Exploring Overbrook Park: A Tranquil Haven in Westwood, New Jersey

Nestled in the northwest corner of New Jersey, the small borough of Westwood is home to a hidden recreational gem - Overbrook Park. Spanning just over 60 acres, this public park offers a peaceful natural retreat for residents and visitors alike.

Overbrook Park has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The land was originally owned by wealthy businessman August Hofer, who constructed a grand estate and private park on the grounds. After Hofer's passing, the property changed hands several times until it was finally purchased by Westwood Township in 1940.

Using funds from the Works Progress Administration, the township transformed the neglected estate grounds into a public park equipped with updated amenities. Overbrook Park opened to great community fanfare in 1941 and has remained a beloved local fixture for over 80 years.

One of the park's defining features is its location. Sandwiched between the Pascack Brook and the Oradell Reservoir, Overbrook Park occupies a scenic stretch of land. The contrast between its peaceful greenery and the surrounding suburbs makes it easy to forget you're only 20 minutes from the heart of Manhattan.

Upon entering Overbrook Park from Washington Avenue, you're greeted by the central picnic grove. This grassy expanse dotted with shade trees is home to picnic tables, walking paths, and park benches - perfect for an afternoon picnic spread. Visitors can also fire up one of the public grills for a cookout.

Past the picnic area sits the park's crown jewel - a large freshwater pond ringed with weeping willow trees and crossed by a wooden footbridge. If you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the many ducks, geese, and swans that call this pond home. Visitors often come to the pond just to admire its natural tranquility.

Encircling the pond is the park's 1.3 mile exercise loop - a mixture of gravel and paved pathways ideal for walkers and joggers. Fitness classes, sports teams, and dog walkers all utilize this loop, which features scenic views and benches placed periodically.

For sports lovers, Overbrook Park contains tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and a roller hockey rink. The local recreation department runs sports leagues and camps at these facilities. There's also a large playground and spray park for kids to enjoy.

Throughout the park, you'll find sculptures and memorials donated over the decades. Notable monuments include the Bronx Zoo Bear Sculpture, the Veterans Memorial, and the commemorative 9/11 Memorial. Historical plaques provide context on Overbrook's origins.

The park hosts several community events throughout the year as well. Seasonal highlights include Party in the Park concerts, Movies in the Park film screenings, and an annual Duck Derby fundraiser. Holiday events like the Halloween Haunt and Tree Lighting Ceremony are also popular with families.

Overbrook Park is maintained and operated by the Borough of Westwood's Department of Recreation, Athletics, and Pascack Community Center. Their dedicated groundskeepers and programming staff help preserve the park's beauty and enrich the visitor experience.

Easy accessibility adds to the park's draw. Public parking is available in the lots off Washington Avenue and Bergen Avenue. And the park is only half a mile from the Westwood NJ Transit train station, making it convenient for those without a car.

Whether you want to hike, picnic, play sports, or just relax in nature, Overbrook Park has something for everyone. Its diversity of amenities and bucolic charm make it one of the Bergen County region's most treasured outdoor spaces. So next time you're in the area, spend an afternoon at this Westwood gem. Overbrook Park's beauty will have you coming back time and again.

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