During the middle of the 18th century, Dutch and Scottish settlers landed in the area that is now Park Ridge, New Jersey. Many of their structures of those times remain today, including the Wortendyke Barn, which has been refurbished into a museum.
Park Ridge is a small, mostly professional borough in Washington Township
During the middle of the 18th century, Dutch and Scottish settlers landed in the area that is now Park Ridge, New Jersey. Many of their structures of those times remain today, including the Wortendyke Barn, which has been refurbished into a museum.
Park Ridge is a small, mostly professional borough in Washington Township. The area was first settled by the Lenni Lenape Tribe and remained untouched by settlers until the early 1700s. The population was estimated to be around 8,645 during the 2010 Census, but a recent survey conducted by the United States Census Bureau Estimate in 2012 saw an increase in the population up to around 8,863 meaning that this neighborhood is thriving and growing.
Park Ridge is a small, beautiful suburb in Washington Township. While other areas in Washington Township have a higher cost of living, Park Ridge seems to be the exception here. Park Ridge residents already enjoy one of the lower taxes rates in the state, but recently taxes have stabilized in this little borough. This is because several new rental property constructions are planned, so taxes should stay stabilized for a number of years.
Park Ridge operates its own electric company, so Park Ridge Residents have the lowest electric rates in New Jersey! Additionally, Park Ridge provides its own water utilities to residents, so water utility rates are 20 percent lower than the other water utility companies in the state. All and all, this makes Park Ridge a pretty affordable place to live.
Park Ridge is constructing new rental properties in town, including one assisted living facility for older residents. If you want to find an apartment in Park Ridge, there are a number of vacancies available. There are many one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments for rent. If you want to find condo rentals or even townhouses for rent, Park Ridge has those as well, so you can find a living space that meets your needs. Just keep in mind that what you don't pay in utilities or taxes you will pay in rent since rent tends to be higher in Park Ridge. You get what you pay for because most rental properties in Park Ridge are well maintained, newly renovated or newly constructed.
The borough of Park Ridge has its own train station, which makes it a convenient place for New York City Commuters. If you want to reduce your carbon footprint, you'll be happy to know that Park Ridge is somewhat walkable. You can accomplish some of your errands on foot, but for major purchases or reaching the more developed shopping areas, you will probably need a car.
Since Park Ridge is a small, contained community in Washington Township, the neighborhoods are not that distinct. However, the town is divided into the east and west sections.
Borough Center is the main "neighborhood" of Park Ridge, with the majority of residents occupying this section of town. Borough Center is on the west side of the city and is located next to the main freeway, Highway 172. This area is considered the more business section, as the Park Ridge Marriott also occupies Borough Center.
The east side exists as the Park Avenue / Kinderkamack neighborhood. This area is more residential and less congested based on its moderate distance away from the traffic.
Town Pride
Park Ridge is a town that is aware and proud of its heritage. It is home to the Pascack Historical Society, which provides an educational and research facility dedicated to continually discovering more about the history of Park Ridge -- from the dinosaur relics the society has uncovered to the influence of the Lenape Indians. Notable guest speakers are often featured at the historical society, giving educational talks. The historical society has an active website that is kept updated with the latest finds and other events it is hosting or participating in.
Community Involvement
The local government is pretty active in Park Ridge. It runs weight loss wellness challenges and many other local events for residents. The Park Ridge Municipal Pool is maintained by the town for residents during those sticky summer days. The borough also has its own official bingo hall where senior residents can get together and socialize while winning some pretty substantial cash prizes!
Outdoor Pursuits
If you like stretching your legs in the great outdoors, Park Ridge has a number of options for you! Your first stop should be Woodcliff Lake Reservoir. It is a large reservoir that extends from Hillsdale to Park Ridge and it has a secret! When the water level gets low a very old stone bridge becomes visible (kind of like one of those adventure movies!). If you prefer to get out your argyle sweater and put some time in on the green definitely swing by the Emerson Golf Club and break in that new nine iron. Should you really want to get away for a weekend outside Harriman State Park is only a 30-minute drive away. There's fishing, camping, cabins, swimming, hiking and regular events going on like Native American Powwows. Also in that area is Sterling Forest, the happening place to be for Renaissance and Medieval history lovers from August through the end of September. Every year Sterling Forest hosts the famous Ren Faire so don your feathered cap and tunic, grab that huge turkey leg, a pint of ale and watch jousting, other amazing shows and demonstrations or just browse stalls and get your hands on fantastic handmade crafts and artwork.
Wining and Dining
Park Ridge is also home to fine restaurants. If you're looking for high-end dining, try some of the hot spots: Esty Street, The Fire and Oak Grill, or the Park Steakhouse. If a more relaxed casual atmosphere is something you're seeking, try the Ridge Diner or Sean O'Casey's Pub. Want to get out of town and head somewhere extra special? Hop on Route 17. It's one of the major veins of travel in the area. Take it south to the Garden State Plaza. It's a mall, but there are top-notch restaurants there like Papa Razzi, and Legal Seafood.
Great Shopping
Speaking of Garden State Plaza, this huge mall offers high-end boutiques and popular stores like Coach, Max Brenner (for chocolate!) and Forever 21. If you are looking for more middle-of-the-road places to eat, the mall offers Ruby Tuesday and On the Border. Feel like doing dinner and a show? Well the Westfield section of Garden State Plaza has a huge, beautiful AMC movie theater.
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