Things To Do
in Paramus

Paramus, New Jersey, is a suburban Bergen County borough known for its extensive shopping and accessibility. It blends quiet residential neighborhoods with bustling retail cores that anchor the region. The area offers easy access to New York City via major highways and transit options, making day trips convenient.

While famous for malls, Paramus also hosts parks, dining options, and family-friendly activities that suit visitors and locals alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Paramus
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Van Saun County Park, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll amidst the greenery. The fresh morning air is invigorating, and the lush landscapes provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk. Consider stopping by the park's small zoo, which features local wildlife, to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

After a re-energizing morning, head over to Westfield Garden State Plaza for a delightful afternoon of shopping and dining. This premier shopping destination boasts a variety of stores, from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. Once you've found some treasures, indulge in a tasty lunch at one of the diverse food options in the mall.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant, such as The Cheesecake Factory, where you can choose from an extensive menu that caters to all tastes. As the sun sets, take a leisurely drive around the area to enjoy the charming suburban atmosphere of Paramus. Perhaps finish off with a dessert at a local ice cream shop to cap off a perfect day.

day 2
Cultural Insights and History
morning
:

Begin your day exploring the Paramus Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area and learn about its cultural significance. Engaging exhibits and local artifacts provide a fascinating insight into the town’s past. Spend some time enjoying the peaceful ambiance as you absorb the historical narratives shared through various displays.

afternoon
:

Next, venture to the Bergen County Historical Society, where you can take part in guided tours of historic homes and learn more about early American life. The society often hosts fascinating events, so check their schedule for any special presentations happening that day. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café and chat with locals about their experiences.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head to the Paramus Public Library, where you might find a book reading or community event in progress. The welcoming atmosphere of the library is a great way to unwind after a busy day of exploration. Consider grabbing dinner at a local diner, where comfort food and friendly service await.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
☕️Coffee and pastry$3-6
🍕Pizza by the slice$2-4
🥗Lunch at casual restaurant$12-20
🛍️Mid-range clothing item$30-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Huge shopping options and dining variety
  • Family-friendly parks and safety
  • Close to NYC with easy transit connections
  • Strong healthcare facilities nearby
  • Limited nightlife within Paramus itself
  • Heavy mall and highway traffic
  • Suburban setting with fewer authentic urban experiences than NYC

Places to Visit in Paramus

Visit one of these nice places.

Van Saun Park - Bergen County Zoo

Pond views, tree-lined walks, and seasonal wildlife make for appealing nature shots.

Saddle River County Park

Open meadows, bridges, and river vistas along the Saddle River, ideal for golden hour photography.

Paramus shopping corridors at dusk

Retail architecture and vibrant storefronts provide urban photography opportunities after sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Paramus

Paramus and the Bergen County area offer classic New Jersey comfort food, with Italian-American staples, diner culture, bagels, pizza, and hearty sandwiches.

Paramus Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Taylor ham, egg and cheese on a bagel

Iconic New Jersey breakfast sandwich commonly found in local diners.

Must-Try!

Italian-American meatball parmigiana

A staple sub in local delis and family-owned eateries.

New Jersey bagels with cream cheese and lox

Fresh bagels often available at bakeries and delis.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bergen County seasonal farmers markets

Seasonal markets with local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods in nearby towns.

Deli counters and casual street eats

Local delis and casual eateries offering sandwiches, pizza slices, and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Paramus has four seasons with warm summers, cold winters with snow, and mild springs and autumns; expect humidity in summer and occasional nor'easters in winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness and personal space

Common courtesy includes polite greetings, brief eye contact, and respecting personal space in lines and stores.

Safety Guide

Safety

Paramus is generally safe; exercise routine safety like staying aware of surroundings in crowded malls, securing belongings, and driving carefully near shopping centers and highways.

Tipping in Paramus

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In U.S. eateries and service industries, a 15-20% tip is customary; tips can be added to the bill or given in cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; pack light layers and an umbrella for showers.

Summer

Hot and humid, lots of sun; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and enjoy mall air conditioning to cool off.

Autumn

Comfortable weather with colorful foliage; perfect for outdoor walks and photography.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; layers and waterproof footwear help during walks and mall trips.

Nightlife Guide

Paramus at Night

Paramus leans toward a family-friendly, shopping-focused vibe with limited nightlife. Expect casual bars, lounges, diners, and cafés, especially around malls and residential areas; nearby towns offer more nightlife options if you’re seeking a livelier scene.

Hiking in Paramus

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Saddle River County Park trails

Scenic, well-marked trails along the river suitable for casual hikes.

Ramapo Valley County Reservation

Varied trails with forested areas and waterfalls a short drive away.

Airports

How to reach Paramus by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Major international airport about 20-30 miles from Paramus; accessible by car and rail connections.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Nearby NYC-area airport with domestic and some international flights; accessible by car or transit.

Teterboro Airport

Private and general aviation airport in nearby Teterboro; convenient for private flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Paramus is walkable in mall and park districts, but overall very car-oriented; expect long blocks and large parking lots outside major centers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong school systems and family-friendly amenities.

Seniors

Access to healthcare and community programs in the region.

Young professionals

Residents commuting to NYC-area employment centers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Popular at high school and youth levels in the region.

Soccer

Active amateur and club leagues for all ages.

Basketball

Widely played in schools and local gyms.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavy around malls and major arteries; limited rail options in Paramus mean most trips rely on cars; plan extra time during peak shopping hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Paramus.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many diners and Italian eateries offer vegetarian pasta, salads, veggie burgers, and sides; ask for customization.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Nearby Bergen County healthcare facilities include Hackensack University Medical Center, Valley Hospital, and region clinics providing urgent and routine care.

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