Paterson,
Paterson is a city located in northern New Jersey, United States. It is known for its rich history in industry, particularly in silk production. The city is home to the Great Falls, a stunning natural landmark and a National Historical Park.
Paterson is a diverse and vibrant community with a mix of cultures and ethnicities.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Historic Downtown Exploration
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Paterson Museum to explore the history of the city. Then, head to the Great Falls for a refreshing morning walk by the stunning waterfalls, followed by a delicious breakfast at the Sunrise Luncheonette.
afternoon:After breakfast, visit the Lambert Castle Museum to discover the local art and history. Continue your afternoon by strolling through the Historic District and exploring the unique architecture of the area.
evening:In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at Hamilton & Ward Steakhouse, followed by live jazz music at the HCCC Jazz Series for a perfect night-out experience.
Outdoors and Cultural Immersion
morning:Spend your morning exploring the Paterson Bird Sanctuary, immerse yourself in nature and enjoy birdwatching. Then, grab a satisfying brunch at The Brownstone Restaurant.
afternoon:Visit the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park for a guided tour and learn about the industrial history of the area. Explore the Silk City Arts & Music Festival for a vibrant cultural experience in the afternoon.
evening:For dinner, indulge in Italian cuisine at La Foca Restaurant and end the day with a night walk at Garret Mountain Reservation for breathtaking city views.
Family Fun and Local Delights
morning:Start your day with a visit to the Dey Mansion for a family-friendly tour and history lesson. Treat yourself to classic American pancakes at Tick Tock Diner for a delightful morning meal.
afternoon:Head to the Willowbrook Mall for some family shopping and entertainment. Then, enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at the FunTime Junction for exciting indoor activities and games.
evening:Indulge in hearty family dinner at The River Grill and end the day with a movie night at the Riverside Vets Memorial Building for a cozy family bonding time.
Culinary and Artistic Exploration
morning:Embark on a culinary adventure with a food tour of downtown Paterson, sampling diverse cuisines and local treats. Don't miss tasting the famous Paterson hot dog for a local specialty.
afternoon:Explore the Paterson Art Walk and discover the vibrant street art and murals showcasing the city's artistic spirit. Continue with a visit to the Lambert Castle Museum for an artistic insight into the area's history.
evening:Indulge in a dinner at El Mexicano and end the day exploring the creative cocktail scene at The Brass Rail for a unique and artistic night-out.
Paterson Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Paterson Hot Dog
A beef or pork hot dog served in a steamed bun and topped with brown mustard, onions, and a savory meat sauce. A must-try at local hot dog stands like Libby's Lunch.
Must-Try!
Bistec Encebollado
A traditional Dominican dish featuring thin slices of steak smothered in sautéed onions. Best enjoyed at Dominican eateries like El Gordo Restaurant.
Lamb Shawarma
Tender slices of lamb wrapped in pita bread with tahini, hummus, and fresh vegetables. Often found at Middle Eastern restaurants such as Al Raouche Restaurant.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Paterson Farmers' Market
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and authentic street food from different cultures. Visitors can savor dishes like empanadas, pupusas, and jerk chicken.
Silk City Food Truck Park
A vibrant gathering of food trucks serving up a diverse array of street food delights, including tacos, gourmet burgers, and Thai noodles.
Things to do in Paterson
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Paterson
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!