State Line Cafe

- Alpine, NJ 07624

Introduction / Overview

For New Jersey residents who love the outdoors, State Line Cafe is a familiar and cherished landmark, situated at the breathtaking State Line Lookout in Alpine, NJ. This is not your typical suburban coffee shop; it is a piece of New Jersey history and a true sanctuary for adventurers, sightseers, and anyone seeking a casual, cozy spot with arguably the best views in the state. Originally known as the "Lookout Inn," this establishment was built in 1937 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), lending it a deep sense of history and classic charm that endures to this day. The stone cabin structure, nestled into the wooded cliffs of the Palisades, stands as a testament to the architecture and conservation efforts of a bygone era.

Located at the highest point of the Palisades Cliffs, approximately 520 to 532 feet above the Hudson River, the State Line Cafe offers an unparalleled setting for a quick bite. As one satisfied customer noted, it is a "casual establishment a throwback to yesteryear." Its menu is straightforward, focusing on "comfort food" and "quick bites" perfect for fueling a hike or unwinding after exploring the numerous trails in the Palisades Interstate Park. From hearty breakfast sandwiches to satisfying burgers and hot dogs, the food is known for being hot, freshly prepared, and tasty, all while maintaining a "very reasonably priced" structure that appeals to families, groups, and solo diners alike.

The cafe’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of historical atmosphere, natural beauty, and simple, friendly service. Inside, you can warm up by one of the cozy fireplaces during the colder New Jersey months, or enjoy the fresh air and stunning vistas from the outdoor seating when the weather is fair. The State Line Cafe is a functional, beloved centerpiece of the State Line Lookout area—the only refreshment stand in the immediate vicinity—and an essential stop on any Bergen County or Palisades exploration.

Location and Accessibility

The State Line Cafe is strategically located within the scenic and protected lands of the Palisades Interstate Park in New Jersey, right near the state's border with New York. Its precise address is Alpine, NJ 07624, USA. This unique location is what defines the entire experience. It is situated at the State Line Lookout, often called "Point Lookout," which is the highest point of the Palisades Cliffs in New Jersey.

Accessibility is thoughtfully managed for a park setting. Drivers can easily access the State Line Lookout via its own unnumbered exit from the Palisades Interstate Parkway (PIP) in Alpine, NJ, located about two miles north of Exit 2. Once you arrive at the Lookout area, you will find ample parking. The amenities include free parking lots, on-site parking, and even free street parking, though metered parking is in effect year-round, so be prepared.

Beyond vehicle access, the cafe is highly accessible to hikers and cyclists. Old Route 9W, a 1.5-mile section of concrete highway that is now closed to vehicular traffic, provides a popular, paved route for pedestrians and cyclists from U.S. Route 9W at the actual state line down to the Lookout area. This makes the cafe a perfect destination or pit stop for a leisurely stroll or a dedicated cycling trip. Furthermore, in keeping with its public service mission, the facility is highly accessible, featuring a "Wheelchair accessible entrance," "Wheelchair accessible parking lot," "Wheelchair accessible restroom," and "Wheelchair accessible seating," making this historic New Jersey spot enjoyable for all visitors.

Services Offered

• Full Cafe Service: Offering a variety of comfort foods, hot and cold beverages, and quick bites for breakfast, lunch, and dessert.
• Takeout and Dine-in Options: Customers can order for takeout, perfect for a picnic on the Palisades, or enjoy dine-in seating inside the historic building.
• Outdoor Seating: Spacious and scenic outdoor seating is available, often with stunning views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes.
• Restroom Facilities: Clean and accessible restrooms are available on-site during the cafe’s operating hours for visitor convenience.
• Onsite Services: The cafe operates as a refreshment stand and is part of the State Line Lookout area, offering a convenient break spot for hikers and tourists.
• Accessibility Features: Fully wheelchair accessible facilities, including entrance, parking, seating, and restrooms.

Features and Highlights

• Historic Architecture: The cafe is a historically significant structure, built in 1937 by the WPA and originally known as the Lookout Inn. Its stone and log construction provides a unique, "cozy" and "historic" atmosphere.
• Spectacular Views: Located at Point Lookout, the highest point of the Palisades, the cafe offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Hudson River, making it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation.
• Exceptional Location: The cafe is the only refreshment stand located in the immediate State Line Lookout area of the Palisades Interstate Park, making it an essential and convenient stop.
• Great Coffee: Explicitly highlighted by customers as a feature, the coffee and tea offerings are the perfect warm-up or refreshment.
• Cozy and Welcoming Atmosphere: Featuring fireplaces for cold weather, the interior provides a comfortable respite, described as a "no frills cafe" with a friendly, efficient staff.
• Dog-Friendly Seating: For New Jersey pet owners enjoying the park trails, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area.
• Excellent Value: Customers consistently praise the "very reasonably priced" menu, offering a great selection of filling, fresh meals and snacks.

Contact Information

For New Jersey residents planning their visit to the State Line Lookout and Cafe, here is the essential contact information:

• Address: State Line Lookout, Alpine, NJ 07624, USA (Located off the Palisades Interstate Parkway)
• Phone: (201) 750-0465 (Also listed as +1 201-750-0465)
• Operating Hours: The State Line Cafe refreshment stand is typically open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM most days of the year, though visitors should check the Palisades Interstate Park website for any seasonal or weather-related closures, especially during major winter storms.

What is Worth Choosing State Line Cafe

Choosing the State Line Cafe is about selecting an experience that combines a love for New Jersey’s natural beauty with the enjoyment of simple, high-quality, and accessible refreshment. For local New Jerseyans, this cafe is an institution that provides essential services without compromising on character. Its historical significance as a 1937 WPA project gives it an authentic, enduring charm—it’s a living museum where you can sit and enjoy a meal. The stone cabin, the cozy fireplaces, and the rustic design are all part of a "historic" and "casual" atmosphere that stands in delightful contrast to modern, generic eateries.

What makes it truly worth choosing is its role as the perfect companion to a day spent exploring the Palisades. Whether you've just conquered the challenging Giant Stairs trail, finished a moderate walk to Peanut Leap Cascade, or simply enjoyed the raptor migration views at the Lookout, the cafe is the ideal spot to recharge. The menu is perfectly curated for this environment—simple yet satisfying comfort food. A "Jumbo Hot Dog," a "½ Lb. Angus Hamburger," or a classic "Bacon, Egg & Cheese Sandwich" coupled with "Great coffee" and a stunning view is exactly what locals appreciate after physical exertion.

Moreover, the cafe's dedication to accessibility, including full wheelchair accommodation and a dog-friendly outdoor area, underscores its commitment to being a welcoming space for all members of the New Jersey community and their families, including four-legged ones. The fast and friendly service, noted by reviewers, ensures that you can get your "quick bite" and be back on the trails or on your way without delay. In short, the State Line Cafe is a destination that delivers on all fronts: a taste of New Jersey history, incredible natural scenery, great value, and the comforting flavors that are the foundation of any memorable day trip in the Garden State. It is the authentic, unpretentious stop that every local traveler knows and loves.

State Line Cafe

Alpine, NJ 07624, USA