10 Best Things to Do in Hoboken, NJ

There are some engaging activities to partake in within Hoboken, and the city is simply across the river from NYC, so it’s worth a visit. Hoboken is part of the larger New York metropolitan region and directly opposite the Hudson River from Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood.

Given its close proximity to the large metropolitan area, tens of thousands of people regularly travel between the cities, mostly daily commuters. In fact, Hoboken is considered one of the trendiest residential places in the tri-state region, and absolutely one of the finest locations to explore in New Jersey.

Among the city’s top sights to see, the Hoboken Terminal is one of the most impressive, as it connects Hoboken to Manhattan via subway and ferryboat. So, whether you’re staying in Hoboken or New York City, I recommend enjoying the different attractions, activities, and occasions in Hoboken if you have the available time.

From scenic parks and waterfront piers to rich cultural experiences, Hoboken has it all. Allow me to outline the 10 top attractions in Hoboken to help optimize your time there learning about this fascinating historic city.

1. Visit Hoboken Riverside Park, one of the best things to do in Hoboken

Hoboken Riverside Park is one of the finest parks in Hoboken, NJ thanks to its waterfront location and sights of the Manhattan skyline. Located along Sinatra Drive, this green space is a haven for locals and tourists who want a break from the busy city.

In addition to having one of the most stunning perspectives of NYC from Hoboken, the park has an open lawn area and a tree-lined path for walking, jogging and cycling. The park is also pet-friendly, so it’s a great place to relax as a family or with companions.

There are food trucks and restaurants nearby, as well as Pier A Park, which provides a great alternative if Riverside Park is too crowded. Pier A Park tends to be more serene, so it’s perfect for an afternoon picnic or a post-dinner stroll.

2. Barsky Gallery, one of the most interesting things to see in Hoboken, NJ

If interested in visual art or browsing, check out the Barsky Gallery located on Newark Street. This contemporary gallery houses one of New Jersey`s more expansive and diverse collections, showcasing works from up-and-coming local talent as well as established artists.

The Barsky Gallery focuses on art for interior design and works together with area designers to help clients curate their dream homes. You can browse the collection of paintings, photos, and prints and find something that catches your interest. The works range from abstract art and landscapes to an impressive collection of Eastern European art.

Furthermore, the gallery hosts pop-up art shows and meet-the-artist get-togethers throughout the year. These events serve as a miniature art organization in Hoboken, where creative types can speak to one another and admire exquisite works from the gallery’s collection.

3. Hoboken Historical Museum, one of the best museums in Hoboken, New Jersey

Referring to museums found in Hoboken, one establishment that should not be missed is the Hoboken Historical Museum, which has been dedicated to documenting the cultural and historical heritage of the city. The gallery`s primary exhibition space contains artifacts and objects related to important Hoboken attractions, notable individuals, and significant events that have shaped the area. Visitors can explore the city`s dependence on the Hudson River, its history with shipping, and efforts to preserve music and the arts.

The rotating exhibition located in the upper gallery highlights works from neighborhood artists and can guide you toward other developers, entrepreneurs, and live performances found throughout the municipality. If you’re seeking activities for the family to engage in within Hoboken, explore the museum’s artistic workshops, storytime sessions, and additional community events.

There is also a small gift shop where you can find books, maps, and other materials about Hoboken that can help you plan your trip. Admission to the museum is just $5 for adults, and kids enter for free.

4. Carlo’s Bakery, one of the best places to eat in Hoboken

On the off chance that you’ve at any point seen the hit TV show Cake Boss, at that point you’re acquainted with Buddy Valastro and Carlo’sBakery, the most acclaimed bake shop in the city. Found on chronicled Washington Street, Carlo’s Bakery is known for its elaborate productions and wonder cakes. They additionally make snacks, treats, pies, and Italian treats like cannoli.

The bake shop was founded in 1910 by chef Carlo Guastaferro, who sold it to Buddy Valastro Sr. in 1964. Today, the bakery is run by his son, Buddy Valastro Jr., and a few additional locations have opened up in New Jersey and Florida.

Even if you aren’t aware of the show, this is one of the best places in Hoboken to check out. There are always delicious treats waiting to be eaten, such as fruit tarts, Italian cookies, and cupcakes. And if you’re celebrating a special event, you can call ahead and order a unique cake.

5. Hoboken Waterfront Walkway, one of the best places to visit in Hoboken

Another enjoyable activity to partake in during the day in Hoboken is to take a stroll along the Waterfront Walkway of Hoboken. This riverside path extends for 18 miles along the Hudson River, making it a great place to get some exercise while admiring the views of the Manhattan skyline.

Throughout the day, one will see individuals walking, jogging, and cycling along the path, and I propose joining them, at minimum for a brief period. The section around the notable singer Sinatra Park is particularly stunning since it possesses recreational regions, unhindered perspectives, and many lovely landmarks.

For example, the tallest point in Hoboken called Castle Point Lookout, located near a skate park and scenic terrace. It`s worth exploring Sybil`s Cave as well, an artificially constructed cave from 1832 with a Gothic arch and natural spring, making it a covert gem worth seeing.

Back at Sinatra Park, you`ll find an amphitheater, restrooms, a soccer field, and kayaks available for rental. The park is named after singer Frank Sinatra, who was born in Hoboken, and hosts free outdoor concerts each summer.

6. Browse the Hoboken Farmer’s Market, a fun thing to do in Hoboken, NJ

Throughout the summertime and fall months, the Hoboken Farmer’s Market brings locals together to enjoy some of the finest grub in Hoboken. Local growers and regional farmers establish their stalls there and provide everything from fresh produce and pickled vegetables to dried fruit, nuts, and specialized items.

Exploring the vendor booths is an entertaining pursuit in Hoboken and helps support the local economy. The Hoboken Farmer’s Market takes place at Church Square Park on 400 Garden Street. It is open every Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. between the months of June and November.

There are two farmer`s markets held on a weekly basis in the Downtown area. The Downtown Farmer’s Market takes place every Thursday afternoon and evening between June and November at a location between Jackson and Harrison Streets on Observer Highway. The Uptown Farmer’s Market is situated under the Viaduct on 14th Street on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. between the months of June and December.

7. Do watersports on the Hudson, the best thing to do in Hoboken in the summer

Looking for a summertime activity in Hoboken? Then, the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse is one of the best places to go.

This nonprofit organization is placed at Maxwell Place Park along Sinatra Drive and is home to the largest free paddling program in New Jersey. From May to September, you can register for complimentary paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking for all age groups.

Those who are 18 and over can sign up for arranged river trips, which travel concerning 2 miles along the Hudson and are too free of charge. You can obtain more info and check the boathouse schedule on the formal website.

If you don`t mind paying a fee, I suggest looking into Resilience Paddle Sports located at Pier 13. This business provides other entertaining activitiesto partake in during the summer months in Hoboken such as paddleboard yoga, family oriented events, and tours that allow viewing of the Manhattan skyline from kayaks.

8. Go see Edwin A. Stevens Hall, something to do for free in Hoboken

Across from Sinatra Park lies another historic Hoboken site, Edwin A. Stevens Hall. Dating to 1870 and registered with the National Register of Historic Places, it initially served as the main building for Stevens Institute of Technology. Today, the structure is occupied by the Charles V. Schaefer, Jr. School of Engineering and Science.

The structure stands apart for its beautiful Gothic architecture. Some of its most impressive Victorian Gothic elements involve the pointed arches and the carved ornamentation on the façade. Standing at five stories, the building has undergone renovations throughout the years and a 40-foot spire was added to the top during its 125^th anniversary.

Currently, the hall still possesses its DeBaun Auditorium, which functions as the school’s performing arts center. It hosts theatrical productions and cultural celebrations throughout the year, so if you’re interested in the arts, you can check if there is a recital or show playing during your visit. Otherwise, passing by the hall and appreciating its architecture is a costless thing to do in Hoboken and something you can do while exploring Sinatra Park.

9. Hoboken/NJ Transit Terminal, one of the top attractions in Hoboken, NJ

Visiting a transport hub might not sound entertaining, but this is one of the most striking attractions in Hoboken. Serving as a major transportation center for the New York metropolitan region, over 50,000 people daily use the Hoboken/NJ Transit Terminal.

The terminal was also among the earliest to combine ferry, rail, subway, and pedestrian services in one location. You can catch the bus or subway here or hop on the ferry to Midtown or Lower Manhattan.

Or you can simply come here to behold its Beaux-Arts style architecture and 225-foot-tall clock tower. There are also gorgeous Tiffany stained-glass windows in several parts of the terminal, so keep an eye out as you pass through.

Additionally, the center has several cafes and restaurants so you can grab a bite to eat before continuing your excursion.

10. Visit the Hoboken Fire Department Museum, something to do in Hoboken with family

Finally, the Hoboken Fire Department Museum is an exciting community destination in Hoboken that you ought to check out. It’s within an old 19th-century fire station and features an authentic Ahrens Fox fire engine from the 1930s on display. You and the kids can climb into the fire vehicle and explore the museum’s fascinating collection of artifacts and records.

This Hoboken museum focuses on preserving the history of the city`s firefighters and most significant fire events. The collection incorporates memorabilia and firefighting equipment as well as artifacts chronicling the devastating Hoboken fires of the early 1900s. One of the coolest items is a 1947 photograph of fire captain Marty Sinatra and his son, Frank Sinatra.

The museum is excellent for all age groups, and children will delight in ringing the brass fire bell and taking a photograph with one of the fire dogs. There is even a youngsters story hour, and kids under 12 enter free of charge (adult admission costs $5). The museum is accessible Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

How to get to Manhattan from Hoboken

Hoboken is around 30 minutes from Manhattan, and there are several means to get there. Naturally, the easiest and most affordable method is employing NYC’s public transportation network.

For instance, from the Hoboken/NJ Transit Terminal, you can take the PATH train to Manhattan (either the World Trade Center station or the Port Authority terminal). A one-way ticket costs only $2.75, creating this the most inexpensive way to travel.

Another great option is taking the bus, which could cut your travel time down to as little as 20 minutes. Line 126 runs from the Hoboken Bus Terminal to the Port Authority Terminal in Midtown Manhattan and costs $3.50 for a single trip.

If you seek a scenic journey, you can take the NY Waterway ferry from Hoboken, NJ to NYC. The ferry leaves from the PATH station and the 14^th Street Pier in Hoboken and goes to Pier 11/Wall Street in Lower Manhattan. Tickets cost $8 and you can view the ferry schedules here.

Ultimately, you can also enter Manhattan from Hoboken by vehicle, but it comes with difficulties. Relying on the time of travel, it could require 30 minutes to an hour, and tolls range from $12.75 to $14.75, so using a personal automobile is not the most cost-effective choice either. On top of that, you’ll have to search for a place to park your car within New York City, which is extremely challenging. I highly advise taking advantage of public transportation to get from Hoboken to Manhattan.

Where to stay in Hoboken

Since travel between Hoboken and Manhattan is convenient, many visitors choose to stay here so they can save money on lodging. If you plan on staying in Hoboken to tour NYC, here are my top hotel recommendations:

• W Hoboken: This extremely modern resort is pet-friendly and has balcony rooms, a fitness center, and a spa. It’s a beautiful riverside accommodation and just steps from the subway station.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jersey City – Holland Tunnel: This conveniently located hotel is ideal for frequent travelers due to its proximity to public transportation. It has spacious, well-maintained rooms, a grab-and-go market, a business center, and continental breakfast.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jersey City North – Hoboken: This resort in a convenient place close to the city offers affordable nightly rates. Additionally, it gives complimentary private parking and baggage storage.

Best restaurants in Hoboken

Hoboken also features amazing culinary establishments. Regardless of preferences, tasty selections can be found to fuel sightseeing around the city.

First, Blue Eyes Restaurant in Sinatra Park is one of the best restaurants in Hoboken offering river views, making it perfect for those spending time in the city. Its beautiful riverfront patio allows indulging in authentic pasta and pizza. With leftover appetite, don`t forget sampling one of the homemade desserts.

If you’re looking for a rapid and inexpensive option, Fiore’s Deli is one of the finest spots to dine in Hoboken. It`s a conventional Italian deli that is renowned for its stunning fresh mozzarella and mouth-watering sandwiches. Another casual spot to investigate is Green Rock, a subdued tavern with a vintage bar and traditional pub cuisine. It`s open late, so you can head there for a nightcap or after taking in a show.

I would also recommend trying Amanda`s Restaurant, another eatery known for having some truly excellent cuisine. It serves dinner and Sunday brunch with a diverse menu, making it ideal for groups. The establishment resides inside a historic brownstone from the 19th century and offers an upscale yet relaxed ambiance.

Map of Hoboken, New Jersey

Now that you know what activities to partake in within Hoboken, as well as where to reside and dine, you’re prepared to plan your excursion. Here is a map highlighting all the attractions in Hoboken I mentioned, which you can download and keep on your mobile device:

If you have any questions, or want to contribute your favorite thing to do in Hoboken, NJ, please leave a comment below. I`d be happy to read people`s thoughts!

Have a safe trip and have fun exploring the area!