Historic Closter is a charming borough of Bergen County known for its incredible architecture, scenic landscape, and its close proximity to Manhattan, where residents have commuted with ease since the first wood-burning locomotive arrived back in 1859. Once part of New York State, the area was well-settled by the 18th century and assumed its present name by 1721—an Anglicized derivation of the Dutch word “klooster,” meaning “cloister” or “quiet place.” Today, Closter is a community of just over 8,000 residents, represented by a Mayor and a borough council. There’s a charming downtown centered around the railroad tracks with vintage blocks of merchants and eateries, along with a large shopping plaza catering to most every errand. Notable places to visit include the Closter Nature Center, Belskie Museum of Art & Science, and the Harold Hess Lustron House, a Mid-Century Modern concept house of the future. You’ll even find a farm or two.