Welcome to Ridgewood
Located in Bergen County, Ridgewood has been ranked as
one of New Jersey’s best suburbs. It offers a bustling downtown with upscale restaurants and shops, while homes are located on quiet residential streets. Located just 20 miles northwest of Midtown Manhattan, Ridgewood is also commuter friendly--New Jersey Route 17 and Franklin Turnpike run through Ridgewood, and there is an NJ Transit Main Line train station.
Ridgewood’s real estate is comprised of beautifully designed single-family homes on generous and well-manicured lots. Properties include early-20th century Colonials and modern custom builds, along with a selection of apartments and condominiums.
What to Love
- Within an hour of Manhattan
- Community-orientated feel
- Bustling downtown area
- Outstanding public schools
People & Lifestyle
Residents love Ridgewood for its strong sense of community and family-oriented atmosphere. Young families are attracted to its top-rated public schools and calm, suburban feel. The shops and high-quality restaurants downtown are within walking distance for most of the community, while the unbeatable big-city attractions of Manhattan are less than an hour away.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Ridgewood’s bustling downtown is centered on East Ridgewood Avenue, with a historic district of attractive 19th century buildings covering the stretch between Maple Avenue and Broad Street. Country Pancake House has been a family-run East Ridgewood Avenue institution since the 1960s, serving delicious homestyle eats and winning plaudits such as Zagat’s “Best Breakfast” and “Best Bang for your Dining Buck.”
Ridgewood Coffee Company has delicious single-origin brews, plus toasts and pastries.
Park West Tavern is a modern standout, serving steaks, seafood, and an extensive craft beer selection.
In terms of entertainment, the classic Art Deco
Warner Quad Movie Theater has been in operation since the 1930s, showing a mix of blockbusters and art house films in a stylish setting.
Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival brings special screenings and red carpet premieres to this delightful cinema each April. Charming independent businesses include
Bookends, which hosts regular book signings, and
Town & Country Apothecary & Fine Cosmetics.
Things to Do
Seasonal community events bring Ridgewood’s residents together throughout the year, with fireworks and a parade for the
Fourth of July celebrations and a popular
Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the last Friday of November. The Christmas tree lighting is one of many events held at
Van Neste Square.
More community events take place at
Vet’s Field, which has sports fields and playgrounds for use throughout the year. The beach-style pool at
Graydon Park is another great Ridgewood spot to unwind and enjoy the summertime.
Saddle River Country Park covers almost 600 acres between Ridgewood, Rochelle Park, and Glen Rock, with attractions including a wild duck pond.
New arrivals should register with
Ridgewood Newcomers, which has been introducing new transplants to Ridgewood’s many community organizations, clubs, and activities since the 1940s.
Schools
Residents enjoy access to outstanding public schools through the Ridgewood Public School District, including several National Blue Ribbon recipients.
- Willard Elementary, Public, K-5, National Blue Ribbon Award Winner
- Ridge Elementary, Public, K-5
- Orchard Elementary, Public, K-5
- Somerville Elementary, Public, K-5
- Hawes Elementary, Public, K-5
- Ben Franklin Middle, Public, 6-8, National Blue Ribbon Award Winner
- George Washington Middle, Public, 6-8
- Ridgewood High School, Public, 9-12, National Blue Ribbon Award Winner