Franklin Lakes

 

Franklin Lakes is an affluent metropolitan suburb offering lake communities and a beautiful country atmosphere in Bergen County, New Jersey. This community was named after New Jersey’s last colonial governor William Franklin, who was also an illegitimate son of Founding Father Benjamin Franklin. Franklin Lakes is located within 25 miles of Manhattan but its private bucolic atmosphere makes it feel a world away.

 

Franklin Lakes’ well-appointed homes include stately 19th century residences, grand mid-century masterpieces, and elegant contemporary designs. Properties are secluded within a peaceful wooded landscape and many overlook picturesque lakes. Franklin Lakes’ spectacular multi-million dollar residences boast sprawling acreage lots and impeccable attention to detail inside and outside the home.

 

Franklin Lakes is home to around 10,600 residents, including prominent figures such as sports stars, CEOs, and other C-level executives. The community’s magnificent homes and gorgeous landscape make it an ideal getaway within easy reach of New York City.

 

Franklin Lakes is dotted with trendy eateries and stylish boutiques. Tony Lip’s Italian Restaurant is an authentic Italian eatery named after Anthony Vallelonga, an actor who appeared in The Sopranos and The Godfather. The restaurant is run by Anthony’s son Frank Vallelonga, who appeared in the Academy Award-winning movie Green Book, based on his father’s real-life experience as a driver for celebrated pianist Don Shirley.

 

Chef’s Table on Franklin Avenue serves traditional French fowl and seafood dishes in a sophisticated white-tablecloth setting. Market Basket at the Urban Farms shopping center is your go-to gourmet grocery store with fresh organic produce and delicious ready-to-eat sandwiches, wraps, and deli goods. Other Franklin Lakes dining choices include high-quality Japanese plates at Sushi Cocoro and farm-to-table breakfast fare at The Country Café.

 

Boutique 811 is a must-visit for fashionistas with an impressive collection of high-end fashion brands sourced from around the world. Cose Belle curates all manner of beautiful things, selling one-of-a-kind gifts and personalized stationery and invitations for all occasions.

 

Franklin Lakes Nature Preserve is a 120-acre recreation destination with miles of nature trails surrounding a 75-acre lake. Popular activities include hiking, bird watching, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding with rental vessels available. The nearby High Mountain Park Preserve has hiking trails leading to a peak that offers captivating New York City views on clear days. The impressive vista also takes in a lush valley and reservoir. Indian Trail Club is a picturesque country club and events venue with a private lake, swimming pool, and tennis courts.

 

Franklin Lakes Festival in mid-September is a two-day celebration with arts-and-crafts vendors, live music, street performers, food booths, a classic car show, and a carnival with games and rides. There are other smaller community events throughout the year such as fun runs and art fairs.

 

Franklin Lakes public schools are operated by the Franklin Hills School District at the elementary and middle school level and Ramapo Indian Hills Regional School District at the high school level. Highlights include: