Wayne, New Jersey, dates back to the mid 19th century. Home to almost 55,000 people, according to data from the 2000 U.S. Census, Wayne still retains a bit of its small-town feel, despite its proximity to New York City. Both ends of the leisure activities spectrum are covered in Wayne, notable not only for its shopping malls but also for the High Mountain Park Preserve. There are plenty of things to do in in this city, from outdoors activities of all sorts to pursuits that are more urban, such as fine dining, museums and performing arts.
The Schuyler-Colfax Historic House Museum is one of three house museums owned by the Wayne Township Parks and Recreation Department. Constructed in the late 17th century, this is colonial house is the oldest in the city. The stone Dutch Colonial mid-18th century Mead-Van Duyne house and the Van Riper-Hopper house, a late 18th-century Dutch colonial, are the two other house museums. With period furniture, assorted artifacts, and historic gardens, these carefully restored homes offer a glimpse into the daily life of historic Wayne. Guided tours are available by appointment.
Historic House Museums
Wayne Township Parks and Recreation Department
475 Valley Road
Wayne, New Jersey 07470
973-694-7192
waynetownship.com
Located near major shopping malls, Positano Restaurant offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere outside the hustle of the city Specializing in a cuisine influenced by southern Italian traditions and flavors, Positano offers a selection of entrees that balance traditional Italian selections with modern interpretations of standard fare. Creative salads add flourish to the menu, with a standout choice being the Apple Salad. Sandwiches and pizzas are also available, as are traditional Italian desserts. Customer reviews, in addition to mentioning the attentive and helpful staff, comment on the quality of the food, as well as the generous portions that offer a good value for price.
Positano Restaurant
254 Berdan Ave.
Wayne, NJ, 07470
973-628-6863
positanorestaurant.com
This preserve was created in 1993, serving to ensure that this area, the largest wooded area in the metropolitan New York City area, remains open and able to be enjoyed for generations to come. Hiking trails take visitors past rare and endangered plant species, such as narrow-leaved vervain, hazel dodder, Torrey's mountain mint, and basil-leaved mountain mint. There are almost 400 species of plants protected by the preserve, and there is also evidence of pre-civilization dwellings. Hikers choosing to venture to the top of High Mountain will enjoy a clear view of New York City.
High Mountain Park Preserve
Parking Lot #6 at William Paterson University
300 Pompton Road
Wayne, New Jersey 07470
waynetownship.com/env-nat.htm
