East Rutherford
,East Rutherford is a borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, located only a few miles outside of New York City. It is most famous for being the home of MetLife Stadium, where the NFL's New York Giants and New York Jets play their home games. The borough also features the Meadowlands Sports Complex, which includes the Meadowlands Racetrack and the American Dream shopping and entertainment complex.
East Rutherford offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
East Rutherford Exploration
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the Meadowlands Sports Complex for some fresh air. You can take a walk around the area and appreciate the view of MetLife Stadium.
afternoon
:Head over to the American Dream Mall for lunch and some shopping. Explore the various entertainment options available, including an indoor amusement park.
evening
:Wrap up your day with a dining experience at one of the local restaurants. Enjoy some delicious American cuisine while reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Sports Fanatic's Day
morning
:Begin your day with a tour of MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and Jets. Learn about the history of the teams and explore the stadium's facilities.
afternoon
:Catch a game if the schedule permits or visit the nearby IZOD Center for any events. Enjoy some refreshments from the vendors in and around the venue.
evening
:After the excitement of the day, relax at a local sports bar. Cheers with fellow fans and discuss the day’s favorite moments.
Highlights
Good
- Proximity to New York City, offering easy access to urban amenities and entertainment.
- Home to MetLife Stadium, hosting major sports events and concerts.
- A variety of shopping and dining options in and around the area.
- Access to public transportation options, including buses and trains.
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with parks and recreational facilities.
Bad
- Higher cost of living compared to other suburban areas.
- Traffic congestion, especially during events at MetLife Stadium.
- Limited nightlife options compared to nearby cities.
- Vulnerability to weather-related issues, such as flooding in some areas.
- Dependence on nearby urban centers for career opportunities and services.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Meadowlands Sports Complex
A large sports complex that hosts various events and outdoor activities, including tailgating, concerts, and other community events.
Riverside County Park
A scenic park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields, ideal for a day out with family and friends.
Exploring the Hackensack Riverwalk
A beautiful waterfront promenade perfect for walking, jogging, and biking, with picturesque views of the river and city.
Lyndhurst Park
A nearby park featuring playgrounds, sports facilities, and open green spaces for recreational activities.
Paddleboarding or Kayaking on the Hackensack River
Enjoy a day on the water with paddleboarding or kayaking, taking in the natural beauty and wildlife along the river.
Adventures
Uncover the best of East Rutherford with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
MetLife Stadium
Home to the New York Giants and Jets, MetLife Stadium offers impressive views of the stadium architecture and the surrounding area, particularly during events.
Vanderbilt Park
This park provides unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a picturesque spot for photos, especially at sunset.
Rutherford High School Football Field
The high school football field has a nice vantage point of the stadium lights and nearby urban ambiance, perfect for capturing local sports events.
East Rutherford Town Hall
The Town Hall features classic architecture, and the surrounding area has quaint streets that are ideal for capturing charming neighborhood photos.
Meadowlands Sports Complex
The complex offers various viewing spots where visitors can capture the essence of sports facilities and the nearby natural landscapes.
Burlington Coat Factory Parking Lot
This surprisingly elevated area provides a clear sightline to the New York City skyline, especially when the city lights up at night.
The New Jersey Turnpike Overlook
A vantage point along the Turnpike allows for striking photographs of busy urban life contrasted with the serene landscapes of the Meadowlands.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taylor Ham, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich
A New Jersey classic, this breakfast sandwich features Taylor ham, a pork roll, with egg and cheese on a roll. It's a staple dish in diners and breakfast joints across East Rutherford. A popular spot to try this iconic sandwich is the State Line Diner.
Must-Try!
Disco Fries
These indulgent fries are served with melted mozzarella and brown gravy, creating a deliciously messy and satisfying dish. Casa Vasca is known for serving excellent disco fries in the area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know East Rutherford better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Meadowlands Flea Market
For a diverse array of street food options, head to the Meadowlands Flea Market. Here, you can find everything from empanadas and tacos to gyros and funnel cakes, reflecting the area's cultural mix.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Courtesy
In East Rutherford, as in much of the United States, it is important to use polite language and express courtesy. Simple gestures like saying 'please' and 'thank you' go a long way in showcasing respect towards others.
Personal Space
Americans typically value personal space, so it's advisable to maintain an appropriate distance during conversations. Standing too close may be considered intrusive.
Diversity and Inclusivity
East Rutherford has a diverse population, so it’s crucial to be respectful and open-minded towards different cultures, backgrounds, and traditions. Be mindful of cultural sensitivities and refrain from making assumptions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of East Rutherford with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In East Rutherford, New Jersey, tipping practices generally align with the broader customs found throughout the United States. It is customary to tip service workers, such as waitstaff, bartenders, and taxi drivers, typically ranging from 15% to 20% of the total bill. In the hospitality industry, tipping is often expected to show appreciation for good service. Additionally, for services such as hairdressers and other personal care providers, a tip of 15% to 20% is common as well.
Payment
Payment methods in East Rutherford include cash, credit and debit cards, and increasingly, mobile payment apps. Many businesses, including restaurants, shops, and services, accept major credit cards. Contactless payments and digital wallets have also gained popularity, especially post-pandemic, providing convenience for consumers. However, some smaller vendors or cash-only establishments may still operate, and it is advisable for locals and visitors alike to have a mix of payment options available.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into East Rutherford.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) is a pleasant time to visit East Rutherford. Temperatures range from mild to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities. You can expect blossoming flowers, especially in parks, and various local events as the weather gets nicer.
Summer
Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 85°F (29°C). It's a lively season with numerous festivals and outdoor concerts. Expect frequent thunderstorms, especially in July, but plenty of sunshine.
Fall
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. It’s a great time for hiking and outdoor exploration. Events like local harvest festivals can be enjoyed during this season, making it a popular time to visit.
Winter
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snow is possible, and while it's less crowded, the holiday season can bring festive events and opportunities for winter sports nearby. Indoor attractions are a good option during this season.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ramapo Valley County Reservation
A large nature reserve featuring scenic trails, lakes, and a variety of wildlife, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Palisades Interstate Park
Offering stunning views of the Hudson River and hiking trails along the cliffs, this park provides a unique hiking experience close to East Rutherford.
Saddle River County Park
A beautiful park with multi-use trails alongside the Saddle River, ideal for both hiking and biking.
Harriman State Park
This expansive park boasts numerous hiking trails, lakes, and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Van Cortlandt Park
Located in the Bronx, this park offers hiking trails, a lake, and a natural woodlands area, providing a convenient escape from the city.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into East Rutherford through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach East Rutherford by plane.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
Located approximately 10 miles southwest of East Rutherford, this is the primary airport serving the New Jersey area and is a major hub for international flights.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
Located about 19 miles southeast of East Rutherford, JFK is one of the busiest international airports in the United States and serves numerous international destinations.
LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
Situated approximately 16 miles east of East Rutherford, LaGuardia primarily serves domestic flights but has some international flights as well.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
Predominantly Caucasian population.
Hispanic or Latino
Includes individuals with origins from Spanish-speaking countries.
Black or African American
Comprises individuals with African ancestry.
Asian
Includes individuals with origins from Asia.
Two or more races
Individuals identifying with two or more racial categories.
Other races
Includes individuals who identify with races not specifically listed.
The Soul of East Rutherford
Discover the essence of East Rutherford through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American Football
American football is a popular sport in East Rutherford, especially given the presence of MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and New York Jets.
Soccer
Soccer has been gaining popularity in East Rutherford, with events and youth leagues contributing to its growth.
Basketball
Basketball is widely played at both recreational and competitive levels, with local leagues and school teams actively participating.
Baseball
Baseball remains a favorite pastime, with numerous youth leagues and local teams engaging the community.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey has a loyal following in East Rutherford, with opportunities for both youth and adult leagues to participate.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants in East Rutherford offer vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring that those with plant-based diets can enjoy a variety of options. Rutherford Pancake House, for instance, provides a range of vegetarian breakfast items, while Segovia Steakhouse & Seafood offers creative vegan dishes.
Gluten-Free Dining
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs can find accommodating options at various eateries in East Rutherford. From gluten-free pancakes at Rutherford Pancake House to gluten-free seafood choices at Segovia Steakhouse & Seafood, the local food scene caters to diverse requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of East Rutherford with these cultural adventures.