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Passaic County, NJ (shown in white) has 186.13 mi² of land area and 12.35 mi² of water resources. The county is bordered by:
The county's elevations range from a low of 39.4' to a high of 1,400.9', with a weighted average of 598.3' above sea level.
Temperatures range from average lows around 20.9°F to average highs around 84.8°F. A year-round daily temperature averages 51.9°F. Average annual precipation is 51.6". With these temperatures and precipation, the majority of the county scores as an 6B using the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (the standard by which gardeners and growers can determine which perennial plants are most likely to thrive in a location).
The estimated population of Passaic County is 525,144 with 177,519 households. These households are spread across 24 unique municipalties (not all shown).
What follows is a brief decription of the major municipality in this county:
Founded in 1792 by Alexander Hamilton, Paterson quickly became a leading industrial powerhouse, particularly in the silk industry during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Great Falls of the Passaic River powered early mills and factories, earning Paterson its nickname "Silk City." Today, the Great Falls National Historical Park preserves this natural wonder and commemorates Paterson's industrial heritage with exhibits, walking trails, and scenic overlooks.
Paterson's neighborhoods, each with a distinct character and community, reflect its cultural diversity. The city's vibrant Latino, African American, and Middle Eastern communities contribute to its rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and cuisines. Market Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, restaurants, and businesses that showcase the city's diversity and entrepreneurial spirit.
The Paterson Museum offers insight into the city's industrial past and heritage through its exhibits on silk production, locomotive manufacturing, and the diverse immigrant communities that have shaped Paterson's history. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays highlighting the city's contributions to American industry and culture.
Art and creativity thrive in Paterson, with numerous galleries, studios, and performance spaces showcasing the work of local artists and performers. The Art Factory, housed in a historic industrial complex, is a hub of artistic activity, featuring artist studios, galleries, and event spaces that host exhibitions, workshops, and performances throughout the year.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Paterson offers recreation and relaxation opportunities in its parks and green spaces. Eastside Park, the city's largest park, features walking paths, playgrounds, and sports facilities, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Passaic River offers kayaking and fishing, while Garret Mountain Reservation, located just outside the city, provides hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Paterson's culinary scene reflects its diverse population, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries serving authentic cuisine from around the world. From traditional Middle Eastern dishes to Latin American flavors and soul food classics, there's something to satisfy every palate in Paterson.
Despite its challenges, Paterson is a city with resilience and potential, where community pride and cultural heritage are celebrated. Through initiatives aimed at revitalizing its downtown, preserving its historic landmarks, and supporting its local businesses and artistic community, Paterson continues to evolve and thrive as a vibrant urban center with a rich past and a promising future.
