Things To Do
in River Edge
River Edge is a small suburban borough in Bergen County, New Jersey, just across the Hudson from Manhattan. It is a quiet, family-friendly community known for tree-lined streets, parks, and strong public schools. Residents enjoy easy access to nature along the Hackensack River and nearby trails in the Palisades.
The town combines residential charm with convenient transit links to New York City and the wider tri-state area.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of downtown, admiring the small shops and vibrant murals that add character to the area. Be sure to stop by the local market for some unique artisan goods and souvenirs.
Spend your afternoon at the nearby River Edge Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the scenic views of the river. You might also want to rent a kayak for an exciting paddle on the water, or simply relax on the shore while watching the world go by. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the walking trails that meander through the park.
As the sun begins to set, head back downtown for dinner at one of the local restaurants offering a blend of cuisines. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with live music at a nearby bar or café, where you can sip on a craft cocktail while mingling with locals. Cap off the night with a peaceful walk along the river, taking in the serene atmosphere.
Dive into the local culture with a visit to the River Edge Historical Society, where you can learn about the town's rich history and heritage. Guided tours are available to provide you with in-depth knowledge about significant events and local figures. Spend some time browsing through unique artifacts and memorabilia.
Visit the nearby art gallery, which showcases both local and national artists. You can engage with artist talks or workshops if available, giving you a deeper understanding of the creative process. Make sure to grab lunch at a trendy bistro that serves locally sourced ingredients.
Attend a performance at the local community theater, where talented performers bring stories to life. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you share the experience with fellow visitors and locals. After the show, grab a dessert at a local ice cream shop, cherishing the sweet end to a culturally enriching day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cappuccino in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,800-2,400 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week (one person) | $60-100 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to New York City for day trips
- Family-friendly and safe
- Strong parks and schools
- Good transit connections
- Quiet suburban charm
- Limited in-town nightlife
- Smaller dining scene compared to bigger cities
- Commuting can be time-consuming during peak hours
- Higher cost of living in Bergen County
- Fewer major tourist attractions in town
Places to Visit in River Edge
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside views and sunset reflections along the riverbanks.
Classic New Jersey residential charm with year-round color and character.
A scenic spot for portraits and golden-hour shots amid green lawns.
Food in River Edge
River Edge Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty hero with cured sausage, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and vinaigrette on a crusty roll.
Must-Try!
Thin crust, crisp edges, and a foldable slice loaded with mozzarella and tomato sauce.
Toasted bagel with cream cheese, smoked salmon, onions, and capers—the quintessential deli choice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats on weekends, a short ride from town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect quiet hours and avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Appointments and reservations are commonly observed; plan accordingly.
Ask permission for photos of people or private property when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in River Edge
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15–20% is standard; round up for casual places or for particularly friendly service.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful at small shops; mobile payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with occasional afternoon storms; stay hydrated and seek shade in parks.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage; ideal for outdoor walks and scenic photography.
Cold temperatures with occasional snow; layer up and check for travel conditions.
Milder temperatures and blooming trees; bring a light rain layer for showers.
River Edge at Night
Hiking in River Edge
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with river views and high lookout points.
Wooded trails, streams, and scenic overlooks suitable for day hikes.
Urban nature park with easy trails, wetlands, and bird-friendly habitats.
Airports
How to reach River Edge by plane.
A small, convenient airport for private flights and quick access to the NYC area.
A large international hub with extensive domestic and international connections.
Major NYC-area airport serving domestic flights; generally accessible by road and public transit.
Major international hub with numerous flight options; best accessed by highway or rail with transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households and long-term residents with community programs.
Multicultural residents including Hispanic, Asian, and European-origin families.
Many residents commute to NYC or other parts of New Jersey for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in local parks with community leagues and youth programs.
School gyms and community centers host leagues and pickup games.
Parks host youth and adult leagues across the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting River Edge.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most local eateries offer vegetarian options; look for veggie pizzas, pastas, salads, and sides.