35 Best Things to do in Jersey City!

Welcome to Jersey City, in New Jersey! This vibrant and diverse city offers a mix of historical charm, modern attractions, and a stunning skyline view of Manhattan. Located just across the Hudson River from New York City, it’s an easy and convenient destination for travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or just looking for a great place to explore, we showcase best things to do in Jersey City during your visit to New Jersey.

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1. Historic Attractions

Liberty State Park

The Liberty State Park is a large public space in Jersey City, spans more than 1,200 acres and is a popular spot for walking, biking, fishing, and enjoying the outdoors. A long path called Liberty Walk stretches along the waterfront and passes by picnic areas, and Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, a historic train station that once served immigrants arriving at Ellis Island. Visitors can stop by the Empty Sky Memorial, which was created to remember the lives of New Jersey residents lost on 9/11. There’s a marina, boat launch, and a nature walk through a marsh area nearby the Interpretive Center.

Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

Built in 1889, Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal played a big role in the lives of millions of immigrants who had just arrived at Ellis Island and used this station to travel to other parts of the country. Inside, visitors can see displays that tell the story of the terminal and how it helped shape the movement of people in the early 1900s. The large waiting area, old train tracks, and restored ferry slips are still in place, showing what travel looked like back then. It’s part of what’s known as the “Historic Trilogy” along with Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty, both of which can be seen from the grounds.

Paulus Hook Historic District

The Paulus Hook Historic District dates back to the 1600s when it was first settled by the Dutch and was once called Arressick, a Lenape word related to the marshy land. The area became more popular during the Revolutionary War, after a surprise attack made by American troops led by Major Henry Lee against the British in 1779, and today this event was remembered by a monument. In the 1800s, the area began to grow, and many brick row houses were built, many of which still stand today. In 1982, the district was added to National Register of Historic Places, and expanded just a few years later.

Van Vorst Park Historic District

The Van Vorst Park Historic District is named after the Van Vorst family, one of the early Dutch settlers who came to the region in the 1600s. The park at the center of the district was first laid out in 1835 and later became the heart of the neighborhood. The district includes many row houses and brownstones built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, showing styles from that time. The park itself takes up a full city block and has walking paths, a gazebo, a playground, and a small garden. Nearby, visitors also find local spots and landmarks like Jersey City Free Public Library and the Barrow Mansion.

Apple Tree House

The Apple Tree House, often called the Van Wagenen House, that was built around 1740, with an addition in the 1820s, it’s one of the few remaining buildings in the city from before the Revolutionary War. Local tradition says that George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette met there in 1779 to discuss war plans under an apple tree in the yard. Long ago, that same apple tree stood in front of the house, was knocked down by a storm, and a piece of its wood was made into a cane for General Lafayette. Today, people can visit the house and learn more about its connection to early American history.

Katyn Memorial

The Katyn Memorial stands at Exchange Place, created by Polish-American artist Andrzej Pitynski in 1991. It honors the memory of over 20,000 Polish officers and leaders who were killed in 1940 by the Soviet secret police during what is known as the Katyn Massacre. The statue shows a bound Polish soldier with a bayonet piercing his back and is about 34 feet tall. The base also has the image of a Polish woman holding a hungry child, symbolizing those sent to Siberia during the same time. It’s one of the U.S. memorials dedicated to this tragedy and carries deep meaning for Polish-Americans and others.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is a long public path that follows the river’s edge and offers scenic views of the Manhattan skyline, especially from areas like Newport and Exchange Place. It’s part of a larger 18.5 miles path that stretches from Bayonne to Fort Lee, passing through several towns along the way. People come here to walk, bike, fish, or relax by the water. The path is well-kept, with benches, and open spots to rest or enjoy the view. Along the walkway, there are smaller parks like Newport Green and Morris Canal Park, which offer extra places to sit, play, or just enjoy the outdoors.

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to enjoy the water and take in views of Jersey City and Manhattan skyline. One of the main places to try these activities is Liberty Harbor Marina, where Urban Paddle offers guided tours and rentals for paddlers. They provide safety gear, lessons, and even special options like nighttime paddling with LED lights. Each tour usually lasts about an hour and can be done in a single or double kayak, depending on your preference. Another spot is the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse, offers free kayaking sessions, run by volunteers and open to the public.

Boat Tours & Cruises

Boat tours and cruises are a fun way to see Jersey City from the water and get close to sights like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan skyline. Many of these trips leave from Liberty Landing Marina or nearby docks and offer choices like short sightseeing rides, lunch or dinner cruises, and special trips for holidays or events. One popular provider is City Cruises, which has different options including brunch cruises and evening tours with music and food. Some cruises like Tribeca Sailing perfect for a quick trip to see landmarks, while others last longer and offer meals and entertainment.

Biking Trails

Jersey City has many biking trails that are easy to follow and good for all skill levels. One of the most popular spots is the Liber ty State Park Loop, a 6 miles path with smooth pavement and great views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is another favorite, running along the river with views of Manhattan. It’s a good choice for a slow ride or a quick trip, and there are benches and parks along the way. Lincoln Park Loop is about 3 miles long and goes through green areas near a golf course, making it a quiet place to bike.

The Morris Canal Greenway follows an old canal path and mixes nature with history, showing parts of the city’s past as you ride. Berry Lane Park Circuit is a smaller loop with bike lanes, and places to rest or play, great for families. The South Hudson Greenway connects several parks and areas, giving riders a longer route with changing views. Caven Point Road Trail is near the bay and goes through marshland, offering a ride with nature all around. For a mix of city and nature, the Heights to Hoboken Loop crosses the Palisades and gives wide views of the river and skyline.

Golfing Courses

In Jersey City, Liberty National Golf Club is the most well-known, with 18 holes, and has hosted big tournaments like the Presidents Cup. Skyway Golf Course is open to the public and has 9-holes with wide fairways and views of the Pulaski Skyway. Nearby, Bayonne Golf Club offers a links-style private course with tall dunes and water views, designed to feel like courses in Scotland. The Weequahic Golf Course is a public course with tree-lined fairways and a simpler layout, great for players. The Hendricks Field Golf Course has a mix of open holes and tighter spots that give players a fun challenge.

Stephen R. Gregg Park

Located nearby Newark Bay waterfront, Stephen R. Gregg Park is a large public park covering nearly 100 acres and offers a mix of open green space and sports areas. The park gets its name from a Bayonne native who earned the Medal of Honor for his bravery during World War II. Visitors can enjoy walking paths, picnic spots, and peaceful views of the water. There are seven baseball and softball fields, eight soccer fields, ten tennis courts, and two basketball courts with lights. Inside the park, visitors will find a horseshoe game space, a football field, a bocce area, and a track for running or walking.

James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park

Covering about 167 acres, James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park is named after James J. Braddock, a local man who became a world boxing champion in the 1930s and was known as the “Cinderella Man.” One of the highlights is Woodcliff Lake, which covers 16 acres and offers a peaceful space for fishing or simply relaxing by the water. The park also features walking trails, shaded picnic areas, and green pathways around the park. For sports lovers, the park has over 40 athletic spaces, including tennis courts, basketball courts, football fields, volleyball courts, and even a cross-country track.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Statue of Liberty

In Jersey City, if you want to see the Statue of Liberty, you can catch a quick ferry from Liberty State Park, one of the well-known spots in New Jersey for trips to this island. A gift from France in 1886, the statue has long been a symbol of hope, freedom, and welcome to people from around the world. On Liberty Island, people can explore Statue of Liberty Museum to learn how the statue was made and what it represents. Inside, you’ll find exhibits about the Statue of Liberty’s past, including its original torch and artifacts. Those with special tickets can enter the pedestal or even climb up to the crown.

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is also part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and sits right on Ellis Island. The museum is inside the restored main building of the old immigration station, where over 12 million people once passed through between 1892 and 1954. Visitors can walk through the Great Hall, where immigrants were once processed, and see exhibits that explain why people left their home countries, what the journey was like, and how they started new lives in America. The museum also includes personal stories, photos, and items that belonged to immigrants.

Mana Contemporary

The Mana Contemporary is a large art center located inside a former factory building that now holds studios, galleries, and event spaces. Opened in 2011 and was started by Moishe Mana along with artists who wanted to build a creative community where people could make and view art in the same space. It covers over one million square feet and hosts artist studios, exhibits, dance companies, a print shop, and even the Richard Meier Model Museum, which features models and art by the famous architect. People can view live art studios, meet artists, and see how different types of work are made.

Journal Square

The Journal Square is known for its mix of history, culture, and easy access to public transit, especially with the PATH station. The area is named after the Jersey Journal newspaper, which had its offices there and helped shape the square’s name and growth. It became a central spot in the early 1900s with theaters, shops, and public gatherings. The Loew’s Jersey Theatre is one of the highlights in the area, a historic movie palace from 1929 that now holds events and film showings. Nearby is the Stanley Theater, which is still used today but today it serves a different purpose while keeping its older style.

Black Tom Island

The Black Tom Island was once a small artificial island near Liberty Island. It got its name from a fisherman who lived there long ago. In the early 1900s, the island became a busy shipping area used to store weapons and ammunition. On the night of July 30, 1916, a huge explosion happened there. German agents set fire to the munitions to stop them from being sent to countries fighting against Germany in World War I. The blast was so strong that it broke windows in Manhattan, shook buildings in Philadelphia. This explosion led to the loss of several lives and resulted in damage millions of dollars.

Hoboken Historical Museum

Since 1986, Hoboken Historical Museum has been open for public tours and operates inside one of the city’s oldest waterfront buildings, that was once part of the old Bethlehem Steel machine shop. It shares stories about Hoboken’s past through exhibits, public talks, walking tours, and family programs. Exhibits cover many topics like immigration, local music, the Stevens family, Hoboken in World War I, and the city’s role in movies like On the Waterfront. The museum runs the Hoboken Oral History Project, which collects stories from longtime residents about daily life, local shops, and traditions.

Colgate Clock

The Colgate Clock is a large outdoor timepiece sitting along the Hudson River near the Goldman Sachs building, built in 1924 to replace an earlier version. It was created for the Colgate-Palmolive Company, which had a factory nearby, and its octagon shape was inspired by a bar of Octagon Soap, one of the company’s products. The clock face is 50 feet wide, with a 25 foot minute hand and a 20 foot hour hand, and bright red hands that can be seen from a long distance, especially across Manhattan. It was first placed on a Colgate building and later moved to ground level after the factory was taken down.

Loew’s Jersey Theatre

Opened in 1929, Loew’s Jersey Theatre was part of a group of five grand theaters known as the “Wonder Theatres,” and it was created by the Loew’s Corporation in the New York region. This theater was designed by the architectural firm Rapp and Rapp, and it can accommodate more than 3,000 people. It was known for its large lobby, detailed decorations, and a pipe organ used during live shows. Over time, the theater showed fewer live performances and focused more on movie screenings. The theater is listed on National Register of Historic Places and visitors see it as a key part of the city’s culture.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Liberty Science Center

Opened in 1993, Liberty Science Center is a hands-on science museum located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The center has 12 exhibit halls, a live animal collection, a 3D theater, and the largest planetarium in the country, called the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium. Visitors can explore many interactive exhibits like the Touch Tunnel, where you move through a dark space using only your sense of touch, and the Infinity Climber, a suspended climbing structure made of wire mesh. The museum also has live science shows, daily demonstrations, and special exhibits that change throughout the year.

Jersey City Children’s Theater

The Jersey City Children’s Theater was once a community group that gave kids a chance to learn acting, perform in local shows, and to join summer camp programs. The theater focused on helping children learn through play, storytelling, and teamwork. Kids could take part in after-school programs, weekend workshops, and seasonal camps where they learned acting, singing, and stage movement. In 2017, the program was taken over by The Acting Space, another performing arts group that continues to offer programs like acting classes, musical theater training, and summer camps for kids and teens.

Pershing Field Park

Covers about 13.5 acres, Pershing Field Park is a public park sits next to Reservoir No. 3, creating a large open space for both nature and recreation. It was named after General John J. Pershing, a U.S. Army leader from World War I. This park has deep roots in local history and it was once used for military training. Today, it offers many things to do, including a running track, baseball fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a swimming pool. At the entrance, there’s a large stone arch that’s all that remains of old Fourth Regiment Armory, and today it stands as one of the protected historic landmark.

RPM Raceway

The RPM Raceway is an indoor go-kart racing center, well-known for its electric go-karts and multi-level tracks with ramps, turns, and straight paths that make the race exciting. The karts are fast but safe, and there are different speed levels for kids, adults, and licensed drivers. Each race lasts a few minutes, and you can buy one or more races depending on how long you want to stay. Besides racing, there’s a large arcade with video games, a virtual reality area, and racing simulators. The staff gives a short safety talk before each race, and it’s an exciting place for anyone who wants to try racing indoors.

5. Natural Attractions

Newport Green Park

Opened in 2012, Newport Green Park is a small but lively park in Jersey City and covers about 4 acres. One of its main features is a man-made beach, the only one of its kind along the Hudson River. The beach has sand, lounge chairs, and umbrellas, but swimming is not allowed. The park also has a colorful playground with climbing areas, swings, and slides for kids of different ages. There’s a splash pad with sprinklers and buckets that pour water, which is open during the warmer months. The park has open lawns, walking paths, and benches where people can sit and enjoy views of Manhattan skyline.

Lincoln Park

Opened in 1905, Lincoln Park is one of the oldest and largest parks in Hudson County, covering about 273 acres. The park is split into two parts — Lincoln Park East and Lincoln Park West, both divided by a highway but connected by bridges. Lincoln Park East has many sports areas, including tennis courts, baseball fields, basketball courts, football fields, and a running track. There are also playgrounds, a spray pool, and a lake where people can fish or watch model boats.

One of the main features is the large fountain, which was built in 1911 and restored in recent years. There are also several statues and memorials, including ones for the Civil War, Irish Famine, and local firefighters. Lincoln Park West has more natural areas, with wetlands, nature trails, and Edgewood Lake, which is good for birdwatching. A public golf course called Skyway Golf Course opened there in 2015. This park has a long paved path used by walkers, runners, or cyclists, and its also part of the East Coast Greenway.

Morris Canal Park

The Morris Canal Park is a small public space that sits along the Hudson River, close to the historic Colgate Clock and Exchange Place. The park is part of the larger Morris Canal Greenway, which follows the path of the old Morris Canal that once moved coal and goods across New Jersey in the 1800s. This canal used to stretch over 100 miles, and Jersey City was its eastern end. Today, the park offers a place to walk, sit, and enjoy views of the water and Manhattan skyline. It connects to walking and biking paths, including the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, making it a nice spot for a short break.

South Mountain Reservation

Covering over 2,000 acres, South Mountain Reservation has many hiking trails, picnic areas, and places to enjoy nature. One of the most visited spots is Hemlock Falls, a 30 foot waterfall that can be reached by an easy trail. There are also other smaller waterfalls and ponds along the Rahway River. The Lenape Trail runs through the park and connects to other trails, making it good for both short walks and longer hikes. Visitors can also stop by Washington Rock, a lookout point with views of NYC’s skyline. Nearby, there’s a Turtle Back Zoo, a treetop adventure course, and a small lake with paddle boats.

Great Piece Meadows

The Great Piece Meadows spread across Lincoln Park, Montville, and Fairfield in the north side region of New Jersey. It’s a large natural wetland area that covers over 4,000 acres and is part of the Passaic River watershed. This land was once part of an ancient lake and now serves as a floodplain that helps protect nearby towns from flooding. The meadows are home to many types of wildlife, including birds like great blue herons, as well as turtles, and small mammals. Some parts of the land are open to the public for hiking, biking, and fishing, but hunting is not allowed due to special agreements.

Richard W. DeKorte Park

Covering about 110 acres, Richard W. DeKorte Park is part of the Meadowlands District and sits along the Hackensack River. The park is well-known for its walking paths along the wetlands, and clear views of the NYC’s skyline. It has about 3.5 miles of walking paths, including the Marsh Discovery Trail, a boardwalk that goes over the water and lets visitors see birds up close. The area is part of the Atlantic Flyway, a major route for migrating birds, and more than 285 bird species have been seen here. It’s a favorite spot for bird watchers, who often bring binoculars and cameras to look for native birds.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

New York City

Jersey City is only about 6 miles away from New York City, and it takes less than 30 minutes drive. Once arrived, you can visit famous places like Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the 9/11 Memorial. People also enjoy walking across the Brooklyn Bridge or visiting museums like the MET or the Museum of Modern Art. If you like shopping, areas like SoHo and Fifth Avenue have many stores. Food options are everywhere, from street carts to pizza shops to sit-down restaurants. You can plan your trip around what you enjoy most — sightseeing, shopping, or just walking around.

Six Flags Great Adventure

Taking a day trip to Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, takes nearly 1.5 hours from Jersey City, offers a fun way to enjoy rides, games, and outdoor time. Once at the park, you’ll find many roller coasters, family rides, and water attractions. Some of the most popular rides include Kingda Ka, El Toro, and Nitro. There’s also a safari drive-thru where you can see animals from your car. Tickets can be bought online, and it’s a good idea to check the p ark’s hours and ride updates before you go. The park is open throughout the year, hosting special events during summer, Halloween, and winter holidays.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

If you’re heading to the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, it takes about an hour drive from Jersey City. The Great Swamp covers over 7,800 acres and has boardwalks, trails, and wildlife viewing areas. It’s home to more than 240 bird species, along with deer, reptiles and other animals. The Wildlife Observation Center has about 1.5 miles of boardwalks and viewing blinds where you can watch birds and other animals. The Helen Fenske Visitor Center has exhibits and maps to help plan your visit. There are also longer trails in the wilderness area for those who want a deeper walk into nature.

New Haven, CT

Start a day trip from Jersey City, and take a drive about 2 hours to reach New Haven in Connecticut, covering around 80 miles. Once arrived, you can explore Yale University, walk around its campus, and visit free spots like the Yale Art Gallery and British Art Center. The Beinecke Library is another highlight with its unique glass design and rare books on display. If you enjoy nature, East Rock Park has walking trails and great views of the city and nearby areas. New Haven is also known for pizza, with famous places like Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s serving up popular slices, or you can grab a meal in downtown.

Harriman State Park

From Jersey City, a day trip to Harriman State Park takes roughly an hour drive and is located in New York. It’s the second biggest state park in the state, includes 31 lakes, more than 200 miles of hiking paths, and peaceful spots to enjoy the outdoors. A good place to begin your visit is the Reeves Meadow Trailhead, which is near the Sloatsburg train station. The park has trails of all levels with some offering views of NYC skyline and Hudson Valley below. Another nice option is to explore Seven Lakes Drive, a scenic road that passes several lakes and has several places to have a picnic or a short walk.

Allentown, PA

Planning a day trip to Allentown in Pennsylvania takes around 2 hours drive from Jersey City along I-78 West. Once arrived, you can visit Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, a large amusement and water park with rides for all ages. Another fun stop is the Da Vinci Science Center, which has hands-on exhibits for families. If you’re into cars and enjoy learning the past, the America on Wheels Museum has a variety of classic cars, motorcycles, and trucks on display. If you’re looking for a quiet place to stretch your legs, Cedar Beach Park has a small lake, and spots where visitors can sit down for a picnic.

How to Reach Jersey City

If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Newark Liberty International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to Jersey City, which is just a short drive away. If you’re coming by train, the PATH train is a convenient option. It connects Manhattan to Jersey City with several stops along the way. You can catch the PATH train from various locations in Manhattan, including the World Trade Center and 33rd Street stations. For those driving, major highways like the New Jersey Turnpike and Interstate 78 lead directly to Jersey City.

Public buses also serve Jersey City, with many routes connecting to NYC and other parts of New Jersey. NJ Transit operates these buses, offering a reliable mode of transportation. For a more scenic journey, consider taking a ferry ride. Several ferry services operate between Manhattan and Jersey City, providing a beautiful view of the Hudson River. Once you arrive, getting around Jersey City is easy. The city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and the PATH train.

Local Transportation

The PATH train connects Jersey City with Manhattan and nearby areas of New Jersey. It’s quick, reliable, and runs frequently, making it a favorite among commuters and tourists. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail services the waterfront areas and connects to important spots like Hoboken and Bayonne. It’s convenient for getting around Jersey City and neighboring towns. Buses operated by NJ Transit cover various routes within the city and beyond.

They’re an affordable way to travel and have multiple stops throughout Jersey City. For a scenic commute, consider taking the ferry. Several ferry services operate between Jersey City and Manhattan, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and the city skyline. They offer the convenience of door-to-door service and are perfect for short trips or when you’re in a hurry. Biking is popular too, with many bike lanes and paths. Jersey City even has a bike-sharing program called Citi Bike, making it easy to rent a bike and explore.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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