Paterson, New Jersey, has a diverse park system that includes city parks, county parks, and the nationally significant Great Falls area. The city’s Parks & Open Space Plan identifies more than 40 parks, playgrounds, athletic fields, and neighborhood green spaces throughout Paterson.
The Parks
- Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park
- Home to the 77-foot Great Falls of the Passaic River.
- Features scenic overlooks, walking paths, historic raceways, and the nearby Hinchliffe Stadium.
- One of New Jersey’s premier historic and natural attractions.
- Eastside Park
- Large open lawns, mature trees, athletic facilities, and walking paths.
- Hosts community events throughout the year.
- Garret Mountain Reservation
- A 568-acre Passaic County park overlooking Paterson.
- Hiking trails, Lambert Castle, picnic areas, fishing, and panoramic views of the New York City skyline.
- Vista Park
- A newer overlook park on the cliffs above the Great Falls.
- Designed for walking, quiet recreation, and spectacular views of the city and waterfall.
- Westside Park
Designed by the Olmsted Brothers. - Mary Ellen Kramer Park
- Lou Costello Park
- Roberto Clemente Park
- Pennington Park
- MLK Park
- Barbour Park
- Buckley Park
- Carnie Bragg Memorial Park
- Otis Cobb Park
- Riverside Oval
- River Walk
- Overlook Park
Recreation
Paterson’s parks provide:
- Baseball and softball fields
- Soccer fields
- Basketball and tennis courts
- Children’s playgrounds
- Walking trails
- Picnic areas
- Swimming facilities
- Community gardens
- Outdoor event spaces
The city’s Recreation Division also offers youth sports, summer camps, swimming programs, senior activities, and seasonal events.