Englewood, New Jersey is a vibrant and diverse city located in Bergen County, just a stone's throw away from the bustling metropolis of New York City. With a population of approximately 27,000 people, Englewood is a thriving community that offers a unique blend of urban living and small-town charm.
One of the defining features of Englewood is its rich cultural diversity. The city is home to a variety of ethnic and religious communities, including large Italian, Hispanic, and Jewish populations. This diversity is reflected in the city's many cultural institutions, such as the Bergen Performing Arts Center, which hosts a wide range of performances throughout the year, from classical music to Broadway shows.
Englewood is also known for its vibrant food scene. The city boasts a wide variety of restaurants, from authentic Italian trattorias to cozy cafes and trendy bistros. Some local favorites include Ariane Kitchen & Bar, which offers contemporary American cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, and Sambuca, a popular Italian restaurant that has been serving up classic dishes for over two decades.
For those who love the outdoors, Englewood has plenty to offer as well. The city is home to several beautiful parks and gardens, including Mackay Park, a 45-acre oasis of green space that features walking paths, a lake, and a skate park. Visitors can also take a stroll through the Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, a 150-acre preserve that is home to a variety of plant and animal species.
Englewood is steeped in history, with several historic sites and landmarks scattered throughout the city. One of the most notable is the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, which preserves the estate of the famous inventor and entrepreneur. Visitors can tour Edison's home and laboratory, where he conducted many of his groundbreaking experiments in electricity and sound recording.
Another important historical landmark is the Englewood Baptist Church, which was founded in 1859 and is one of the oldest African American churches in the state of New Jersey. The church has played a significant role in the city's civil rights movement and remains an important center of community life today.
Finally, Englewood is home to several special events throughout the year, including the Englewood Grand Prix, an annual cycling race that attracts thousands of spectators, and the Englewood Farmers' Market, a weekly event that features fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.
Overall, Englewood is a unique and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. With its rich cultural diversity, thriving food scene, beautiful parks and gardens, and historic landmarks, Englewood is a truly special place to live, work, and visit.