The New Weis Center for Education, Arts & Recreation — Local services in Ringwood

UPDATING REVIEW TO FIVE STARS!!! Received helpful reply from the New Weis Center (see new photo)** To begin, I would like to clarify that this is a review exclusively on the New Weis Center park/rec properties. I took part in a Goat yoga class (if you don’t know what that is, do an internet search and be amazed!) yesterday and this marked my first trip to the lovely grounds and main offices/studio complex. This is a lovely nature preserve and arts/recreation property nestled in bucolic Ringwood (near to the Ramapo Mountains) that is open year round for hiking, yoga, music, and other incredible activities to inspire and educate. It is so peaceful here and you feel instantly connected and grounded to the beauty surrounding you as you stroll through the trails. I saw folks gathered who appeared to be part of a hiking group and others enjoying a brisk walk on a fantastic Autumn afternoon. The more modern main center is where the yoga class took place and it stands in more civilized contrast to the quaint and rustic cabin type structures and camp features. My only suggestion for the Center Board members/staff is to please place a sign near the parking area so that folks who come to participate in events in the main building know where to go. It wasn’t difficult to find the offices but on a cold day and considering you cannot see the offices from the parking area, you may have people taking the long way around or getting confused (and cold!) as to where they are supposed to go. Thank you! I look forward to more...

What a fun day in the rain!

We wanted a way to have a Covid19-safe birthday outing for our 7 year old daughter and a few friends in the “pod” and decided to try something new and The New Weis Center delivered a great time for all the kids (and some of the parents too)!

From the start of reserving the time, Sarah was simply amazing in providing options for all different kinds of activities to do based on outdoor fun no matter what the kids like and what the weather would be. We chose a guided hike to seek creatures from the trails and near the streams, ponds, and waterfalls on the property.

On the day of our event, Sarah met us and the group and got the kids excited about the adventure. It was a wet, rainy day so we were in for a muddy adventure. I appreciated Sarah’s time and attention and ability to connect which not only included the exploring, but also playing games along the way.

Sarah brought nets and we got right to work looking for creatures in the water. The kids were fascinated to find mayflies, salamanders, worms, and all kinds of things.

The pavilion we reserved was great... lighted, electricity and well located on the property.

If you need something outside the box that is outside and a way for you to explore the nature around you... The Weis Center makes for an amazing time and has other great programs available that we will be trying soon.

Thanks for the fun...

I recently stayed for a weekend in a cabin at the New Weis Center and had a wonderful time. The heat and electricity inside the cabin as well as the proximity to the main building with restrooms and showers made the experience comfortable, especially as we stayed in winter temperatures, but was reminiscent of rustic camping ideal for seasoned campers and newcomers alike. There are many trails onsite and others in the Norton Green State Forest within walking distance, making it a perfect unplugged weekend getaway. We were welcomed by the most gracious staff that made us feel right at home. Their passion was immediately evident which allowed us to have a truly unique experience, which included learning opportunities and hiking suggestions. The facilities as well as the support by the staff make the hiking and camping experiences at New Weis accessible to everyone. I highly recommend the New Weis Center for a day or...