10 minute read
Picturesque Passaic County
BY ERIN McFEETERS
Bordering New York in North Jersey, Passaic County is instantly recognizable by its hourglass shape—and even more so by its rich legacy of innovation, deep-rooted heritage, and stunning natural landscapes.
Vibrant downtown communities like Little Falls and West Milford characterize Passaic County, while state and national parks provide exploration opportunities for residents and visitors. Historical sites like Dey Mansion, where our founding fathers started it all, and the Paterson Great Falls embody the seeds that helped grow the Garden State we all know and love.
“Passaic County is a place where history, natural beauty, and vibrant communities come together,” said Passaic County Commissioner Orlando Cruz. “You’ll find everything from the awe-inspiring Great Falls National Park in Paterson to quiet wooded trails in the Highlands Preserve in West Milford. It’s a county that balances centuries of legacy with modern-day energy, where George Washington once stayed at the Dey Mansion in Wayne, and where you can now catch a game or concert at the newly restored Hinchliffe Stadium.”
The City of Paterson, a prominent location within the county, was built as a manufacturing hub in the 1790s to utilize the power of the Great Falls, according to the National Park Service. Manufacturing companies built brick mills along the canals and utilized the Great Falls to generate energy for the production of cotton textiles, steam locomotives, aircraft engines, and more. Today, the Paterson Great Falls is one of the only National Parks in the Garden State.
“Passaic County is home to the Great Falls in Paterson, one of the largest waterfalls in the U.S. by volume and a cornerstone of America’s early industrial development,” said Cruz. “The falls and surrounding area are now protected as a National Historical Park, celebrating the county’s role in powering the nation’s growth.”
Passaic County is named after the 80-mile Passaic River, which runs through northeast New Jersey and covers 935 square miles, according to Montclair State University’s New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology. The Industrial Revolution gave Passaic County the nickname Silk City due to its prominent role in the textile industry, but beyond textiles, Passaic County also played a role in the
locomotive, paper, and firearm industries. It was even in the Passaic River that the first modern submarine, invented by John Philip Holland, was launched in the late 1800s, according to nj.gov.
Other historic attractions are also in the Silk City, such as Dey Mansion, George Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War; Lambert Castle, a 19th century mansion on Garret Mountain; and Long Pond Ironworks, which supplied goods to the Continental Army.
If your clients are architecture buffs, they’ll enjoy visiting the many Dutch-style buildings, such as the Vanderhoef-Westervelt House, one of the oldest buildings in Passaic County and the original home of Gilbert Vanderhoef, the owner and operator of a flour and gristmill. The Van Riper-Hopper House, a traditional Dutch Colonial home built using native fieldstone, now the Wayne Museum—open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday.
For those looking for something to do with the whole family during the summer season, join Passaic County at their annual Passaic County Fair on Aug. 14-17 at the Garret Mountain Reservation. Attendees will enjoy the crazy days of summer with rides, fireworks, games, a beer garden, and more.
According to the U.S. Census, 524,118 residents call this county home, with 185,367 total housing units. While the overall New Jersey median household income is $99,781, the median household income in Passaic County is over $10,000 less at $82,825.
According to the latest housing market data reports from New Jersey Realtors®, the Passaic County single family median sales price surpasses the overall state median at $580,000, a 9.4% increase year-to-date. Homes also continue to receive over asking at 104.7%, almost the same as this time last year, but are selling three days faster. Demand for townhousecondos and adult community homes has decreased significantly, with units in both segments staying on the market for more than 91% more days year-to-date.
Looking ahead, Passaic County has redevelopment plans to attract more residents and small businesses. “Several projects are underway to enhance our communities. Paterson continues to see investment around the Great Falls and Hinchliffe Stadium area, including new housing and commercial spaces designed to bring even more foot traffic to local businesses,” said Cruz.
“In Clifton and Passaic, transitoriented development is underway to better connect neighborhoods to job centers, with Passaic County MOVE. And across the county, parks and recreational facilities are being improved to serve residents of all ages, from enhanced trail systems to new playgrounds and athletic fields.”
Downtowns to Explore
Passaic County’s downtowns are full of unique businesses and attractions, diverse restaurants, historical sites and so much more. Beat the heat with Clifton’s splash pads at Weasel Brook Park, see the latest film at Hawthorne Theatre, visit the iconic Great Falls in Paterson, and attend festivals this fall in West Milford.
“What makes Passaic County truly special is the diversity of our downtowns. From bustling city centers with global cuisines and vibrant street life to small-town main streets with boutique shops and cozy cafés, there’s something for everyone,” said Cruz. “You can explore the historic charm of one downtown in the morning and enjoy an entirely different cultural experience just a few miles away in the afternoon. It’s that rich mix of neighborhoods, cultures, and experiences that gives Passaic County its heart.”
Clifton
There are almost 250 businesses to explore in Downtown Clifton. Visit the Clifton Arts & Sculpture Park, bring your children to the splash pad at Weasel Brook Park, and have a delicious meal at The Barrow House.
Hawthorne
Plentiful businesses line the streets in the Borough of Hawthorne. Catch a movie at Hawthorne Theatre, grab a bite to eat at Tim’s Po-Boys and Wings, or take the family out for pizza at Villa Rosa.
Paterson
For a window into Passaic County’s past, explore downtown Paterson’s historic sites. Great Falls Hydroelectric Station, built into a cliffside next to the falls; Hinchliffe Stadium, first constructed in 1931, the stadium is one of the few remaining Negro League stadiums in the world, and today it hosts regional sports teams, school activities, and performances; and Little Dublin, the neighborhood around the Great Falls where many Irish workers planted roots after immigrating in 1820.
West Milford
This semi-rural community with mountainous terrain and more than 40 lakes, according to the West Milford Chamber of Commerce, is full of natural beauty. Attend their annual Autumn Lights Festival, swim in the Bubbling Springs, or enjoy the many trails in its numerous parks.
National & State Parks
Passaic County can help you check some of New Jersey’s top state parks off your list. From jaw-dropping views of the mountainside to casual strolls through botanical gardens, take advantage of all the Garden State has to offer.
“Passaic County offers an incredible variety of outdoor experiences, from scenic hiking trails to waterfront parks,” said Cruz. “These parks aren’t just beautiful, they’re active hubs for year-round events hosted by the County, including Art in the Park, the Passaic County Book Festival, historical reenactments like Washington’s Encampment at the Dey Mansion, the County Fair, and a full calendar of community wellness, cultural, and recreational programming, all open to residents and visitors alike.”
Long Pond Ironworks State Park
What was once an ironworks plantation supplying armaments and goods for the Continental Army is now a museum with walking paths and hiking trails in the area surrounding the remaining historic structures.
New Jersey Botanical Garden
Located in Ringwood and part of the Ringwood State Park, the New Jersey Botanical Garden is on both the state and National Register of Historic Places. Francis Lynde Stetson originally owned the property and entertained his friends Grover Cleveland, Andrew Carnegie, and more. The property changed hands several times and was once the campus of Shelton College until New Jersey purchased the land. Former Gov. Thomas Kean then designated the 96 acres as the official botanical garden of New Jersey.
Norvin Green State Forest
A sanctuary for birds and other wildlife, Norvin Green State Forest is an undisturbed forest with hills ranging in elevation from 400 to 1,300 feet. The property is only accessible by foot and boasts scenic views of the New York Skyline, Burnt Meadow Brook, and Lake Sonoma.
Ringwood State Park
There’s so much to enjoy at the Ringwood State Park. Beyond the New Jersey Botanical Garden, visitors can hike its trails, tour historic buildings such as Ringwood Manor and Skylands Manor, fish along Ringwood Brook, kayak Shepard Lake, and more.
Wawayanda State Park
Made up of more than 60 miles of trails, along with a 19-mile portion of the Appalachian Trail, Wawayanda State Park has something for everyone. Avid hikers will love the steep mountains with top-notch views of Lake Wawayanda, while families will enjoy the playground and campsites.
Frozen Delights
There’s something to be said about an ice cream cone on a hot day. Try these places for treats like ice cream sandwiches, waffle cones, and more.
Cups Frozen Yogurt
Clifton
Cups isn’t your typical frozen yogurt spot from the early 2010s. In addition to its self-service frozen yogurt machine with a DIY topping bar, Cups also serves homemade ice cream and build-your-own ice cream sandwiches, with freshly baked cookies to pair with one of their 18 rotating flavors.
Falls Creamery
Little Falls
Located in the center of historic Little Falls, pop in for a cone with one of their one-of-a-kind flavors to celebrate the summer season. Try Flying Fishing Fudge, M&M’s, cookie dough, and chocolate chunks in vanilla ice cream; Southern Peach, diced peaches in peach ice cream; or Peanut Butter Pie, peanut butter ice cream with graham cracker and chopped peanut butter cups.
Gelotti Ice Cream
Paterson
Since 1984, Gelotti Ice Cream has been serving up ice cream, gelato, Italian ice, and yogurt with a large selection of flavors such as Banana Cookies & Cream, Apple Pie, Maple Walnut, Cannoli, Amaretto, Pistacchio, and more.
“It’s more than just an ice cream shop, it’s a tradition,” said Cruz. “My favorite ice cream is a banana split! Whether it’s after a community event or just a summer evening, Gelotti is a part of the rhythm of life in Paterson.”
Goffle Creamery
Hawthorne
From ice cream nachos to ice cream sandwiches to the viral Dubai chocolate bars, everyone in your family will find a new favorite at Goffle’s.
Guernsey Crest
Paterson
Scooping up cones since 1927, Guernsey Crest visitors will have a taste of nostalgia in this momand-pop business. They serve classic flavors like butter pecan and rainbow sherbert, and more unique concoctions like pistachiocashew and banana pudding.
Luv Yogurt
Haledon
A family-owned frozen yogurt shop serving up more than just froyo. Try their crepes, coffee froyo shakes, and more.
Randy’s
Pompton Lakes
Made one small batch at a time, Randy’s handcrafted flavors are made fresh from cows in the U.S., and they ensure each flavor profile is unmatched. Try their Cookie Monster, Raspberry Dark Truffle, or Chocolate Craving and walk around downtown Pompton Lakes.
