{"id":60824,"date":"2022-03-13T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-03-13T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/best-things-to-do-in-jersey-city\/"},"modified":"2024-03-30T19:25:16","modified_gmt":"2024-03-30T19:25:16","slug":"best-things-to-do-in-jersey-city","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/best-things-to-do-in-jersey-city\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Best Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ"},"content":{"rendered":"

Many tourists use Jersey City as a gateway to the glorious Statue of Liberty.<\/p>\n

But did you know there’s so much more to see?<\/p>\n

Less than a kilometer away from New York, Jersey City offers endless amounts of culture and entertainment.<\/p>\n

To help plan your upcoming trip, we have compiled a list of the best things to do in Jersey City, New Jersey:<\/p>\n

<\/h2>\n

<\/h2>\n

Take a Trip Back in Time Through the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal<\/p>\n

\"Exterior<\/p>\n

Vladimir Mucibabic \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal played an essential role in the history of immigration within Jersey City.<\/p>\n

\"Far<\/p>\n

pisaphotography \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The terminal serves as a gateway to two of the most popular tourist attractions: the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.<\/p>\n

Ferries are only available from the terminal.<\/p>\n

\"Side<\/p>\n

Linda Harms \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Go on a Cruise Along the Hudson River<\/h2>\n

\"Cruise<\/p>\n

Ritu Manoj Jethani \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Jersey City is one of the best places to take a cruise.<\/p>\n

Situated close to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, the Hudson River and its gentle waters make an excellent cruising destination. <\/p>\n

Many sailing companies organize these cruises and present various choices for which sights to see.<\/p>\n

\"Foam<\/p>\n

S-F \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

One of the most popular cruises is the one that includes the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.<\/p>\n

Many of the cruises run for 90 minutes, providing tourists with enough time to see these unmissable sights while also giving them the opportunity to spend the day exploring.<\/p>\n

We recommend taking a cruise where you can catch the sunset on the river horizon; it makes for the most stunning photos. <\/p>\n

Learn More About the Past at Ellis Island Immigration Museum<\/h2>\n

\"Majestic<\/p>\n

gary718 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Immigrants played an important role in shaping Jersey City’s history.<\/p>\n

From the 1800s to the 1900s, there was an influx of people coming to the city from many different locations around the globe.<\/p>\n

\"Sign<\/p>\n

Dayah Shaltes \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The Ellis Island Immigration Museum was built to allow others to learn about the history of immigrants within America. <\/p>\n

\"People<\/p>\n

Let Go Media \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Visit the Van Vorst Park<\/h2>\n

\"Fountain<\/p>\n

Mariusz Lopusiewicz \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Van Vorst Park is one of the premier historic tourist locations in the city.<\/p>\n

It’s located in the downtown part of the city where there are plenty of other destinations relevant to history.<\/p>\n

\"Benches<\/p>\n

James Andrews1 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

While you are exploring and hunting for food in the crowded downtown location, do drop in for a visit to Van Vorst Park.<\/p>\n

The area was named after the park planners, Cornelius Van Vorst and Peter Henderson.<\/p>\n

\"Colorful<\/p>\n

James Andrews1 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The park is vast, extending over 1.8 acres of land, and has been around almost 200 years.<\/p>\n

Many come here for a relaxing stroll and admire the architecture, which dates back to the 19th century. <\/p>\n

Go on a Food Tour and Sample Jersey City’s Local Cuisine<\/h2>\n

Jersey City is all about delicious cuisine.<\/p>\n

Every neighborhood within the area has a different local favorite.<\/p>\n

Due to this, Jersey City invites tourists to try at least one of their many available food tours.<\/p>\n

You can learn about the city’s local culture and many delicacies on these tours.<\/p>\n

With the opportunity to visit six of the best restaurants in town, the tour covers all areas, from formal dining to street food.<\/p>\n

From sandwiches and burgers to craft beers, the tours give travelers an unmissable culinary experience.<\/p>\n

These tours are perfect for those who love Italian food as they often take you to experience some of the most luxurious Italian restaurants within the city. <\/p>\n

Take Photos With the Famous Colgate Clock<\/h2>\n

\"Far<\/p>\n

Goran Vrhovac \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The Colgate Clock, first constructed in 1924, has been around for almost a century. <\/p>\n

Since then, the clock has become a tourist attraction, and many know it as the Big Ben of Jersey City.<\/p>\n

\"Closeup<\/p>\n

James Andrews1 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

With a height of 50 feet, the clock overlooks the waters of Jersey City, and many tourists come to take pictures. <\/p>\n

\"Colgate<\/p>\n

Artem Avetisyan \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Shop for Vintage Goods at Another Man’s Treasure Vintage Store<\/h2>\n

Another Man’s Treasure Vintage Store has been home to clothing and accessories boasting the original Jersey style for the longest time.<\/p>\n

The store has been around for decades and has invited countless customers to come and browse amongst their unique pieces.<\/p>\n

With pieces dating as far back as the 1920s, they offer some of the rarest fashion accessories, including dresses and jewelry. <\/p>\n

Snap Some Pictures of the Apple Tree House<\/h2>\n

\"Brick<\/p>\n

King of Hearts<\/a>, CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Jersey City has its fair share of historic old houses.<\/p>\n

Many come to admire the designs and structures of such authentic properties. <\/p>\n

Additionally, history lovers come to find out about the intriguing history and character the houses offer.<\/p>\n

The Apple Tree House, previously known as the Wagenen House, has an interesting tale.<\/p>\n

Figures such as George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette planned different strategies on the grounds of their property. <\/p>\n

Check Out the Newkirk House<\/h2>\n

\"Street<\/p>\n

Hudconja<\/a>, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

There is no shortage of historical houses in Jersey City.<\/p>\n

If you’re on the lookout for architectural gems, you’ll find a lot of them in this city\u2014take the Newkirk House, for example.<\/p>\n

Boasting Dutch-style architecture, the Newkirk House that dates back to 1690 still stands proudly.<\/p>\n

\"Side<\/p>\n

Hudconja<\/a>, CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a>, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

With its rich history, it has become a tourist attraction where many come to take pictures.<\/p>\n

There once was a restaurant situated inside the house; however, nowadays, people admire the exterior.<\/p>\n

Get Your Spirits High at Corgi Spirits<\/h2>\n

For vodka and gin lovers, this place is a must-visit.<\/p>\n

Corgi Spirits serves a variety of homemade specialty gin and vodka, which are famous throughout the city.<\/p>\n

This is the perfect place to come to unwind with friends.<\/p>\n

One of its most popular menu items is the Earl Grey Gin.<\/p>\n

For those who prefer cocktails, Corgi Spirits offers a range of cocktails for prices that go as low as $8 during happy hour. <\/p>\n

Take a Walk Around Lincoln Park<\/h2>\n

\"Gazebo<\/p>\n

Martine Parisien \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Want to see one of the city’s original parks? <\/p>\n

Come and take a walk around Lincoln Park, which is perfect for up the sun and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.<\/p>\n

Located in the heart of the city, the park is around 250 acres and has many historical tales related to it.<\/p>\n

\"Water<\/p>\n

Jim.henderson<\/a>, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

The Hackensack River is also nearby, meaning visitors get to see beautiful views from the park.<\/p>\n

There are many hiking trails inside the park for those who love long walks or hikes.<\/p>\n

Get Lost in History at the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery<\/h2>\n

\"Headstones<\/p>\n

Jim.henderson<\/a>, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/p>\n

Historic Jersey City witnessed the Revolutionary War and served as an important aspect in the war of 1812.<\/p>\n

The Harismus Cemetery was established in 1829 and is the resting place of many of the city’s first mayors, veterans, and ancestors. <\/p>\n

It’s also well known in its own right, being one of the filming locations of the TV show The Sopranos<\/em>.<\/p>\n

If you choose to visit, it is recommended you come during Veteran’s Day as many events take place. <\/p>\n

Try Gourmet Ice Cream at Milk Sugar Love<\/h2>\n

Milk Sugar Love is one of the most popular ice cream parlors in the area, offering customers a variety of gourmet flavors suitable for all dietary requirements.<\/p>\n

All ingredients used are of the highest quality and are prepared with local organic milk.<\/p>\n

Milk Sugar Love’s available menu items are constantly rotating, meaning new flavors are always added to their extensive menu.<\/p>\n

Whether you crave classic vanilla or fancy trying something different, like matcha, they’re guaranteed to have something for you. <\/p>\n

Stroll around Liberty State Park<\/h2>\n

\"Riverfront<\/p>\n

Sorbis \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Located in the heart of New York City, Liberty State Park has more than 1,200 acres.<\/p>\n

With water on three sides, it is one of the city’s most popular attractions.<\/p>\n

Strolling around the spectacular and breathtakingly beautiful Liberty State Park is one of the best free things to do in Jersey City.<\/p>\n

It has a beautiful waterfront view, several seats, a playground for children, boat launches, picnic spots, and many more places of interest.<\/p>\n

\"Picturesque<\/p>\n

Mariusz Lopusiewicz \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

This picture-perfect park is a great place to spend time with loved ones and have a good time.<\/p>\n

Take a walk, relax on a seat and take in the sights, pack a picnic, or whatever else your heart desires\u2014all for free.<\/p>\n

You may also go boating, fishing, on a cruise, visit a scientific museum, and so much more for a relatively low fee.<\/p>\n

Honor War Veterans at Empty Sky Memorial<\/h2>\n

\"Lit<\/p>\n

Droneandy \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

To honor the 749 New Jerseyans who were killed during the September 11 attacks, the Empty Sky Memorial was dedicated in September 2011.<\/p>\n

Visit the Empty Sky Memorial while in Jersey City as one of the city’s major tourist attractions.<\/p>\n

\"Closeup<\/p>\n

Dev Chatterjee \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Stunning stainless steel twin walls etched with the 749 names of the dead flank this impressive memorial’s rich vegetation.<\/p>\n

Pay honor and respect to the innocent victims of the World Trade Center bombings on September 11, 2001.<\/p>\n

\"Beautiful<\/p>\n

cpaulfell \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

As you go between the two massive walls and read the names of those who perished on September 11, observe a moment of silence.<\/p>\n

Have a Retail Therapy at Newport Centre<\/h2>\n

\"Aerial<\/p>\n

quiggyt4 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Located in Newport, Rhode Island, Newport Mall is one of the city’s most popular retail destinations.<\/p>\n

This three-story mall features more than 167 retail establishments, as well as a variety of additional amenities.<\/p>\n

A spectacular shopping binge is definitely in order if you ask me.<\/p>\n

\"Macy's<\/p>\n

Xackery Irving \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

This mall is a must-see if you’re ever in the area!<\/p>\n

Nearby Sears, JCPenney, and Macy’s are only the beginning of what you’ll find at this massive retail area.<\/p>\n

The Newport Centre is the perfect place to go shopping with your pals.<\/p>\n

\"Shops<\/p>\n

Xackery Irving \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Choose from hundreds of retailers, like Adidas, Sephora, Forever 21, Coach, and many more. <\/p>\n

A movie or a meal awaits you after shopping.<\/p>\n

Bring Your Kids to Liberty Science Center<\/h2>\n

\"Enormous<\/p>\n

EQRoy \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Since its inception in 1993, Liberty Scientific Center has been a pioneer in science education in Jersey City.<\/p>\n

The planetarium, the state’s most technologically sophisticated and most prominent, is the principal attraction here.<\/p>\n

\"Liberty<\/p>\n

Bokic Bojan \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

This incredible science museum is a must-see in Jersey City if you want to have a memorable outing that is instructive and entertaining for the whole family.<\/p>\n

It has an excellent planetarium, a caf\u00e9, a gift shop, educational programs, exciting events, and a lot more to keep you entertained.<\/p>\n

You will even get a chance to see beekeepers extracting honey in one of the natural exhibits.<\/p>\n

\"Far<\/p>\n

Bokic Bojan \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Other Things to Do Nearby<\/h2>\n

See the World-Famous Statue of Liberty<\/h2>\n

\"Statue<\/p>\n

TZIDO SUN \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most visited tourist spots in the world.<\/p>\n

It would be an absolute shame if you came to the city next door and didn’t take a chance to visit this infamous tourist attraction.<\/p>\n

\"Statue<\/p>\n

cla78 \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Ferries and cruises are two of the best options to see the statue.<\/p>\n

Additionally, different types of ticket packages are available for the Statue of Liberty.<\/p>\n

\"Statue<\/p>\n

spyarm \/ Shutterstock.com<\/p>\n

Some offer photo opportunities, while others offer more in-depth tours that let visitors explore the inside of the monument and the museum. <\/p>\n

Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n

Jersey City is so much more than just one of New York’s neighboring cities.<\/p>\n

It has its own charm and brims with historical suites, mouth-watering cuisine, and photo op-worthy attractions.<\/p>\n

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Jersey City helps narrow down some of the best places to visit on your trip!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Many tourists use Jersey City as a gateway to the glorious Statue of Liberty. But did you know there’s so much more to see? Less than a kilometer away from New York, Jersey City offers endless amounts of culture and entertainment. To help plan your upcoming trip, we have compiled a list of the best […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":60874,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[1301,1181,2359,1200,1199,45],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60824"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=60824"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60824\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":60896,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/60824\/revisions\/60896"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/60874"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=60824"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=60824"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.travellens.co\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=60824"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}