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Wayne is a township of about 54,000 people in Passaic County, New Jersey, roughly 20 miles west of New York City. Once a farming area of Dutch settlers along the Passaic, Pompton and Ramapo rivers, it grew into a large suburb after the Second World War, with lakes, wooded hills and busy commercial corridors along Routes 23 and 46.
Wayne's history is visible at the Dey Mansion, a Georgian brick house that served as George Washington's headquarters in 1780, and at the Van Riper-Hopper House, a Dutch colonial farmhouse that is now a local history museum. Sunnybank, the lakeside estate of author Albert Payson Terhune, famous for his collie stories, is preserved as Terhune Memorial Park.
Outdoors, High Mountain Park Preserve offers rocky trails with views to the Manhattan skyline, and Laurelwood Arboretum is known for its rhododendrons and azaleas. Willowbrook Mall is a major regional shopping destination, and William Paterson University adds art galleries and performances.
A Georgian brick and brownstone mansion built in the mid-1700s, where George Washington made his headquarters in the summer and autumn of 1780. Run by Passaic County, it is furnished in period style and surrounded by gardens and outbuildings. Guided tours explain the Revolutionary War in northern New Jersey.
A township park on the shore of Pompton Lake at Sunnybank, the former estate of author Albert Payson Terhune, whose books about his collie Lad were bestsellers in the 1900s. Paths lead past the gravesites of his beloved dogs and lovely lake views. It is a peaceful stop for book lovers and dog owners.
A Dutch colonial stone farmhouse from the late 1700s that now serves as the Wayne Township history museum, with period rooms, local artifacts and a herb garden. The grounds also include the relocated Mead-Van Duyne House. It offers a glimpse of farm life in the area before suburbs arrived. Check limited hours.
A large preserve of forests, wetlands and rocky ridges shared by Wayne and nearby towns, with marked trails leading to the summit of High Mountain. From the open top, hikers can see the New York City skyline on clear days. The climb is moderate but rocky, so wear proper shoes and carry water.
A woodland garden of about 30 acres with ponds, paths and collections of rhododendrons, azaleas, dogwoods and other flowering trees and shrubs, cared for by volunteers. Late April through early June is the most colorful season. Admission is free, and quiet trails make it a relaxing place for a short walk.
A private lake community in northern Wayne built around a scenic lake, with a dam, beach and clubhouse used by residents. Visitors can enjoy views of the water and the tree-lined streets from public roads, particularly in autumn when the foliage is reflected in the lake. Beaches and docks are for members only.
One of northern New Jersey's major shopping malls, located near the junction of Routes 23 and 46, with department stores such as Macy's, a large range of national retailers and a food court. It is busiest on weekends and in the holiday season, so weekday mornings are the calmest time to shop and park.
The art galleries of William Paterson University, presenting changing exhibitions of contemporary art, works from the university's permanent collection and student shows. The galleries are free and open to the public during the academic year. Combine a visit with a walk around the hilly campus overlooking the valley.
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