Things To Do
in Preakness
Preakness is a neighborhood located in Wayne, New Jersey, United States. It is known for its picturesque tree-lined streets and suburban feel. The area boasts a mix of residential homes, local businesses, and recreational parks.
Preakness is a family-friendly community with highly rated schools and easy access to shopping and dining options.
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 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Preakness racetrack and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk around the grounds before the crowds arrive.
Have lunch at a local diner and taste some classic American cuisine. Afterward, explore nearby parks for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring live music. End your day with a nightcap at a local pub.
Begin with a hike at a nearby nature trail that showcases the beautiful landscapes of Preakness. Grab a quick breakfast from a local café to fuel your adventure.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply relaxing in the fresh air.
Return to your accommodations to freshen up and dine at a farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy a quiet evening under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic horse racing event that attracts large crowds and attention.
- Offers significant economic benefits to the local community through tourism.
- Provides an opportunity for socializing and community engagement.
- Features a festive atmosphere with entertainment and activities beyond horse racing.
- Promotes the sport of horse racing and increases awareness of equestrian culture.
- Can lead to traffic congestion and logistical challenges for local residents.
- Potential for alcohol-related incidents and unruly behavior among attendees.
- Environmental concerns related to increased waste and potential harm to local wildlife during large events.
- High costs associated with organizing and hosting the event, which may not always be recouped.
- Risk of promoting gambling behavior, which can have negative social implications.
Best Activities in Preakness
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of High Mountain Park Preserve, featuring diverse wildlife and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing at local spots like the Passaic River while surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Rent a kayak and paddle along the Passaic River, experiencing the tranquility of the water and the beauty of the surrounding parks.
Ride through the trails at Paterson Great Falls, enjoying breathtaking views of the waterfalls and the historic canal.
Spend a relaxing day with family or friends at Goffle Brook Park, complete with picnic areas and walking paths.
Visit the refuge for a chance to see a variety of bird species in their natural habitats, ideal for birdwatchers of all skill levels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Preakness with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Preakness
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the beauty of Preakness in photos.
Provides scenic overlooks and great vantage points for capturing the natural beauty of Preakness.
Offers picturesque views of the Wagaraw Reservoir, providing a serene setting for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Preakness
Preakness Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Philadelphia-style sandwich featuring thinly sliced steak and melted cheese, typically served in hoagie rolls. Must-try at Pat's King of Steaks or Geno's Steaks.
Must-Try!
A local delicacy made with Maryland blue crab meat, seasoned with Old Bay seasoning and bread crumbs, often served with remoulade sauce. Visit G&M Restaurant for an exceptional crab cake experience.
Slow-cooked, tender pulled pork piled high on a soft bun, often accompanied by coleslaw or pickles. Head to Woodrow's Bar-B-Q for a delicious pulled pork sandwich.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Preakness better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of locally sourced produce, baked goods, and artisanal products, offering a true taste of Preakness's agricultural heritage.
Experience a vibrant food truck scene offering diverse cuisines from around the world, perfect for sampling an array of street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Preakness, especially during the horse racing event, appropriate attire is important. Many attendees wear stylish outfits, often including hats and dresses for women and tailored suits for men. Dressing well is a sign of respect for the event and its traditions.
As in many places in the United States, politeness goes a long way in Preakness. Use 'please' and 'thank you,' greet others with a smile, and engage in friendly conversation. This reflects a respectful attitude towards others.
At horse racing events in Preakness, it's important to be mindful of etiquette, such as not obstructing views of the track, being quiet while races are in progress, and following any specific guidelines set by the venue. This shows respect for both the sport and fellow spectators.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Preakness with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Preakness
Ensure a smooth experience
In Preakness, as well as in the broader United States, tipping is customary in many service industries. It is common to tip waitstaff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, with gratuities typically ranging from 15% to 20% of the total bill. Tipping is seen as an acknowledgment of good service, and in some cases, service workers rely on tips as a significant portion of their income.
Payment methods in Preakness include cash, credit cards, and increasingly, mobile payment applications. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, while some smaller businesses may prefer cash. The use of contactless payments and digital wallets has been on the rise, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, as customers seek convenience and safety in transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Preakness.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Preakness in the spring season is during the month of May when the Preakness Stakes horse race takes place. Visitors can expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and the excitement of one of the most famous horse races in the United States.
During the summer, visitors to Preakness can expect warm temperatures, outdoor activities, and events such as music festivals and county fairs. It's a great time to explore the nearby countryside and enjoy outdoor recreation.
In the fall, Preakness is known for its beautiful foliage, crisp temperatures, and fall festivals. Visitors can enjoy the changing colors of the trees and participate in pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and other seasonal activities.
During the winter, Preakness experiences cold temperatures and occasional snowfall. While outdoor activities may be limited, visitors can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of local pubs, holiday events, and the festive decorations in the area.
Preakness at Night
Hiking in Preakness
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning viewpoint offering trails with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
A scenic hiking trail that offers beautiful vistas and access to the picturesque Wanaque Reservoir.
A large forested area with numerous trails suitable for hiking, as well as lakes, streams, and wildlife observation.
Features trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and diverse ecosystems, ideal for both hiking and nature walks.
A unique park featuring waterfalls and hiking trails with historical significance and beautiful urban nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Preakness through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Preakness by plane.
Located approximately 20 miles from Preakness, Newark Liberty International Airport is one of the major airports serving the New York City metropolitan area.
Situated around 30 miles from Preakness, JFK is a major international airport in New York City, known for its extensive international flight connections.
Approximately 27 miles from Preakness, LaGuardia primarily operates domestic flights but also offers some international services.
About 80 miles southwest of Preakness, PHL serves as a major international gateway for the Philadelphia area with numerous international destinations.
Located around 40 miles north of Preakness, HPN offers a mix of domestic and limited international flights and is a convenient alternative to the larger airports.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Caucasian demographic, often making up the largest percentage of the population.
A significant demographic group contributing to the cultural diversity of Preakness.
This group includes individuals of various backgrounds with ties to Spanish-speaking countries.
Includes individuals with ancestry from various Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural environment.
This encompasses individuals identifying with multiple races or ethnic backgrounds, and includes smaller populations.
The Soul of Preakness
Discover the essence of Preakness through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
American football is a popular sport in Preakness, with local high school teams competing in various leagues and attracting a dedicated fanbase.
Basketball is widely played in Preakness, both in schools and community leagues, with many youth programs promoting the sport.
Soccer has been growing in popularity, with youth leagues and clubs providing opportunities for children to play and develop their skills.
Baseball has a strong following, with local teams and recreational leagues for both youth and adults participating in the sport.
Tennis is a favored recreational activity in Preakness, with public courts available and community programs encouraging participation.
Swimming is a popular sport during the warmer months, with local pools and swim teams providing competitive and recreational opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Preakness.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Preakness offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as veggie burgers, plant-based bowls, and tofu-based stir-fries.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can delight in gluten-free options available at several eateries, including salads, grilled meats, and gluten-free pasta.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Preakness with these cultural adventures.
