Things To Do
in Jersey City
Jersey City sits across the Hudson River from Manhattan, offering dramatic skyline views and a thriving, diverse neighborhood scene. Its waterfront parks, historic districts, and growing arts and dining culture make it a dynamic base for exploring the New York City metro. With easy access by PATH trains and ferries, you can balance city classics with local Jersey City charm.
The city blends old-world neighborhoods with modern development, making every stroll feel new and familiar at the same time.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bagels and coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll around the historic downtown area, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the brownstones. Make your way to the Liberty Science Center for an engaging morning filled with interactive exhibits.
After a morning of exploration, head to the waterfront for lunch at a restaurant with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Post-lunch, take a guided walking tour through the Historic District to learn about Jersey City’s rich history and cultural heritage. Don’t forget to stop by the Jersey City Museum to see contemporary art exhibits that reflect the city’s vibrant community.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a scenic walk along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Dine at a trendy restaurant in the area that focuses on locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local rooftop bar for cocktails and panoramic views of the city skyline.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a diner, savoring classic American fare. After breakfast, head over to Liberty State Park, where you can take a peaceful stroll on the Liberty Walk, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Spend some time visiting the Liberty Science Center if you missed it earlier.
For lunch, pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the park's scenic spots, surrounded by lush greenery and waterfront views. After lunch, take a ferry ride to Liberty Island to explore the Statue of Liberty, immersing yourself in the history of this iconic symbol of freedom. On your return, stop by Ellis Island to learn about the immigrant experience in America.
Return to Jersey City and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local seafood restaurant. After dinner, catch a live music show at a nearby venue that showcases local talent. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife atmosphere as you explore the bars and clubs in the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚇One-way public transit ticket | $2.75 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $150-250 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fantastic skyline views of Manhattan from multiple points
- Diverse neighborhoods and vibrant dining scene
- Excellent transit access to NYC via PATH and ferries
- Walkable waterfront with parks and cultural sites
- Certain areas can be crowded on weekends and evenings
- Rising housing and hotel prices in popular districts
- Some neighborhoods have limited green space compared to NYC
Places to Visit in Jersey City
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline and Ellis Island; ideal for golden-hour photography and wide-angle shots.
Skyline vistas across the river with dramatic reflections on the water and a direct line of sight to Lower Manhattan.
Historic industrial backdrop with a striking clock tower and riverfront scenery.
Quaint streets, maritime settings, and sunset shots with the city’s silhouette in the background.
Food in Jersey City
Jersey City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential New Jersey breakfast classic. Look for diners and delis across JC offering this pork-roll sandwich on a soft roll with melty cheese and egg.
Must-Try!
Small pastries filled with beef, chicken, cheese, or spinach; widely available in Latin American eateries around the city.
A robust array of masala curries and tandoori specials reflecting South Asian communities in JC.
Wood-fired pies and classic Italian antipasti common in JC’s Italian corridor and contemporary spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods in convenient JC locations; ideal for fresh fruit, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Occasional pop-up and street-food stalls around Columbus and Grove Street areas featuring diverse international bites and quick bites.
Seasonal vendors along the waterfront offering snacks, coffee, and small bites with view of Manhattan.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue patiently, offer seats to the elderly or disabled, and avoid blocking doors. Respect quiet areas on trains and buses.
Evenings in residential areas may be quieter; be mindful of neighbors when returning late at night.
Casual dining is common; tipping and friendly conversation are typical. Dress codes vary by venue; casual to smart-casual covers most spots.
Safety
Tipping in Jersey City
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% before tax is standard. Some larger groups or venues may add a service charge; check the bill. Tipping is customary for service staff in cafes and bars as well.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted at most places, but shops and eateries may prefer cards or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity. Expect afternoon thunderstorms and outdoor events along the waterfront. Stay hydrated and seek shade near parks and indoors venues during peak sun hours.
Mild days with crisp evenings; ideal for waterfront walks and photography. Fall foliage adds color to parks and river views.
Cold temperatures with wind off the river; occasional snow. Indoor dining, museums, and markets offer shelter and cultural experiences.
Moderate temperatures and blooming trees along the waterfront. Comfortable for outdoor exploring and market hopping.
Jersey City at Night
Hiking in Jersey City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged bluffs and scenic trails along the Hudson River with dramatic river and city views just a short drive from Jersey City.
Easy-to-moderate walks with skyline panoramas and river crossings, good for a quick hike or long scenic stroll.
Airports
How to reach Jersey City by plane.
Major international hub about 20-30 minutes by car or train from Jersey City; frequent domestic and international flights.
Accessible by car or public transit with a longer travel time; offers extensive international connections.
Close to NYC with primarily domestic flights; convenient for short trips and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Jersey City is a mosaic of cultures and languages, including large Latino, South Asian, Caribbean, and European communities, contributing to a wide range of cuisines and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community leagues and outdoor courts are common in parks and urban spaces.
Popular in city parks and recreational leagues, especially in summer and spring.
Local youth and adult leagues play in parks and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jersey City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
JC’s diverse eateries offer abundant vegetarian options: Indian dals and curries, Mediterranean mezze, Latin plant-based choices, and vegetarian pastas. Many menus label vegetarian dishes, and many venues are happy to customize.
Ask about cross-contamination in kitchens and opt for gluten-free pasta, rice dishes, salads, and grilled proteins. Many places accommodate gluten-free requests with careful preparation.