Greenville - Jersey City, NJ Area Guide

Greenville began as part of the Bergen Township, which existed from 1661 until around 1840, when Hudson County was formed. The Greenville Township was formed in 1863, but the independent town's lifespan was a short 10 years. In 1873, it was annexed by Jersey City. Visit the second floor of the Greenville Public Library for more on the culture and history of Greenville.

The Afro-American Historical Society Museum celebrates Afro-American history, culture, and heritage through a variety of classes, lectures, and events. Project Greenville, located on Winfield Avenue, features gallery space that celebrates local artists. This pop-up gallery features exhibitions throughout the year and is a great addition to the neighborhood.

In the heart of Greenville almost hidden between residences on Terhune Ave, Laico's Restaurant serves local natives, politicians, and visitors alike. While the outside resembles houses on either side, Laico's cozy interior features white tablecloth dining, stained glass windows, and a traditional Italian menu. Guests typically start with a seafood salad including tender shrimp, calamari, and scallops--and the eggplant parmigiana sandwich is lunch royalty. Serving Greenville and Jersey City for 40 years, Laico's makes a night out in the neighborhood worthy of celebration.

Karina Restaurant on Ocean Avenue serves large portions of Dominican and South American dishes at low prices. Stuffed empanadas, meaty Cuban sandwiches, and hearty beef stew are available for dine-in or take-out. Gourmet Chinese dining at Lin's Gourmet on Kennedy Boulevard has mixed menu options, distinguishing it from other area restaurants. Dishes like spicy Vietnamese chicken with lemon grass and chili, flavorful and spicy, are available to order online from Lin's website. Variants on traditional menu items like broccoli with bacon-fried rice make Lin's a popular restaurant throughout Jersey City.

Since the number of bars and clubs in Greenville is limited, residents looking for more options often head north or south of the neighborhood to establishments such as Lot 13. This bar is south of the neighborhood in Bayonne and serves up cold craft beers along with big burgers.

Greenville is located near light-rail services and several buses that connect the neighborhood to Manhattan. Route 78 towards Newark Liberty International Airport and Routes 1-9 throughout New Jersey are easily accessible by commuters. Parking in Greenville is plentiful, as the neighborhood is mostly residential. Driving in Greenville and Jersey City isn't necessary if running daily errands. Greenville has convenient stores and retailers within walking distance, but larger shopping centers require a bus ride. Taxis and Uber drivers in Greenville and throughout Jersey City are easy to come by. Some main streets in Jersey City have bike lanes, but they have not reached Greenville's narrow roadways. Once on main streets like John F. Kennedy Boulevard, wide lanes allow space for drivers and bicyclists to share the road without hazard.

Greenville is home to several terrific parks. Audubon Park offers an open field that's perfect for pickup games like soccer, and it features great views of the neighborhood. Nearby Bayside Park has tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball diamonds, football fields, and a playground. Community events occurring in Bayside Park include toy drives and movie nights. Parks within Greenville are child friendly, but dogs must remain outside parks.

Your one-bedroom apartment in Greenville will cost about $1,067, which is slightly less than the New Jersey average. Buses from Greenville to Journal Square cost $1.50 and beer at local bars will cost about $4. Greenville commuters enjoy gas at prices that are about six percent lower than the national average.

The nearby Newport Mall, located on the Hudson Waterfront, features stores like Armani Exchange, Coach, and Michael Kors. The mall also offers a movie theater and several restaurants. Closer to Greenville, Hudson Mall features a Bath & Body Works, Old Navy, and the Leather Company.

The Thriftique Warehouse on Carbon Place has a hodgepodge of clothing, books, electronics, and antiques. What's unique about Thriftique Warehouse is their active use of social media -- they are able to relay prices and new additions, and they compile customer wish-lists.

Women's boutiques such as the La Belle Boutique cater to locals who don't want to travel across Jersey City for an upscale shopping experience. The boutique sells bridal wear and other special occasion dresses. Don't forget to ask about its specialty trunk shows and bride contests.

After choosing an apartment in Greenville, you'll probably shop at the local Pathmark for your groceries. The Greenville Farmer's Market provides fresh, locally-grown produce and other items.