Bergen County park in Garfield with lake scenery, recreation and neighborhood green space.
Things to Do · History · Parks · Dining · Shopping · Transportation
Garfield Visiting & Lodging
Garfield is one of Bergen County’s most densely populated cities, combining tightly built residential neighborhoods, multifamily housing, two NJ Transit rail stations, traditional commercial streets and major redevelopment along former industrial properties.
This guide focuses on realistic local stops and nearby lodging rather than inventing tourist attractions or hotels that are not actually present.
Things to see & do
Major city recreation and community-event site used for sports and public programming.
BCCLS member library at 500 Midland Avenue with books, digital resources and community events.
Garfield and Plauderville stations provide direct rail access on NJ Transit’s Bergen County Line.
The river shaped Garfield’s industrial history and continues to define the western edge of the city.
Reused industrial buildings and redevelopment sites reflect Garfield’s transition from manufacturing center to mixed residential-commercial city.
Historic Garfield
Garfield developed rapidly around textile and manufacturing activity along the Passaic River and rail lines. It became a borough in the late 1800s and has operated as a city since 1917; today former industrial sites continue to evolve through redevelopment.
Visitor etiquette: many historic homes, lakefronts and residential landmarks are private property. Enjoy public spaces and streets without entering private grounds.
Where to stay
NJTGO lists the practical lodging geography without implying that nearby hotels are located inside Garfield.
Nearby hotels along I-80 and the Garden State Parkway serve visitors to Garfield.
Hotel options east of Garfield provide convenient access to Route 17 and the Meadowlands.
A larger hospitality cluster lies southeast near stadium, entertainment and transportation facilities.
Before booking: verify the exact address, parking, cancellation rules, accessibility, taxes and transportation directly with the lodging provider.
Transportation & parking
Garfield and Plauderville rail stations make the city accessible by NJ Transit’s Bergen County Line. Dense streets and neighborhood parking mean visitors should check signs and municipal rules carefully.
Parking rules, street restrictions and event arrangements can change. Read posted signs and use current municipal/NJ Transit information.
A simple Garfield day trip
Start at Dahnert’s Lake County Park or a neighborhood recreation area.
Choose a River Drive, Midland Avenue or Plauderville Avenue restaurant for Mexican, Peruvian, Italian or European food.
Explore Garfield Commons or the reused mill/shopping area, then use rail or nearby highways for a larger Bergen/Meadowlands itinerary.
Plan with current resources
City of GarfieldOfficial events, recreation, parking and visitor-relevant municipal information.Garfield Public LibraryPrograms, local resources and community information.Food & Drink GuideCurrent factual restaurant directory and dietary-option guidance.Business & Shopping GuideShopping areas, local services and factual business listings.
Promote a Garfield business or organization on NJTGO
Enhanced visitor-service placement is available for appropriate lodging, attractions, event providers and local businesses serving Garfield visitors.
Advertising & Enhanced ListingsGarfield visitor, recreation, library, transit and lodging-area information was reviewed in September 2026. Hours, events, parking and transportation can change; verify time-sensitive information directly.