The Waterfront - Jersey City, NJ Area Guide

Jersey City Waterfront was the first neighborhood of Jersey City to be redeveloped. What is now a bustling community and financial center full of waterfront dining, Fortune 500 companies and high-rises, was once the grounds of ferry and shipping terminals and Jersey City Penn Station. The first steam ferry service in the world originated here in 1812. Visit The Museum of Russian Art on Grand Street. The museum has housed notable artwork and exhibitions for over three decades. Attend one of several annual art and cultural events on the Waterfront, including Tapestry of Nations Festival, concerts in the park or 9/11 memorials.

Dining options are plentiful in Jersey City's Waterfront. From quick eats to fine dining, the neighborhood offers something for locals, commuters, and those seeking a breathtaking view. Start your day with a coffee and croissant at the Warehouse Cafe on Bay Street. The cafe serves pastries, cookies, sweets, and paninis in an open, industrial-style space. Take a frothy, organic honey latte or a masala chai tea to-go, or make yourself cozy and take advantage of the cafe's free Wi-Fi. Local favorite Sam A.M. on Morris Street serves a seasonal and locally-sourced breakfast menu. Breakfast options include farm-fresh egg sandwiches, biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles and a vanilla Challah bread french toast. Grab a cappuccino and scone before work, sit down for a relaxed weekend brunch, or pack a picnic to enjoy at the waterfront. Special occasions can be celebrated at one of the several fine-dining restaurants along the waterfront. Enjoy a postcard view of Manhattan and the harbor while indulging in a seafood-centric Italian menu at Battello. Dine in the contemporary dining room, adorned with glowing string-lights and high ceilings, or outside on the scenic covered patio. Sample an impressive draft beer selection and late-night happy hour menu at The Iron Monkey on Greene Street. The multi-level gastropub features a rooftop deck and hosts weekly trivia nights and beer and cocktail events. In warmer months, everyone gathers at beach-themed bar Surf City. Listen to live music and bands on the outdoor stage and dig your toes into the sand at this large surf-themed restaurant and bar. Choose to sit indoors or at one of three outdoor bars and enjoy frozen cocktails or one of 75 beers on tap while enjoying incredible views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.

Commuting by both car and public transportation proves quick and convenient in Jersey City's Waterfront. Exchange Place PATH Plaza offers residents 24-hour access to Manhattan, Hoboken and Newark. A PATH ride from Exchange Place takes you to New York City in under five minutes. The NY Waterway Ferry also offers access from the waterfront to Manhattan with scenic views. In addition, those commuting by car can enjoy easy access to the NJ Turnpike, Route 1-9 and both the Lincoln and Holland Tunnel. Cabs and Uber are readily available and ride-shares such as ZipCar service the area. Residents can invest in an affordable residential permit sticker to make street parking easier or take advantage of discounts offered by public parking structures. The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway offers over 18 miles of stunning views perfect for commuting by foot or bike.

Jersey City houses nearly 60 different parks with something for everybody. Liberty State Park is a 1,212-acre park that is replete with miles of waterfront walkways. Walk, jog or bike while taking in stunning views of Manhattan, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Visit the 9/11 "Empty Sky" memorial or attend one of the several free concerts and events in the park, such as Summerfest Festival. Picnic on the park's spacious grounds, rent a segway or kayak on the Hudson River. The possibilities remain endless at Jersey City's largest park. Your four-legged friends and children alike can easily enjoy any park in the city. Parks such as Van Vorst Park, Lincoln Park and Hamilton Park offer dog runs, playgrounds, track and athletic fields. In addition, all of them host farmers markets in the summer and events such as film screenings, Shakespeare in the Park and live music.

The cost of renting a one-bedroom residence in The Waterfront averages $2,436.40 per month, which is 35 percent greater than the city average. A ride to New York City or downtown Jersey City on the PATH train costs $2.75, and gas prices are five percent higher than the national average.

The Jersey City waterfront is home to Newport Centre. Shop from an array of department and designer stores including Macy's, JCPenney, Coach, and Armani Exchange. A host of boutique shopping awaits you in Downtown Jersey City or Manhattan, both a short and convenient trip from the waterfront. Closer to the waterfront rests the Kanibal & Co., a boutique on Montgomery Street. Carrying everything from apparel to eclectic home decor, fashionable accessories, and stationery, you will want to visit this one-of-a-kind specialty shop again and again. Additionally, some of the area's local artists teach monthly craft classes to interested residents. Supermarket ShopRite on Marin Boulevard makes getting all of your grocery shopping done in one place easy. Local Hudson Greene Market offers a wide selection of rare global products as well as fresh produce, a hot deli, gourmet baked goods and fresh seafood. For a selection of fresh local produce and speciality goods, shop at one of Jersey City's seven farmers markets.