Englewood caught me off guard in the best way. Just minutes from the buzz of the George Washington Bridge, this small city feels worlds away. It’s a place where I could hike a quiet forest trail, stroll past an art school, and have lunch that tasted like it belonged in Tel Aviv—all before dinner and a show. I remember walking down Dean Street and thinking, "Englewood doesn’t shout—it simply knows who it is."
Best Things to Do in Englewood, NJ
Escaping Into Green at Flat Rock Brook
I took a 45 minute drive from NYC to Englewood to visit the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center. Flat Rock Brook Nature Center felt like pressing pause. The moment I stepped onto the trail, the sounds of the city fell away—replaced by birdsong, rustling leaves, and the crunch of gravel under my boots. The trails were well-marked but wild enough to feel like an escape. I remember stopping by the overlook near the stream and thinking, "This is the kind of quiet that clears your head without asking for anything in return."
I followed the Swamp Loop Trail, passed bridges and wildflowers, and felt completely unbothered by time. It was a reset disguised as a walk in the woods.
After the hike, I drove just a few minutes into downtown and stopped at Englewood Grand for brunch. I ordered the egg sandwich with avocado, sharp cheddar, and chipotle mayo on a toasted brioche bun. It was warm, messy, and hit the spot in that post-hike, sun-on-your-face kind of way.
Flat Rock Brook Nature Center At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown Englewood: ~5 minutes west
- Vibe: Peaceful, shady, local
- Highlights: Forest trails, stream overlook, birdwatching
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or golden hour for soft light and fewer people
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Address: 443 Van Nostrand Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631
Catching the Spotlight at Bergen Performing Arts Center
Bergen Performing Arts Center brought big energy into a small town theater. The space felt grand without being overwhelming—velvet seats, gilded details, and a stage that’s seen everything from Broadway tours to local kids in recital shoes. I came for a jazz show, and the acoustics made it feel like every note landed in my chest. I remember looking around at the full house and thinking, "This is what it feels like when a community shows up for the arts."
It wasn’t just a show—it was an evening with people who cared about what was happening onstage.
Before the performance, I stopped at Blue Moon Mexican Café around the corner and ordered the chicken enchiladas with mole sauce and a blood orange margarita. Sitting outside with the buzz of pre-show conversations all around me, it felt like the night had already started before the curtain even rose.
Bergen Performing Arts Center At a Glance
- Drive Time from Flat Rock Brook: ~7 minutes east
- Vibe: Elegant, energetic, community-focused
- Highlights: Concerts, theater, dance, youth performances
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings for live events (check schedule)
- Cost: Ticket prices vary ($20–$100+ depending on event)
- Hours: Box office typically open noon – 6 p.m., and during events
- Address: 30 N Van Brunt St, Englewood, NJ 07631
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Living Fast (for a Moment) at
Gotham Dream Cars felt like stepping into someone’s fantasy garage. Ferraris, Lamborghinis, McLarens—names I’ve only said out loud while watching movies. I came for the Dream Car Tour, and the thrill was immediate. They handed me keys, gave a quick run-through, and suddenly I was behind the wheel of something that purred like a panther. I remember gripping the wheel of the Ferrari F8 and thinking, "This is not just driving—it’s feeling adrenaline dressed in Italian leather."
It was an hour of pure indulgence, wrapped in polished chrome and horsepower. But what surprised me most was how accessible it all felt—welcoming, even if you’re just there to look.
After the drive, I stopped at Balthazar Bakery on the way back into town and had a croque monsieur with melted Gruyère and a sparkling lemonade. Sitting outside in driving gloves and a grin, I felt like I had briefly borrowed someone else's lifestyle—and loved every minute of it.
Gotham Dream Cars At a Glance
- Drive Time from Bergen PAC: ~8 minutes south
- Vibe: High-octane, bucket-list-worthy, polished
- Highlights: Exotic car rentals, test drives, Dream Car Tour
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends or early morning tours
- Cost: ~$500+ for test drives and packages
- Hours: Appointment-based; varies by experience
- Address: 39 W Forest Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631
Unplugging at Karma Organic Spa
Karma Organic Spa was the kind of place that rebalanced me the moment I walked through the door. Soft lighting, essential oils in the air, and staff who made you feel like your time there mattered. I came for a non-toxic manicure and stayed for the peace of it all. I remember sitting back in the massage chair and thinking, "I didn’t know how much tension I was carrying until it started to leave."
Their products are natural, cruelty-free, and thoughtfully made—and the care behind every step showed. It didn’t feel like pampering. It felt like restoration.
After the spa, I wandered a few doors down to Vanilla Sky for a frozen yogurt topped with blueberries and almond crumble. A light treat after a lightened spirit.
Karma Organic Spa At a Glance
- Drive Time from Gotham Dream Cars: ~5 minutes
- Vibe: Serene, ethical, calming
- Highlights: Organic mani-pedis, natural beauty products, relaxing ambiance
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for a quieter experience
- Cost: ~$20–60 for most services
- Hours: Tues–Sat, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Address: 34 N Dean St, Englewood, NJ 07631
Getting Inspired at One River School
One River School made me feel like I was stepping into the creative current of the town. More than a gallery, more than a school—it was a buzzing hub for artists of all ages. I stopped in during an open studio event and found kids sketching, adults molding clay, and local works displayed on the walls. I remember staring at a student’s moody landscape and thinking, "Art lives quietly in so many corners of this town."
The space felt fresh, modern, and rooted in community—proof that creativity doesn’t need a big stage to make an impact.
After my visit, I headed next door to Cravings Tapas Bistro for a late lunch of seared scallops with mango salsa and a glass of white sangria. It was art on the plate, echoing what I’d just seen hanging on the walls.
One River School At a Glance
- Drive Time from Karma Organic Spa: ~3 minutes or easy walk
- Vibe: Creative, community-driven, modern
- Highlights: Art classes, gallery exhibitions, student showcases
- Best Time to Visit: During public art shows or open house events
- Cost: Free to view art; class fees vary
- Hours: Mon–Sat, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Address: 49 N Dean St, Englewood, NJ 07631
Eating with Heart at Hummus Elite
Hummus Elite felt like a hug from the inside out. Cozy and casual, with plates made for sharing and flavors that came alive without overcomplicating anything. I ordered the classic hummus topped with warm chickpeas and olive oil, plus grilled lamb kebabs and a side of za’atar pita. I remember dipping into that bowl and thinking, "Food this simple shouldn’t be this soulful—but it is."
The vibe was unpretentious, filled with the warmth of people who clearly came often. Families, friends, even solo diners with a book and a bowl of lentil soup—it was all welcome.
Hummus Elite At a Glance
- Drive Time from One River School: ~3 minutes or short walk
- Vibe: Casual, comforting, flavorful
- Highlights: Fresh hummus, Israeli-style dishes, cozy dining room
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner
- Cost: ~$10–20 per entrée
- Hours: Mon–Thurs 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Fri–Sat until 10 p.m.; closed Sundays
- Address: 39 E Palisade Ave, Englewood, NJ 07631
Where Culture and Calm Meet
Englewood was more than just a place to fill a weekend—it was a reminder that art, nature, flavor, and fun can all live on the same block. From trails to theaters, fast cars to soft hummus, everything here felt like a mix of motion and stillness. I remember driving out of town thinking, "That was a small trip, but it gave me a lot to carry home."
In Englewood, you don’t have to choose between creativity and calm—you just show up, and it offers you both.