Looking for suburban comfort with big-city access? Head to Clifton! Located in Passaic County, just 12 miles west of New York City, Clifton offers a mix of residential charm, international eats, scenic parks, and commuter convenience. Whether you're enjoying a picnic in a green space or grabbing shawarma from a local deli, Clifton is a lively and diverse Northern New Jersey hub.
Clifton, NJ Highlights:
- For Families: Visit Main Memorial Park – Great for family picnics, sports, playgrounds, and community events in the heart of Clifton.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Explore Garret Mountain Reservation – Just outside Clifton, this large wooded park offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and panoramic views of NYC.
- For Kids: Play at Weasel Brook Park – Splash pad, walking trails, a pond, and playground make this a popular family destination.
- For an Adventure: Day trip into NYC – Catch a train or drive into Manhattan for world-class museums, Broadway, and sightseeing in under 40 minutes.
- For Shoppers: Browse Clifton Commons – Outdoor shopping center with major retailers, restaurants, and a movie theater.
When I like to visit Clifton, NJ
The best time to visit Clifton is in the spring and fall (April–June and September–October), when the weather is mild and ideal for parks, outdoor dining, and city trips. Winter brings festive events and nearby ski options, while summer is great for day trips down the Shore or exploring NYC.
Tips for getting to Clifton, NJ
- By Car: Clifton is located near the Garden State Parkway, Route 3, and Route 46. It’s about 30–45 minutes from NYC by car (traffic depending).
- By Train: NJ Transit’s Main Line and Bergen County Line stop at Clifton Station and nearby stations like Delawanna, offering direct access to Hoboken and connections to NYC.
- By Bus: NJ Transit buses provide frequent service to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan and nearby New Jersey towns.
Where I like to stay in Clifton, NJ
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clifton/Rutherford – Convenient location with free breakfast, an indoor pool, and great access to NYC.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Newark Liberty Airport – A short drive away with modern amenities, ideal for travelers flying in or out of EWR.
- Local Airbnb Options – Private rooms and homes available in Clifton’s quiet neighborhoods for short or extended stays.
Best Things to Do in Clifton, NJ
1. Sip Local at Ghost Hawk Brewing
Ghost Hawk Brewing has been quenching New Jersey thirsts since 2019. The brewery was dreamed up by beer-loving Clifton natives Tom Rachelski and Steve Bauer, who were further assisted in realizing their dream by Brewmaster Chris Sheehan. From day one, the brewery has been a hit with locals and visits from all over New Jersey. The Brewery is named for the illusive Red-Tailed Hawk and produces a variety of excellent hand-made craft beers, several of which have names associated with the predator. You can visit their taproom 7 days a week where you can choose from a few fruity IPA’s, lager, American ale, stouts and more.
Ghost Hawk Brewing, 321 River Road #6, Clifton, NJ 08014, Phone: 973-259-6037
2. Step Back in Time at the Hamilton House Museum
Providing a window into the past, the Hamilton-van Wagoner Museum is well worth a visit. The museum is housed in an original 18th century Dutch homestead with a traditional gambrel roof. Built mainly of hand-cut sandstone, the house is flanked by a granary, summer house and gardens and epitomizes the way of life enjoyed by well-to-do early settlers. The home was carefully moved to its current location in Surgent Park in 1973 and visitors can tour 6 beautifully restored rooms furnished with historic pieces from different periods. This way you can trace the changes of style which occurred over the course of 200 odd years. Tours are offered on Sundays from March through December.
Hamilton House Museum, 971 Valley Rd, Clifton, NJ 07013, Phone: 973-744-5707
Where to Eat:
3. Savor Classic Comfort at Matthew’s Italian Restaurant
wned and operated by Matthew Thayla, who has been waiting tables in a variety of restaurants since his early teenage years, Matthew’s Italian Restaurant receives rave reviews for excellent food, great service, reasonable prices and consistency. The menu is large and is sure to feature many of your old favorite Italian dishes as well as several innovative modern options. You can start your meal by savoring one of their delicious hot or cold antipasto platters or appetizers before moving on to more robust hunger busters. These include pastas, seafood dishes, chicken, veal and steak specialties. Gluten free and whole-wheat pastas are available.
Matthew’s Italian Restaurant, 1131 Bloomfield Ave, Clifton, NJ 07012, Phone: 973-928-4300
More Places to Eat in Clifton, NJ
- Tick Tock Diner – Open 24/7 and beloved for its massive menu and retro New Jersey diner vibes (technically in nearby Lodi).
- Shuk Mediterranean Cuisine – Casual spot known for flavorful falafel, hummus, and shawarma wraps.
- Spuntino Wine Bar & Italian Tapas – Upscale yet approachable with sharable plates and an extensive wine list.
- Ani Ramen House (nearby in Montclair) – Hip noodle bar serving rich broth and authentic ramen bowls just a short drive away.
My favorite local events:
- Clifton Street Fair (Spring/Fall) – Local artisans, food vendors, and family fun along Main Avenue.
- Clifton Food Truck Festival – A rotating selection of regional favorites and gourmet bites hosted at city parks.
- Holiday Tree Lighting (December) – Community event with music, treats, and Santa visits at City Hall.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Clifton, New Jersey:
- New York City (30–40 min) – World-famous attractions including Central Park, museums, Broadway, and shopping.
- Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park (15 min) – View dramatic waterfalls and learn about America’s first planned industrial city.
- Montclair (15–20 min) – Explore artsy cafés, boutiques, and the Montclair Art Museum.
- Meadowlands Sports Complex (15 min) – Catch NFL games, concerts, and events at MetLife Stadium and nearby venues.
- Branch Brook Park (Newark) (20 min) – Visit in spring for the largest cherry blossom collection in the U.S.
Plan Your Trip