Jersey City, NJ

Travel Guide

A city skyline with a prominent skyscraper reflecting on the water.
A nighttime city skyline with illuminated buildings and a river in the foreground.
A cityscape with modern skyscrapers, including a tall building under construction.
A city skyline with tall buildings and a rusty metal structure in the foreground.
A city skyline at sunset with illuminated buildings and a calm river in the foreground.

Directly across the Hudson River from Manhattan, this vibrant city offers a smaller scale metropolitan experience anchored by the famous Liberty State Park.

Skip the crowds of Manhattan to enjoy gorgeous vistas and an exciting cultural scene in Jersey City. Compared to its cousin across the Hudson River, Jersey City may seem small but it is actually the state’s second-largest city.

Spend the day outside exploring the 1,212-acre (490.5-hectare) Liberty State ParkOpens in a new window. Get your camera ready for panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline beyond. Stop at the Empty Sky MemorialOpens in a new window to pay homage to the New Jersey residents who perished in the World Trade Center terrorist attacks. Walk by the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, which welcomed over 8 million immigrants stateside from Ellis Island.

See an IMAX film and check out the interactive exhibits in the Liberty Science Center, located in the park. Don’t miss its famous Touch Tunnel, which simulates sightlessness.

Enjoy beautiful sights as you walk or bike along the Jersey City and Hoboken WaterfrontOpens in a new window. Take the nearly 5-mile (8-kilometer) path from Liberty State Park up to Hoboken’s bustling Washington Street and Castle Point beyond.

Go inland and catch a show at Loew’s Jersey TheatreOpens in a new window, located in the city’s commercial hub, Journal Square. This magnificently opulent cinema hails back to the 1920s and was recently restored to its former splendor. Check out the vintage working pipe organ inside.

Discover Jersey City’s bustling cultural life in its historic downtown. Walk by stately brownstones and sleek condominiums. Continue onto Grove Street and browse its vibrant array of boutiques and restaurants.

For a change of scene, go to the Palisades. These steep cliffs line the western side of the Hudson River. Their natural beauty is a contrast to the skyscrapers of New York City across the water. Explore The Heights, a residential neighborhood known for its exquisitely preserved Victorian mansions.

Where to stay in Jersey City

Find the best Jersey City areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Jersey City
Learn more about Jersey City

Downtown Jersey City

Downtown Jersey City is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Jersey City City Hall and Hudson River Waterfront Walkway.

Journal Square

Visitors to Journal Square rave about its fascinating museums, important monuments, and soaring skyscrapers. You might also want to make some time to see Loew's Jersey Theater or Jackie Robinson Statue while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Paulus Hook

Paulus Hook is well-liked for its churches. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Jersey City area, you might plan a trip to One World Trade Center or Statue of Liberty.

Newport

Unique features of Newport include the river views and bars. Make a stop by Newport Centre or Holland Tunnel while you're exploring the area.

Hudson Yards

While you're in Hudson Yards, take in top sights like The Edge and jump on the metro at 34th Street–Hudson Yards Station to see more of the city.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clifton/Rutherford

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clifton/Rutherford

3 out of 5
265 Route 3 East Clifton NJ
$108 nightly
The price is $124 total per night from Oct 5 to Oct 6
$124 total
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Clifton. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clifton/Rutherford
Harmony Suites

Harmony Suites

3 out of 5
455 Plaza Dr Secaucus NJ
$169 nightly
The price is $199 total per night from Sep 28 to Sep 29
$199 total
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Secaucus. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
Harmony Suites
Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel

Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel

3.5 out of 5
500 Harbor Boulevard Weehawken NJ
$199 nightly
The price is $228 total per night from Sep 27 to Sep 28
$228 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Weehawken. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a 24-hour fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the ...
Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
One Grove

One Grove

2 out of 5
215 Grove St Jersey City NJ
Stay at this apartment in Jersey City. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and concierge services. Popular attractions Statue of Liberty and Wall Street are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (15 reviews)
"First avoid room #219. The one window in the room faced the remnants of a construction site on an attached roof. Several feet from the window was a huge exhaust fan , which covered the window with dirt. Avoid a long-term stay. Only 3 salad plates , no dinner plates were provided. Contrary to the ..."

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2026

One Grove
Dharma Home Suites Hoboken at Novia

Dharma Home Suites Hoboken at Novia

4 out of 5
1414 Grand Street Hoboken NJ
Stay at this aparthotel in Hoboken. Enjoy a rooftop terrace, laundry facilities, and premium bedding. Popular attractions Madison Square Garden and Manhattan ...
Dharma Home Suites Hoboken at Novia
Spacious 3-bedroom apartment in gorgeous West New York with AC

Spacious 3-bedroom apartment in gorgeous West New York with AC

West New York NJ
Stay at this apartment in West New York. Enjoy patios and air conditioning. Popular attractions Manhattan Cruise Terminal and American Dream are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)
"Amazing stay!!"

Reviewed on Sep 17, 2026

Spacious 3-bedroom apartment in gorgeous West New York with AC
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Getting around Jersey City

Jersey City is well served by urban rail networks, which cover most of the city and surrounding area. PATH is a rapid transit train that covers much of New Jersey as well as Manhattan, while the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail is also extensive and convenient. Buses are less so, although the unofficial ‘dollar vans’ offer a cheap way to get around. Water taxis and ferries are another way to reach Manhattan. Visit the Jersey City TransportationOpens in a new window website.Browse Jersey City rental cars.

Stay near popular Jersey City attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Jersey City worth visiting?
Jersey City is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including MetLife Stadium and American Dream, which offer diverse experiences. Travelers can also enjoy a variety of dining options, with popular Asian and Italian cuisines available. The city provides practical transit access through its metro and train services, making it convenient to get around.
When is the best time to visit Jersey City?
The best time to visit Jersey City is from May through September, when the weather is generally pleasant for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the cooler months of November through February are a good option, offering a different travel experience with fewer travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Jersey City?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Jersey City depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Jersey City features landmarks like the Colgate Clock, the Goldman Sachs Tower, and Hamilton Park.
  • Greenville offers green spaces such as Hamilton Veterans Park and Muhammad Ali Park, plus Kean Jersey City.
  • The Heights is known for its parks, including Terrace Avenue Park, Golden Park, and Pershing Field.
  • Journal Square is home to the Loew's Jersey Theater, Nest, and 3 Journal Square.
  • Hackensack River Waterfront provides access to Cortney Fricchione Park and shopping at Fourhundredforty Shopping Center and Stadium Plaza Shopping Center.

What is Jersey City known for?
Jersey City is known for Liberty State Park, which offers travelers scenic views. It is also home to major attractions like MetLife Stadium and American Dream. Travelers can explore diverse neighborhoods such as Downtown Jersey City and Greenville, and find a strong Asian food culture throughout the area.
What is a good itinerary length for Jersey City?
A good itinerary length for Jersey City is two to three days to explore Liberty State Park, Downtown Jersey City, and enjoy a Statue of Liberty cruise. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also visit American Dream, catch an event at MetLife Stadium, or delve deeper into neighborhoods like Greenville and The Heights. See Jersey City Activities.
How do you get around Jersey City?
Jersey City offers convenient metro and train travel, with key stops like Jersey City Newport Station and Jersey City Grove St. Station. For broader exploration, rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Manhattan, Downtown Jersey City, and The Waterfront. Rideshare services also provide a flexible option for getting around.
What are the top things to do in and around Jersey City?
In and around Jersey City, travelers can enjoy iconic sights, unique experiences, and entertainment options:

  • See the Statue of Liberty on a cruise
  • Explore Liberty State Park, offering nature and views
  • Visit American Dream for shopping, dining, and entertainment
  • Embark on a Hoboken Scavenger Hunt to discover local history
  • Tour New York's iconic landmarks from the water on a cruise.

How do I plan a trip to Jersey City?
To plan your trip to Jersey City, search for flights and hotels on Expedia, perhaps in Downtown Jersey City or The Heights. Book popular activities like a Circle Line cruise or a Hoboken Scavenger Hunt in advance. Getting around is easy with metro and train; a rental car offers flexibility for exploring further. Remember to have indoor backup plans for outdoor activities.
What cuisines can you find in Jersey City?
In Jersey City, you can find Filipino cuisine, with dishes like adobo, sinigang, and lumpia. Travelers also have many options for other Asian flavors including Indian, Chinese, and Japanese, alongside Italian, Mexican, and various European and North American styles such as Southern soul food.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Jersey City?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Jersey City by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Jersey City with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Jersey City trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Jersey City?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Jersey City can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Jersey City trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Jersey City trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Jersey City trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Jersey City trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Jersey City?
If it's your first trip to Jersey City, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Jersey City hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Jersey City hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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