Clifton New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clifton, New Jersey.
1. Ghost Hawk Brewing
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Ghost Hawk Brewing is a popular brewery in Clifton that offers visitors a taste of locally crafted beers. Visitors can tour the brewing facilities and learn about the beer-making process from the passionate staff. The brewery also features a tasting room where guests can sample a variety of unique craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
2. Clifton Arts Center and Sculpture Park
ART AND NATURE COMBINED
The Clifton Arts Center and Sculpture Park features rotating exhibitions of contemporary art alongside permanent outdoor sculptures set in a beautiful park setting. Visitors can explore the galleries inside the arts center, which showcase works by local and regional artists. The surrounding sculpture park offers a peaceful environment where art and nature blend seamlessly.
3. Zelenka Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION SPACE
Zelenka Park is a well-maintained recreational area in Clifton that offers various outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The park features playgrounds, walking paths, and open green spaces for picnics and relaxation. It serves as a community gathering spot where local residents and visitors can enjoy nature and outdoor recreation.
4. Hamilton House Museum
HISTORIC DUTCH HERITAGE
The Hamilton House Museum is a 19th-century Dutch house that offers visitors a glimpse into three distinct time periods—Victorian, Federal, and colonial. The museum contains period-appropriate furnishings and artifacts that help illustrate the lifestyle of past residents. Visitors are encouraged to imagine themselves living in different historical eras while exploring this well-preserved piece of local history.
5. Silk City Distillery
LOCAL SPIRITS PRODUCTION
Silk City Distillery crafts premium spirits in Clifton using locally sourced ingredients and traditional distillation methods. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the distilling process and the history of spirit-making in the region. The distillery also offers tastings of their handcrafted vodka, gin, and other spirits in their welcoming tasting room.
6. The Salt Cavern
WELLNESS AND RELAXATION
The Salt Cavern provides a unique wellness experience through halotherapy in salt-filled rooms designed to promote respiratory health and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy sessions in the peaceful salt caves, where the microclimate is believed to have therapeutic benefits. The facility has been praised as an excellent place for a quick recharge and stress relief in Clifton.
7. Sharky's Wings & Raw Bar
LOCAL FOOD FAVORITE
Sharky's Wings & Raw Bar is a popular dining destination in Clifton known for its extensive menu of chicken wings and seafood options. The restaurant offers a casual, energetic atmosphere perfect for watching sports or gathering with friends and family. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wing flavors, fresh seafood, and a selection of beers and cocktails.
8. Garret Mountain Reservation
SCENIC NATURAL RETREAT
Garret Mountain Reservation is a scenic natural area located near Clifton that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The reservation features miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and historical sites spread across over 500 acres of protected land. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, photography, and outdoor recreation while taking in panoramic views of the New York City skyline on clear days.
9. Botto House National Landmark
LABOR MOVEMENT HISTORY
The Historic Botto House National Landmark, also known as the American Labor Museum, preserves the history of the American labor movement. This Victorian home served as a meeting place for silk mill workers during the famous 1913 Paterson Silk Strike. Visitors can tour the house and exhibits to learn about the struggle for workers' rights and the immigrant experience in early 20th century America.
10. Matthew's Italian Restaurant
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE
Matthew's Italian Restaurant is a beloved dining establishment in Clifton that serves authentic Italian cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring traditional pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and homemade desserts prepared with quality ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making it a versatile choice for diners with various dietary preferences.
11. Rutt's Hut
ICONIC HOT DOG INSTITUTION
Rutt's Hut is a legendary eatery in Clifton famous for its unique "ripper" hot dogs, which are deep-fried until the casing splits open. Established in 1928, this no-frills institution has been featured on numerous food shows and is considered a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. The restaurant's signature relish, known as "relish," adds a tangy complement to their famous hot dogs.
12. Lambert Castle
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
Lambert Castle is a magnificent Victorian-era mansion built in 1892 that now serves as a museum near Clifton. The castle houses the Passaic County Historical Society's museum collection, featuring period rooms and exhibits on local history. Visitors can explore the impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
13. Paterson Great Falls
NATURAL WONDER AND HISTORY
The Paterson Great Falls is a spectacular 77-foot waterfall on the Passaic River just a short drive from Clifton. Designated as a National Historical Park, the falls played a crucial role in the early industrial development of the United States. Visitors can view the powerful falls from various observation points and learn about how Alexander Hamilton envisioned using the falls' power to create America's first planned industrial city.
14. Jubilee Park Outdoor Flea Market
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Jubilee Park Outdoor Flea Market is a popular shopping destination in Clifton where visitors can browse through a diverse array of merchandise from numerous vendors. The market features everything from antiques and collectibles to clothing, electronics, and handmade crafts. Treasure hunters and bargain shoppers alike enjoy the lively atmosphere and the thrill of discovering unique items at competitive prices.
15. Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center
BASEBALL LEGEND'S LEGACY
The Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center celebrates the life and career of the legendary New York Yankees catcher and American icon. Located on the campus of Montclair State University near Clifton, the museum houses a collection of memorabilia and interactive exhibits highlighting Berra's remarkable baseball achievements and cultural impact. Visitors can learn about Berra's inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of baseball's most beloved figures and famous for his witty "Yogi-isms."