Englewood, New Jersey: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Englewood, New Jersey
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| From a night at bergenPAC to Palisades views, peaceful trails, and family fun at Van Saun, Englewood makes it easy to turn a simple outing into a full day. |
If you're looking for fun things to do near Englewood, New Jersey, you're in a great spot. Tucked into Bergen County, Englewood gives you easy access to parks, shopping, live entertainment, great food, and even quick day trips into nearby towns. Whether you're planning a weekend outing, a family day, or just want a fresh idea close to home, there are plenty of things to do near Englewood, NJ that are worth your time.
I always like places like Englewood because they give you a little bit of everything. One minute you're walking through a peaceful nature area, and the next you're catching a show or grabbing dessert. It feels a bit like having a sampler platter of North Jersey adventures right at your fingertips.
1. Catch a Show at Bergen Performing Arts Center
One of the top attractions in Englewood is the Bergen Performing Arts Center, often called bergenPAC. If you enjoy live music, comedy, family shows, or special events, this is a great place to start.
The venue brings in a wide range of performers, so there is usually something for all ages. If you're planning a date night in Englewood, NJ, this is an easy win. I’ve found that even a last-minute ticket here can turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.
- Great for couples, friends, and families
- Easy downtown location
- Good choice for rainy days
2. Stroll Through Flat Rock Brook Nature Center
If you need a break from traffic and screens, head over to Flat Rock Brook Nature Center in nearby Englewood Cliffs. This peaceful nature spot has trails, woods, streams, and plenty of places to slow down and breathe.
It’s a nice pick for a morning walk, light hike, or quiet afternoon. The trails are not the kind that leave you feeling like you climbed a mountain for 12 hours. Instead, they are more approachable, which makes them great for beginners and families.
Bring sneakers, water, and your camera. In the fall, the colors can be especially beautiful.
3. Spend Time Outdoors at Overpeck County Park
For outdoor fun near Englewood, Overpeck County Park is a solid choice. Located a short drive away in Bergen County, this large park has open space, walking paths, sports fields, and spots to relax by the water.
If you’re traveling with kids, this place gives everyone room to spread out. If you’re with friends, it’s ideal for a casual afternoon. And if you just want to walk off a big lunch, this park gets the job done.
Sometimes the best activities are the simple ones. A park bench, a breeze, and nowhere you have to be right away? That can feel like luxury.
4. Shop and Dine at The Shops at Riverside
Want something a little more polished? Head to The Shops at Riverside in Hackensack. This upscale shopping center is one of the better places near Englewood for browsing, eating, and enjoying an easy indoor outing.
You’ll find well-known stores, restaurants, and a comfortable setup for spending a few hours. It’s especially handy if the weather is too hot, too cold, or just plain messy.
Even if you’re not in a shopping mood, grabbing a coffee and people-watching can be fun. Sometimes a simple mall stop feels like a mini escape.
5. Explore the Hudson River Views at Palisades Interstate Park
One of the most scenic things to do near Englewood, New Jersey is visiting Palisades Interstate Park. This stretch along the Hudson River offers dramatic cliffs, wooded trails, lookout points, and some really impressive views.
If you like nature with a side of wow, this is your place. The cliffs rise above the river in a way that feels almost cinematic. It’s the kind of spot where you stop mid-walk and say, “Okay, this was worth the trip.”
- Excellent for hiking and scenic drives
- Great photo opportunities
- Nice choice for couples or solo explorers
6. Visit the Bergen County Zoo
If you’re traveling with younger kids, the Bergen County Zoo in Van Saun County Park is a fun option. It’s not overwhelmingly large, which can actually be a big plus when you’re visiting with children who lose interest after a while.
The zoo focuses on animals from North and South America, and the park around it adds even more to do. This makes it easier to turn a simple outing into a full afternoon adventure.
Parents know the trick: if the kids are happy, the day goes smoother for everyone.
7. Enjoy Van Saun County Park
Since you're already in the area, Van Saun County Park deserves its own spot on this list. Beyond the zoo, the park has playgrounds, picnic areas, open space, and seasonal attractions that make it popular with local families.
It’s a good place to bring a packed lunch and take things slow. If you’re the type who likes low-stress outings that don’t require a complicated plan, this park checks a lot of boxes.
Sometimes those simple local spots become the places you remember most.
8. Walk, Eat, and Explore Downtown Englewood
You don’t always have to leave town to have a good time. Downtown Englewood itself is full of charm, with restaurants, cafes, shops, and a lively local feel. If you enjoy strolling and discovering places as you go, this is a fun way to spend a few hours.
Try a casual lunch, stop for coffee, and check out local storefronts. The area has a nice mix of energy and comfort. It feels active without being overwhelming, which can be hard to find.
If you ask me, one of the best ways to get to know a place is simply to walk around and see where the day takes you.
9. Discover Art and History at The Hermitage
For something a little different, visit The Hermitage in nearby Ho-Ho-Kus. This historic house museum gives you a look at local history and architecture, and it often hosts events and tours.
If you enjoy places with stories behind them, this is a worthwhile stop. Old homes like this can feel like a time machine, showing you how people lived in another era without needing a textbook to explain it all.
It’s a quieter activity, but that’s part of the appeal.
10. Make a Quick Trip to Fort Lee Historic Park
Fort Lee Historic Park is another nearby gem and a smart addition to any list of things to do near Englewood. Located near the George Washington Bridge, this site combines history with great views of the Hudson River and Manhattan.
You can learn about its Revolutionary War connection while also enjoying the scenery. That mix of education and outdoor beauty makes it a strong pick for families, history fans, and anyone who likes a little variety in their day.
It’s proof that a local outing does not have to be boring. Sometimes the best trips are the ones that surprise you.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Englewood, NJ
From live shows and scenic parks to shopping, history, and family fun, there are so many great things to do near Englewood, New Jersey. Whether you want a relaxing day outdoors or a more lively afternoon around town, this part of Bergen County has plenty to offer.
The best part? You can mix and match these spots based on your mood. One weekend you might catch a show and enjoy dinner downtown. The next, you could explore a trail and grab coffee after. It keeps things fresh without needing a huge road trip.
If you’ve visited Englewood, NJ or have a favorite nearby spot, share this article with a friend and leave a comment with your top pick. I’d love to hear what you’d add to the list.
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