Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is a significant historical site located in Paterson, New Jersey. Situated along the Passaic River, the park showcases the impressive Great Falls, which are the second-largest waterfalls by volume east of the Mississippi River.

The historical background of the park dates back to the late 18th century when Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, selected the area as an ideal location for the nation's first planned industrial city. The falls played a crucial role in promoting the growth of the young United States by providing power for various industries, including cotton mills, silk production, and locomotive manufacturing.

Visitors to Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park can enjoy a range of activities and attractions. One popular activity is exploring the Falls themselves, which span 77 feet in height and are a magnificent sight to behold. The park offers various viewing platforms and walkways, allowing visitors to experience the power and beauty of the Falls up close.

The park also houses the Paterson Museum, situated in the former Rogers Locomotive and Machine Works building. The museum provides an in-depth look into Paterson's industrial history, showcasing exhibits on locomotive manufacturing, silk production, and the city's diverse cultural heritage.

Additionally, visitors can embark on walking tours of the park and neighboring historic districts, unveiling hidden gems and architectural marvels dating back to the city's industrial era. The park also hosts events and educational programs throughout the year, allowing visitors to deepen their knowledge of the area's historical significance.

For those looking to explore beyond the park, the nearby downtown Paterson area offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous dining options, art galleries, and shopping opportunities. Visitors may also consider taking a short drive to the Paterson Great Falls Overlook Park, which provides a stunning panoramic view of the Falls—a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Overall, Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park offers a fascinating journey through American history, allowing visitors to appreciate the industrial revolution's transformative impact on the nation. With its breathtaking natural beauty and wealth of historical artifacts and attractions, this park is an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is located in the city of Paterson, Passaic County, New Jersey. Situated along the Passaic River, the park encompasses the impressive Great Falls, a 77-foot waterfall. The park is nestled in the heart of Paterson, a historic industrial city known for its significant role in the American Industrial Revolution. Surrounded by the urban bustle, the park stands as a tranquil oasis amidst the concrete jungle. Its geographical location in northeastern New Jersey allows for easy access to visitors from neighboring cities and towns. With its captivating scenery and rich historical significance, Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park offers a unique blend of natural wonders and urban charm.

Address & Contact

72 McBride Avenue Extension
Paterson, NJ 07501
Driving Directions
Phone: 973-523-0370
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park would be during the months of May, June, September, or October. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities with average maximum temperatures ranging from 66°F to 80°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is around 3.9 inches, which is relatively moderate. Visiting during these times allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without facing large crowds.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park are: Food Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Arts and Culture Dining Cultural Demonstrations

Topics

Learn about these topics at Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park: Waterfalls

Visitor Centers

Staircase Campground

Camp near the Skokomish River and enjoy old-growth forest at Staircase. Summer ranger programs and riverside campsites available.

Campsites within or near Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park

DoubleTree by Hilton Fairfield Hotel & Suites

With a stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Fairfield Hotel & Suites in Fairfield, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Willowbrook Mall and Cricket Hill Brewing Co. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 690 Route 46 E, Fairfield, New Jersey 07004
Web: Link

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fairfield NJ

Located in Fairfield, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fairfield NJ is in the suburbs, within a 5-minute drive of Funtime Junction and Willowbrook Mall. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 38 Two Bridges Rd, Fairfield, New Jersey 07004
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Hasbrouck Heights-Meadowlands, an IHG Hotel

Located in Hasbrouck Heights, Holiday Inn Hasbrouck Heights-Meadowlands, an IHG Hotel is within a 10-minute drive of Aviation Hall of Fame of New Jersey and Meadowlands Sports Complex. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Hasbrouck Heights? This hotel has 5662 square feet (510 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 283 State Route 17, Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey 07604
Web: Link

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Clifton NJ

Located in Clifton, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Clifton NJ is in a shopping district, a 5-minute drive from Montclair State University and 8 minutes from Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Clifton? This hotel has 900 square feet (84 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 680 Route 3 West, Clifton, New Jersey 07012
Web: Link

Comfort Inn Fairfield

Located in Fairfield, Comfort Inn Fairfield is within a 5-minute drive of Funtime Junction and Monster Mini Golf. Featured amenities include express check-in, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 286 Route 46 East, Fairfield, New Jersey 07004
Web: Link

Hilton Hasbrouck Heights/Meadowlands

Located in Hasbrouck Heights, Hilton Hasbrouck Heights/Meadowlands is in the suburbs, within a 10-minute drive of Fairleigh Dickinson University and Riverside Square Mall. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Hasbrouck Heights? This hotel has facilities measuring 23000 square feet (2137 square meters), including a conference center. A train station pick-up service is provided at no charge, and free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 650 Terrace Ave, Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey 07604
Web: Link

Home2 Suites by Hilton Hasbrouck Heights

When you stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Hasbrouck Heights in Hasbrouck Heights, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Meadowlands Sports Complex and American Dream. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Hasbrouck Heights? This aparthotel has 1287 square feet (120 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 377 Route 17 South, Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey 07604
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Paramus, NJ

Located in Paramus, Hampton Inn Paramus, NJ is within a 5-minute drive of Paramus Park Mall and Westfield Garden State Plaza. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. This hotel has 2 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 625 From Road, Paramus, New Jersey 07652
Web: Link

Home2 Suites by Hilton Wayne, NJ

When you stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Wayne, NJ in Wayne, you'll be near the airport, within a 5-minute drive of Funtime Junction and Dey Mansion. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 350 ROUTE 46, Wayne, New Jersey 07470
Web: Link

Element New York Wood Ridge

Located in Wood-Ridge, Element New York Wood Ridge is within a 10-minute drive of Meadowlands Sports Complex and American Dream. Featured amenities include express check-out, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Wood-Ridge? This hotel has 682 square feet (63 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 379 ROUTE 17, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey 07075
Web: Link