It’s always a great time to enhance DIY skills and explore exciting new creative hobbies. A DIY class can be the proper source of inspiration, whether for starting a new hobby or finding a creative outlet. These classes bring vibrant materials and lively conversation, creating a fun and fulfilling experience. Bergen County has a variety of engaging DIY activities and classes. From pottery and cooking to embroidery and unique creative experiences, here are 17 must-visit DIY destinations in Bergen County to spark creativity.
Bayou of Saddle River | 4 Barnstable Court Building 4, Saddle River
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Bayou is a charming hideaway with workshops in knitting, crocheting, and junk journaling. The cozy atmosphere creates an appropriate ambiance for unwinding while learning something new. Bayou has events that cater to all ages.
Read More: 20 Creative Date Ideas in Bergen County, New Jersey
Board + Brush | 119 East Main Street, Ramsey
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At Board and Brush Studios, one can create personalized wooden signs that tap into those inner “Pinterest goals” moments. Whether going solo or booking a private group session, the DIY kits and in-person classes make it easy to craft trendy, custom home decor. Board and Brush caters to all ages. For kids under 16, there are private parties available. As for regular BYOB workshops, just remember — 21+.
Brushes + Berries | 491 South Washington Avenue, Bergenfield
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At Brushes + Berries, one can enjoy an evening of wine and painting. This relaxed, BYOB gathering invites art enthusiasts who are 21+ and of all skill levels to express their creativity in a relaxed setting.
Clay Ground Pottery Studio | 61 Grand Avenue 2nd Floor, Englewood
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At Clay Ground Pottery Studio, pottery can be practiced at any age or skill level, from beginner to advanced. Crafting original pieces provides a special sense of achievement and the joy of creating something entirely from scratch.
Clay Paper Scissors | 380 Kinderkamack Road, Oradell
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This spot is all about hands-on fun, with crafting events suitable for kids and adults alike. Clay Paper Scissors delivers innovative touches and messy fun from birthday parties to private gatherings.
Color Me Mine | 210 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood
At Color Me Mine, ceramic painting provides a chance to create personalized pieces that reflect any style. Customers of all ages can select a ceramic item, choose colors, and bring their vision to life — no experience needed.
The Crafty Kit | 10 Charles Street Front Office Unit 2, Westwood
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This Latina-owned business specializes in stylish DIY crafting. The Resin Art Seascape Frame Workshop provides the chance to create a beach-inspired masterpiece using unique resin techniques. Since the classes are more sophisticated, they’re better suited for adults and less ideal for kids.
Embroidery Babes | Various Locations
Embroidery is a trending hobby, and Michelle of Embroidery Babes hosts classes and workshops that make it easy to get in on the crazy. Participants can learn to stitch custom designs on clothing and accessories at workshops hosted in local venues — or have a private session.
The Flavor Labs | 514 Livingston Street, Norwood
The Flavor Labs has hands-on cooking classes for kids and adults, focusing on food education and sustainability. BG is a big fan of the Private Mixology Event, which teaches bartending skills and the creation of signature cocktails.
From Scratch Ridgewood Cooking Class | 44 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood
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At From Scratch, Chef Claudia Rovegno leads intimate cooking classes. With small groups of 6 to 14 participants and a BYOB setup, it’s the foolproof way for adults over 21 to level up those cooking skills while sipping on some bubbly.
Krafty Lab | 7-09 Campbell Road, Fair Lawn
Krafty Lab has soap-making, candle crafting, and coffee-tasting workshops — ideal for adults connecting with coworkers or gathering the crew for a fun night out.
Mudspinners | 580 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood
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Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned ceramicist, Mudspinners has a class to try. Ceramic artist Kathy founded the studio, which provides private and group lessons, children’s classes, and team-building events, making it suitable for all ages.
Petal Parties | Various Locations
Calling all flower enthusiasts. Petal Parties hosts bouquet and centerpiece-making workshops around Bergen County. These adult-friendly workshops are the proper touch for a bachelorette party, baby shower, or any family event that needs a little decorative fun. Follow on Instagram for updates.
Song Clay | 175 Fair Street, Palisades Park
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Led by Taesik Song, this pottery studio welcomes creatives ages 15 and up. With classes held every Tuesday and Wednesday, covering everything from shaping to firing, Song Clay provides a great opportunity to explore the art of ceramics.
Sunshine Pottery + Paint | 260 Grand Avenue, Englewood
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This lively studio, which caters to children and adults, features pottery painting, mosaics, canvas art, and more. A must-try event is the Glow Party, a glow-in-the-dark canvas painting event.
Tobang Ceramic Studio | 1224 Anderson Avenue, Fort Lee
Led by ceramic sculptor Agnes Kang, Tobang Art Studio is an ideal place to explore creativity. With private lessons for kids and adults alike, plus studio space available, it provides a relaxed environment for crafting unique ceramic pieces.
See More: 14 DIY Activities to Try in Hoboken + Jersey City
Yellow Door Art Studio | 24 Booker Street, Westwood
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Yellow Door Art Studio provides art and sensory play experiences, plus seasonal workshops and summer camps for children. Whether looking to explore a new hobby for your child or just wanting them to unwind with some creative time, this spot has parents covered.
Exploring the Charming Village of Ridgewood, NJ
No matter the weather, exploring a new area always brings a refreshing sense of adventure. Ridgewood, an appealing village in Bergen County just 20 miles outside of Manhattan, presents an abundance of activities within its 5.8 square miles. Ridgewood’s diverse culinary scene, stylish boutiques, and inviting coffee shops provide endless opportunities for dazzling Instagram content + a fun-filled day. Keep reading to dive into the charm of Ridgewood, a picturesque village in Bergen County, NJ.
Learn a Bit About Ridgewood’s Roots
Nestled in the heart of Bergen County, Ridgewood is a vibrant suburban town and a place bathed in history. The European settlement of Ridgewood commenced in the late 1600s when Dutch and English colonists first arrived. The area’s fertile soil and abundant natural resources made it an attractive location for agriculture, leading to rapid growth as a robust farming community.
Throughout the 19th century, Ridgewood transitioned from primarily agricultural roots to a lively community characterized by new businesses, educational establishments, and places of worship. One architectural gem from this era is the Ridgewood Train Station, built in 1916, which remains an iconic landmark and continues to function as a vital transportation hub for commuters daily.
Ridgewood continues to flourish today, drawing in new residents and businesses and maintaining its status as a desirable family community.
Read More: Bergen County History: The Oldest Homes Still Standing Today
Best Spots to Grab a Bite
Baumgart’s Cafe | 158 Franklin Avenue
A cherished name for many Bergen County locals, Baumgart’s in Ridgewood has stood firm while its Englewood and Edgewater locations closed. This Chinese eatery offers delightful dishes, including crispy sesame chicken and savory peanut noodles.
Cafe 37 | 37 South Broad Street
Cafe 37 stands out in Ridgewood with its charming interior. This modern American restaurant presents a menu filled with flavorful options, but the Fettuccine Frutti di Mare is the star—a pasta dish featuring blue prawns, calamari, fresh PEI mussels, and a tantalizing white wine and fresh tomato sauce.
Felina | 18 Prospect Street
Felina entertains guests with its spacious, industrial-chic atmosphere, seamlessly blending sleek design with Italian-inspired cuisine. While many seek a remarkable dinner or rooftop drinks during the summer, Felina is also a stunning venue for weddings.
From Scratch | 44 East Ridgewood Avenue
From Scratch brings a slice of Italy to New Jersey with a menu teeming with authentic Italian dishes like cacio e pepe and carbonara. Additionally, this location offers cooking classes, an entertaining choice for a fun night out or intimate private events.
Latour | 6 East Ridgewood Avenue
This classy BYOB French restaurant is an ideal choice for a romantic evening. The menu leans towards the upscale side, and the $54 Beef Wellington is a must-try. Latour and its chef-owner Michael Latours have been recognized by local, national, and international publications, including The New York Times and Zagat.
Raymonds | 101 East Ridgewood Avenue
Having served the community since 1989, Raymond’s continues to satisfy guests. Whether stopping for breakfast, lunch, brunch, or dinner, the notable French toast is a must-try — it literally melts in your mouth.
Roots Steakhouse | 17 Chestnut Street
Roots stands as the peak of grace for a night out. With a sophisticated ambiance, this classic New York-style steakhouse justifies its cost with sizzling steaks and an upscale vibe.
Sushi X | 23 Chestnut Street
Experiencing all-you-can-eat sushi brings excitement, especially in a group setting with friends + family. Sushi X presents a great deal — $28.99 from Monday to Thursday and $30.99 from Friday to Sunday — with high-quality rolls and cool variations.
Steel Wheel Tavern | 51 North Broad Street
A beloved go-to for locals throughout Bergen County, Steel Wheel Tavern serves up delectable bar food staples like burgers and wings, with buffalo style being a top pick (ask for a side of ranch—because obviously). The bonus here is the live music on weekends, which contributes to its fun atmosphere.
Stella Artisan Italian | 18 East Ridgewood Avenue
Stella Artisan, founded in 2016, sits cozily in downtown Ridgewood, providing a dining experience ideal for a casual evening out. This spot is especially delightful during warmer months with outdoor dining.
White Maple Cafe | 47 East Ridgewood Avenue
This stylish BYO spot specializes in American cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients sourced locally + sustainably. Whether for brunch or dinner, diners can expect incredibly fresh food.
Local Shopping Hotspots
Bookends | 211 East Ridgewood Avenue
A beloved destination attracting visitors from across New Jersey, Bookends has an impressive selection of novels and hosts regular author meet-and-greet events.
Envy By Melissa Gorga | 7 East Ridgewood Avenue
This stylish shop in Ridgewood is a must-visit for fans of Bravo (including us here at team BG). With a trendy assortment of clothing and accessories, Envy provides customers with a chic shopping experience.
Fox’s of Ridgewood | 230 East Ridgewood Avenue
Fox’s has clothing, jewelry, handbags, hats, and other accessories at reasonable prices, catering to various budgets.
The Hive | 171 East Ridgewood Avenue
The Hive is a beautifully organized store that has both stylish clothing + excellent gift options, including socks, wine glasses, and adorable knick-knacks.
Hustle + Heart | 12 South Broad Street
Catering to both men and women, Hustle + Heart specializes in trendy athletic wear, making it a favorite for those seeking quality + new designs.
Hunt + Orchard | 30 Cottage Place
This gem in Ridgewood has fashionable clothing options and provides customization on select merchandise, ideal for personalized gifts like embroidered names on sweatshirts or hats.
Pazzazed | 6 Wilsey Square
A great spot for finding gifts, Pazzazed features a varied collection that includes quirky wine glasses, coasters, bags, and stylish signs.
Ridgewood Cycle Shop | 35 North Broad Street
With cycling being popular in Bergen County, Ridgewood Cycle Shop serves the dedicated cycling community, providing a variety of bikes, apparel, and essential accessories for a smooth ride.
Suite 201 | 11 South Walnut Street
Suite 201 offers the cutest shoes, dresses, and resort wear, making it ideal for vacationers and anyone updating their closets.
Things to Do in the Area
Take a Class at Color Me Mine | 210 East Ridgewood Avenue
Color Me Mine is a ceramic painting studio that invites creativity from people of all ages. The process is simple: choose a ceramic item, select colors, and bring your vision to life.
Take a Class at MudSpinners | 580 North Maple Avenue
MudSpinners is a home-based ceramic studio in Ridgewood providing a variety of classes for everyone, from children to adults. Options include private one-on-one sessions and “Mud and Merlot” nights, where participants can bring wine, food, and friends for a fun and crafty evening.
Join a Pilates Workout
On Core Pilates Studio | 555 Goffle Road #218
GLOW Body LLC | 17 Chestnut Street 2nd floor
Corefire | 144 East Ridgewood Avenue
Pilates is an excellent low-impact workout, and many studios in Ridgewood have classes. Notable locations include On Core Pilates Studio, GLOW Body LLC, and Corefire.
Enjoy a Cup of Coffee at a Local Ridgewood Coffee Shop
Rey Sol Coffee | 22 Chestnut Street
Blue Ridge Café | 37 East Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood Coffee Company | 133 East Ridgewood Avenue
American Bulldog Coffee Roasters | Between Franklin + East, 31 North Broad Street, West Ridgewood Avenue
Ridgewood Station Café | 1 East Ridgewood Avenue
Sweet Kitchen | 533 Bloomfield Avenue
For coffee enthusiasts, Ridgewood is a hub for excellent brews. Cozy spots such as Rey Sol Coffee, Blue Ridge Café, Ridgewood Coffee Company, American Bulldog Coffee Roasters, Ridgewood Station Café, and Sweet Kitchen are excellent stops for one’s daily coffee fix.
Create Your Own Pastry Tasting Experience at Sook | 24 SouthBroad Street
Sook Pastry Shop is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates French pastries, chocolates, and breads. A fun and BG-approved experience here includes selecting a variety of delicious items — such as apple turnovers, tropical tarts, and macarons — tasting each one, and rating them on a scale from 1 to 10 (they’re always a 10).
Treat Yourself to a Relaxing Spa Day
The Brightwood Skin | 11 North Broad Street
Spavia Day Spa | 379 NJ-17
Ridgewood European Day Spa | 44 Franklin Avenue
Lava Head Spa | 235 East Ridgewood Avenue Suite 16
Araya Rebirth Spa | 10 Garber Square
The Well Spa NJ | 171 East Ridgewood Avenue #207
Indulging in spa treatments is always a luxury. Ridgewood has tons of options, including Spavia Day Spa, The Brightwood Skin, Ridgewood European Day Spa, Lava Head Spa, Araya Rebirth Spa, and The Well Spa NJ.
BG recommendation: For radiant + glowing skin, get The Diamond Glow Facial at Brightwood Skin.
See More: Fun Summer Road Trips Near Northern New Jersey
Check Out What’s Happening at the YMCA | 112 Oak Street
The Ridgewood YMCA provides a wide array of activities for all ages, from children to seniors. Regular special events occur each month, such as Parents’ Night Out and ping-pong tournaments, fostering lively community engagement.
Walk Through Van Neste Square Memorial Park | South Walnut Street
On lovely warm days, enjoying a walk outdoors can heighten one’s physical and mental well-being. Van Neste Square Memorial Park is a favored spot for strolling and frequently hosts events like live music performances during summer nights.
