Day Trip to Family Day Trip: Rutt’s Hut + Ghost Hawk Brewery + Garret Mountain

 🌭🍺 Family Day Trip: Rutt’s Hut + Local Brewery + Garret Mountain

A perfect New Jersey family day trip that mixes legendary food, a relaxed local brewery, and a scenic overlook — all within minutes of each other. Simple, fun, and stress‑free for parents and kids.

- Place

Rutt’s Hut → Clifton Craft Brewery → Garret Mountain Reservation

- Drive Time

~20 minutes from Bergen County

- Address

Rutt’s Hut: 417 River Rd, Clifton, NJ
Clifton Craft Brewery: 286 River Rd, Clifton, NJ
Garret Mountain Reservation: 8 Mountain Ave, Woodland Park, NJ

⭐ Stop 1: Rutt’s Hut – New Jersey’s #1 Hot Dog Landmark

A true NJ classic and the perfect family-friendly food stop. Fast, affordable, and iconic.

Kids can:

• Try the famous crispy Ripper hot dog
• Enjoy fries, onion rings, and simple kid-friendly sides
• Watch the kitchen fry the hot dogs (fun for little ones)

Adults can:

• Order the legendary “All the Way” dog
• Enjoy old-school diner vibes
• Eat quickly without long waits
• Appreciate the nostalgic NJ food culture

⭐ Stop 2: Ghost Hawk Brewery – Relaxed, Family-Friendly Local Spot

Right across from Rutt’s Hut, this small local brewery is a cozy place to unwind.

Kids can:

• Sit comfortably with snacks
• Enjoy board games or coloring (often available)
• Relax while parents enjoy a drink

Adults can:

• Try fresh local craft beers (IPA, lager, stout)
• Enjoy a calm, friendly atmosphere
• Take a short break before heading to the park

Why it works for families

• Not loud or crowded during the day
• Spacious seating
• Very casual and welcoming
• Perfect “rest stop” after eating at Rutt’s Hut

⭐ Stop 3: Garret Mountain Reservation – Scenic Family Walk

Just a few minutes away, this park offers beautiful views and an easy winter-friendly walk.

Kids can:

• Run around safely on open paths
• Explore the lookout area
• Take fun family photos

Adults can:

• Enjoy the skyline view
• Take a relaxing stroll
• Let kids burn off energy after eating

⭐ Food Recommendations

At Rutt’s Hut:

• Ripper (kids)
• Ripper “All the Way” (adults)
• Chili dog
• Onion rings
• Homemade relish (must try)

At the Brewery:

• Seasonal IPA
• Light lager
• Stout (winter favorite)

⭐ Best Photo Spots

• Rutt’s Hut neon sign
• Kids holding their first Ripper
• Brewery’s wooden bar area
• Garret Mountain skyline overlook

⭐ Why This Trip Works for Families

• Everything is within 5 minutes
• Zero stress: fast food, easy parking, simple schedule
• Perfect mix of food + relaxation + outdoor walk
• Works in winter, spring, summer, or fall
• Affordable and fun for all ages

⭐ Dad’s Final Thought

This is the kind of day trip that feels effortless — great food, a relaxing drink, and a beautiful view to finish the day. No planning, no stress, just a classic New Jersey family outing that always hits the spot.