8 Reasons Everyone Wants To Visit This New Jersey Town… And You Should Too
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Kristen
Author
There are so many magnificent cities, towns, boroughs, villages, and hamlets in the Garden State. Every one offers something special, whether that be peace and quiet, outdoor adventure, delectable dining, or amazing attractions. However, there’s one New Jersey destination that stands out as a must-visit. If you can only see a single Garden State city, it should be Jersey City! Here’s why:
An urban oasis offering incredible restaurants, a historic railroad terminal, moving memorial, kayak tours, trails, and more, Liberty State Park should be your first stop. Enjoy incredible views of the New York City skyline and, of course, ferry rides to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. If you're interested in the kayak eco-tours, they take about 2 hours and are held on most summer weekends. Running from 10 a.m.-noon, you'll need to arrive at 9:30 and the cost is $20 per person. To register or for more information, call (201) 915-3400 ext. 202.
Though this modern marvel is located within the borders of Liberty State Park, it deserves its own spot on this list. Besides being a spectacular museum, LSC is home to the Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium - the largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. The breathtaking shows never fail to delight (even after you've seen them multiple times...or maybe that's just me). While the museum caters to kiddos, there are monthly adult-only events. They feature exhibit access, special demonstrations and hands-on activities, DJs, dancing, (alcoholic) drinks and a variety of dining options.
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Who doesn't enjoy a meal with a view? Jersey City offers several options including Taphaus and Vu. Taphaus has some of the best pub grub around... Try the Pretzel Anti-Pasta (Bavarian Pretzel, Sopressata, Spicy Capicola, Spicy Salami, Manchego Cheese, Stuffed Green Peppers, Cheese Sauce) or Drunken Butcher Fries (Pulled Short Ribs, Spicy Cheese Sauce, Pickled Vegetables, Jalapeno, Chives). They've also got great burgers and brunch. Vu is located inside the Hyatt Regency and offers New American Fare and floor to ceiling windows.
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Some of the best dining in Jersey City can be found along Restaurant Row - an area that starts near the Grove Street PATH and extends up Newark Avenue, and out towards 1st Street. Some of the incredible eateries in the area include Porta (offering modern Italian eats, mouthwatering pizza, multiple bars, and rooftop dining) and Talde (offering Pan-Asian cuisine, creative cocktails, and a basement speakeasy). Also check out Skinner's Loft and Taqueria Downtown.
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Liberty Science Center isn't the only museum in town. While MoRA may not be quite as popular, it still has a fantastic collection of contemporary paintings and paper-based works. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 and the museum can be found at 80 Grand Street.
People are dying to get in! Terrible jokes aside, this is a wonderful spot to visit. A community gathering place, they've got goats, sheep, and special events. Today, the cemetery will be hosting The Living Dead Oddities Market from 1-7 p.m.. Admission is $5 and will support the maintenance of the cemetery.
Jersey City is home to the Colgate Clock. At 50 feet in diameter, it's the 4th largest clock in the world. You can find it on the Hudson River near the Goldman Sachs Building. Another quirky attraction in Jersey City is the LeFrak Point Lighthouse on Harsimus Cove. Built in the 1980s by real estate tycoon Samuel LeFrak, it serves no nautical purpose.
Journal Square is a transportation hub with a variety of shopping and dining options. One of its most notable attractions is the gorgeous (and historic) Landmark Loews Theater. Not your average cinema it hosts special screenings and events including art shows in the most breathtaking setting. The interior is impeccably designed!
What’s your favorite thing to do in Jersey City? I personally love visiting the planetarium and grabbing some cookie dough at Downtown Yogurt. To learn more about the history behind Jersey City & Harsimus Cemetery, check out my previous post here.
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