15+ things to do & see in Jersey City, NJ [for all ages]

Jersey City sits across the Hudson River from Manhattan. This thriving city offers something for everyone. You can explore its diverse cultures, eat great food, and visit cool attractions. Jersey City’s mix of trendy neighborhoods and business districts guarantees fun.

Let’s check out the best things to do in Jersey City, whether you’re just visiting or you live here.

Our Recommendations On The Best Things To Do in Jersey City

Jersey City is known for many things, but to make your trip more fun and exciting we listed the top most interesting places to visit while in Jersey City, New Jersey, United States.

RPM Raceway located at 99 Caven Point Rd in Jersey City offers a thrilling indoor go-kart racing experience, suitable for both professional go-karters and beginners.

• Track and Facility: Spanning over 90,000 square feet, RPM boasts one of the largest indoor tracks in New Jersey. The track is also very challenging with elements like sharp curves, and hairpin turns. Advanced timing systems are used to track and compare lap times.
• Go-Karts and Safety: The electric go-karts can reach speeds of up to 45 mph and are equipped with safety features such as roll bars and harnesses, ensuring a secure experience.
• Additional Entertainment: Beyond racing, RPM Raceway also features an arcade and pool tables, alongside a snack bar for further entertainment.
• Pricing: $24.95 per race for adults and $19.95 for children.

Liberty State Park, located on the Hudson River banks in Jersey City, covers 1,212 acres and offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan.

• Historic Site: The park’s centerpiece is the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, now a museum showcasing its immigration history.
• Recreation: It features hiking trails, fishing spots, playgrounds, and sports fields, plus an outdoor pool for summer.
• Liberty Walkway: A 1.3-mile path provides fantastic scenic views.
• Events and Education: The park hosts year-round concerts, festivals, and shows. The Liberty Science Center offers interactive exhibits for families.
• Marina Facilities: Liberty Landing Marina includes a restaurant, store, fuel dock, and park access.

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The Liberty Science Center, spanning over 300,000 square feet, is located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, ideal for everyone interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). is a vast hands-on science museum that aims to ignite curiosity and foster learning through interactive experiences.

Major Highlights:

• Infinity Climber: A major highlight is the Infinity Climber, a three-story structure of platforms and nets, offering an adventurous climbing experience and unique views of the museum.
• IMAX Theater: The museum boasts a large IMAX theater, showcasing science and nature films on an 88-foot wide, five-story screen, enhanced with 3D technology and immersive sound.
• Touch Tunnel: Another popular exhibit is the Touch Tunnel, an 80-foot dark tunnel that challenges visitors to navigate using only their sense of touch.

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J Owen Grundy Park, also located along the Hudson River, is a tribute to a former mayor who played a significant role in maintaining the city’s history. The park is renowned for its stunning views of the New York City skyline and offers a range of amenities and recreational activities:

• Recreational Space: It features an open lawn ideal for picnics, playing, and sunbathing, with trees offering shade on sunny days.
• Nighttime Ambiance: A central fountain becomes a focal point at night, illuminated to create a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax.
• Public Art: The park is decorated with art installations, including a whale tail sculpture that pays homage to Jersey City’s maritime history, and serves as a picturesque backdrop for photos against the Manhattan skyline.
• Cultural Events: J Owen Grundy Park hosts a variety of events, including performances, festivals, and community gatherings. In the summer, it becomes a hub for outdoor movies, concerts, and fairs.

Situated in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, Empty Sky Memorial is a tribute to the 749 New Jersey residents who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks.

• Design and Structure: It features two imposing steel walls, each 30 feet tall, extending 208 feet in length. These walls represent the Twin Towers.
• Names of the Victims: On these walls are the names of the victims, organized by their home counties, creating a personal and emotional journey for visitors as they walk through.
• Architectural Significance: Designed by architect Frederic Schwartz, the memorial is named ‘Empty Sky’, inspired by the Bruce Springsteen song dedicated to the memory of 9/11 victims.
• Reflective Elements: Adding to its reflective nature, the site includes two pools mirroring the walls, and 30 metal pedestals representing Hudson County victims, arranged in a circle to signify community unity.
• Public Access: This memorial serves as a space for quiet contemplation and remembrance.

The Empty Sky Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Newport Centre, a mall in downtown Jersey City, offers an excellent shopping and entertainment experience for both locals and tourists.

• Shopping Variety: The mall houses over 130 stores, including popular brands like H&M, Forever 21, and Zara, catering to a wide range of shopping needs from clothing and technology to home goods and beauty products.
• Dining Options: For dining, visitors can choose from various options, including sit-down restaurants like The Cheesecake Factory and fast-casual eateries like Chipotle, along with a diverse food court.
• Entertainment Facilities: Entertainment at Newport Centre includes a 12-screen AMC theater showcasing the latest movies and Bowlmor Lanes for bowling and arcade games.
• Community and Seasonal Events: The mall is a hub for community events and holiday celebrations, featuring free outdoor concerts and movies during the summer.
• Accessibility: Newport Centre is easily accessible by public transit and is open seven days a week for all ages.

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White Eagle Hall, a beautifully restored historic theater in Downtown Jersey City, is a hotspot for live music, theater, comedy, dance, and more. The venue, originally opened in 1910 and renovated in 2016, merges historic charm with modern amenities.

• Historical Significance: Built by Polish immigrants, this venue echoes the rich cultural history of Jersey City and includes architectural elements like glass skylights commemorating Frédéric Chopin.
• Venue Features: With a capacity for 800 standing or 400 seated, it hosts a diverse range of performances. The hall boasts a 25-foot high proscenium stage, high-tech sound and light systems, and three separate bars.
• Events and Performances: From indie bands to classical music, White Eagle Hall presents a variety of shows. It also serves as a venue for private events like weddings and receptions.

Tia’s Place, situated at 277 Grove Street in Jersey City, is a boutique that blends the luxury of boutique shopping with a wide and accessible range of fashion items.

• Fashion and Accessories: Tia’s Place offers a diverse collection of clothing, jewelry, bags, and accessories. The store features a mix of up-and-coming designers and niche brands, providing something for every style preference.
• One-of-a-Kind Finds: The boutique is also known for its selection of unique furniture and antiques, ranging from armoires to chandeliers, adding a distinct charm to the shopping experience.
• Shopping Experience: With a personalized approach, Tia’s Place creates an inviting atmosphere for customers. It’s a destination for fashionistas and stylists, offering a range of products that cater to various tastes and budgets.
• Online Shopping: While the physical location of Tia’s Place is currently closed at the time of typing this, their online boutique, Retailery, continues to offer a vast array of products, catering to customers through a revamped e-commerce site and shoppable social media platforms.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located in downtown historic Jersey City, the boutique is easily accessible and adds to the vibrant shopping scene of the area.

Kanibal & Co. in Jersey City is a treasure trove for those seeking unique items. Located at 197 Montgomery St, this boutique blends a modern aesthetic with vintage charm, creating a shopping experience like no other.

• Product Variety: The store offers a diverse range of products including home goods, apparel, jewelry, and gifts. It’s known for its whimsical and creative items, perfect for those looking for something out of the ordinary.
• Local and Handmade Items: A highlight of Kanibal & Co. is their collection of locally made and designed products, celebrating Jersey City’s vibrant community and creative spirit.
• Historic Charm: The store’s warm and inviting atmosphere is complemented by its historic setting, providing a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.
• Events and Workshops: Besides retail, Kanibal & Co. hosts various events and workshops, making it a community hub for creativity and learning.

The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is an 18.5-mile scenic pathway along the Hudson River in New Jersey.

It stretches from Bayonne to the George Washington Bridge, offering stunning views of the New York City skyline, is open 24/7, and is a great destination for families.

• Scenic and Accessible: The Walkway is perfect for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing, providing a peaceful escape with breathtaking urban and natural views.
• Connects Multiple Municipalities: It runs through nine municipalities including Jersey City, Hoboken, and Weehawken, making it a great way to explore different parts of Hudson County.
• Activities and Attractions: Along the way, there are various points of interest, including historical sites, parks, and access to local eateries and cultural attractions.

Battello, located at 502 Washington Blvd in Jersey City, is an upscale restaurant offering a blend of Italian, American, and Seafood cuisine. The restaurant features breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.

• Cuisine and Menu: Battello offers a range of dishes, including fresh seafood, pasta, and contemporary American cuisine. The restaurant also caters to various dietary needs, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
• Ambiance: The setting of Battello is both modern and inviting, with an industrial yet luxurious feel. It’s particularly known for its stunning waterfront views, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
• Events and Weddings: In addition to dining, Battello is a popular venue for weddings and events, known for its beautiful setting and excellent service.

PRO TIP: Make reservations in advance because it’s kind of hard to get a spot on arrival.

Located at 435 Newark Avenue, the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery is not just a resting place for the departed, but a site rich in history and community activities.

Founded in 1829, it’s one of New Jersey’s oldest cemeteries and serves as a vital cultural and historical landmark.

• Historical Significance: The cemetery is the final resting place for soldiers from various American wars, including the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It also holds graves of notable individuals and early Jersey City founders.
• Unique Events: The cemetery hosts a range of events, such as concerts, plays, arts and crafts markets, and movie screenings. It’s a hub for cultural activities, birdwatching, beekeeping, and gardening.
• Community Involvement: Volunteers play a crucial role in maintaining and restoring the cemetery. Visitors are invited to participate in “Wake and Rake” clean-ups and other community-driven efforts.
• Historical and Natural Beauty: The cemetery features garden-style landscapes with shade trees and historic statues, offering a serene environment amidst the urban setting of Jersey City.
• Educational Opportunities: The site offers educational tours and events, providing insights into the area’s rich history and the significance of the cemetery in American history.

The Stanley Theater, located at 2932 John F. Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, is a significant historical and architectural landmark. Opened on March 24, 1928, this theater near Journal Square has a rich legacy of entertainment and cultural significance.

• Architectural Marvel: Designed by architect Fred Wesley Wentworth, the Stanley Theater boasts a grand Venetian theme. It features a three-story lobby with Corinthian columns, a central staircase, lavish chandeliers (including one from the original Waldorf Astoria), and stained glass windows.
• Historical Significance: Once the second-largest theater on the East Coast, the Stanley Theater hosted a range of entertainers from The Three Stooges and Jimmy Durante to Janis Joplin and The Grateful Dead. It suffered disrepair in the 1970s but was later purchased by the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society in 1983 for restoration.
• Restoration and Present Use: Jehovah’s Witnesses undertook the restoration, preserving its original charm while adapting it for their assembly hall. The theater’s auditorium, designed in an Atmospheric style with a sky ceiling, creates an illusion of an open sky with twinkling stars and drifting clouds.
• Visiting: While the Stanley Theater currently functions as an assembly hall for Jehovah’s Witnesses, it’s open for guided tours, showcasing its restored beauty and historical significance.

14: Shop Vintage at Another Man’s Treasure

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(201) 860-9990

PERFECT FOR: Vintage clothing and accessory shopping.

Located at 195 Montgomery Street in Jersey City, Another Man’s Treasure is a must-visit for vintage fashion enthusiasts. Established in 2006, it offers a well-curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories.

• Unique Collections: The store features a mix of vintage items from various decades, specializing in clothing from the 1940s through the 1980s. The collection includes men’s and women’s clothing, jewelry, shoes, accessories, and much more.
• Owners’ Expertise: Meika and Warren Franz, the owners, bring their extensive experience and keen eye for quality to the store. They hand-pick items from across the country and abroad, ensuring a constantly evolving collection.
• Accessibility: The store is conveniently located a few blocks from the Grove Street PATH Train station, making it easily accessible for both locals and New York vintage shoppers.

Another Man’s Treasure is more than just a vintage store; it’s a treasure trove of historical fashion, offering a unique shopping experience for those who appreciate the charm and quality of vintage styles​​​​​.

15: Explore Art at Mana Contemporary

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PERFECT FOR: Experiencing contemporary art and cultural events.

Mana Contemporary, located at 888 Newark Ave, Jersey City, is a cultural center that provides a dynamic space for artists, collectors, curators, performers, students, and the community.

• Artistic Hub: Mana Contemporary is home to artist studios, exhibition spaces, and storage facilities. It hosts the Middle East Center for the Arts, the International Center of Photography archives, and the Magnum Foundation.
• Diverse Offerings: The center includes foundations such as the Eileen S Kaminsky (ESKFF) and Carole Feuerman foundations. Renowned artists like Amy Sherald have studios at Mana.
• Cultural Events: Mana Contemporary organizes various events and exhibitions, showcasing a mix of stored collections and temporary exhibitions. Visitors can engage with artists in their studios and participate in public tours.
• Historical Significance: The center transformed an abandoned tobacco factory into a contemporary arts destination, playing a crucial role in Jersey City’s cultural revival.
• Accessibility: Tours are offered on weekdays, and the space is accessible by public transportation.

Mana Contemporary stands as a testament to artistic innovation and community engagement in Jersey City, offering a unique experience to explore contemporary art and culture​​​​.

Things To Consider Before Visiting Jersey City, NJ

Check the Weather: Jersey City has four seasons. Pack accordingly for hot summers and cold winters. Plan outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day in summer.

Know Your Transportation: Jersey City offers taxis, trains, buses, and ferries. Being close to major airports makes getting here easy. Research options and routes ahead of time. Buy passes in advance to save time. Parking can be difficult – consider public transit or cabs.

Choose the Right Accommodations: Jersey City has many lodging options from affordable to luxury. Research hotels, motels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. Consider location, amenities, and budget to find the best fit.

How Do We Pick Our Recommendations

With the help of our amazing survey team and some of the previous visitors, we were able to Pick the best places you could visit, that will make your stay a thousand times better. While our team was traveling they were able to stop in New York to cover Manhattan, NY: The Ultimate Guide to Entertainment, Food, and Culture.

Conclusion

Jersey City, NJ, offers a diverse range of activities, from the thrilling RPM Raceway to the tranquil Liberty State Park. It’s a city rich in history, culture, and entertainment, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re into go-karting, science, shopping, or art, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Before visiting, consider the weather, transportation, and accommodation to enhance your experience.