking trails, outlet shopping, and even an awesome zoo. The best part? All of these ideas are outside Passaic County, so you’ll really feel like you “went somewhere,” even if you’re only gone for the afternoon. Below are 10 short out‑of‑county road trips from Clifton, focusing on nearby spots in:
  • Bergen County, NJ
  • Essex County, NJ
  • Morris County, NJ
  • Sussex County, NJ
  • Orange County, NY
  • Rockland County, NY
Gas up the car, grab a coffee, and let’s go.

1. Walk the Cliffs at Palisades Interstate Park (Bergen County, NJ)

If you want sweeping views of the Hudson River without driving into Manhattan, head to Palisades Interstate Park in Bergen County. From Clifton, it’s usually around a 30–40 minute drive, depending on traffic. You’ll find:
  • Scenic overlooks hundreds of feet above the Hudson
  • Easy riverside trails if you don’t want a tough hike
  • Picnic areas with grills and tables
  • Historic sites like the old Kearney House
One nice beginner option is to park near an overlook, snap some photos, and then walk a short distance along the cliff-top trail. On a clear day you can see the Manhattan skyline shining in the distance. If you’re more active, try hiking down to the river and back up. Just remember: going down is easy, but that climb back up feels long. Bring water, comfy shoes, and maybe a snack for the ride home.

2. Shop and Dine at Garden State Plaza (Bergen County, NJ)

Sometimes the best day trip from Clifton is simple: shopping, food, and air conditioning. Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus is one of the biggest malls in New Jersey. It’s about a 20–25 minute drive from Clifton, and it’s a classic Bergen County outing. Here’s what you can do:
  • Hit major stores like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and specialty shops
  • Catch a movie at the theater
  • Try new restaurants or grab a quick bite in the food court
  • People-watch (you’d be surprised how entertaining that can be)
If you’re planning around the holidays or weekends, go early. Parking can feel like a full-contact sport after noon.

3. Stroll the Streets of Montclair (Essex County, NJ)

Looking for a relaxed, artsy vibe? Head to Montclair in Essex County, just 15–25 minutes from Clifton depending where you start. Montclair isn’t far in miles, but it feels like its own world, with:
  • Cute downtown streets lined with cafes and boutiques
  • Sidewalk seating that’s perfect for lazy weekend brunch
  • Independent bookstores and record shops
  • Art galleries and frequent local events
I like to park once, then just wander. Maybe grab a latte, poke into a vintage shop, and end the day with pizza or sushi. If you enjoy people-watching and small-town charm, this is an easy win.

4. Get Your Culture Fix at the Newark Museum of Art (Essex County, NJ)

If the weather is bad—or you’re just in a museum mood—head to Newark, about 25–30 minutes from Clifton. The Newark Museum of Art is one of the hidden gems in North Jersey. It’s big enough to keep you busy, but not so huge that you’re overwhelmed. You’ll find:
  • American art, decorative arts, and changing exhibits
  • A fascinating collection of Tibetan art
  • A small planetarium (check times, especially if you’re bringing kids)
  • A sculpture garden when the weather’s nice
It’s a great option if you’re tired of streaming shows and want a day that actually feels a little more meaningful. Plus, Newark has plenty of great Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants nearby if you want to turn it into a full day trip.

5. Hike and Picnic in Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area (Morris County, NJ)

If you drive about 30–40 minutes west from Clifton into Morris County, you’ll hit Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area near Montville and Boonton. This spot is perfect if you:
  • Want a low-key hiking day near Clifton
  • Enjoy forest trails, big rocks, and overlooks
  • Don’t mind a little climb for a nice view
The area is known for rock formations like Tripod Rock, a huge boulder balancing on three smaller rocks. It looks like something out of a fantasy movie. Trails range from easy to moderate. Wear good sneakers or hiking shoes, and toss a picnic lunch in your backpack. On a clear day, you can even catch distant views of Manhattan from some points.

6. Explore Historic Morristown (Morris County, NJ)

Morristown is about a 35–45 minute drive from Clifton and makes a great mix of history, food, and small-town charm. Here’s what you can do there:
  • Walk through the downtown area with its shops and restaurants
  • Visit Morristown National Historical Park (including Washington’s Headquarters)
  • Check out local bars, coffee shops, and bakeries
  • Enjoy the Green, the town’s central park-like square
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love seeing where George Washington and his troops stayed during the Revolutionary War. Even if you’re not, the town is just a nice place to wander, grab lunch, and feel like you actually left your home base for the day.

7. Unplug at Lake Hopatcong (Morris / Sussex Counties, NJ)

When you’re craving water views but don’t want the drive to the Jersey Shore, point your car toward Lake Hopatcong, about 45–60 minutes from Clifton depending on traffic and where you park. Stretching across Morris and Sussex Counties, this is New Jersey’s largest freshwater lake. Things to do around the lake:
  • Have lunch or dinner at a lakeside restaurant
  • Rent a boat or join a tour (in season)
  • Walk along the water and enjoy the breeze
  • Fish, kayak, or paddleboard if you have gear
On a summer afternoon, it can feel like a mini-vacation just an hour away. Even in cooler months, it’s a nice scenic drive with pretty views and a calmer pace.

8. Go Wild at Turtle Back Zoo (Essex County, NJ)

If you’ve got kids—or you’re just a kid at heart—head to Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange, around 20–30 minutes from Clifton. This Essex County favorite has:
  • A wide range of animals, from giraffes to wolves
  • A train ride and carousel (popular with younger kids)
  • Seasonal events and light displays
  • Nearby trails in the South Mountain Reservation
I like pairing a zoo visit with a short walk or a stop at the overlook with views of the New York City skyline. If you’re looking for an easy family road trip near Clifton, this one is almost foolproof.

9. Shop Big at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets (Orange County, NY)

Ready for a serious shopping mission? Drive about an hour north from Clifton to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley, Orange County, New York. You’ll find:
  • Hundreds of outlet stores (from budget-friendly to luxury)
  • Food courts and sit-down spots to recharge
  • Huge parking areas (though weekends can still be packed)
If you like deals on brands you normally wouldn’t splurge on, this is your playground. Just wear comfortable shoes—you’ll easily walk miles without realizing it. Tip: Go earlier in the day or on a weekday if you can. It gets busy with shoppers from all over the tri-state area.

10. Cross the Hudson to Nyack and the Hudson River Views (Rockland County, NY)

For a charming river town vibe, drive about 35–45 minutes from Clifton to Nyack in Rockland County, New York. Why it’s worth the trip:
  • Walkable downtown with boutiques, antiques, and cafes
  • Riverfront parks with great views of the Hudson and the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
  • Art galleries and frequent festivals and street fairs
Nyack has that “weekend getaway” feeling without needing a hotel. Grab ice cream, sit on a bench by the river, and just watch the boats cruise by. If you stay into the evening, the bars and restaurants give the town a cozy, lively feel.

Tips for Planning Your Short Road Trips from Clifton

To keep your day trips from Clifton easy and fun, a little planning goes a long way:
  • Check parking rules: Some spots have meters, resident-only streets, or paid lots.
  • Look up hours: Museums, zoos, and attractions sometimes close earlier than you expect.
  • Pack a small “day trip bag”: Water, light snacks, a phone charger, and a light jacket can save the day.
  • Watch traffic: Weekend shore and outlet traffic can be intense. Leaving early often makes the trip smoother.
You don’t need a long vacation to feel refreshed. Even a few hours in a new place can reset your mood and give you something fun to look forward to.

Where Will You Go Next from Clifton?

Living near Clifton, NJ puts you close to so many great places in Bergen, Essex, Morris, Sussex, Orange, and Rockland Counties. From mountain hikes and lakeside meals to outlet shopping and historic towns, you’ve got plenty of options for short road trips without a long drive. Which of these day trips are you thinking about trying first? Have your own favorite spot outside Passaic County that deserves a shout-out? Share this post with friends and family who live in or around Clifton and are always saying, “There’s nothing to do around here.” You might just help them discover their next favorite getaway. And drop a comment with your go-to places, hidden gems, or road trip tips—I’d love to hear what you’ve discovered just a short drive from home.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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