Jersey City Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Jersey City with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Jersey City

Jersey City, located in Hudson County, is a vibrant city known for its modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and stunning views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. Being in the heart of the New York Metropolitan area, it’s a bustling hub of commerce and culture.

Jersey City features a mix of old and new buildings, offering a unique blend of modernity and tradition. It is home to numerous entertainment venues, restaurants, and bars, making it an ideal destination for tourists or business travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Jersey City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Liberty State Park – This park is a great place to relax and enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. It also has a Science Center and a historic museum called the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal.

  • Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration – An iconic tourist destination located nearby the Statue of Liberty. The museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the immigrants who helped shape the United States.

  • The Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre – Built in 1929, this elegant theater boasts a grand-scale interior and hosts a variety of performances.

  • Jersey City Museum – This contemporary art museum showcases art from top-notch names.

Natural Attractions of Jersey City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Washington Park – This park offers great outdoor activities, including basketball courts, soccer fields, and playgrounds.

  • Lincoln Park – This verdant park features public amenities such as a golf course, a swimming pool, and a tennis court.

  • Hackensack Riverwalk –Bask in the scenic views of the Manhattan skyline while walking, cycling, or jogging along the Hackensack River.

  • Hudson River Waterfront Walkway – An excellent location to take a stroll or run and enjoy views of the New York City skyline and the river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jersey City

Jersey City has several ideal routes for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of them include:

  • Hudson River Waterfront Walkway – An ideal route for walk lovers offering spellbinding views of Lower Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

  • Liberty State Park – This state park has several trails winding through the beautifully landscaped gardens, picnic areas and stunning views of the tidal estuary.

  • Lincoln Park – Take a peaceful walk on the trails that start through park’s golf course and end at a big historic fountain after passing various water-filled areas of park.

Best Things to Do in Jersey City: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Sunset Cruise – Enjoy the sunset with breathtaking views of the city on the Hudson River by taking a sunset cruise.

  • Explore the Street Art – Take a walk around parts of Jersey City like Bergen Lafayette to discover the city’s unbeatable street art like the murals of various colors and shapes which denote the local culture and history.

  • Take a Food Tour- Discover the mouth-watering flavors of the city’s most exciting eateries and sellers with tasting tours in different neighborhoods and uncover the best in traditional and modern local food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jersey City

Day Place Activity
1 Liberty State Park Visit the Science Center and Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal
2 Washington Park Enjoy outdoor activities like tennis, basketball, and soccer
3 Lincoln Park Visit the historic fountain and take a walk on the trails
4 The Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre Watch a performance or a movie
5 Hackensack Riverwalk Take a Walk or Jog with views of the Manhattan skyline
6 Jersey City Museum Explore contemporary art collections
7 Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration Take a ferry tour to Ellis Island

Food and Drink Scene of Jersey City

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizza – Jersey City offers some of the best pizzas, including Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Razza.

  • Cheese Steak – Don’t miss the succulent Philly cheese steak sandwiches at Tony Baloney’s and Phil’s Rotisserie & Grill.

  • Seafood – Try the fresh seafood dishes at Maritime Parc, and Oyster Bar.

Local Beverages

  • Beer – Jersey City has a big craft beer scene, with several craft breweries like Departed Soles Brewing Company, and 902 Brewing Co.

  • Coffee – Stop by Mod Cup Coffee for a delicious cup of coffee made with beans roasted locally.

Where to Stay in Jersey City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Jersey City offers visitors a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious five-star hotels. Some of the most popular lodging options include:

  • The Hyatt Regency Jersey City – Located next to the Exchange Place PATH train station, this hotel is the best option for leisure and business travelers.

  • The Westin Jersey City Newport – Conveniently located in the downtown area, this hotel features modern amenities and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.

  • Jersey City Bed and Breakfast – This budget-friendly guesthouse is a perfect option for solo travelers or those traveling with their families.

What to Buy in Jersey City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local Artwork – Take home a piece of Jersey City’s artistic vibe by visiting local galleries and artists. Check out Art House Productions for events and shows near you.

  • Jersey City T-shirt –Get a T-Shirt with the “I’m a Jerseyan” logo from a local shop or street vendor.

Local Culture and Customs of Jersey City

In Jersey City, you will find that people are friendly and diverse. This city takes pride in being a melting pot of cultures, which is evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and events.

Best Time to Visit Jersey City

The best time to visit Jersey City is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds thin out. The spring (March to May) is another good option if you prefer mild temperatures and fewer tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jersey City

Do:

  • Do visit the various cultural and entertainment hotspots like Liberty Science Museum, Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre, and Liberty State Park.
  • Do try to explore different neighborhoods and experience Jersey City’s diverse culture and local cuisine.
  • Do take public transport or prepare to park in the parking lots; street parking spots are sparse during peak hours.

Don’t:

  • Don’t throw litter on the streets. Use the designated trash containers.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask for help from the friendly locals if you get lost or need direction.

Safety and Health

Safety in Jersey City

Overall, Jersey City is considered a safe city, and the crime rate has been decreasing in recent years. Still, visitors should always be cautious, especially in darker and more secluded areas.

Health in Jersey City

Jersey City has excellent medical facilities and hospitals, including the Jersey City Medical Center. Visitors are required to have health insurance coverage during their stay.

Getting to Jersey City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jersey City

  • Newark Liberty International Airport – Located about 6 miles from the downtown area, this airport is the most accessible airport to Jersey City.

  • LaGuardia Airport – Located approximately 14 miles from Jersey City, LaGuardia is another good option for visitors to the city.

Bus Stations Near Jersey City

  • Journal Square Transportation Center – This is a major bus station in Jersey City and a hub for local and regional buses.

Other Options

  • Ferry – The NY Waterway operates regular ferry services between Jersey City and Manhattan, making commuting easy for visitors.

How to Get Around in Jersey City

Jersey City is a pedestrian-friendly city, and visitors can opt to explore on foot or bike. The city has plenty of bike lanes, making it a great option for cycling enthusiasts. Public transport options like light rail, buses, and ferries are also available.

Where to Go Next from Jersey City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jersey City is a great starting point for visitors looking to explore nearby attractions like Hoboken, Weehawken, and various other destinations in New Jersey.

Conclusion

Whether you’re exploring the museums, sampling the food, or taking in the scenic views, Jersey City has a wealth of attractions and activities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a vibrant city in the northeast United States. By following our comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to experience the best of what this charming city has to offer.

The Jersey City skyline, as seen from the New York harbor. The tower at the center of the picture is the Goldman Sachs Tower, the tallest building in New Jersey The Jersey City skyline, as seen from the New York harbor. The tower at the center of the picture is the Goldman Sachs Tower, the tallest building in New Jersey Brownstones in downtown Jersey City Brownstones in downtown Jersey City Map of PATH system Map of PATH system H&M Powerhouse (painted yellow) H&M Powerhouse (painted yellow) Jersey City's City Hall Jersey City's City Hall View of Midtown Manhattan from Jersey City View of Midtown Manhattan from Jersey City View of Lower Manhattan from Jersey City View of Lower Manhattan from Jersey City