Discover Paterson: A Fun-Filled 4-Day Trip

Discover the historical charm of Paterson, USA.

22 April 2023

A trip to Paterson, United States, promises a blend of history, art and exploration. Visitors can embark on a walking tour of the Great Falls National Historical Park to see the second largest waterfall on the East Coast or explore the Paterson Museum housed in a 19th-century locomotive factory. For a taste of art, the Art Factory Paterson is a must-visit destination showcasing art, food and nightlife in one location.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Explore Paterson

  • Check in at The Hamilton Hotel, a charming historic hotel in the heart of downtown Paterson
  • Take a stroll through Overlook Park and enjoy magnificent views of the Great Falls, a National Park and one of Paterson’s main attractions
  • Visit the Paterson Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of industrial equipment and documents the role of Paterson in the Industrial Revolution
  • Have lunch at Toros, a popular Turkish restaurant serving delicious lamb chops and kabobs
  • Walk around downtown and admire the historic architecture, including the Art Deco style Fabian Theater
Day 2

Outdoor Adventures

  • Grab breakfast at the iconic Brownstone Diner, known for its massive portions and retro ambiance
  • Rent a bike and pedal along the scenic path of the D&R Canal State Park, which offers stunning views of the Delaware River
  • Visit the Ringwood State Park and explore the historic Ringwood Manor, a beautifully-preserved Georgian-style home from the 18th century
  • Take a hike on the Ramapo Valley County Reservation and enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere
  • Treat yourself to a juicy steak at the chic STK Steakhouse, which offers a trendy vibe and high-quality food
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at the Instagram-worthy Cafe Ganesh, which serves healthy and seasonal eats with a global twist
  • Visit the nearby Montclair Art Museum, which boasts over 12,000 works of art, including pieces by Georgia O'Keeffe and Edward Hopper
  • Check out the Paterson Art Walk, an outdoor exhibition of murals and street art that celebrates the city’s diverse culture and history
  • Have lunch at Mi Rancho, a legendary Mexican restaurant famous for its spicy salsa and authentic tacos
  • Catch a performance at the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, a premier regional theater that showcases classic plays and contemporary works
Day 4

Day Trip to New York City

  • Take a short train ride from Paterson to New York City, one of the world’s most exciting cities
  • Start the day with a bagel and coffee at Russ & Daughters, a legendary Jewish deli that has been serving delicious smoked fish and hand-rolled bagels since 1914
  • Head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which has over 2 million works of art from around the world, including the famous Egyptian Temple of Dendur
  • Walk around Central Park and enjoy the green oasis in the heart of the city
  • Have a slice of authentic New York-style pizza at Joe’s Pizza, a beloved local pizzeria that has been around since 1975
  • Take in a Broadway show and experience the magic of live theater before heading back to Paterson

How to get there

Plane

The most convenient way to get to Paterson, United States by plane is to fly into Newark Liberty International Airport, which is approximately 20 miles from Paterson. From there, you can take a taxi, shuttle, or rental car to reach your destination.

Car

Driving to Paterson is also an option, as it is located close to major highways such as Interstate 80 and the Garden State Parkway. You can rent a car from Newark Liberty International Airport or drive your own vehicle to reach your destination.

Train

Although there is no train station directly in Paterson, you can take a NJ Transit train from New York Penn Station to Paterson Train Station, which will take approximately 45 minutes.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no boat options available to reach Paterson due to its inland location.

Bus

There are several bus options available to reach Paterson, including NJ Transit buses that go from New York Port Authority Bus Terminal to Paterson Bus Terminal, as well as Greyhound buses that go from various locations to Paterson Bus Terminal.

More travel plans

Weekend Escape: 2 Days in Paterson, New Jersey

Paterson, located in the state of New Jersey, is a great destination for history buffs interested in the industrial revolution. Visitors can explore numerous museums, such as the Paterson Museum or the Great Falls National Historical Park. The city is also rich in cultural diversity and offers fantastic dining options ranging from Thai food to Dominican cuisine.

Paterson: Budget-Friendly Fun in 4 Days

Paterson, United States is a great destination for budget travelers. Visit the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park for breathtaking views and a glimpse into the industrial revolution. Experience local dining and culture at the bustling Paterson Public Market.

Fall for Paterson: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Paterson is a city in New Jersey, United States that offers a range of affordable activities for budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can explore the Great Falls National Park, which is free to enter, or take a self-guided tour of the Paterson Museum for just $2 per person. For cheap eats, head to the iconic Paterson Hot Grill for their famous hot dogs or grab a slice of pizza at Krunch Kretzels.

Paterson's Perfect 3-Day Adventure Guide

Paterson, located in northern New Jersey, is a culturally rich destination with plenty to offer tourists. Visitors can explore the Great Falls, a stunning natural wonder that cascades 77 feet into the river below. In addition, there are several museums and historic sites, such as the Paterson Museum and the Lambert Castle.