Due to safety concerns the footbridge crossing the Passaic River is indefinitely closed, pending replacement. To access Mary Ellen Kramer Park, foot traffic may use the Wayne Ave. Bridge & Maple St. - parking on Maple St. is limited.
Explore Paterson's history, culture, and environment with one of our public programs:
Public Walking Tours:
A Stroll Through History - The Paterson Great Falls Orientation Walking Tour
Appropriate for families, elementary, middle school, high school, and college/adult groups.
Explore Paterson's rich history on a ranger-guided tour
NPS
The story of Paterson and its Great Falls demonstrates how the natural and cultural diversity of the area helped fuel the economic and social growth of a young nation. Join a staff member for this 45-minute to 1-hour, 1-mile walk to discover how the natural world inspired a founding father, entrepreneurs, immigrants, poets and artists to build the nation's first industrial city and changed the world. From the formation of the falls to the modern era, connect with the places, products, and people which transformed our daily lives.
Please wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing/shoes. The walk will be on along paved and unpaved paths with uneven footing. Guided tours led by the National Park Service or its designees can follow paved, wheelchair-accessible routes (assistance may be required, especially along narrow city sidewalks). If you have any concerns or questions, please contact the park and review our accessibility resources.
When:
As staffing permits on the following days and times
Wednesday-Friday at 2PM
Saturday and Sunday at 11AM and 2PM
Please call 973-523-0370 or 201-458-3475(park cell number) the day of your visit to ensure tour availability.
Where: Meet at the statue of Alexander Hamilton in Overlook Park at the main park address.
Note: Please check the alerts. When the Overlook Park parking lot is closed, both tours will meet at the Paterson Museum on 2 Market Street, Paterson, NJ 07501.
Safety Alert: - Guided programs may be shortened or cancelled in cases of severe weather or if there is excessive heat or cold. Please review our safety guidelines beforehand. If you have any questions day-of, contact the park during staffed hours.
Self-Guided Walking Tour
Visiting the park but can't attend a ranger guided tour? Try our free self-guided walking tour! Learn the history of Paterson and the Great Falls at your own pace. Explore the official Mill Mile page or ask a ranger for more information.
Program Reservations
Interested in a program at the Park, having a ranger visit your location, or a virtual program? Check out our Education Page for a variety of school and adult education offerings! Otherwise, to request a specialized program, visit our Program Reservations Page.
