Things to Do in Wayne, New Jersey

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I’ve found the perfect suburban escape just a short ride from NYC (where I lived for 10 years). You’ll want to check out Wayne, NJ. I can tell you this town has that rare mix: peaceful nature, real Revolutionary War history, and easy shopping. You can hike a mountain in the morning and be at a mall by lunch. I’ve done it myself, and you should too.

Wayne, NJ Highlights:

For Adventurous Travelers: Hike at High Mountain Park Preserve – If you love the outdoors, you’ll want to trek through the forested trails here. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views of New York City that are simply breathtaking.
For History Buffs: Explore Dey Mansion – As a history lover, I highly recommend a visit to this 18th-century Georgian-style house, which was once used by George Washington during the Revolutionary War.
For Shoppers: Spend the day at Willowbrook Mall – If you enjoy shopping, you’ll find everything from national brands to a movie theater. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing or grabbing a bite.
For Couples: Enjoy a lakeside stroll at Packanack Lake – I think a romantic walk or paddle on this peaceful private lake community is one of the best ways to spend quality time together.
For Families: Play and learn at Ice Vault Arena – If you’ve got kids, this place is a hit! You can enjoy some ice skating or watch local hockey teams in action.

Best Time to Visit Wayne, NJ

From my experience, the best time to visit Wayne is from late spring through fall (May to October). These months offer ideal conditions for hiking, outdoor events, and lakeside activities. Plus, fall foliage in the surrounding parks makes October especially beautiful.

How to Get to Wayne, NJ

If you are traveling by car: Wayne is easily accessible via Route 23 and I-80. It’s only about 40 minutes from Manhattan and 25 minutes from Newark, so it’s perfect for a quick getaway.
By Train: NJ Transit’s Montclair-Boonton Line stops at Mountain View and Wayne Route 23 stations. It’s a convenient way to get to Wayne from Hoboken, with easy connections to NYC.
By Bus: Several NJ Transit buses run from Wayne to the Port Authority in New York City, making it easy to reach the city or explore other North Jersey destinations.

Where to Stay in Wayne, NJ

Recommended for Families: Hampton Inn & Suites Wayne – This hotel is a great choice for families, offering comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, free breakfast, and a convenient location.
For Couples: Residence Inn by Marriott Wayne – For a more extended stay, this is an excellent option with suites that include full kitchens. It’s a quiet suburban setting that’s perfect for couples.
For Budget Travelers: Days Inn by Wyndham Wayne – If you’re looking for something simple and affordable, this hotel is a great pick. It’s close to shopping and dining, so you’re never far from what you need.