Paterson Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Paterson, located in the state of New Jersey, is a city that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and cultural diversity. Known as the "Silk City," Paterson's rich industrial past is still evident in its architecture and landmarks.

One of the must-visit attractions in Paterson is the Great Falls National Historical Park. This breathtaking waterfall is a majestic sight to behold, with water cascading down a 77-foot cliff into the Passaic River. Visitors can explore the park's walking paths and observation areas, offering stunning views of the falls from different angles. The park also provides an opportunity to learn about the important role the falls played in the city's industrial development.

For history enthusiasts, the Paterson Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city's past. From its early days as an industrial powerhouse to its significance in the American labor movement, the museum offers a comprehensive look into Paterson's history. Visitors can explore exhibits on silk production, locomotive manufacturing, and the city's diverse immigrant communities.

Nature lovers will find solace in the Garret Mountain Reservation. This expansive park offers picturesque views of the New York City skyline and the surrounding landscape. With its hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife observation points, the Garret Mountain Reservation is a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Art and culture thrive in Paterson, and the Paterson Museum is just one example of the city's vibrant arts scene. The Paterson Arts Council promotes local artists and hosts regular exhibitions and events. Visitors can explore art galleries and studios, showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums.

Food enthusiasts will not be disappointed in Paterson, as the city is known for its diverse culinary scene. From authentic ethnic eateries to trendy restaurants, there is something for every palate. Whether it's trying traditional Middle Eastern cuisine or indulging in Italian delicacies, Paterson offers a gastronomic adventure.

Alternative names: Population: 147.8 thous.Area: 8.71 mi²Elevation: 69 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 40°54'58"N, 74°10'27"W

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New JerseyUnited States

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Paterson Top Attractions

Paterson Attractions - What to See and Explore

Paterson offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Great Falls, Lambert Castle, Paterson City Hall, Haledon. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Natural attraction • National park • Park
Great Falls
Nestled in the bustling industrial city of Paterson, New Jersey, Great Falls stands as a natural spectacle amidst the urban landscape. This majestic waterfall, with its 77-foot drop, is one of the largest in the United States and serves as the centerpiece of the Great...
History museum • Historical place • Museum
Lambert Castle
Lambert Castle, originally called Belle Vista, is located within the Garret Mountain Reservation in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey.
City hall • Downtown Paterson
Paterson City Hall
Paterson City Hall is located at 155 Market Street in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey. The building is located on a block in Downtown Paterson bordered by Market Street on the north, Colt Street to the east, Ellison Street to the south, and Washington Street to the west.

Area • Haledon
Haledon
Haledon is a borough in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the borough's population was 8,318, reflecting an increase of 66 from the 8,252 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 1,301 from the 6,951 counted in the 1990 Census.
Church • Gothic Revival architecture
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a historic Catholic cathedral and parish church located in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Paterson. The cathedral was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.
Bridge • Woodland Park
Hillery Street Bridge
The Hillery Street Bridge is a vehicular bridge over the Passaic River in Totowa and Woodland Park, New Jersey. The Pratt pony truss carries Hillery Street and Totowa Road and is designated County Route 644. It was originally built in 1898 and rehabilitated in 1973.
History museum • Museum
Pietro and Maria Botto House
The Pietro and Maria Botto House, also known as Pietro Botto House, at 83 Norwood Street, Haledon in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States, is where leaders of the Industrial Workers of the World union spoke to the 15,000 striking workers of the Paterson Silk Strike of 1913.
History museum • Specialty museum • Museum
Paterson Museum
Paterson Museum is a museum in Paterson, in Passaic County, New Jersey, in the United States. Founded in 1925, it is owned and run by the city of Paterson and its mission is to preserve and display the industrial history of Paterson.
Bridge • Elmwood Park
Route 46 Passaic River Bridge
The Route 46 Passaic River Bridge can refer to a number of bridges that carry U.S. Route 46 over the Passaic River in Northern New Jersey. US 46 was originally developed as Route 6 under the direction of Morris Goodkind who was chief engineer of the New Jersey Highway Department from 1922 until 1955.
Area • Prospect Park
Prospect Park
Prospect Park is a borough in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the borough's population was 5,865, reflecting an increase of 86 from the 5,779 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 726 from the 5,053 counted in the 1990 Census.
Area • Hawthorne
Hawthorne
Hawthorne is a borough in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the borough's population was 18,791 reflecting an increase of 573 from the 18,218 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn increased by 1,134 from the 17,084 counted in the 1990 Census.
Area • Totowa
Totowa
Totowa is a borough in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the borough's population was 10,844, reflecting an increase of 912 from the 9,892 counted in the 2000 Census, which had in turn declined by 285 from the 10,177 counted in the 1990 Census.
Bridge • Totowa
West Broadway Bridge
The West Broadway Bridge, aka West Street Bridge and the Concrete-Metal Bridge, is a vehicular bridge over the Passaic River in Paterson, New Jersey. It carries West Broadway, traditionally the Paterson-Hamburg Turnpike, and connects to County Route 509 at its west end.
Park • Hawthorne
Goffle Brook Park
Goffle Brook Park is a public, county park spanning much of the length of Goffle Brook through the borough of Hawthorne in Passaic County, New Jersey, United States.
Park • Hillcrest
Westside Park
Westside Park is located in Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey, United States. It is home to the Van Houten House, which was built in 1831. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 7, 1973.
Ship • Downtown Paterson
Fenian Ram
Fenian Ram is a submarine designed by John Philip Holland for use by the Fenian Brotherhood, the American counterpart to the Irish Republican Brotherhood, against the British. The Ram's construction and launching in 1881 by the Delamater Iron Company in New York was funded by the Fenians' Skirmishing Fund. Officially Holland Boat No.
Bridge • Downtown Paterson
Straight Street Bridge
The Straight Street Bridge is a vehicular bridge over the Passaic River in Paterson, New Jersey, that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Cemetery • Lakeview
Cedar Lawn Cemetery
Cedar Lawn Cemetery is a rural cemetery in Paterson, New Jersey, and is also considered one of the finest Victorian cemeteries in the USA. Cedar Lawn Cemetery officially opened in September 1867, and recorded its first burial on September 27, 1867.
40°54'50"N • 74°10'16"W
Passaic County Court House
The Passaic County Court House complex is located at the seat of Passaic County, New Jersey in Paterson.

Day trips

Paterson – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Paterson, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Prudential Center (Newark), Statue of Liberty Museum (Jersey City), Liberty State Park (Jersey City).

13 milesS
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Prudential Center, Newark
The Prudential Center, affectionately known as "The Rock" by locals, is a beacon of entertainment nestled in the heart of Newark, New Jersey. This state-of-the-art arena, which opened its doors in 2007, is famed for hosting a diverse array of events, from the...
17 milesSE
Museum
Statue of Liberty Museum, Jersey City
The Statue of Liberty Museum, located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, is an emblem of freedom and democracy as well as a welcoming sight to immigrants arriving from abroad. Opened in May 2019, this museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history...
16 milesSE
Park
Liberty State Park, Jersey City
Liberty State Park is a serene oasis nestled in the bustling urban landscape of Jersey City, New Jersey. This expansive green space offers visitors a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views of the iconic New York City skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
3.4 miS
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Baseball
Yogi Berra Stadium, Montclair
Nestled in the borough of Little Falls, New Jersey, Yogi Berra Stadium stands as a testament to one of baseball's most beloved figures. This charming stadium, located on the campus of Montclair State University, is not just a field for sports enthusiasts, but also a...
15 milesN
Garden, Park, History museum
Skylands Estate, Ringwood
Nestled within the charming town of Ringwood, New Jersey, the Skylands Estate emerges as a horticultural masterpiece, enchanting visitors with its sprawling botanical garden. This verdant sanctuary is a living museum of plants, where manicured landscapes blend...

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Best Time To Visit Paterson

Learn when is the best time to travel to Paterson weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in July and August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in February. Most of it rains in April, May, July, August, September and November.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Paterson?

The top attractions to visit in Paterson are:

What is the best time to visit Paterson?

June is the most popular and therefore the most crowded month to visit this location. Many people also choose to visit in July and August. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January and February.