Getting Around Ridgewood: Walkability, Public Transit & Biking

Ridgewood has a very walkable downtown area with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Many errands can be accomplished on foot, especially if you're located near the downtown area. The presence of amenities like Whole Foods, local parks, and the Ridgewood Public Library further enhances walkability. The downtown area is centered around the train station, making it convenient to access. Sidewalks are well-maintained and the layout encourages pedestrian activity. While residential areas further from the center might require some form of transport, for a temporary stay focusing on the downtown core, walkability is excellent.

Ridgewood features solid public transportation options, particularly with its NJ Transit station offering direct train services to Hoboken and connections to New York City. There are also several NJ Transit bus routes, such as the 163 and 164, that link Ridgewood to Manhattan and other parts of Bergen County. The transit system is well-equipped with relevant facilities like ticket vending machines and convenient waiting areas. While it serves commuters well, the frequency and reach may be limited for extensive travel within and around the town.

Ridgewood is moderately bikeable, offering some bike-friendly routes that help cyclists explore the village. The area is fairly compact and has been making efforts to improve its bicycle network, prioritizing the creation of bike lanes. However, cyclists may encounter obstacles like street parking, and existing bike paths may not be as extensive or connected as in more urban areas. Despite limitations, biking can be a viable option for explorers keen on circumventing the main town region.