5 Days of Fun in Paterson, NJ

Discover the birthplace of the industrial revolution in Paterson, New Jersey.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploration

  • Check into The Hamilton Inn, a cozy boutique hotel in downtown Paterson
  • Wander through the Great Falls National Historical Park and marvel at the stunning waterfall views
  • Visit the Paterson Museum and learn about the city's rich history as an industrial powerhouse
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner at Lambert Castle, a beautiful mansion turned restaurant
Day 2

Outdoor Adventure

  • Hike the Garret Mountain Reservation and take in the panoramic views of the city
  • Explore the Paterson Farmers Market and sample some of the freshest produce in town
  • Visit the Paterson Great Falls Farmers Market and indulge in some locally made goodies
  • Take a scenic bike ride along the Passaic River and enjoy the beautiful landscape
  • Relax with a cocktail at The Grasshopper off East 18th Street.
Day 3

Art and Culture

  • Visit the William Carlos Williams Center for the Performing Arts and catch a show
  • Stroll through the Paterson Arts Council and admire the diverse artistic creations
  • Browse the galleries in the Paterson Museum and discover the city's artistic heritage
  • Enjoy a delicious lunch at Soul Food Kitchen on Main Street
  • Pay homage to the legendary Lou Costello with a visit to his statue in the heart of the city
Day 4

Shop ‘Til You Drop

  • Shop till you drop at the Willowbrook Mall, featuring over 200 stores
  • Head over to Lambert Street Boutique for some unique clothing finds
  • Discover new flavors at Empanada City, offering a variety of delicious empanadas
  • Grab some coffee at the cozy and quaint Coffee with a Conscience, a local favorite
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner with cocktails at La Vida Loca on Paterson Plank Road
Day 5

Relaxation and Pampering

  • Enjoy a day of relaxation at the Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa
  • Take a yoga class at YogaCentric on Grand Street
  • Go for a leisurely walk through the scenic East Side Park
  • Pick up some fresh flowers at the Paterson City Farmers Market
  • Cap off your day with a delicious dinner at Porto by Antonio in lively downtown 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

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.

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.

Paterson on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure

Visiting Paterson on a tight budget offers plenty of opportunities to explore the city's industrial heritage, art scene, and natural landscapes. Take a stroll through the Great Falls National Park, visit the Paterson Museum, or check out the street art around downtown. For affordable accommodation options, look into hostels or budget-friendly hotels outside of the city center.