Park Ridge, New Jersey: A Thriving Hub for Recreation and Entertainment

Nestled in the heart of Bergen County, Park Ridge, New Jersey, is a vibrant and picturesque borough boasting a rich history, diverse community, and a plethora of recreational and entertainment options. With a population of over 8,800 residents, Park Ridge offers a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for both visitors and locals alike.

Historical Legacy

Park Ridge traces its roots back to the 18th century, when it was known as "Hohokus" by the Lenape Native American tribe who inhabited the area. In the early 19th century, European settlers established farms and mills along the Hohokus Brook, and in 1894, the community was officially incorporated as the Borough of Park Ridge. The borough's historical heritage is evident in its charming architecture and a number of historic landmarks, including the Park Ridge Train Station, the James A. McFaul House, and the Hohokus Brook Park Nature Preserve.

Recreational Haven

Park Ridge is a recreational paradise, offering a wide range of activities and amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy. The borough boasts over 200 acres of parkland, including the scenic and expansive 130-acre Pascack Brook County Park. Within this park, visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, and kayaking.

Entertainment Hub

In addition to its recreational offerings, Park Ridge is also a vibrant entertainment hub. The town center features a lively commercial district lined with charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. The Park Ridge Farmers' Market, held every Saturday from May to November, is a popular destination for local produce, artisanal goods, and community events.

Cultural Attractions

Park Ridge is home to a number of cultural attractions that cater to diverse interests. The Park Ridge Public Library offers a wide range of programs and services, including book clubs, author readings, and children's activities. The Park Ridge Historical Society preserves and showcases the borough's rich history through exhibits, lectures, and community events. The Park Ridge Art Center provides a platform for local and emerging artists to display their work and engage with the community.

Community Engagement

Park Ridge is a close-knit community that places great importance on civic engagement and volunteerism. The borough boasts a number of community organizations that work to enhance the lives of residents, including the Park Ridge Recreation Department, the Park Ridge Environmental Commission, and the Park Ridge Historical Society. These organizations offer a wide range of programs, events, and opportunities for residents to connect with each other and contribute to their community.

Transportation

Park Ridge is conveniently located just 25 miles northwest of New York City, making it an accessible destination for both day trips and weekend getaways. The borough is served by New Jersey Transit's Pascack Valley Line, which provides frequent rail service to Manhattan and Hoboken. Park Ridge is also home to a small airport, the Park Ridge Airport, which offers private and corporate aviation services.

Educational Excellence

Park Ridge is renowned for its exceptional educational system. The borough is served by the Park Ridge Public School District, which operates three elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school. The district's schools consistently rank among the top in the state for academic achievement and provide students with a rigorous and well-rounded education.

Healthcare

Park Ridge is home to a number of healthcare facilities that provide a wide range of medical services to the community. The borough is served by the Valley Hospital, a nationally recognized medical center, and the Valley Health System, which offers a network of hospitals, clinics, and outpatient services throughout northern New Jersey.

Economic Development

Park Ridge is a thriving business community that supports a diverse range of industries, including retail, healthcare, and technology. The borough's strategic location and proximity to major transportation hubs make it an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes. The Park Ridge Economic Development Corporation provides resources and support to businesses in the borough, helping to create and sustain jobs and foster economic growth.

Quality of Life

Park Ridge consistently ranks among the top places to live in New Jersey. The borough offers a high quality of life for its residents, with its safe and friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, convenient transportation, and abundance of recreational and entertainment options. The borough's diverse community and strong sense of civic engagement create a welcoming and supportive environment for all who live and work in Park Ridge.

Here are some additional facts and figures about Park Ridge, New Jersey:

• Population: 8,835 (2020)
• Median household income: $132,444 (2019)
• Median home price: $575,000 (2022)
• Land area: 2.9 square miles
• Number of parks: 10+
• Number of schools: 5 public schools, 1 private school
• Number of restaurants: 20+
• Number of shops: 50+
• Number of historic landmarks: 5+

FAQs

Q1: What is Park Ridge, New Jersey known for?
A: Park Ridge is known for its charming historical character, thriving recreational opportunities, and vibrant entertainment scene.

Q2: What are some popular things to do in Park Ridge?
A: Popular things to do in Park Ridge include hiking and biking in Pascack Brook County Park, shopping and dining in the historic town center, and attending events at the Park Ridge Art Center.

Q3: Is Park Ridge a good place to live?
A: Yes, Park Ridge is a highly desirable place to live, offering a high quality of life, excellent schools, a safe and friendly community, and convenient access to New York City.

Q4: How do I get to Park Ridge?
A: Park Ridge is accessible by car, bus, and train. It is served by New Jersey Transit's Pascack Valley Line, which provides frequent service to Manhattan and Hoboken.

Q5: What are some of the historical attractions in Park Ridge?
A: Some of the historical attractions in Park Ridge include the Park Ridge Train Station, the James A. McFaul House, and the Hohokus Brook Park Nature Preserve.

Q6: What are some of the recreational opportunities in Park Ridge?
A: Park Ridge offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, kayaking, and golf. The borough boasts over 200 acres of parkland, including the scenic and expansive Pascack Brook County Park.

Q7: What are some of the entertainment venues in Park Ridge?
A: Park Ridge offers a variety of entertainment venues, including the Park Ridge Art Center, the Park Ridge Farmers' Market, and the Park Ridge Public Library. The town center features a lively commercial district lined with charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

Q8: What are some of the healthcare facilities in Park Ridge?
A: Park Ridge is home to a number of healthcare facilities, including the Valley Hospital and the Valley Health System, which offer a wide range of medical services to the community.