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10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Paterson, New Jersey (Passaic County)
If you’re looking for a day trip or weekend escape in North Jersey, Paterson, New Jersey is a surprisingly cool spot to explore. It’s rich in history, packed with culture, and close to a bunch of fun attractions around Passaic County. Whether you live in New Jersey or you’re visiting from out of state, here are 10 things to do in and around Paterson that are worth your time.1. Feel the Power of Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
This is the big one. If you do only one thing in Paterson, make it the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. The Great Falls are about 77 feet high and incredibly powerful. You can feel the mist on your face as the Passaic River roars over the rocks. It’s not just a pretty view either — these falls helped power America’s early factories and made Paterson one of the first industrial cities in the country.- Walk across the pedestrian bridge for the best views.
- Stop by the visitor center to learn how the falls helped shape American industry.
- Bring your camera — it’s very Instagram-friendly.
2. Step Back in Time at the Paterson Museum
Just a short walk from the Great Falls, you’ll find the Paterson Museum. It’s housed in an old locomotive works building, which already sets the mood. Inside, you’ll see:- Old locomotives and machinery
- Paterson’s famous silk industry exhibits (it was once called the “Silk City”)
- Fire engines and industrial tools
- Local history, including aviation and medical displays
3. Explore the Historic District Around the Great Falls
The Great Falls area isn’t just about the waterfall. The Great Falls Historic District feels like an outdoor history lesson. Stroll around and you’ll spot:- Old mill buildings and factories
- Historic canals designed to bring water power to the mills
- Brick warehouses and cobblestone-style streets
4. Taste the World on Union Avenue and Main Street
One of the best things to do in Paterson is simply eat. The city is incredibly diverse, and you’ll see that on the menu. Around Union Avenue, Main Street, and the surrounding neighborhoods, you’ll find:- Middle Eastern bakeries with fresh pita, baklava, and shawarma
- Turkish and Syrian restaurants with grilled meats and strong coffee
- Latin American spots serving empanadas, arepas, and more
- Classic New Jersey pizzerias and diners
5. Enjoy the Parks: Eastside Park & Westside Park
Need some green space? Paterson has a couple of nice parks where you can relax, walk, or just people-watch. Eastside Park:- Tree-lined paths and open lawns
- Historic homes nearby
- Good spot for a quiet walk or a picnic
- Playgrounds and sports areas
- Views of the Passaic River
- More of a neighborhood park feel
6. Take a Scenic Drive to Garrett Mountain Reservation
Just south of Paterson, in Woodland Park (still in Passaic County), is Garrett Mountain Reservation, a popular local escape. Here you’ll find:- Wooded hiking and walking trails
- Overlooks with sweeping views of Paterson and the New York City skyline on a clear day
- Barbour Pond, a quiet spot for fishing or sitting by the water
7. Go Birdwatching and Biking at the Great Piece Meadows & Passaic River Areas
If you’re into nature, the Passaic River and nearby wetlands offer another kind of adventure. The Great Piece Meadows area, a bit farther out in Passaic and neighboring counties, is known for its quiet natural scenery. In and around Passaic County, you can:- Bike along riverfront paths where available
- Look for birds and other wildlife
- Enjoy peaceful views away from traffic and noise
8. Catch a Show or Game at Hinchliffe Stadium
Right by the Great Falls, you’ll find Hinchliffe Stadium, a historic ballpark and one of the few remaining stadiums associated with the Negro Leagues in baseball. Today, it’s been revitalized and hosts:- Sports events
- Community gatherings
- Special programs and celebrations
9. Shop Local in Downtown Paterson
Downtown Paterson is busy, colorful, and full of energy. If you like browsing unique shops and markets, this is a great place to walk around. You’ll find:- Clothing shops with styles you won’t see in big-box stores
- Jewelry, accessories, and home goods
- Latin American and Middle Eastern markets where you can buy spices, sweets, and snacks
10. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Passaic County Towns
One of the perks of visiting Paterson is how close it is to other North Jersey towns. If you have a car, you can turn your visit into a full day or weekend exploring Passaic County. A few easy add-ons:- Clifton: Grab pizza, hit a local park, or visit one of the many diners.
- Wayne: Check out shopping centers, a movie theater, or nearby nature spots.
- Little Falls: Enjoy small-town charm and river views.
Tips for Visiting Paterson, NJ
To make your trip smoother, here are a few simple tips:- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are especially nice for walking around and enjoying the Great Falls.
- Parking: Around the Great Falls and downtown, look for public lots and street parking. Always read the signs.
- What to wear: Comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk near the falls or explore parks.
- Bring: A light jacket, water, and your phone or camera — you’ll want photos.
Why Paterson Deserves a Spot on Your New Jersey Bucket List
Paterson isn’t a polished tourist town, and that’s part of its charm. It’s real, it’s historic, and it’s full of life. From the roaring Great Falls to global food and nearby hiking spots, there’s a lot to experience in a small area. If you’re planning your next New Jersey day trip or looking for new things to do near Paterson, use this list as your starting point. You might be surprised by how much you discover.Share Your Paterson Experience
Have you been to Paterson or anywhere else in Passaic County?- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find an amazing restaurant or park I should mention next time?
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