Hackensack City Guide

Food options include diners, pizza, and diverse ethnic restaurants such as Italian, Korean, and Latin American. Vegetarian and vegan choices are common. Late-night diners and fast food are available.

Nightlife is low-key with local bars and sports pubs, less busy than NYC.

Local cafes and chains like Starbucks and Dunkin' offer quality coffee but no major specialty scene.

Tipping is expected in the US. 15-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for rides and service workers.

SIM cards are sold at carrier stores like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile, plus retailers like Best Buy. eSIM is supported for compatible phones.

Streets are generally clean with regular waste collection and recycling programs.

Some CVS and Walgreens have 24-hour service. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven are open 24/7. Urgent care centers have extended hours, but full 24/7 clinics are rare.

Supermarkets offer international products, especially in specialty ethnic stores. Main stores include ShopRite, Stop & Shop, and nearby Whole Foods. Most are open 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM.

Card payments are accepted at most places. Cash is still used but less preferred.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Out-of-network ATM fees usually range from $2.50 to $5 plus your bank's charges.

Hackensack Public Schools cover elementary through high school, mainly in English. Enrollment depends on residency and grade level.

Hackensack has limited nomad community. Better options found in NYC or nearby towns.

Parks like Foschini and Johnson offer open space and recreation. The Hackensack River Greenway is good for walking.

Parks and river trails are good for running with generally safe routes.

Gyms include chains and local fitness centers.

Public courts in parks like Foschini Park; booking varies.

Padel courts are rare in Hackensack; found in other New Jersey areas.

Local yoga studios offer classes with English-speaking instructors.

Various dojos offer BJJ, Karate, Taekwondo, and Boxing with drop-in classes.

Mountain Creek Resort is about an hour away with slopes for all levels from December to March.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on local rivers and lakes.

Surfing is available on the Jersey Shore, 1.5-2 hours away, with seasonal conditions.

Scuba diving requires boat trips off the New Jersey coast; not available locally.

Hackensack University Medical Center offers quality care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common, many with drive-thru and basic advice.

Tap water meets federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

Several parks and playgrounds like Foschini Park are good for kids. Baby supplies are easy to find. Nearby Bergen County Zoo is a popular attraction.

High acceptance and legal protections. More events in nearby larger cities.

Many parks allow leashed dogs. Veterinary services and pet parks are available.