From farmland to suburb, Waldwick’s transformation over time
Located within North Jersey’s suburban Bergen County, the small borough of Waldwick has an alluring charm brought out by its unique local businesses, its beautiful parks, and its relaxed, small-town feel. With access to both a train station and major highways, Waldwick residents are able to enjoy the quintessential North Jersey suburban experience while also living within an hour’s drive from the opportunities that nearby New York City has to offer. Waldwick has a long history, dating to the establishment of the Dutch colony of Bergen during the 1660s. For most of its history, Waldwick was an agricultural community, and it became a township in 1886. Its farm-dotted landscape transformed into a thriving suburb after the railroad arrived in 1886, with manufacturing industries attracting new residents to the town. Waldwick became a borough in 1919 as its population and housing expanded, taking its present form.
Compact borough with varied homes and price points
Waldwick’s homes tell the story of this historic borough, with Cape Cod, ranch, colonial, and bungalow-style homes from the early-to-mid-20th century lining this town’s streets. Homes in Waldwick tend to sell for between $400,000 and $800,000, reflecting this borough’s housing inventory and the variety of living experiences that this compact, yet vibrant community offers.
Schools include a Blue Ribbon winner and top-rated high school
Children also have the benefit of attending an excellent public school district. Julia A. Traphagen School, the local elementary school, was awarded the Blue Ribbon School Award of Excellence in 2010, while Waldwick High School has consistently ranked among the top hundred public high schools in the state.
Outdoor amenities include playgrounds, sports courts and trails
This borough derives its name from the Old English phrase for “beautiful grove,” and the community lives up to its name with its many outdoor recreational amenities. Borough Park is home to a playground and views of the tranquil Allendale Brook and Whites Pond, while Veterans Park is a favorite for tennis and basketball lovers. Kids looking to get into sports can train at Superdome Sports, which hosts classes for soccer, baseball, kickball, and other sports, and is also a popular venue for birthday parties due to its smoothie bar and indoor sports facilities.
Local restaurants and shops line the Franklin Turnpike
Waldwick is home to its own dining scene, with Franklin Turnpike serving as the main commercial corridor. Nellie’s Place, founded in 1989, features a pub-style interior and a menu of American classics from cheesesteaks to burgers. The Village Grille, located at the heart of the community, has a similarly creative character, with a wood-and-brick interior, a sports bar feel, and live music and karaoke to go with its burgers. Kids and adults alike may enjoy one of this town’s most popular and unique businesses, the Waldwick Whistle Stop, a small ice cream parlor located near the railroad tracks. This eatery utilizes its setting to present visitors with both edible and visual treats; you can grab an ice cream before checking out its famous miniature train display at its entrance. Several other stores provide dining and shopping options to satisfy every need, with a Giant Farmers Market serving as the local grocery store.
Train and highway access make commuting to New York City easy
Waldwick is home to a historic train station that takes passengers into New York City via Hoboken, while drivers also have easy access to the Garden State Parkway via Route 17. With New York just a 35-minute drive away, commuters can enjoy both the opportunities of the big city and the splendor of this pleasant suburb.
![Jessica Haddad]()
Written By
Jessica Haddad
![Joseph DiBlasi]()
Photography Contributed By
Joseph DiBlasi
![Jonathan Bradley]()
Video By
Jonathan Bradley
