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Hackensack

Hackensack, New Jersey, United States

Hackensack, located in the state of New Jersey in the United States, is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty to offer to tourists. Steeped in historical significance, Hackensack was originally inhabited by the L…

#Hackensack#New Jersey#United States#suburban#diverse

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Hackensack.

Top Hotels in Hackensack

Top Flights to Hackensack

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Hackensack.

Tours

Bergen County Cultural Tour

Explore the rich history and cultural heritage sites in Hackensack.

Shopping

The Shops at Riverside

A luxurious indoor shopping center with high-end brands and dining options.

Main Street Hackensack

Stroll through the vibrant Main Street filled with shops, cafes, and local vendors.

Outdoor

Hackensack River Walkway

Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Hackensack River with scenic views and natural surroundings.

Johnson Park

A community park offering sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Hackensack.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
45,000
Languages
English, Spanish, Korean, Tagalog
Average weather
Hackensack
Jan
snow
3°-5°
Feb
snow
5°-4°
Mar
cloud
10°0°
Apr
rain
16°5°
May
cloud
22°11°
Jun
sun
27°16°
Jul
hot
30°20°
Aug
hot
29°19°
Sep
sun
25°15°
Oct
cloud
18°9°
Nov
rain
12°4°
Dec
snow
6°-2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Hackensack.

What people love

Hackensack, located in New Jersey, United States, offers several advantages for travelers:

  1. Proximity to New York City: Hackensack is located just a short drive away from New York City, making it a convenient base for exploring the Big Apple without having to stay in the bustling city itself.

  2. Cultural Diversity: Hackensack is known for its diverse population, which contributes to a rich cultural scene with a variety of restaurants, shops, and events that showcase different traditions and cuisines.

  3. Shopping and Dining: The city offers a range of shopping options, from small boutiques to larger malls, as well as a diverse dining scene with various international cuisines to choose from.

  4. Outdoor Recreation: Hackensack has several parks and recreational areas where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, picnicking, and more.

  5. Historical Sites: The city has a rich history, with several historical sites and landmarks that offer insights into its past, including the Bergen County Courthouse and the New Jersey Naval Museum.

Overall, traveling to Hackensack provides a unique blend of urban amenities, cultural diversity, and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a worthwhile destination for visitors looking to explore New Jersey and its surrounding areas.

What to know

Hackensack, New Jersey is a bustling city with a lot to offer, but like any destination, it does have some drawbacks. Some potential cons of traveling to Hackensack include:

  1. Traffic congestion: Hackensack is located in the densely populated Bergen County, which can lead to heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. Navigating through traffic can be frustrating and time-consuming.

  2. Limited public transportation options: While there are bus and train services available in the area, public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities. This could make getting around the city and surrounding areas more challenging for visitors who rely on public transportation.

  3. Higher cost of living: Hackensack is part of the New York metropolitan area, which means that the cost of living can be relatively high. Visitors may find that accommodations, dining, and other expenses are more expensive compared to other areas in New Jersey.

  4. Lack of major tourist attractions: While Hackensack has its own charm and local attractions, it may not have as many major tourist attractions or landmarks as other cities in New Jersey or neighboring New York City. Visitors looking for a wide variety of tourist activities may find Hackensack lacking in this aspect.

  5. Limited nightlife options: Hackensack may not have as vibrant nightlife scene compared to larger cities, which could be a drawback for visitors looking for a lively entertainment scene.

Overall, while Hackensack has its own unique appeal and attractions, visitors should be aware of these potential drawbacks before planning their trip to the city.

Hackensack, New Jersey, has a rich and varied history that dates back to its early settlement in the 17th century. Here is a detailed overview:

Early History

  • Indigenous Roots: Before European settlement, the area now known as Hackensack was inhabited by the Lenape people, who referred to the area as "Ackingsah-sack," meaning “stony ground.”
  • European Settlement: Dutch settlers established the area in the 1660s, initially referring to it as "Bergen County" under the jurisdiction of New Netherland. The area was later renamed "Hackensack" after the creek that runs through it, derived from the Lenape name.

Colonial and Revolutionary War Era

  • 1710: The Reformed Dutch Church of Hackensack was founded, serving as a central place of worship and community gathering.
  • Revolutionary War: Hackensack played a role in the American Revolutionary War. Notably, General George Washington and his troops retreated through Hackensack in November 1776, following the fall of Fort Lee.

Post-Revolutionary Development

  • County Seat: Hackensack became the county seat of Bergen County in 1710, which encouraged economic and population growth.
  • 19th Century: The city continued to grow with the development of the railroad in the 1850s, which connected Hackensack to other key economic areas.

20th Century

  • Population Growth: The early 20th century saw a population boom, leading to urban development and modernization of infrastructure.
  • World War II: Hackensack, like many American cities, contributed to the war effort through local industries and volunteer activities.

Significant Historical Figures

  • Richard Varick: Born in Hackensack, he served as an aide to General George Washington and later became the Mayor of New York City.
  • William Alexander “Lord Stirling”: A prominent figure in the Continental Army during the American Revolution, he had strong ties to the area.

Important Landmarks

  • Bergen County Court House: An iconic neoclassical building, it serves as a focal point of Hackensack's judicial and historical presence.
  • The First Dutch Reformed Church: One of the oldest churches in Bergen County, it holds historical significance for its role during the Revolutionary War.
  • New Jersey Naval Museum: Although closed since 2012, it was home to the USS Ling, a World War II submarine, and served as an important historical exhibit.

Modern Era

  • Diverse Community: Hackensack has grown into a diverse and vibrant community, with a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural developments.
  • Urban Revitalization: Recent years have seen efforts to revitalize the downtown area, with new housing developments, shopping areas, and cultural attractions.

Hackensack's history is reflective of broader American historical trends, from colonial times through industrialization, and into the modern era. Its historical landmarks and contributions continue to be a point of pride for its residents.