10 Fun Things To Do Near Garfield, New Jersey (Bergen County Guide)
Looking for things to do in and around
Garfield, New Jersey? Maybe you just moved here, you’re visiting family, or you’re simply curious what’s nearby in Bergen County.
Garfield is a small, lively city with a strong community feel and easy access to a lot of great attractions. The best part? You don’t have to drive far to find parks, shopping, food, and entertainment.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Garfield, NJ, all within a short drive. Whether you’re planning a weekend, a date, or a family day out, this list will give you plenty of ideas.
1. Relax Along the Passaic River at Garfield’s Parks
You don’t have to leave Garfield to find some peace and quiet. The city has a few small but friendly parks where locals go to walk, jog, or just enjoy the river views.
Two spots to check out:
- River Drive / Passaic Riverfront areas – Great for a simple stroll, watching the water, or taking in a sunset.
- Garfield recreation fields and neighborhood parks – You’ll see kids playing ball, families hanging out, and neighbors catching up.
If you live here, try making a simple evening walk part of your routine. It’s an easy way to unwind after work or school and really get a feel for the community.
2. Spend the Day at Saddle River County Park (Multiple Sections Nearby)
Just a short drive from Garfield,
Saddle River County Park is one of Bergen County’s gems. It’s not a single spot, but a long chain of connected park sections stretching through nearby towns like Saddle Brook, Rochelle Park, and Paramus.
What you can do there:
- Walk or bike along miles of paved paths
- Have a picnic by the river
- Let the kids enjoy the playgrounds
- Try some casual fishing in certain areas
If you’re into biking or jogging, this park is perfect. The paths are mostly flat and easy, and you’ll see lots of locals out on nice days. It’s one of the best outdoor things to do near Garfield, NJ.
3. Shop, Dine, and People-Watch at Garden State Plaza
In the mood for shopping or just walking around indoors? Head about 20–25 minutes from Garfield to
Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus.
This huge mall is one of the most popular
shopping destinations in Bergen County and has:
- Dozens of name-brand stores and boutiques
- Plenty of restaurants and fast-casual spots
- A movie theater for date nights or rainy days
You can easily spend a whole afternoon here. Maybe you grab some new sneakers, catch a movie, and finish with a slice of cheesecake or a coffee. It’s also a good “backup plan” when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
4. Explore Nature at Garret Mountain Reservation
Looking for a little escape from city life without driving too far? Check out
Garret Mountain Reservation in nearby Woodland Park, usually about a 20–30 minute drive from Garfield, depending on traffic.
This big county park offers:
- Wooded hiking and walking trails
- Pretty overlooks with views toward New York City
- Picnic areas and open green space
On a clear day, the views from some of the higher spots are impressive. Pack a simple picnic, bring some water, and spend a few hours exploring. It’s a nice break from highways and strip malls.
5. Enjoy a Day with Animals at Bergen County Zoo
Located in
Van Saun County Park in Paramus, the
Bergen County Zoo is a favorite for families and animal lovers. It’s only a short drive from Garfield and makes for an easy half-day trip.
At the zoo and the surrounding park, you’ll find:
- Animals like bison, monkeys, and reptiles
- A little train ride (kids love this)
- Playgrounds and picnic spots
- Walking paths and open fields
If you have younger kids, this is an especially good option. It’s simpler and less overwhelming than a huge city zoo, and parking is usually easier too.
6. Eat Your Way Around Garfield and Nearby Towns
One of the best things to do in Garfield, NJ is honestly just…
eat.
Garfield and the surrounding Bergen County towns have a strong mix of cultures, which means great food. You’ll find:
- Polish and Eastern European bakeries and delis
- Pizzerias and classic New Jersey diners
- Latin American, Italian, Middle Eastern, and more
Spend a Saturday doing your own “food tour”:
- Grab coffee and a pastry in Garfield.
- Head to nearby Clifton or Lodi for lunch.
- Finish with dessert in Elmwood Park or Saddle Brook.
Trying local spots is also a simple way to support small businesses and get a real taste of Bergen County life.
7. Catch a Game or Event at MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)
If you’re willing to drive about 20–30 minutes from Garfield, you can reach
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. This is a big one for sports fans and concert lovers.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Watch an NFL game (New York Giants or New York Jets)
- See major touring concerts
- Attend special events and shows
Even if you’re not a die-hard football fan, the energy of a live game or a huge concert is pretty unforgettable. Just be sure to plan for traffic and parking. Arriving early makes the whole experience much smoother.
8. Have Fun at American Dream Mall
Right next to MetLife Stadium is
American Dream, one of the most talked-about attractions in North Jersey. It’s much more than a mall and is still an easy ride from Garfield.
Inside American Dream, you’ll find:
- Indoor amusement park rides
- An indoor water park
- Indoor skiing and snowboarding
- Mini-golf, shops, and lots of food options
It’s basically a giant indoor playground for all ages. If you’re looking for big, bold, and over-the-top entertainment near Garfield, NJ, this is it.
9. Take a Quick Trip into New York City
One major perk of being in Garfield, Bergen County? You’re not far from
New York City.
You can:
- Drive to nearby park-and-ride lots and take a bus into Manhattan
- Head to local train stations (like in Rutherford or Secaucus) for an easy ride in
Once you’re in NYC, the list of things to do is almost endless:
- Walk through Central Park
- Visit the 9/11 Memorial
- Explore neighborhoods like SoHo, Midtown, or Greenwich Village
It’s totally possible to live in Garfield, enjoy the quieter local life, and still dip into the city whenever you feel like it.
10. Explore More of Bergen County’s Small Towns
One of the underrated things to do near Garfield is simply to wander through other
Bergen County towns. Each one has its own style and charm.
A few worth exploring:
- Ridgewood – A walkable downtown with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
- Hackensack – The county seat, with a growing downtown and the Shops at Riverside.
- Englewood – Known for its artsy feel, restaurants, and small local spots.
Pick a town, park your car, and just walk around. Grab a coffee, browse a bookstore, or sit on a bench and people-watch. It’s a simple way to explore the area beyond Garfield and discover new favorite places.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Life in and Around Garfield, NJ
Garfield, New Jersey might look small on the map, but it sits in the middle of a surprisingly rich area. From parks and rivers to stadiums and mega-malls, you’ve got a lot of options within a short drive.
Whether you want:
- A quiet walk along the Passaic River
- A family day at the zoo
- A big night out at MetLife or American Dream
- Or a quick escape into New York City
…you can do it all while calling Garfield your home base.
Share Your Favorite Things to Do Near Garfield
Have you spent time in
Garfield, NJ or around Bergen County?
- What’s your favorite local restaurant?
- Which park do you go to when you need fresh air?
- Any hidden gems most people don’t know about?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments so other travelers and locals can discover new places.
And if you found this guide helpful,
share it with a friend or on social media—you might just inspire someone’s next day trip near Garfield, New Jersey.
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