Understand

Paterson, NJ, the nation's first planned industrial city, was established in 1791. Its success as an industrial leader was attributed to the powerful Paterson falls, which provided energy for numerous industries. During the mid-1800s, Paterson earned the nickname "silk city" for its dominant role in silk production. However, the city began experiencing a decline in the 1960s and 1970s. Many industries moved to the Midwest, while African Americans migrated to Paterson in search of employment. The declining economy led to a significant number of residents leaving the city. Additionally, the opening of malls in nearby Paramus and Wayne further impacted Paterson's downtown shopping district. Despite these challenges, Paterson remains a city with great diversity and numerous attractions. It is home to a vibrant Hispanic community, along with African Americans, Italian Americans, and Arabs. Visitors can explore various parks, try out different ethnic cuisines, go shopping, hang out, and immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural heritage.

Get in

Attention explorers! Paterson is calling your name and it's easier to reach than you think. Hop onto Route 80 or Route 4 in New Jersey and let the excitement begin. The Main Line run by NJ Transit has a stop in Paterson, providing a seamless connection. Additionally, various bus and jitney lines connect Paterson to the concrete jungle of NYC, offering a direct link to the bustling city. Whether you're craving urban adventures or peaceful nature escapades, Paterson has it all!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing