Things To Do
in Bergenfield

Bergenfield is a quiet suburban town in Bergen County, New Jersey, anchored by a close-knit community and tree-lined streets. It sits in the NYC metro area, offering easy access to Manhattan while preserving a small-town feel. The town is diverse, with a range of eateries, shops, and cultural influences reflected in everyday life.

Outdoor spaces and nearby nature make it a convenient base for exploring Northern New Jersey and the Hudson River towns.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bergenfield Public Library, where you can enjoy a quiet morning reading or participating in a community event. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of the historic district, appreciating the charming architecture and local shops. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a nearby café to energize you for the adventures ahead.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head over to the Bergenfield Historical Society to learn about the rich history of the area through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Next, enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local diners, where you can savor classic American comfort food. After your meal, take a stroll at the nearby Overpeck County Park, where you can relax by the water or take a short hike on the scenic trails.

evening
:

As the sun sets, visit a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying a meal that features fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms. After dinner, head to a local music venue to catch a live performance by talented local artists, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Bergenfield. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's experiences.

day 2
Nature Walks and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Begin your day early with a visit to the nearby Tenafly Nature Center, where you can explore the serene walking trails surrounded by lush greenery. Take your time to observe the local wildlife, including birds and small mammals, as the sun rises over the forest. Bring a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the tranquil setting, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After your nature exploration, head back to Bergenfield for lunch at a local eatery known for its fresh salads and sandwiches. With your energy replenished, spend your afternoon at the nearby Van Saun County Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or visit the zoo to see a variety of animals. The park is perfect for family activities, so feel free to partake in some fun games or a friendly round of mini-golf.

evening
:

In the evening, unwind at a local pizzeria that is famous for its delicious pies and warm atmosphere. Share a pizza with friends or family while reminiscing about your day's adventures in nature. If you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by an ice cream shop afterwards for a treat to round off your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center)$1,800-2,400
🚗Gasoline per gallon$3.50-4.50
Coffee at a cafe$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Manhattan for day trips and cultural attractions
  • Diverse dining options reflecting multiple communities
  • Access to parks, riverside views, and outdoor activities
  • Can be car-dependent; limited direct rail service in Bergenfield itself
  • Crowded during NYC events or holiday weekends in nearby towns
  • Rising housing costs in Bergen County options

Places to Visit in Bergenfield

Visit one of these nice places.

Fort Lee Historic Park

Terraced hillsides with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River.

Palisades Interstate Park lookout points

Cliffside vistas and forest trails along the Hudson River for dramatic sunset shots.

Ramapo Valley County Reservation

Wooded trails, streams, and rocky overlooks ideal for nature photography.

Teaneck Creek Park

Wetlands, boardwalks, and colorful seasonal foliage in a tranquil setting.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bergenfield

Bergenfield sits in the NYC metro area, where diverse cuisines converge. Expect Italian-American staples, Jewish deli influences, and Asian, Latin, and Middle Eastern flavors in many nearby options.

Bergenfield Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bagel and lox

A classic New York–style bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, onions, and capers.

Must-Try!

Eggplant Parmigiana hero

Breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and melted cheese on a crusty roll.

Pizza by the slice

Thin-crust or square-cut pizza with fresh toppings from a neighborhood pizzeria.

Pastrami on rye

Deli-style sandwich with pastrami, rye bread, and mustard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local farmers market

Seasonal produce, baked goods, and regional specialties open on weekends.

Street food and markets

Occasional food carts and pop-up vendors in the town center or nearby towns offering global bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bergenfield experiences four distinct seasons: hot, humid summers with heat waves possible and cold winters with snow; spring and fall bring mild days and colorful foliage. Precipitation is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with more rain in spring and summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple hello or good morning is appreciated; punctuality is valued in appointments and dining.

Tipping and dining

Tipping is customary in service settings; waitstaff relies on tips as part of income.

Public behavior

Respect personal space and maintain quiet conversations in residential areas and small shops.

Safety Guide

Safety

Common-sense safety applies: keep valuables secure, stay aware of surroundings during night travels, and use well-lit, populated routes. Emergency services are available in Bergen County; dial 911 for urgent situations.

Tipping in Bergenfield

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In the United States, tips typically range from 15-20% at restaurants and bars; round up for casual service and consider larger tips for exceptional service.

Payment methods

Cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for small, local shops; contactless payments are common in most places.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, humid days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; bring sun protection and stay hydrated; evenings stay pleasant for strolls.

Fall

Crisp air and brilliant foliage; ideal for scenic drives and hiking; layers needed for variable temps.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snow possible; urban areas feel festive, but plan for shorter daylight hours and slick sidewalks.

Spring

Mild temperatures and budding greenery; early spring showers are common; great for parks and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Bergenfield at Night

The nightlife in Bergenfield is low-key and neighborhood-focused, with casual bars, family-friendly lounges, and nearby towns offering craft breweries and live music venues. Expect relaxed atmospheres, comfortable prices, and easy access to dining before or after drinks.

Hiking in Bergenfield

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ramapo Valley County Reservation Trails

Network of trails through forests with viewpoints and streams in Mahwah.

Palisades Interstate Park trails

Rugged trails along the Hudson with dramatic river views.

Alpine Lookout or Bear Mountain area paths

Short drives away for extended hikes and scenic overlooks.

Airports

How to reach Bergenfield by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Major international hub about 25-40 minutes away by car, with rail connections via NJ Transit and AirTrain connections from nearby towns.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

New York City airport approximately 30-50 minutes away by car, with public transit options to connections into Queens and Manhattan.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

Large international airport about 40-60 minutes away by car, with regional transit links to NYC.

Teterboro Airport (TEB)

Relatively small general aviation airport in nearby Teaneck, handy for private flights and corporate travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bergenfield is a neighborhood-centric, walkable town center in places, but overall it remains relatively suburban and car-dependent. You can comfortably walk between shops, parks, and dining in the core areas, while longer trips will likely require a car or public transit.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Jewish/Israeli American

A significant and active community with synagogues, schools, and cultural events.

Hispanic/Latino

A growing presence contributing to the local culture, cuisine and businesses.

Asian American

A diverse community represented in restaurants, shops, and community groups.

White non-Hispanic / Multiracial

A broad mix across neighborhoods with varying backgrounds.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A staple at schools and recreation centers across Bergen County.

Soccer

Popular youth and adult leagues with local clubs.

Baseball/Softball

Common in parks and community programs during spring and summer.

Transportation

Traffic

Rush-hour traffic can be heavy on major arteries like I-95/NJ Turnpike corridors; expect slower commutes into NYC during peak times. Public transit options include buses to the city and adjacent counties; driving times can vary with weather and events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bergenfield.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for veggie-friendly dishes, dairy or egg-based options, and ask for customization in menus to ensure no meat or fish ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Quality healthcare is accessible in nearby Bergen County with hospitals such as Hackensack University Medical Center and Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, plus numerous clinics and primary care practices in surrounding towns.

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