With the holidays approaching, you may soon have family members visiting your home in Jersey City. No matter the time of the year, this is a lovely destination to visit. If you want to show your loved ones a great time in the city, you have plenty of choices. We’ve put together this list of the best places to visit to help you decide where to go with your family.
Liberty Science Center
The Liberty Science Center is an interactive museum for science lovers of all ages. Children will particularly enjoy the live animal collection, giant aquariums, and the hurricane and tornado wind simulators. The Science Center is also home to the country’s largest planetarium. Twice a month, the museum hosts an adults-only event featuring music, games, and drinks.
Empty Sky Memorial
On a vacation to Jersey City, many people want to experience all the fun that the city has to offer, but they also want to learn more about the area’s history. This may include some of the region’s more somber history. The Empty Sky Memorial honors the New Jersey residents who died on Sept. 11, 2001. The names of 749 people line the walls of the memorial in honor of those who lost their lives. At the end of the trail, between the walls, you can see the location across the bay where the Twin Towers once stood.
Historic Downtown Jersey City
Historic Downtown Jersey City is not far from the waterfront and is full of gorgeous brownstone low-rise buildings built in the 1800s. The architecture is not the only reason to visit Downtown; you’ll also find a variety of small businesses, bars, restaurants, and opportunities for live music. If your family loves to shop or eat out, this should be one of your first stops. If you want to take in a show, then the newly renovated White Eagle Hall, one of the city’s oldest theaters, is the place to go.
The Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery
If you’ve got family members who are interested in history, the Historic Jersey City and Harsimus Cemetery should be on your list. This land was the location of Revolutionary War skirmishes, and it was also used during the War of 1812. There are many soldiers buried in the cemetery, and you can see iconic statues, signs, and landscapes. You might even catch a glimpse of the volunteer goats that help keep the grass trimmed once a year.
Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park encompasses over 1,200 acres of land and has offered a place for outdoor recreation, including boating and fishing, since 1976. Liberty State Park offers amazing views of the Hudson River and is also the location of the Liberty Landing Marina, Richard J. Sullivan Natural Area, and many picnic spots. This is a great place to admire the unforgettable Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Newport Skates
If your family is visiting during the cold of winter, ice skating can be a fun way to spend the afternoon. Newport Skates offers 7,000 square feet of outdoor skating space and is ideal for children and those just learning. You can rent ice skates on-site, and Newport Skates also offers small group and private lessons.
Newport Green Beach
Newport Green Beach is the only urban beach on the Hudson River. This is a great outdoor hotspot where you can relax and admire the wonderful view of the Manhattan skyline while enjoying beach parties, concerts, and more. Nearby, you’ll also find a playground, splash pad, and carousel.
Mana Contemporary
The Mana Contemporary is an arts center and a Jersey City favorite. This cultural center is a must-see for visitors interested in art and history. Current Mana exhibits include works presented by the Ayn Foundation, Eileen S. Kaminsky Family Foundation, and Keating Foundry. The sculpture garden also hosts permanent and rotating exhibits.
Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal
The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal has great historical significance, as immigrants to the United States would often board trains at this terminal after arriving at Ellis Island. On the surface, this is just a transportation hub, but when you go inside, you’ll find a waterfront museum where you can learn more about the history of immigration and Ellis Island. You can also get ferry tickets to visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty here.
The Museum of Russian Art
The Museum of Russian Art was founded in 1980 and is home to Soviet Nonconformist art. It now features art exhibits and puts on other events and art lectures. You’ll find plenty of notable Soviet artists on display here, such as Ilya Tabenkin, Vladimir Ovchinnikov, Ernst Neizvestny, and Natalia Nesterova.
The Barsky Gallery
If you love contemporary art, it’s definitely worth a drive to venture over to Hoboken to visit the Barsky Gallery. This space has been exhibiting innovative artwork since 2011 in a fresh and informal manner. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even buy a piece to take home and put on your wall. The gallery has recently featured works by Nohi Mehrotra, Scott Harbison, Bash, and Tanya Winner and also puts on theatrical performances.
Turtle Back Zoo
If your family loves animals, they’re sure to enjoy the Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange. Turtle Back Zoo is home to over 800 animals and is a treat for everybody, as it focuses on preserving wildlife while also providing an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. You’ll also see exhibits related to sea turtle recovery, sea lions, big cats, wolves, reptiles, otters, and more. Throughout the winter, you can stroll through the zoo in the evening under sparkling holiday lights.
Are you looking for a new or used car to help you transport your loved ones to all these great places in Jersey City? New Jersey State Auto Used Cars offers a variety of vehicles that are suitable for the whole family. Check out our lot today to see which car will work best for you.