15 Free Things to Do in West New York, NJ

West New York is often mistaken as part of New York.

However, this small town in Hudson County, which only measures 3.42 square kilometers, is part of New Jersey.

West New York is one of the towns and cities along the Hudson River, sitting across Manhattan Island in New York.

Most people visiting this small town appreciate its view of the priceless Manhattan skyline.

However, there's more to West New York than its premier view of Manhattan.

Visiting West New York is like traveling back in time.

You'll see plenty of well-maintained century-old brick buildings, landmarks, and fascinating historical attractions along its streets.

Moreover, you won't have to break the bank to enjoy West New York.

Discover the free things to do in West New York, New Jersey!

Check Out the View of Manhattan at Donnelly Memorial Park

One of the main reasons people love to cross the Hudson River is to get a glimpse of the gorgeous skyline of Manhattan Island.

To experience this, head to the Donnelly Memorial Park.

This waterfront park in town is renowned for its five-star view of New York City and Manhattan Island across the Hudson River.

You can stroll through its waterfront walking path, a relaxing experience you and your family mustn't miss.

Otherwise, you can sit on one of its benches and pass the time while enjoying the great view from a distance.

Besides these relaxing activities, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Donnelly Memorial Park.

Relive the Past at West New York Public Library

West New York Public Library is one of the recommended places to visit upon arriving in town.

You can visit this library in the heart of West New York along 60th Street.

Many visitors browse this public library's halls and shelves to get acquainted with West New York's rich history.

This library is home to a vast collection of books, news clippings, and photographs that details West New York's history and other fascinating information.

At the same time, you'll appreciate its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, which is perfect for reading books and relaxing.

An hour or two at the West New York Public Library gives you a unique learning experience about this town.

Bring a Date to Old Glory Park

The Old Glory Park is the go-to place for locals in West New York for a romantic time with their partners.

You can visit this park south of West New York, bordering Union City.

It earned its reputation as one of the most romantic spots in town.

Most couples finishing dinner at nearby restaurants make it a habit to stroll through this park.

The peaceful ambiance and the night lights of nearby Manhattan Island add more to its romantic atmosphere.

Despite its size, Old Glory Park is recommended for love birds and families or friends who want to explore West New York's gorgeous scenery.

Try a Kick Flip at the West New York Skatepark

West New York Skatepark is the best place in the area to enjoy skateboarding.

You can visit this skate park along Boulevard East.

The skatepark spans over 6,000 square feet and became the home of local skaters after opening in 2021.

This skatepark, considered a hidden gem, is where most local skateboarding tournaments happen.

Locals love to test their new tricks at one of the obstacles, rails, or ramps.

If you're an avid skater looking for worthwhile skateboarding sessions, go to West New York Skatepark.

Honor the Fallen at the West New York War Memorial

The West New York War Memorial is a significant historical attraction.

This place along JFK Boulevard East is known for many as a memorial to honor West New York locals who fought during the First World War.

The memorial features a pyramid-shaped white concrete that has three square bronze panels.

On top is a soldier wearing the standard military helmet during World War I.

On the other side is a symbolic anchor, which depicts what the locals were doing during the war.

The individual names of the town's locals who fought in the war are on the pyramid steps.

Drop by the West New York War Memorial for a solemn and learning experience about the town's involvement in that great war.

Stroll through the Scenic Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is a place in West New York you mustn't miss.

You can visit this place along Harbor Place.

This excellent walkway on the Hudson River's western shores runs 18.5 miles throughout New Jersey.

Strolling through this walkway allows you to see more of the beautiful sceneries of the Hudson River and New York City across it.

If you stroll through the entire walkway, you'll end up on the George Washington Bridge, which connects New Jersey and New York.

Besides strolling, you can also ride a bike at the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway.

Otherwise, you can walk your dog on a calm day with the Big Apple as your backdrop.

Wander Bergenline Avenue

Bergenline Avenue is a vital commercial and historic district in West New York and New Jersey.

Its north-to-south streets pass several towns, such as West New York, Union City, North Bergen, and Guttenberg.

Wandering this part of West New York allows you to step back in time.

You can explore the town's past by seeing its well-preserved brick buildings up close.

Some of them are adorned with Victorian architecture.

Today, these buildings are a mixture of residences, businesses, and establishments that keeps this part of West New York lively.

While strolling through Bergenline Avenue, make stopovers to read historical landmarks or take photos.

Admire the Gorgeous Liberty Skyline

When you visit West New York, you won't get enough of the Big Apple's towering skyscrapers and stunning skyline.

With that in mind, head to the Liberty Skyline along JFK Boulevard East.

This small park offers some of the best views of New York City and Manhattan Island.

It has walking paths and benches that overlook this great metropolis across the Hudson River.

It has some of the most Instagrammable backdrops in town, which makes it a recommended place to visit.

Besides New York, you can also see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, especially on clear days.

Remember to list Liberty Skyline for another round of top-notch sightseeing activity in your itinerary.

Strike a Pose under the Bridge at Verrazano Park

Verrazano Park is not just known for its gorgeous view of New York.

It's also an iconic location for stunning sunset views and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge.

Many visitors love to pose for photos with the famous bridge as their backdrop.

If you want the best spots in West New York for your photo shoot, go to Verrazano Park.

Besides the bridge, you can also turn the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center's new tower, and Staten Island's Fort Wadsworth into your background.

Besides picture-taking, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Verrazano Park, such as sports, picnicking, and hiking.

Other Free Things to Do Nearby

After exploring West New York, you can head to its neighboring towns, which offer an eclectic collection of unique attractions and activities.

At the same time, you can proceed to Manhattan Island and New York City and take advantage of the exciting and free activities there.

Here are some recommended free things to do nearby West New York, New Jersey.

Enter Grand Central Terminal Station

Your visit to New York won't be complete without visiting the world-famous Grand Central Terminal Station.

This famous attraction is a 17-minute drive from West New York on Manhattan Island, New York City.

This attraction doesn't need a lengthy introduction since it's been featured countless times in movies, television shows, and even video games.

Visit this place and marvel at its elegant and timeless beauty while joining commuters catching their train ride, especially during rush hour.

While inside, roam the station's attractions, such as its whispering walls, cafes, and historical signages.

Of course, take gorgeous photos inside the Grand Central Terminal Station to complete your experience.

Uncover the Mystery of the Weehawken Dueling Grounds

Weehawken Dueling Grounds is a historical location in the neighboring town of Weehawken, New Jersey.

You can visit this fascinating place five minutes south of West New York.

True to its name, this place served as a dueling ground for outlaws and people with inconsolable conflicts.

These dueling grounds bore witness to the famous killing of Alexander Hamilton during his duel with Aaron Burr in 1804.

Today, the place includes the boulder where most duels happened.

It is a fascinating place to visit, especially if you're a historical enthusiast.

The Weehawken Dueling Grounds now has a bronze bust of Hamilton perched atop the boulders to preserve its historical value.

Get Active at the James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park

Check out James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park, one of the most extensive parks in Hudson County.

You can visit this park seven minutes or 1.4 miles north of West New York in North Bergen, New Jersey.

The entire park spans over 167 acres which face the Hudson River, offering you another vantage point of the gorgeous New York City.

However, most parkgoers love to get active because of the 45 sports facilities you can utilize inside.

It mainly caters to tennis players since it has 21 tennis courts.

At the same time, it has basketball, handball, football fields, volleyball courts, and a baseball field for little leagues.

Besides the sports facilities, James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park has a separate area for relaxation and picnicking.

See the Magnificent Architecture of the Vessel

The Vessel is one of New York's most unique buildings due to its intricate architecture.

It's situated on Hudson Yards on Manhattan's west side.

It mainly features a 16-story or 150-feet-tall building with a unique connected staircase between the structures of Hudson Yards.

Besides being a uniquely designed building, this attraction serves as an interactive sculpture and massive art installation.

Visiting the Vessel is a unique experience contrasting New York's federal and Victorian building architecture.

Drop by the Hudson Yards to take photos and pose beside this massive interactive sculpture.

Lose Yourself in Central Park

Spend the day at the world-famous Central Park.

This iconic park is only 16 minutes east of West New York.

This place is at the top of the list of Big Apple attractions.

Whether spring or winter, Central Park has something exciting waiting for you.

There are dozens of scenic locations across this park, activities, art installations, monuments, and other things to enjoy.

Before returning home, bring your friends or family to the iconic Central Park.

Spot Birds at the Hackensack Meadowlands Conservation and Wildlife Area

Hackensack Meadowlands Conservation and Wildlife Area is Hudson County's premier birdwatching destination.

You can check out this place 17 minutes west of West New York in Carlstadt, New Jersey.

This conservation and wildlife area is home to over 200 local and migratory bird species, often spotted roaming its vast meadows.

Bring your binoculars and hiking gear when visiting West New York to see these majestic birds up close.

Spend the day at the Hackensack Meadowlands Conservation and Wildlife Area.

Final Thoughts

West New York is a gem worth exploring along the Hudson River on New Jersey's side.

It's full of history and charm, making it an excellent alternative to the more famous New York City.

Most of its attractions are within walking distance, making this small New Jersey town a convenient travel destination that is a stone's throw away from the Big Apple.

Start planning your adventure with this list of the best things to do in West New York, New Jersey!

15 Best Things to Do in West New York, NJ

Discover the best things to do and top-rated attractions in West New York, NJ, including Liberty Skyline, Donnelly Memorial Park, El Rey Farmer’s Market, and more!

Travel LensJomar Teves