Samantha Impaglia 
With Bergen County featuring 70 different municipalities, there is a lot of ground to cover in our area. This week, we’re heading over to the small and charming town of Carlstadt — which spans about four square miles and houses a little over 6,000 residents. While Carlstadt is on the smaller side of towns here in Bergen County, there is still so much to explore, and we’ve rounded up seven locations that are worth a visit when you’re in the area. From eclectic Mexican restaurants to riverfront parks, read on for a list of seven must-visit spots in Carlstadt, New Jersey.
^ La Fortaleza
Astrology Psychic Boutique | 317 Hackensack Street
Astrology Psychic Boutique is a women-owned spot providing astrology readings, crystal healings, chakra realignments, energy readings, meditation sessions, the reuniting of twin flames/lovers, spiritual reiki, LB energy activations, and Ley Lines readings. The owner believes that all people have the power to improve their lives, and gives clients the energy to do so. They describe the spot as a place for “spiritual healing that will help you live a happier and healthier life,” per the website. Browse all of the offerings here.
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Bolero Snort Brewery + Tasting Room | 316 20th Street
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Founded in 2013 by Bob Olson but only opening a full-blown production brewery in the Meadowlands in 2019, Bolero Snort Brewery + Tasting Room has been a long time coming. This 30-barrel American-made brewhouse spans about 16,000-square-feet, which allows the spot to host a variety of different events, all while making a wide variety of beer. From the Jersey Sarcasm American Lager and Bolero Park Imperial IPA to more unique brews such as the Strawberry Vanilla Bullsicle Milkshake IPA and Picklebuck Drive By Sour Ale, Bolero Snort has something for everyone — whether you are a classic beer drinker or up for something more adventurous. View the full rotating menu of drinks on the website.
Carlstadt Firehouse Museum | 503 6th Street
Run by the Carlstadt Historical Society, Carlstadt Firehouse Museum is full of written documents, archival photographs, news articles, clothing, and more items that highlight the town’s history in Bergen County. Per the website, the museum houses things like 1930s-era school pennants, a vintage breathalyzer used by the police department, early 20th century uniforms, and much more. Whether its exploring the story of the hidden caves of Carlstadt or learning more about the early history of the town since its inception in the late 1800s, this spot is worth a visit.
Il Villaggio | 651 NJ-17 North
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Il Villaggio is an upscale Italian restaurant right off Route 17. The dark red chairs, white tablecloths, and warm hues throughout give the space an elegant and romantic feel, and the food is top-notch as well. The menu features a selection of authentic Italian fare, including everything from clams casino and pasta fagioli to penne vodka, pork chops, Chilean sea bass, and chicken parm. Il Villaggio is also the ideal spot for weddings, banquets, and other private events, with several separate dining areas, a full bar, and a grand entrance that adds to the high-end vibes of the space.
La Fortaleza Carlstadt | 335 Paterson Plank Road
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It’s hard not to notice La Fortaleza when venturing down Paterson Plank Road. The brightly-colored yellow, purple, and green building adorned with multicolored lights draws you right in upon arriving, and inside is just as eclectic. The interior of the authentic Mexican restaurant is full of neon colors and festive decor that will leave you feeling like you’ve just been transported to another world. On the menu, you’ll find the usual Mexican fare including several types of tacos, flautas, nachos, chimichangas, taco salad served with a crispy tortilla bowl, fajitas, and much more. There’s also featured items like a birria sandwich and quesadilla, and chocolate caramel churros. Aside from the Carlstadt restaurant, La Fortaleza has three other locations in Clifton, Lodi, and Poughkeepsie, New York.
River Barge Park | 260 Outwater Lane
Spanning 5.5 acres along the Hackensack River, River Barge Park was formerly a seaplane base during World War II. The spot has changed several times over the years — after the location trained airmen in the 1940s, it was transformed into a restaurant called Barge Club in the 1970s before becoming River Barge Park in 2008. Aside from enjoying riverfront views, the park has several activities to choose from — and summer is the ideal time to try them out. There’s a boat ramp and kayak launch, fishing dock, and picnic tables, with boat tours available from NJSEA Pontoon Boat Tours. The two-hour excursions are both a history lesson about the Meadowlands and a birdwatching session, with hundreds of species to look out for.
See More: 16 Fun Spots to Visit in Morristown, New Jersey
Segovia Meson | 645 Washington Avenue
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Located on the East side of town is Segovia Meson — a Spanish tapas bar. The inside has a cozy and intimate feel, with a full bar serving up specialty cocktails, Spanish drinks, homemade sangria, wine, and more. The spot is open for lunch and dinner, featuring a mix of authentic Spanish cuisine and tapas. The menu features a wide selection of seafood dishes — including steamed or broiled live lobsters — as well as steak, chicken, veal, and more. On the tapas side, consider trying the beef empanadas, stuffed mushroom caps, Spanish sausage, or 100% Iberico De Bellota Ham, among other dishes.
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