A Guide to Public Transportation in Ridgewood, NJ

Nestled in the heart of Bergen County, Ridgewood, NJ, is a picturesque village known for its vibrant community, beautiful parks, and bustling downtown area. While it might seem like a small, quiet town at first glance, Ridgewood is remarkably well-connected, making it an attractive place for commuters and visitors alike. This guide aims to explore the various public transportation options available in Ridgewood, providing residents and tourists with all the information they need to navigate the area efficiently.

The Ridgewood NJ Transit station, located centrally in the village, is a primary hub for commuters looking to travel into New York City and other parts of New Jersey. The station is part of the Main Line and Bergen County Line, offering direct and convenient services to Hoboken Terminal, where passengers can transfer to PATH trains for lower Manhattan or take NJ Transit trains to Penn Station in midtown Manhattan. The journey to New York City takes about an hour, making it an ideal option for daily commuters.

In addition to New York City access, the train lines connect Ridgewood to other major NJ cities like Newark, allowing for easy travel within the state. The station itself is equipped with amenities such as ticket vending machines, waiting areas, and parking facilities, though it's worth noting that parking can be competitive during peak hours.

For those looking to travel by bus, Ridgewood offers several NJ Transit bus routes that connect the village to various destinations across Bergen County and into New York City. The most popular routes include the 163 and 164 buses to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Manhattan, providing another convenient option for NYC commuters. Additionally, local bus routes such as the 175, 746, and 752 lines serve to connect Ridgewood to neighboring towns and cities, including Paramus with its extensive shopping malls and Hackensack, the county seat.

Bus stops are strategically located throughout the village, making it easy to access public transportation from different neighborhoods. Buses are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making for a comfortable travel experience.

Ridgewood prides itself on being a walkable and bike-friendly community. Many residents choose to cycle or walk to the train station or bus stops, taking advantage of the village's safe and well-maintained sidewalks and bike lanes. For those looking for an eco-friendly alternative to driving or public transit, this is an excellent option. Bike racks are available at the train station, and the village's compact size makes it feasible to walk to many local destinations.

For those needing to cover the "last mile" from public transit stops to their final destination, Ridgewood offers several ride-sharing and taxi services. Companies like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, providing convenient and efficient travel options directly from your smartphone. Local taxi services are also available, with ranks located at the train station and key points throughout the village.

Ridgewood's public transportation network is designed with accessibility in mind. NJ Transit trains and buses are equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities, featuring wheelchair lifts and other amenities to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride. Real-time travel information is available through NJ Transit's website and mobile app, allowing passengers to plan their journeys with up-to-date schedules, fare information, and service notifications.

Plan Ahead: Use NJ Transit's trip planner or mobile apps like Google Maps to plan your journey and check schedules in advance.

Purchase Tickets in Advance: Save time by buying your train or bus tickets before your trip using NJ Transit's mobile app or vending machines located at the train station.

Consider Off-Peak Travel: If your schedule allows, traveling during off-peak hours can save you money and offer a more relaxed journey.

Explore Multi-Use Tickets: For regular commuters, monthly passes or discount ticket bundles can provide significant savings.

Stay Informed: Sign up for NJ Transit alerts or follow them on social media for the latest updates on service changes, delays, and other important information.

Ridgewood, NJ, may be a small village, but its well-developed public transportation system connects residents and visitors to the wider New York metropolitan area and beyond with ease. Whether you prefer the convenience of trains, the flexibility of buses, or the sustainability of walking and cycling, Ridgewood offers a range of options to meet your travel needs. By taking advantage of these public transportation services, you can enjoy all that Ridgewood and the surrounding region have to offer, without the hassle of driving and parking.

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