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.

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Travel plan

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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

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Paterson

Welcome to the city where the Great Falls are so impressive, you'll forget all about that one time you fell off the monkey bars. Just be prepared to hear a lot of Bruce Springsteen.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Falling in Love with Paterson: A Day Trip Guide

Paterson, United States is a unique travel destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the past through its well-preserved historical sites like the Great Falls National Historic Park and the Paterson Museum. Additionally, the city is known for its diverse food scene that features international cuisine from Italy, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Lastly, nature lovers can enjoy activities like hiking and kayaking in the nearby parklands of the Passaic River.

Paterson, United States: 5 Days of Family-Friendly Fun

Paterson, United States is a family-friendly destination offering a diverse range of attractions and activities. Families can explore the Great Falls National Historical Park, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor picnics and nature walks. The Paterson Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the city's rich history through interactive exhibits and artifacts, making it an educational and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Paterson, NJ: A Romantic 3-Day Escape

Paterson, New Jersey is a charming city that is perfect for a romantic getaway. Known for its rich history and natural beauty, couples can stroll through the Great Falls National Historical Park or explore the Botto House National Landmark. Enjoy a cozy night in one of the city's bed and breakfasts or indulge in a romantic dinner at one of Paterson's top-rated restaurants.

Paterson Family Fun: Waterfalls, Pizza, and Sweet Treats

Paterson, located in New Jersey, offers a range of family-friendly attractions and activities for an enjoyable trip. Families can explore the Great Falls National Historical Park, a stunning waterfall surrounded by walking trails, picnic spots, and a visitor center showcasing the area's history. Additionally, kids will love visiting the Paterson Museum with its interactive exhibits, and families can enjoy outdoor recreational activities like hiking, boating, and fishing at the nearby Garret Mountain Reservation.