Paramus is globally recognized for its powerful retail corridors along Route 17 and Route 4, yet the borough contains some of Bergen County’s most significant green spaces and historical preserves. This geographical footprint makes it an ideal destination for local day trips, balancing active family outdoor excursions with quiet historical tours. By shifting focus away from the shopping centers, visitors can experience a deeply rooted suburban ecosystem rich in agricultural history and expansive parklands.
Van Saun County Park on Forest Avenue serves as the centerpiece of family-oriented recreation in the region. Spanning 130 acres, the park houses the Bergen County Zoo, an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited facility showcasing wild and domestic animals native to North and South America. The zoo offers a highly manageable footprint for families with young children, featuring a multi-stop miniature train ride and a historic carousel. Beyond the zoo gates, Van Saun provides massive ADA-accessible playground networks, designated picnic groves, and a pony ride track that operates seasonally.
For couples seeking an active but quiet itinerary, the Saddle River County Park system offers a paved multi-use pathway that winds directly through the western edge of Paramus at the Dunkerhook area. This scenic trail runs parallel to the Saddle River, providing a heavily shaded route ideal for walking, running, or cycling. The Dunkerhook section is particularly noted for its historic waterfall, wooden pedestrian bridges, and access to the adjacent Glen Rock area, making it a seamless point-to-point trail experience.
To understand the transition of Paramus from a Dutch agricultural settlement to a modern suburban hub, the Fritz Behnke Historical Museum on Paramus Road provides an immersive educational stop. The museum houses a vast collection of early 20th-century farming equipment, household relics, and archival photographs detailing the borough’s history as a major celery-farming community. Visiting this preserved site offers essential context on how the local landscape evolved from vast fields to its current configuration.
Culinary options in the borough cater to distinct day-trip styles. Couples can conclude their day with upscale dining at venues like Biagio’s Ristorante on Paramus Road, which features a modern rooftop terrace overlooking the local parklands. Families will find highly convenient dining options near the major county parks, ensuring a seamless transition from outdoor activity to a comfortable meal.