By Patricia Jones Bergen County is one of North Jersey’s most convenient and varied destinations. It combines Hudson River views, historic sites, major shopping and entertainment centres, family parks, international dining and quick access to New York City. Visitors can explore the Palisades, shop in Paramus or East Rutherford and finish the day at a restaurant in Ridgewood, Fort Lee or Englewood.
The county contains 70 municipalities, including Hackensack, Fort Lee, Paramus, Ridgewood, Teaneck, Englewood and Mahwah. Hackensack is the county seat. Because communities are closely connected but traffic can be heavy, travellers should organise each day by area.
Quick Overview of Bergen County
| Category | Details |
| State | New Jersey |
| Region | Northeastern New Jersey and the New York metropolitan area |
| County seat | Hackensack |
| Created | 1683 |
| Estimated population | 977,026 in 2025 |
| Land area | Approximately 233 square miles |
| Number of municipalities | 70 |
| Main visitor areas | Hackensack, Fort Lee, Edgewater, Paramus, Ridgewood and East Rutherford |
| Nearest major airport | Newark Liberty International Airport |
| Local airport | Teterboro Airport for general aviation |
| Major public transport | NJ Transit rail and buses, plus Edgewater ferry service |
| Judicial district | New Jersey Superior Court Vicinage 2 |
| Best time to visit | April to June and September to November |
Bergen was one of New Jersey’s original counties, formally created in 1683. Hackensack became the county seat in 1710. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the population at 977,026 in July 2025 and recorded 232.79 square miles of land.
Where Is Bergen County Located?
Bergen County occupies the northeastern corner of New Jersey. It borders New York State to the north and the Hudson River to the east. The George Washington Bridge links Fort Lee with Manhattan.
Important location advantages include:
- Manhattan is accessible by bus, car or ferry.
- NJ Transit’s Main-Bergen County and Pascack Valley lines serve numerous communities.
- Major roads include Interstate 80, Interstate 95, Route 4, Route 17 and the Garden State Parkway.
- The Palisades provide hiking, river views and scenic drives.
- The Meadowlands area contains major sports and entertainment venues.
Traffic can become severe during weekday rush hours, stadium events and holiday-shopping periods. Short distances may take much longer than expected.
Best Places to Visit in Bergen County
1. Hackensack
Hackensack is the county seat and the main centre for county administration and courts. It has restaurants, shops and access to the Hackensack River. It is also a useful base for visitors with appointments at county offices or the Bergen County Justice Center.
2. Fort Lee and Edgewater
Fort Lee provides access to Fort Lee Historic Park and the southern entrance to Palisades Interstate Park. Edgewater has Hudson River promenades, shopping, restaurants and weekday ferry connections to Manhattan. These communities suit travellers who want skyline views and New York access.
3. Paramus
Paramus is one of the region’s strongest shopping centres. It is also home to Van Saun County Park and the Bergen County Zoo. A car is usually the most convenient way to explore the area.
4. Ridgewood
Ridgewood has a walkable downtown with restaurants, cafes, independent shops and a train station. It offers a quieter base while retaining rail access towards Hoboken and New York.
5. East Rutherford and the Meadowlands
East Rutherford is known for MetLife Stadium and American Dream. The area is practical for sports, concerts, indoor attractions and large-scale shopping. Event visitors should reserve transport and allow extra time.
Top Attractions in Bergen County
1. American Dream
American Dream is a large indoor shopping and entertainment complex. Attractions include DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe, indoor skiing, ice skating, miniature golf, shops and restaurants. Each venue has its own tickets and hours, so visitors should plan ahead.
2. Palisades Interstate Park and Fort Lee Historic Park
The New Jersey section of Palisades Interstate Park protects roughly 12 miles of Hudson River shoreline, cliffs, overlooks and trails. The scenic byway offers river and skyline views. Fort Lee Historic Park explains the area’s role in the American Revolution.
3. Van Saun County Park and Bergen County Zoo
Van Saun County Park in Paramus covers more than 130 acres. It includes paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, seasonal rides and the Bergen County Zoo. Visitors from outside the county are welcome, although residents receive discounted zoo admission.
4. Overpeck County Park
Overpeck County Park covers more than 800 acres. Its facilities include walking and cycling paths, sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, a canoe and kayak launch, an amphitheatre and nature areas.
5. Outdoor Activities
Bergen County’s park system contains about 9,800 acres and 21 parks. Popular activities include:
- Hiking and scenic driving in the Palisades
- Walking or cycling in Saddle River County Park
- Kayaking at Overpeck County Park
- Skiing, snowboarding and tubing at Campgaw Mountain
- Picnicking and family recreation at Van Saun County Park
Visitors should check seasonal hours, permits and weather conditions. Most county parks are free, although specialised facilities charge fees.
6. Shopping and Dining
Paramus is the county’s largest shopping destination, while American Dream adds retail and entertainment in East Rutherford. Ridgewood, Englewood and Westwood have walkable downtown districts.
The food scene reflects the county’s diverse population. Visitors can find Korean food in Fort Lee and Palisades Park, Japanese and Chinese restaurants across eastern Bergen and wide choices of Italian, Middle Eastern, Latin American and contemporary American food. Sunday retail restrictions affect many stores, so shoppers should check hours.
7. Administration Details
Bergen County uses a county-executive form of government. County Executive James J. Tedesco III manages executive operations. A seven-member Board of County Commissioners serves as the legislative body, while Thomas J. Duch serves as County Administrator.
8. Important offices include:
County Clerk John S. Hogan, responsible for land records, passports, notary services and part of the election process
Sheriff Anthony Cureton, responsible for court security and law-enforcement services
County Prosecutor Mark Musella, who leads the prosecutor’s office
Bergen County Surrogate’s Court, which handles probate, estate and guardianship matters
Most central county offices are in Hackensack.
9. Judiciary Details
Bergen County forms New Jersey Superior Court Vicinage 2. Assignment Judge Carol V. Novey Catuogno leads the vicinage, and Kerri Lynn Walsh-Wood serves as Trial Court Administrator.
The Bergen County Justice Center is at 10 Main Street in Hackensack. Superior Court handles civil, criminal, family and general-equity matters. Municipal courts deal with traffic offences, local ordinances and lower-level criminal cases. Court visitors should confirm the correct division, room and hearing format before travelling.
10. Getting to and Around Bergen County
Newark Liberty International Airport is the nearest major commercial airport. LaGuardia may also be practical depending on the destination and traffic. Teterboro Airport mainly serves general aviation.
NJ Transit’s Main-Bergen County and Pascack Valley lines serve many communities. Buses connect the county with Manhattan, and weekday ferry service operates from Edgewater. A car is helpful for parks, Paramus shopping and multi-stop itineraries.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and autumn are usually the most comfortable seasons. April to June brings mild weather, while September to November is suitable for scenic drives, walking and outdoor dining.
Summer can be hot and humid. Winter may bring snow, ice and cold winds, although indoor attractions remain useful throughout the year.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Plan one section of the county per day.
- Check Sunday shopping hours.
- Allow extra time around the George Washington Bridge and Meadowlands.
- Reserve attraction tickets and event parking early.
- Check NJ Transit schedules before departure.
- Confirm court or government-office locations before travelling.
- Do not leave valuables visible inside parked vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many days are enough to explore Bergen County?
A: Three days are enough for the Palisades, one family or entertainment attraction and one shopping or dining district. Four to five days are better when adding several New York City trips.
Q: Is Bergen County a good place to stay when visiting New York City?
A: Yes. Fort Lee, Edgewater, Hackensack and towns near NJ Transit stations can provide convenient Manhattan access. Compare late-night and weekend transport before booking.
Q: Are Bergen County stores closed on Sundays?
A: Many retail stores are closed because of the county’s Sunday retail restrictions. Restaurants, cinemas, entertainment attractions and certain essential businesses may operate. Check the exact business before travelling.
Q: Is a car necessary in Bergen County?
A: Not always. Public transport works for selected town centres and Manhattan trips. A car is more convenient for Van Saun Park, Campgaw Mountain, Paramus shopping and multi-stop travel.
Q: Which attractions are best for families?
A: Van Saun County Park and Bergen County Zoo suit younger children. American Dream offers indoor attractions for different ages, while Overpeck County Park is useful for playgrounds, cycling and open space.