Totowa offers a calm and quiet neighborhood with minimal street noise and a peaceful atmosphere. It features numerous dining options and cafes, especially along Chamberlain Avenue, providing convenient choices for meals and socializing. Shopping is within easy reach, with a variety of clothing stores nearby. The area’s accessibility is enhanced by a network of bus lines and proximity to highways, allowing straightforward travel by vehicle. Cycling infrastructure supports those preferring bicycle commuting. Several well-positioned green spaces, including the nearby Paterson Great Falls, provide excellent outdoor spots for relaxation. The neighborhood mainly consists of two- and three-bedroom duplexes and homes, offering diverse housing types.
Totowa offers a slower-paced environment and will appeal to home buyers who enjoy spending time outdoors. Public green spaces, including Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park and Pennington Park, are very well-situated and there are about 20 of them close by for residents to explore, which makes it easy to get to them. The noise levels in this neighborhood are also reasonably low, as the streets are usually quite peaceful.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Located on Totowa Avenue, Westside Park is a sprawling green space that serves as Hillcrest's community hub for outdoor recreation, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and scenic walking paths amid mature trees and peaceful picnic areas.
Situated on Woodruff Avenue, School 27 is a prominent elementary school serving Hillcrest families and is known for its dedicated staff and active PTO, forming a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s educational and community life.
Stretching along Union Avenue, residents enjoy a vibrant strip of local eateries—ranging from classic pizzerias to Latin American and Middle Eastern cuisine—making this a go-to spot for diverse dining close to home.
This convenient shopping plaza on Union Avenue features a variety of stores and services including grocery, pharmacy, and local businesses, providing essential shopping options right within the neighborhood.
Running adjacent to Westside Park, this scenic walking and biking trail traces the historic route of the Morris Canal, offering Hillcrest residents a unique slice of local history alongside opportunities for outdoor exercise and exploration.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This neighborhood drive at Lou Costello Park gives Hillcrest residents a convenient way to support local families while spending time in a nearby Paterson park. It is especially suitable for residents looking for a community-focused Saturday activity close to home and accessible to families.
View event details →Residents can join a major local parish milestone at St. Therese Church, a short trip from Hillcrest in Paterson. The anniversary feast offers an opportunity to enjoy community fellowship, celebrate neighborhood religious history, and connect with local families during an October Sunday gathering.
View event details →This free children’s program at Presidential Park is a practical, family-friendly option for Hillcrest households seeking an affordable October activity. Kids can participate in organized programming while parents meet other local families and enjoy time outdoors in a Paterson park.
View event details →Held near Paterson’s iconic Great Falls, this afternoon festival is an easy local outing for Hillcrest residents. The park setting makes it appealing for families, visitors, and anyone wanting a relaxed community event combined with the chance to enjoy one of the city’s signature landmarks.
View event details →The repeat Fan Festival provides another nearby weekend opportunity for Hillcrest residents who cannot attend earlier in the month. Its Great Falls location is convenient for a short local trip, and the afternoon schedule works well for families planning an October outing without traveling far from Paterson.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Hillcrest
Local characteristics and demographics for Hillcrest
