Village of Greenwood Lake

History

Greenwood Lake started as a farming community, settled by immigrants in the 1700’s. However, in 1837 a dam was built that increased the size of the lake to what it is now. The lake began to attract tourists. In 1851 a grand hotel was operating. Greenwood Lake became a popular vacation spot with New York City residents in the late 1800’s and 1900’s. They came via the Erie Railroad and horse and buggy. Then they were met by steamboat at Sterling Forest. And in the coming years, many prominent people were attracted to the beautiful lake and resort. Visitors included Babe Ruth and Greta Garbo.

Greenwood Lake Now

What was once a vacation spot is now a vibrant, year-round community. The lake is used for boating, swimming, jet and water skiing in the summer. And, in the winter, it’s ice-skating, ice-fishing and snow sledding. For skiing, Mount Peter is just minutes away. In addition, the Appalachian Trail is nearby, for those who like to hike. In the spring, Greenwood Lake hosts the Hoboken International Film Festival. In the summer, bring a picnic, blanket or chair to the Summer Concert Series at Thomas B. Morahan Lakefront Park. Warwick Town Beach is a sandy beach area on Greenwood Lake with resident and non-resident passes available. Community events, like the annual Winter Carnival and annual 4th of July Fireworks are a big part of life here. 

Music is alive and well at Cove Castle, with live music every week.  And  Kastan Art Space features weekly jazz performances, as well as gallery space with photography and fine art by various artists. Further, Greenwood Lake Theater is the only Equity Professional Theater Company in Orange County. There are shops and businesses that attract residents, tourists and people from surrounding villages and towns as well.

Commuting from Greenwood Lake

This lakeside paradise is 50 miles from NYC. You can leave your car at the Park & Ride lot adjacent to the Greenwood Lake Library and take NJ Transit Bus #196-197 to and from Port Authority. If you work downtown, the Tuxedo train station is around 15 minutes away. The Port Jervis line takes you into Hoboken, where you can transfer to PATH train to the Financial District. And if you’re going by car, there are many different routes you can choose from, either in NY or adjacent NJ.

Tranquil and fun at the same time

The lake itself is the center of everything. Greenwood Lake is an interstate lake, extending into West Milford, NJ. Marinas and restaurants dot the shoreline, and there are many homes with lakefront property. It’s a place to relax and unwind, or to enjoy the beach or boating, jet or water-skiing. Beautiful mountain views surround you. Further, you’re just minutes from the Village of Warwick. On your way there, stop at Bellvale Creamery for their homemade ice cream. It earned them No. 2 in the Top 10 ice cream parlors in the US by Trip Advisor. And, as you approach Warwick, the views of Warwick Valley are breathtaking. Words alone cannot describe the beauty of Greenwood Lake and its surrounding areas. Rather, visit this wonderful village and experience it for yourself.