Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Byram Township to Ridgewood, NJ

Driving from Byram Township to Ridgewood, NJ may not seem like an exciting road trip, but there are hidden gems along the way that are worth exploring. The trip took about an hour and a half, but it can be broken up into several stops to make the journey more exciting. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Byram Township to Ridgewood, NJ.

Halfway Point: Parsippany, NJ

Before diving into the specific stops, it's worth noting the halfway point on this drive is Parsippany, NJ. This town has many convenient shops and eateries, so it's the perfect place to take a break and grab a quick snack. Depending on the time of day, it might be worth stopping at Scranberry Coop for some antiques and unique finds or to explore the beautiful nearby parks, such as Smith Field Park.

1. Waterloo Village

Waterloo Village is located in Stanhope, NJ, and is a restored 19th-century canal town with many interesting sites and activities. Travelers can step back in time and see how people lived during the canals' peak in the 1800s. They can explore the gristmill, blacksmith, and general store while experiencing the architecture, culture, and livelihoods of that era. While at Waterloo Village, grab a bite to eat from their food truck, which offers snacks like hot dogs, burgers, and fries.

2. Great Falls National Historical Park

The Great Falls National Historical Park, located in Paterson, NJ, is a majestic sight to behold. It features a 77-foot waterfall and is part of the 118-mile-long Paterson Great Falls Heritage Area. The park's main feature was created by a volcanic eruption over 13,000 years ago, leaving behind what we know today as the Great Falls. The site is rich in history and has been providing water power for Paterson's industry since the 1790s. Make sure to bring some food with you as there are not many food options in the park.

3. Branch Brook Park

Branch Brook Park is a 360-acre public park located in Newark, NJ, which is well-known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees. The park boasts about 5,000 Japanese cherry blossoms and has the largest collection in the United States, making it a popular pit stop in the area. The park is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic with the family. In addition to the cherry blossoms, the park also features several picturesque bridges and lakes. For a quick bite, grab a hot dog from one of the many food trucks parked along the side street.

4. Turtle Back Zoo

Turtle Back Zoo, located in West Orange, NJ, is a family-friendly destination for animal lovers and has a wide variety of animals from around the world. Between the reptiles, mammals, and birds, Turtle Back Zoo has something for everyone. One of the unique experiences it offers is the interactive reptile exhibit that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the reptiles. The zoo also has several snack kiosks that offer tasty treats like pop-corn, pretzels, and ice-cream.

5. Van Vleck House and Gardens

The final pit stop on this road trip is the Van Vleck House and Gardens, located in Montclair, NJ. The Van Vleck House and Gardens offer a relaxing and picturesque atmosphere with beautiful gardens that are perfect for a stroll. The house, built-in 1916, was home to several prominent families, including the Van Vleck family. Today, it serves as a museum and is open to the public. The gardens surrounding the house feature several unique species of flowers and trees, making it a worthwhile visit for gardening and nature enthusiasts. While visiting the Van Vleck House and Gardens, be sure to grab some tea and scones at their charming tea house.

After exploring all these hidden gems on a drive from Byram Township to Ridgewood, NJ, it's hard not to appreciate the diverse culture and history of New Jersey. The combination of beautiful parks, museums, and attractions makes this journey worth the effort. The road trip can be a mini-vacation from the daily routine, and travelers will come back refreshed and rejuvenated. Don't hesitate to embark on this journey and enjoy everything that New Jersey has to offer!