Welcome to Jersey City, a captivating destination that effortlessly combines history, diversity, and an array of exciting experiences for families with young children. Nestled along the picturesque Hudson River, this lively city boasts vibrant neighborhoods, abundant parks, engaging festivals, and a wealth of resources catered to parents. Join us as we embark on a journey through the top attractions and hidden gems, uncovering why living in Jersey City is the perfect place for families seeking a dynamic and enriching lifestyle.
One of the standout features of Jersey City is its incredible versatility. With its diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm, families can find their perfect corner of this lively town. From the historic brownstones of Paulus Hook to the bustling waterfront developments of Newport and the cultural hub of Journal Square, every neighborhood in Jersey City has its own distinct vibe and attractions, ensuring that there’s always something new to discover just around the corner.
Bergen-Lafayette is known for its diverse community, beautiful brownstone buildings, and a mix of residential and industrial areas. This neighborhood has a growing arts scene, with galleries, studios, and cultural events. It also offers several parks and a variety of dining options.
A primarily residential neighborhood located on the hilltop overlooking downtown Jersey City and the Hudson River. It is known for its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline. The area is predominantly residential, featuring tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and a mix of single-family homes and apartment buildings. The Heights has a strong community feel, with local shops, restaurants, and parks.
Historic Downtown is the heart of Jersey City and is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse population. This neighborhood offers a mix of historic brownstones, modern high-rise apartments, and commercial spaces. It is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, art galleries, and boutiques. Historic Downtown is also home to cultural landmarks like the landmarked Jersey City City Hall and the Grove Street PATH station.
Greenville is a primarily residential neighborhood with a suburban feel. It features a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartment complexes. Greenville has a diverse community and offers several parks, including the expansive Lincoln Park. While it may not have as many commercial amenities as other neighborhoods, it provides a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.
Journal Square is a bustling transportation hub and commercial district in Jersey City. It is home to the Journal Square PATH station, which provides convenient access to Manhattan and other parts of New Jersey. This neighborhood has a mix of high-rise residential buildings, office spaces, and retail establishments. Journal Square offers a variety of shopping options, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
The West Side neighborhood is located on the western edge of Jersey City and is known for its suburban feel and open spaces. It features a mix of residential areas, parks, and light industrial zones. The West Side is home to Lincoln Park, one of the largest green spaces in Hudson County, offering recreational facilities, sports fields, and picnic areas. The neighborhood also has a diverse range of housing options, including single-family homes and apartment complexes.
Liberty Park is a waterfront neighborhood that offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. It is a residential area with a mix of high-rise apartments, townhouses, and luxury condominiums. The neighborhood is known for its upscale living, waterfront promenades, and access to Liberty State Park. Liberty Park also provides a range of recreational activities, including walking and biking paths.
The Waterfront neighborhood stretches along the Hudson River and offers a modern and upscale living experience. It is characterized by sleek high-rise buildings, luxury condominiums, and waterfront promenades. The Waterfront provides breathtaking views of Manhattan, as well as easy access to recreational activities and parks. The area features a variety of dining options, shopping centers, and cultural attractions, including the Liberty Science Center and the Newport Centre Mall.
Parks with views of the skyline in Jersey City
Situated on the waterfront, Liberty State Park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. It is a vast green space with walking and biking paths, picnic areas, and a ferry terminal for trips to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Located along the Hudson River, J Owen Grundy Park is a small waterfront park offering picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline. It features a promenade, benches, and landscaped gardens, providing a tranquil spot for relaxation and enjoying the river views.
Historic green space that pays tribute to Jersey City’s industrial past. It offers a glimpse into the city’s history with remnants of the Morris Canal and provides walking paths, benches, and open spaces for recreational activities.
Newport Green Park is a family-friendly park with a focus on outdoor activities. It offers a playground, splash pad, and a sandy beach area overlooking the Hudson River. The park also hosts events and activities throughout the year.
Other parks in Jersey City
Situated on the Palisade Cliffs, Riverview Fisk Park provides panoramic views of the New York City skyline. This community park offers a playground, picnic areas, sports courts, and a gazebo, making it a popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy the scenery.
Van Vorst Park is a historic square in Jersey City with a peaceful and charming atmosphere. It features landscaped gardens, a playground, and a gazebo. The park serves as a gathering place for residents, hosting community events, concerts, and farmers’ markets.
Arlington Park is a neighborhood park offering green space and recreational amenities. It includes sports fields, a playground, and walking paths. The park provides a local space for outdoor activities and relaxation.
Lafayette Park is a small urban park with a central location. It features a playground, basketball courts, and open spaces for leisure activities. The park serves as a neighborhood hub and provides a place for residents to gather and enjoy outdoor recreation.
Hamilton Park has a playground, basketball and tennis courts, and a dog run. The park also hosts community events and is surrounded by shops and restaurants, making it a favorite gathering place for residents.
This transit connects North Bergen (Tonnelle Ave) and Bayonne (8th Street or West Side Avenue) with multiple stops along the way including Hoboken Terminal which is the end of the 8th Ave line.
The PATH service has multiple stations in Jersey City in the direction of Manhattan World Trade Center/or 33rd street as well as Newark. This transit operates 24 hours a day all week with fares of $2.75 for one trip. The PATH ride from Jersey City to NYC takes approximately 5-13 minutes.
Click here to see bus service hours from one place to another along with fares
Check the map to see where bike stations are located. Click here for fares.
This website will provide you with all the bike safe lanes in JC as well other transportation information
With an evolving city like JC, there is bound to be construction and blocked roads daily…to check road closures use this website
Access to Manhattan is simple, quick and efficient from Jersey City.
Many commuters opt for the NY waterway ferry, which has terminals at Liberty Harbor, Warren St, Paulus Hook, Harborside and Liberty State Park. Ferry rides from Jersey City to Manhattan can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the route and the location of your destination in NYC
There are multiple PATH stations in Jersey City, including Journal Square, Grove Street, and Exchange Place. The train runs 24/7 and typically takes around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the station and the final stop in NYC.
Numerous bus routes operate between Jersey City and New York City. Travel time by bus from Jersey City to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan can range from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken.
Once in NYC.. free buses with schedules
Citymapper is a free navigation application
Experience a vibrant summer series, showcasing an array of talented musicians and performers every week. Join us in a family-friendly gathering, where Jersey City’s rich diversity is embraced, fostering a sense of community and celebration
Color walk & festival. Experience the joy of throwing and playing with colors in a fun-filled atmosphere.
Flag raising at Jersey City borough and bastille day
Head to Liberty State Park to witness a spectacular fireworks display in celebration of Independence Day. Enjoy the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline while enjoying this patriotic event.
Experience the vibrant Caribbean culture through a carnival parade and festivities. Enjoy the colorful costumes, music, and dance performances that showcase the rich heritage of the Caribbean.
Take part in one of the largest pride festivals in the northeast!
Over a hundred vendors selling all sorts of products ranging from handmade jewelry to one of a kind art work, 10+ of the top Food Trucks in the tri-state area
Discover local actors, producers, writers, and directors at the Black Maria Film Festival.
Join the Dia De Los Muertos Festival at Riverview Fisk Park. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mexican traditions of honoring and remembering the departed through art, music, and cultural activities.
