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Hackensack, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
Most popular attractions in Hackensack, United States
1. Johnson Park
Relaxing riverfront park with easy access and family-friendly facilities. Stroll tree-lined paths, watch birds, and enjoy playgrounds and picnic spots.
2. Hackensack RiverWalk
Scenic riverside trail with skyline views and public art. Walk, bike, or picnic along the Hackensack River while spotting wildlife and historic sites.
3. Bergen County Courthouse
Admire the courthouse's classical architecture and local civic history. Walk the marble foyer, view memorials, and observe courtroom activity from the public gallery.
Book a FREE walking tour in Hackensack, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. New Jersey Naval Museum
See a World War II-era submarine up close in Hackensack. Tour the USS Ling, view naval artifacts, and climb through authentic submarine compartments.
5. Hackensack Cultural Arts Center
Rooted in Hackensack’s downtown arts scene, the Cultural Arts Center spotlights local creativity. Explore rotating galleries, artist talks and community performances in an intimate space.
6. Anderson Park
Peaceful riverfront park in downtown Hackensack, ideal for short outdoor breaks. Enjoy easy walking paths, picnic lawns, a small playground, and sunset photo spots.
7. Bergen County Administration Building
Explore Bergen County's civic hub for architecture and local history. See public art in the lobby, consult records by appointment, and sit in on county meetings.
8. The Shops at Riverside
Outlet-style shopping with big brands and riverside dining close to NYC. Expect deals, easy parking and an outdoor mall vibe for relaxed browsing.
Things to Do in Hackensack, United States
Popular activities and local experiences recommended by travelers
Additional popular things to do in Hackensack, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Cannoli
Long-standing Italian bakeries around Hackensack make filled cannoli for holidays and celebrations, reflecting the town's Italian-American culinary roots.
Black and White Cookie
This New York and New Jersey classic is a staple at Hackensack bakeries, famous for its half-chocolate, half-vanilla icing that symbolizes local deli culture.
New York-style Cheesecake
Rich, dense cheesecake from Jewish delis and bakeries is a beloved dessert in Hackensack, often ordered for gatherings and special occasions.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Pork roll (Taylor ham) sandwich
The pork roll, known as Taylor ham in parts of New Jersey, is the definitive breakfast sandwich across Hackensack, served in diners and corner delis since the 20th century.
Disco fries
A Jersey diner invention of fries smothered in gravy and melted cheese, disco fries are a late-night favorite in Hackensack's diner scene.
Pastrami on rye
Pastrami sandwiches from Jewish delis have been a Hackensack staple, showcasing the area's deli heritage with hand-sliced meats and classic rye bread.
Traditional Beverages
Egg cream
Despite its name, the egg cream has neither egg nor cream, it is a refreshing chocolate soda fountain drink found in Hackensack's old-style diners and soda fountains.
Italian espresso and cappuccino
Italian cafes in Hackensack serve strong espresso and frothy cappuccinos, reflecting the town's Italian-American community and cafe culture.
Local craft beer
Hackensack and nearby Bergen County have a growing craft beer scene, with local breweries and taprooms producing seasonal ales and IPAs popular with locals.
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Day trips
New York City
World-class museums, Broadway, dining, shopping.
Google MapsJersey City
Waterfront parks, Liberty State Park, dining scene.
Google MapsHoboken
Riverside promenade, restaurants, skyline views.
Google MapsPrinceton
Historic university town, campus tours, museums.
Google MapsBear Mountain State Park
Hiking, picnic spots, scenic Hudson River views.
Google MapsComments (10)
If you're heading into NYC, get an NJ Transit monthly or use the MyTix app, saves queues and is cheaper than buying paper tickets daily.
One day is enough to hit the main spots, two days if you enjoy exploring local diners and thrift shops.
The Hackensack River waterfront is nice at sunset, quiet and peaceful, perfect for an evening walk.
Bring cash for small lunch spots, some cheaper ethnic places here still don't take cards, especially in weekend markets.
Weather was humid and muggy in July, streets felt a bit run down in spots. Not my favorite stop.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
NJ Transit Pascack Valley Line to Hoboken Terminal
NJ Transit Northeast Corridor and other lines, connections to NYC
Multiple NJ Transit lines, PATH to Manhattan, ferries
From Newark, use AirTrain and NJ Transit; from LaGuardia, take bus then subway or rideshare.
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