Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, planning a day trip, or just curious what’s going on beyond the NYC skyline, Jersey City delivers. With waterfront parks, buzzing neighborhoods, family-friendly spots, and some of the best food in the state, this underrated gem is packed with things to do.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Jersey City—for every vibe, budget, and bucket list.
Liberty State Park: The Crown Jewel of Jersey City
Stretching over 1,200 acres, Liberty State Park is one of the most visited green spaces in New Jersey — and for good reason. From this massive park, you’ll score uninterrupted views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. Perfect for joggers, cyclists, families, and photographers.
Inside the park, you’ll find:
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The Empty Sky Memorial — A moving tribute to New Jersey’s 9/11 victims
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The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal (CRRNJ) — A beautiful historic train station and ferry terminal
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Grassy picnic areas, playgrounds, and long, scenic pathways along the water
🚲 Rent a bike or bring your own for the full loop. Great for sunrise and sunset photos.
Powerhouse Arts District: Where Creativity Lives
If you’re looking for something cool and creative, wander through the Powerhouse Arts District. This once-industrial zone is now filled with working artist studios, colorful street art, murals, indie galleries, and modern lofts.
Things to see:
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Large-scale public murals curated by the Jersey City Mural Arts Program
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Pop-up galleries and warehouse art shows
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Graffiti-covered alleys perfect for street-style photo shoots
🖼️ Don’t forget your camera — this area is full of Instagram-worthy backdrops.
Hudson River Waterfront Walkway: Jersey City’s Skyline Secret
Walk, jog, or chill along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, which runs from Newport to Exchange Place. You’ll get breathtaking views of Manhattan, boats gliding by, and photo ops galore — especially at sunset.
Highlights include:
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The historic Colgate Clock
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J. Owen Grundy Park pier with skyline benches
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Pop-up events, yoga, and food carts in warmer months
🌇 Perfect date night stroll or a peaceful solo escape from the city hustle.
Liberty Science Center: Family Fun That’s Actually Fun
Located inside Liberty State Park, the Liberty Science Center is part museum, part playground for the curious mind. Kids love the interactive exhibits, while adults are wowed by the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium — the largest in the Western Hemisphere.
Top features:
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Live animal exhibits
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Touch-and-feel science tunnels
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3D shows, IMAX movies, and traveling exhibits
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Summer laser shows and adults-only nights
🎟️ Perfect for rainy days, school breaks, and curious explorers of all ages.
Eat Your Way Through Jersey City
One of the best things to do in Jersey City is eat. From award-winning restaurants to family-run favorites, the food scene here is wildly diverse and always on point.
Here are local must-visits:
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Razza – Wood-fired pizza that’s often called the best in NJ
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Taqueria Downtown – Iconic tacos and margaritas with a cult following
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White Mana Diner – Retro sliders since 1939
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Domodomo – Sushi and handrolls in an elegant space
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Fluffy Fluffy Go – Famous Japanese soufflé pancakes that jiggle, melt, and satisfy Read our full pancake guide →
And don’t forget:
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India Square for authentic Indian cuisine
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Newark Ave’s Pedestrian Plaza for outdoor dining, bubble tea, ramen, and nightlife vibes
🍜 Tip: Visit during lunchtime for weekday specials and quieter seating.
The Heights & Riverview Park: Views Without Crowds
Venture north to The Heights, a hilltop neighborhood with killer skyline views, artsy shops, and a relaxed, community vibe. The highlight? Riverview-Fisk Park, where locals come for sunsets, live music, and the weekend farmer’s market.
Things to do here:
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Sip espresso at Modcup Coffee
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Shop vinyls and vintage at local boutiques
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Snap skyline photos at golden hour
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Visit the Riverview Farmers Market (Sundays May–Nov) for local produce and handmade goods
📷 The views rival NYC’s High Line — but with fewer people and way more charm.
Events, Pop-Ups & Seasonal Fun
Jersey City is constantly buzzing with cultural festivals, night markets, movie nights, and block parties. Look for:
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Movies in the Park (summer)
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Art Walks & Open Studio Tours
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JC Fridays — A quarterly celebration of art, music, and performance
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Food truck rallies, live jazz nights, and rooftop events
🌈 Follow local IG accounts like @jerseycityculture and @everythingjerseycity to stay in the loop.
One-Day Itinerary Sample
Need a plan? Here’s how to spend a perfect day in JC:
Morning
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Start with breakfast pancakes at Fluffy Fluffy Go
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Explore the murals in the Powerhouse Arts District
Midday
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Walk through Liberty State Park, visit the memorial, or rent bikes
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Grab lunch at Razza or India Square
Afternoon
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Dive into interactive exhibits at Liberty Science Center
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Walk the Hudson River Waterfront for golden hour photos
Evening
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Eat dinner on Newark Ave
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Head to Riverview Park or a rooftop bar for NYC skyline views
Final Thoughts: Jersey City Has It All
From soul-soothing river views to soul-satisfying eats, Jersey City is one of the most vibrant and underrated places in New Jersey. It’s a place where creativity meets community, and where you can see the skyline without the crowd.
So next time you’re wondering where to go, skip the same old plan — and come explore all the amazing things to do in Jersey City.
Stay Fluffy,
Fluffy Fluffy Go! team