Hackensack, New Jersey: 10 Short Road Trips for Easy Getaways

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips Near Hackensack, NJ

If you live in or around Hackensack, New Jersey, you already know you’re in a pretty convenient spot. You’re close to New York City, the Hudson River, and some of the best food in the country. But what if you want to get out of Bergen County for the day without going on a long vacation? That’s where these short road trips near Hackensack come in. All of the ideas below are outside Bergen County, in nearby spots like Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Rockland, Westchester, the Bronx, and New York County (Manhattan). Each one is an easy drive, perfect for a half-day or full-day escape.

1. Explore the Waterfront in Hoboken, NJ (Hudson County)

Hoboken is about a 25–35 minute drive from Hackensack, depending on traffic, and it feels like a mini-vacation without going far. Walk along the Hoboken Waterfront Walkway and you’ll get some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. On a clear day, you can see from downtown all the way up to midtown.
  • Stroll the wide paths right along the Hudson River
  • Let kids run around the playgrounds and small parks
  • Grab pizza, a burger, or a fancy coffee on Washington Street
I once went down on a random Tuesday evening, just to “get some fresh air,” and ended up sitting on a bench for almost an hour just watching the lights turn on across the river. It’s that kind of place—simple, but relaxing. Road trip tip: Try to visit around sunset. Parking can be tight, so look for garages if street spots are full.

2. Dive Into Culture at the Newark Museum of Art (Essex County)

Looking for something indoors, educational, and still fun? Head about 30–40 minutes south to Newark and visit the Newark Museum of Art. Even if you’re not a “museum person,” this one is easy to enjoy:
  • Colorful art exhibits from around the world
  • A small but engaging science section
  • A planetarium with shows that kids (and adults) love
It’s a nice break from the usual mall or movie routine. Plus, Newark has a strong Portuguese and Brazilian food scene in the nearby Ironbound district, so you can make it a full day: museum first, then dinner. Road trip tip: Check the museum’s website for free or discount days before you go.

3. Hike and Picnic at South Mountain Reservation (Essex County)

If you’re craving trees, trails, and fresh air, South Mountain Reservation in the West Orange / Maplewood area is about a 35–45 minute drive from Hackensack. This big nature area gives you a lot of options:
  • Easy walking paths and more rugged hiking trails
  • Hemlock Falls, a small waterfall that’s a nice photo spot
  • Open areas that are perfect for a picnic blanket and a cooler
On one of my trips, I saw everything from serious hikers with trekking poles to families in sneakers just taking a slow walk. You don’t have to be super outdoorsy to enjoy it. Road trip tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water—some sections can be rocky or a little steep.

4. Ride the Ferry and Walk Along the Hudson in Jersey City, NJ (Hudson County)

Jersey City is another great Hudson County option, roughly 30–40 minutes from Hackensack. Head to the Exchange Place or Paulus Hook area for river views. Here’s what you can do:
  • Walk the waterfront with up-close views of lower Manhattan
  • Take a short ferry ride across to downtown NYC
  • Sit at an outdoor café and people-watch
On a calm morning, the reflections of the skyscrapers on the Hudson almost look like a painting. It’s a nice way to feel close to the city without diving straight into Manhattan traffic. Road trip tip: If you go on a weekday, you may hit commuter crowds, so weekends or mid-day visits are usually easier.

5. Discover Street Art and Food in Paterson, NJ (Passaic County)

Paterson is about a 20–30 minute drive from Hackensack and has a very different vibe from the riverfront towns. It’s busy, colorful, and full of history and culture. One fun way to explore is to just walk a few blocks, look at the street art, and sample local food:
  • Middle Eastern bakeries with fresh bread and pastries
  • Latin American spots serving empanadas, arepas, and more
  • Small local shops with unique snacks and sweets
There’s a real energy in the streets—music, conversation, and the smell of food everywhere. It feels like visiting a dozen countries in a small area. Road trip tip: Go with an open mind and a flexible plan. Sometimes the best part is discovering a random bakery or café you’ve never heard of.

6. Day Trip to Manhattan, NYC (New York County)

Of course, one of the best road trips from Hackensack is just crossing into Manhattan. Depending on traffic, you can get there in as little as 25–35 minutes by car. Instead of trying to “see everything,” pick one neighborhood or activity so the day feels relaxed, not rushed. A few ideas:
  • Walk around Central Park and grab a hot dog from a street cart
  • Spend a few hours at a big-name museum like the Met or the American Museum of Natural History
  • Explore a food-focused neighborhood like Chinatown or the Lower East Side
On one visit, I skipped all the big attractions and just walked from midtown down to the Village, stopping for coffee, pizza, and random little bookstores. Sometimes a simple wander is the best way to enjoy New York City. Road trip tip: Driving in Manhattan can be stressful. Consider parking near the river on the New Jersey side and using a bus or ferry to cross.

7. Enjoy Nature and Views in the Bronx, NY

Yes, the Bronx is part of New York City—but it has a lot more green space than many people realize. From Hackensack, you’re looking at roughly a 35–50 minute drive, depending on your route. Two spots to consider:
  • Bronx River Parkway area: Lots of greenery and relaxed drives
  • Shoreline areas along the East River or inlets: Peaceful water views without Manhattan crowds
The Bronx can surprise you. One minute you’re on a busy street, and the next, you’re in a park listening to birds instead of horns. Road trip tip: Plan your route ahead of time—there are many bridges and parkways, and it helps to know where you’re going before you get close.

8. Relax by the Hudson in Nyack, NY (Rockland County)

If you want something a bit slower and artsy, head up to Nyack in Rockland County, New York. It’s usually about a 35–45 minute drive from Hackensack, often along the beautiful stretch near the Hudson River. Nyack has a small-town feel with:
  • Quaint streets lined with shops and cafés
  • Views of the Hudson River from nearby parks
  • Occasional street fairs and outdoor events (especially in warmer months)
It’s a nice place to wander, grab an ice cream or coffee, and just slow down a bit. If you’re used to the busy pace near Hackensack, Nyack can feel like a gentle reset. Road trip tip: Weekends can be lively; weekdays are quieter if you’re looking for a calmer visit.

9. Scenic Drive and River Views in Tarrytown, NY (Westchester County)

Cross the river into Westchester County and you’ll find Tarrytown, about a 45–60 minute drive from Hackensack, depending on traffic and bridge choices. Tarrytown and the nearby Sleepy Hollow area offer:
  • Pretty riverfront parks for strolling and photo ops
  • Historic streets with old buildings and cozy restaurants
  • Seasonal events, especially in the fall around “Sleepy Hollow” time
Even just the drive over the Hudson, with the river stretching out on both sides, can make the trip feel worth it. It’s the kind of place that’s fun for couples, families, or even a solo recharge day. Road trip tip: Fall weekends can be crowded due to Halloween-themed events, so plan ahead if you’re going that time of year.

10. Foodie Adventure in Downtown Newark & the Ironbound (Essex County)

Yes, Newark already appeared on this list for the museum—but it deserves another mention just for the food. The Ironbound district, just a bit east of downtown, is known for:
  • Portuguese and Spanish restaurants with grilled meats and seafood
  • Bakeries serving flan, pastel de nata, and other desserts
  • Cafés where you can linger over strong coffee and pastries
Think of it as a mini food tour less than an hour from Hackensack. Go hungry, walk between spots, and share plates so you can try more things. Road trip tip: Evening parking can be tight—arrive a little early for dinner or consider a late lunch instead.

Making the Most of Your Short Road Trips from Hackensack

Living near Hackensack means you’re surrounded by easy day-trip options in:
  • Essex County
  • Hudson County
  • Passaic County
  • Rockland County
  • Westchester County
  • Bronx, NY
  • New York County (Manhattan)
You don’t need a full week off or a long flight to feel like you’ve gone somewhere. Sometimes a simple 30–45 minute drive, a new view, and a good meal are all you need. Before you go, you might want to:
  • Check traffic and parking options
  • Look up hours for museums, parks, or events
  • Pack water, snacks, and maybe a light jacket (weather can change fast)

What’s Your Favorite Road Trip from Hackensack?

Have you tried any of these out-of-county road trips near Hackensack? Do you have your own secret spot in Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Rockland, Westchester, the Bronx, or Manhattan? Share your experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear where you like to go for a quick escape. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are always asking, “What can we do this weekend that’s not too far from home?”
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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