36 Hidden Ledge, 23 Englewood, NJ 07631

A city surrounded by boroughs, Englewood holds the historic distinction of being the first English-speaking settlement in New Jersey after enveloping New Netherland fell to the British in 1664. Some say it’s named for the Engle family, while others attribute “wood ingle” — meaning “woody nook” — which does well to describe the landscape. While there’s no consensus on the etymology, it’s an idyllic place that 27,000 people simply call home. Downtown Englewood is a bustling hub with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC), a thriving not-for-profit institution bringing exciting programs to stage and screen. Summer and fall bring a beloved Farmer’s Market, bringing fresh produce, flowers, and other locally-sourced provisions to the intersection of Demarest Avenue and North Van Brunt Street. The city also offers myriad recreational facilities, including playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, football and soccer fields, and a skating rink at MacKay Park.