Paterson: Budget-Friendly Fun in 4 Days

Exploring the charm of Paterson without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

All About Paterson

  • Check into the Red Carpet Inn and Suites, a budget-friendly hotel just a mile from Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park.
  • Start the day with a coffee and a breakfast sandwich at Lou Costello Memorial Square, named after the famous comedian and actor born in Paterson.
  • Head to Paterson Museum to learn about the city's industrial past and the famous people who lived there, including Lou Costello and poet William Carlos Williams.
  • Enjoy a lunch of hot dogs and fries at the iconic Hot Grill, a Paterson institution since 1961.
  • Take a walk around Eastside Park, one of the city's largest parks, and admire the beautiful homes in the Historic District surrounding it.
  • End the day with dinner and a drink at The Shannon Rose, an Irish pub with a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends.
Day 2

A Day with Nature

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Brownstone Pancake Factory, known for their creative pancakes and waffles.
  • Spend the morning at Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park, where you can admire the powerful waterfall and learn about its historical significance.
  • Take a picnic lunch to Garret Mountain Reservation, a beautiful park with stunning views of New York City and miles of hiking trails.
  • Stop by Lambert Castle, a historic landmark and museum showcasing the history of Paterson and Passaic County.
  • Have dinner at The Oak Pit, a cozy barbecue restaurant with live jazz music on weekends.
  • Catch a movie at Fabian 8 Cinema, a local movie theater with affordable ticket prices and a classic charm.
Day 3

A Culinary Tour of Paterson

  • Start with breakfast at Rutt's Hut, a legendary hot dog joint that has been around since 1928.
  • Explore Little Lima, Paterson's Peruvian neighborhood, and try some ceviche and lomo saltado at El Chevere.
  • Head to Paterson Farmers Market for lunch and sample some of the best empanadas and pupusas in town.
  • Take a dessert break at Gelato Paradiso, a family-owned gelato shop with unique flavors like avocado and corn.
  • Enjoy dinner at Clifton Thai, a Thai restaurant just a few miles from Paterson that's a local favorite for their authentic dishes.
  • End the night with a nightcap at The Huddle Sports Bar & Grill, a casual spot with cheap drinks and pub grub.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Start with breakfast at The Brownstone, a beautiful event and catering space with an on-site restaurant serving up classic breakfast dishes.
  • Spend the day at Jungle Habitat, a former safari park turned mountain bike trail system with over 10 miles of trails for all levels.
  • Have a picnic lunch at Rifle Camp Park, a tranquil park with stunning views of New York City and plenty of hiking trails.
  • Take a short trip to Lambertville for a stroll along the Delaware & Raritan Canal and a visit to Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn for dinner.
  • End the night with an after-dinner drink at The Grasshopper Irish Pub, a cozy spot with a friendly atmosphere and great drinks.

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

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.

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: A Day of Romance and History

A romantic trip to Paterson, United States offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Stroll hand in hand along the scenic Great Falls and explore the historic district, with its captivating architecture and rich cultural heritage. From delectable cuisine to cozy bed and breakfasts, Paterson is the ideal getaway for couples seeking an intimate and unforgettable experience.

5 Days of Fun in Paterson, NJ

Paterson, New Jersey has an array of attractions for tourists to enjoy. From the Great Falls State Park to the Paterson Museum; history, culture and nature enthusiasts will all find something to marvel at in this city. For foodies, a visit to the Paterson Farmers Market is a must, where vendors sell fresh produce and delicious ethnic cuisine.