Englewood, New Jersey: 10 Best Short Day Trips Nearby
10 Easy Road Trips from Englewood, New Jersey for Fun Day Trips Nearby
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| From skyline strolls and riverfront lighthouses to roaring falls and peaceful park paths, these easy day trips from Englewood, NJ make a quick escape feel big. |
If you’re based in Englewood, New Jersey, and you’re craving a quick change of scenery, you’re in a great spot. One of the best things about living in or visiting Englewood in Bergen County is how many short road trips and easy day trips are within reach. In less than two hours, you can trade quiet streets for city views, river walks, hiking trails, historic estates, and beachy boardwalk energy.
This guide shares 10 out-of-county day trips near Englewood, NJ using only nearby counties outside Bergen County. So if you’re looking for a quick nearby getaway, a family outing, or a weekend trip idea that doesn’t require a ton of planning, you’ll find plenty here.
1. Liberty State Park in Jersey City, Hudson County, NJ
If you want a classic first pick for a road trip from Englewood, NJ, Liberty State Park is hard to beat. The drive is usually around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you arrive, you get sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
It’s the kind of place that feels big and open, which is a nice contrast if your week has felt packed. You can walk the paths, relax by the waterfront, or bring bikes and make a full afternoon of it.
- Best for: skyline views, casual walks, family outings
- Drive time from Englewood: about 15 to 20 miles
- Tip: Go near sunset for some of the prettiest views in North Jersey
2. Branch Brook Park in Newark, Essex County, NJ
Need a peaceful day trip near Englewood? Head to Branch Brook Park in Newark. This park is well known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, but honestly, it’s worth visiting in other seasons too. The roads and walking loops make it easy to explore without overthinking your plan.
During peak bloom, it almost feels like stepping into a postcard. I’ve always thought places like this are a reminder that a quick getaway doesn’t need to be fancy to feel refreshing.
- Best for: spring flowers, picnics, easy outdoor time
- Drive time from Englewood: around 35 to 50 minutes
- Tip: Bring coffee and take a slow morning walk
3. Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in Passaic County, NJ
For a nearby getaway with a little wow factor, Paterson Great Falls is a smart pick. Water rushes over the falls with serious power, and the sight is impressive in every season. It’s one of those places where you pull up and almost instantly feel like the trip was worth it.
This is also a great option if you want something short and sweet. You can see a lot without needing a full-day schedule, which is perfect for busy weekends.
- Best for: scenic views, local history, quick escapes
- Drive time from Englewood: about 30 to 40 minutes
- Tip: Pair it with a meal stop in the area to turn it into a fuller outing
4. Wave Hill in the Bronx, NY
If you like gardens, river views, and quiet corners, Wave Hill makes a lovely day trip from Englewood, New Jersey. Located in Bronx County, NY, this public garden and cultural space overlooks the Hudson River and feels calm in the best way.
It’s not huge and flashy. Instead, it’s soft, scenic, and easy to enjoy. Think of it like a deep breath after a noisy week. You can wander through flower beds, sit by the water, and take in the Palisades across the river.
- Best for: gardens, peaceful views, couples or solo travelers
- Drive time from Englewood: about 25 to 35 minutes
- Tip: Check seasonal garden highlights before you go
5. Central Park in Manhattan, New York County, NY
Sometimes the best weekend trip is hiding in plain sight. Central Park is one of the most iconic places within reach of Englewood, and it still works even if you’ve been before. Why? Because each visit can feel different. One day it’s a bike ride, another day it’s a lakeside walk, and another it’s people-watching with a snack in hand.
For travelers looking for things to do near Englewood, NJ, this is an easy win. You get nature, city energy, and endless ways to shape the day around your mood.
- Best for: classic NYC scenery, walking, biking, flexible plans
- Drive time from Englewood: around 35 to 60 minutes
- Tip: Enter on the west side if you want quick access from the Hudson side
6. Sleepy Hollow and the Tarrytown Lighthouse Area in Westchester County, NY
If you’re in the mood for a little charm and a little legend, head north to Sleepy Hollow. This area is famous for its spooky story ties, but even outside fall, it’s a fun and scenic road trip near Englewood. The waterfront around Kingsland Point Park and the lighthouse area is especially nice for a walk.
It has that small-town-on-the-river feel that makes a short drive feel much bigger, like flipping the page to a different chapter of the day.
- Best for: river views, history lovers, fall outings
- Drive time from Englewood: about 35 to 50 minutes
- Tip: Autumn is especially popular, so go early if you want easier parking
7. Nyack and Hook Mountain State Park in Rockland County, NY
Looking for a nearby getaway with a little movement? Head to Nyack and Hook Mountain State Park. This trip gives you a mix of a walkable river town and scenic outdoor space. You can stroll in Nyack first, grab lunch, then head to the park for Hudson River views.
This is a great choice when you want something active without driving too far. The overlook views are a nice reward, especially on a clear day.
- Best for: light hiking, river views, small-town stops
- Drive time from Englewood: around 30 to 45 minutes
- Tip: Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the trails
8. The High Line in Manhattan, New York County, NY
Want an urban day trip that still feels different from the usual city rush? The High Line is a fun pick. Built on a former elevated rail line, this long public park gives you a fresh angle on Manhattan. It’s part garden stroll, part architecture tour, part people-watching spot.
If you’ve never been, it’s a little like walking through a city balcony. And if you have been, there’s always something new to notice, from art to seasonal plantings.
- Best for: first-time visitors, city photography, casual exploring
- Drive time from Englewood: about 40 to 65 minutes
- Tip: Combine it with Chelsea Market for an easy food stop
9. Yankee Stadium Area in the Bronx, NY
For sports fans, this is one of the most iconic short trips from Englewood, NJ. A visit to the Yankee Stadium area can be built around a game day, but even if there isn’t a game, the neighborhood energy still makes it a fun destination for baseball lovers.
There’s just something classic about making a simple drive for a ballgame. Hot dog in hand, crowd buzzing, everyone in team gear—it’s a full experience, not just a stop.
- Best for: sports fans, couples, friend outings
- Drive time from Englewood: around 25 to 40 minutes
- Tip: Check traffic and parking ahead of time if you’re going on game day
10. South Mountain Reservation and Turtle Back Zoo Area in Essex County, NJ
For families, this nearby getaway checks a lot of boxes. The South Mountain Reservation area offers walking trails, scenic pockets, and space to spread out. Nearby, Turtle Back Zoo gives you another easy option, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
This is a good reminder that not every road trip has to be long to feel memorable. Sometimes an hour in the car is all it takes to turn an ordinary Saturday into something fun.
- Best for: families, outdoor time, mixed-age groups
- Drive time from Englewood: about 45 to 60 minutes
- Tip: Pack snacks and make it a full half-day outing
Quick Tips for Planning Day Trips from Englewood, NJ
Before you head out, here are a few simple tips to make your Englewood road trip smoother:
- Leave early if you’re driving toward New York City or the Hudson waterfront.
- Check parking rules before you go.
- Bring a light jacket, especially for riverfront spots.
- Keep cash or a card handy for tolls, snacks, and small parking lots.
- Have a backup plan in case weather changes.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Englewood, New Jersey
One of the best parts of being near Englewood, NJ is that you don’t have to travel far for a change of pace. From waterfalls and gardens to skyline parks and river towns, these day trips near Englewood offer a little bit of everything.
So, which one sounds like your kind of escape? A peaceful garden morning? A city walk? A scenic drive with a trail at the end? No matter your style, there’s a quick weekend trip or road trip waiting nearby.
If you found this list helpful, share it with a friend who loves exploring New Jersey and nearby New York. And if you’ve already taken one of these trips, leave a comment and share your favorite stop. I’d love to hear which nearby getaway you’d do again.
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