Fair Lawn, New Jersey: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

on

10 Fun Things To Do Near Fair Lawn, New Jersey (Bergen County Guide)

If you’re in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, or thinking about visiting, you’re in luck. This Bergen County suburb has that small-town feel, but it’s also close to some great parks, food, shopping, and even quick day trips into New York City. Whether you’re a local looking for new ideas or you’re just passing through, here are 10 fun things to do near Fair Lawn that work for couples, families, and solo travelers.

1. Stroll, Bike, or Picnic Along the Saddle River County Park Path

One of the best things about Fair Lawn is how close it is to nature. The Saddle River County Park is a long, scenic park that stretches through several Bergen County towns, including Fair Lawn. There’s a paved path that’s great for:
  • Walking or jogging
  • Bike rides with kids
  • Rollerblading or stroller walks
You’ll find:
  • Playgrounds
  • Picnic areas with tables and grills
  • Ponds and little bridges perfect for photos
  • Lots of ducks and geese (kids love this part)
If you want a relaxed day, grab sandwiches from a local Fair Lawn deli, pack a blanket, and have an easy picnic by the water. On warm weekends, it feels like the whole community is out enjoying the park.

2. Step Back in Time at the Garretson Forge & Farm

Right in Fair Lawn, you can visit Garretson Forge & Farm, one of the oldest historic sites in Bergen County. Parts of this property date back to the 1700s. What makes it worth a visit?
  • A historic farmhouse with tours on certain days
  • Beautiful herb and flower gardens
  • Special seasonal events and demonstrations
If you like history, old houses, or gardening, this spot is a gem. It’s also a nice, low-key stop if you’re traveling with parents or grandparents who enjoy historic sites. Tip: Check their schedule online before you go. Hours and tour times can be limited.

3. Catch a Show at Bergen County Players in Oradell

Just a short drive from Fair Lawn, in neighboring Oradell, you’ll find Bergen County Players, a long-running community theater group. Don’t let the word “community” fool you. The shows here are often surprisingly good, with strong acting and creative sets. They put on:
  • Comedies
  • Dramas
  • Musicals
  • Family-friendly performances
It’s an affordable night out compared to Broadway, and you still get that live-theater energy. If you’re staying in Fair Lawn for a few days, checking what’s playing and booking tickets is a smart move.

4. Explore Van Saun Park & Bergen County Zoo in Paramus

Ask almost anyone in Bergen County about family-friendly things to do, and they’ll mention Van Saun County Park in Paramus, just minutes from Fair Lawn. Inside the park, you’ll find the Bergen County Zoo, which is small but very kid-friendly. It’s not an all-day, huge zoo like the Bronx Zoo, but that’s almost a plus if you’re traveling with little ones. Here you can enjoy:
  • Zoo animals like bison, monkeys, and birds
  • A mini train ride that circles the grounds
  • A carousel
  • Playgrounds and picnic areas
  • Walking paths and open green space
On a nice day, you can easily spend a few hours here without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

5. Eat Your Way Through Fair Lawn’s Diverse Food Scene

For a suburban town, Fair Lawn has a surprisingly international food scene. If you like trying different cuisines, this is a fun place to spend a weekend just eating. You’ll find:
  • Bagel shops and delis with classic New Jersey bagels and breakfast sandwiches
  • Eastern European bakeries with fresh bread and pastries
  • Middle Eastern spots serving shawarma, falafel, and hummus
  • Italian pizzerias and casual trattorias
  • Asian restaurants for sushi, noodles, and more
One easy idea: create your own little food tour. Start with coffee and a pastry in the morning, grab a light lunch from a deli or shawarma place, then finish with pizza or sushi for dinner. Not sure where to go? Ask a local at your hotel or a shop. People in Fair Lawn are usually happy to point you to their favorite spot.

6. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch in Ridgewood’s Downtown

About 10–15 minutes from Fair Lawn, the village of Ridgewood has one of the nicest downtown areas in Bergen County. Here’s what you can do there:
  • Browse boutique clothing and gift shops
  • Sit at a sidewalk café with coffee or a glass of wine
  • Enjoy a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants
  • Stroll around at night and enjoy the lights and busy streets
Ridgewood has that classic Northeast small-town look with a slightly upscale feel. It’s a great spot for date night, a girls’ day out, or just a relaxed afternoon of window shopping. Parking can be a bit tight at busy times, but there are lots and meters around the main streets.

7. Go Big on Shopping at Garden State Plaza in Paramus

If you love to shop, or just like having a lot of choices in one place, head to Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus, about 10 minutes from Fair Lawn. It’s one of the largest malls in New Jersey, with:
  • Major department stores
  • High-end brands and popular chains
  • A large food court and sit-down restaurants
  • A movie theater
On a rainy or cold day, this is an easy way to spend a few hours. You can shop, grab a bite, then catch a movie without ever having to step outside. One thing to know: Paramus has some unique shopping rules. Many big stores are closed on Sundays due to local “blue laws,” so plan around that if shopping is a big part of your trip.

8. Take a Relaxing Walk at the Saddle River County Park – Dunkerhook Area

While the Saddle River path runs through Fair Lawn, another especially pretty section is the Dunkerhook area in Paramus and Ridgewood, just a short drive away. Here you’ll find:
  • Wide, shaded walking and biking paths
  • Waterfalls and small dams along the river
  • Wooden bridges and photo-worthy spots
  • Open fields that are perfect for tossing a ball or frisbee
If you like peaceful walks, this is one of the nicest places near Fair Lawn to unwind. In fall, the foliage along the river is especially beautiful, and in spring, you’ll see lots of flowers and bright green leaves coming in.

9. Spend a Day in New York City (Easy from Fair Lawn)

One of the biggest perks of staying in Fair Lawn, NJ is how close you are to New York City, without paying NYC hotel prices. You can:
  • Drive to a nearby park-and-ride or bus stop
  • Take an NJ Transit bus into Port Authority in Midtown Manhattan
Depending on traffic and your exact route, you can often be in Manhattan in about 40–60 minutes. Once you’re there, your options are endless:
  • Walk through Central Park
  • Visit Times Square
  • See a Broadway show
  • Check out museums like the Met or MoMA
At the end of the day, you can come back to quieter, calmer Fair Lawn to relax. It’s a nice balance: city adventures by day, suburban comfort by night.

10. Enjoy Local Events, Parks, and Community Life in Fair Lawn

Part of the charm of Fair Lawn is its strong community feel. If you time your visit right, you can enjoy local events that make you feel like a temporary resident, not just a tourist. Depending on the season, you might find:
  • Outdoor concerts and festivals
  • Fireworks on the 4th of July
  • Farmers markets
  • Holiday events and parades
Even on a regular day, you can enjoy:
  • Local parks with playgrounds and sports fields
  • Casual bakeries and coffee shops where regulars chat over coffee
  • Neighborhood walks through quiet, tree-lined streets
If you like to travel “like a local,” this is where Fair Lawn shines most. It’s not a tourist trap; it’s a real town where you can slow down and enjoy everyday life.

Planning Your Visit to Fair Lawn, NJ

Here are some quick tips to make your trip smoother:
  • Getting around: A car makes things much easier in Bergen County, especially if you want to explore different towns and parks.
  • Best seasons: Spring and fall are especially nice for walking and outdoor activities. Summer can be warm but great for parks and picnics. Winter is colder, but malls and indoor spots stay busy.
  • Day trips: Mix local Fair Lawn sights with side trips to Paramus, Ridgewood, and New York City for a full experience.

What Would You Add to This Fair Lawn Bucket List?

These are some of the best things to do in and around Fair Lawn, New Jersey, from riverside walks and historic farms to great food and easy access to New York City. Now it’s your turn:
  • Have you visited Fair Lawn or Bergen County before?
  • Do you have a favorite restaurant, park, or hidden spot in the area?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover new places too. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to North Jersey or looking for new weekend ideas near NYC.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment