Van Saun County Park and the scenic stretches of Saddle River County Park provide Bergen County residents with an immersive nature and recreational escape directly within the borders of Paramus. Far from just a premier retail corridor, Paramus hosts some of the county's most expansive green spaces, making it a highly accessible destination for a structured day trip. By combining family-friendly wildlife exhibits, historic landmarks, and multi-use paved trails, visitors can easily design a full-day itinerary that balances outdoor activity with local culinary stops.
For families traveling with children, Van Saun County Park serves as the central anchor of a Paramus excursion. Spanning 130 acres, the park features the Bergen County Zoo, which focuses on wildlife from North and South America, including spider monkeys, mountain lions, and Andean condors. Beyond the animal exhibits, the park operates a miniature train that loops through the wooded perimeter and a historic carousel. Adjacent to these attractions lies the Washington Spring historic site, a quiet, shaded area marking a freshwater spring used by General George Washington and his troops during the Revolutionary War campaign of 1780. Multiple modern playgrounds and dedicated picnic areas are distributed throughout the grounds, allowing for a self-paced morning of exploration.
Couples and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a more active itinerary can transition to the Wild Duck Pond area of Saddle River County Park, situated on Ridgewood Avenue in Paramus. This section of the county-wide park system features a picturesque pond stocked for fishing, a dog park, and access to the continuous six-mile multi-use pathway that runs alongside the Saddle River. The paved path is ideal for cycling, jogging, or walking, connecting Paramus to neighboring municipal park areas in Glen Rock, Ridgewood, and Fair Lawn. The shaded canopy along the waterway offers a tranquil corridor for a midday bike ride or a peaceful stroll away from the suburban bustle.
Rounding out the day trip requires selecting dining venues that align with the day's pace. Located directly adjacent to the Paramus Road entrance of Saddle River County Park, Biagio’s Ristorante provides a convenient sit-down option, offering classic Italian fare and an expansive rooftop terrace. For a more casual, quick-service stop between parks, Hummus Elite on Forest Avenue serves fresh Mediterranean dishes, including falafel, specialty hummus platters, and grilled kebabs. Both establishments allow visitors to transition seamlessly from outdoor activities to high-quality local dining without leaving the borough.