Summer really wakes up Jersey City, doesn’t it? The city buzzes with events for every taste and age group. Whether you’re craving waterfront concerts with skyline views or want to dive into a cultural festival, the second week of June is packed with options. Finding something that fits your vibe is a breeze—think family-friendly park hangs, laid-back gallery nights, and everything in between.
With the warm June sun, both indoor and outdoor adventures feel just right. Local businesses, parks, and arts venues have teamed up to fill the calendar with events that show off Jersey City’s character. Maybe you’re a longtime local, or just in town for a couple days—either way, these picks will give you a real taste of what makes the city tick.
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1) Explore Liberty Science Center exhibits
The Liberty Science Center is a blast for all ages, with several floors of hands-on exhibits. Open from 10 am to 5 pm on June 8, then weekdays 10 am to 4 pm from June 9-13, it’s a great spot to escape the heat or the rain.
Tucked inside Liberty State Park, the museum encourages you to get hands-on with science. The Wonder Why exhibit lets you try pull-up bars and play with air currents that float beach balls—kids (and honestly, a lot of adults) can’t resist.
The Touch Tunnel, Dino Dig, and Infinity Climber are huge hits with children. They’re not just fun—they sneak in some solid science learning, too.
The Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium is a standout, offering immersive space shows all day. If you like live demos, the daily science presentations add another layer to your visit.
Book tickets online to save a few bucks and dodge the ticket line. While the center is perfect for kids ages 2-12, adults will find plenty to geek out over, too.
2) Attend Cube of Truth event at 133 Newark Ave
The Cube of Truth event lands on Saturday, June 7 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, right in front of Two Boots Pizza at 133 Newark Ave. It’s a peaceful street demonstration aiming to raise awareness through activism.
Travel light—you’ll be holding onto your stuff the whole time. The group behind it, Anonymous for the Voiceless, asks everyone to check out their outreach guide before joining in.
Volunteers line up in a cube, holding signs and screens that spark conversations about animal rights. If that’s your thing, it’s a solid way to meet others who care about the cause.
These events usually draw a mix of activists and curious passersby. The central spot is easy to get to, especially with plenty of public transit nearby.
3) Enjoy Awaken Jersey City Open Mic at 175 Sip Ave
Need a night of creativity? Awaken Jersey City Open Mic brings together local talent on Saturday, June 7 at VIP Diner – Restaurant LLC Barshay’s, 175 Sip Avenue.
Doors open bright and early at 8:55 AM for those who want to snag a good seat. But this isn’t just a regular open mic—organizers call it “a movement, a space to express, connect, and shine.”
You’ll catch everything from stand-up and poetry to music, dance, and more. The crowd is friendly, so even if you just want to watch, you’ll feel right at home.
Feeling bold? Bring your own act and sign up to perform. They’re always happy to see new faces on stage.
It’s smart to grab tickets ahead of time since these shows get busy. Expect high energy and a chance to connect with Jersey City’s creative crowd.
4) Stroll Jersey City Waterfront for Manhattan skyline views
The Jersey City Waterfront is honestly one of the best spots to take in the Manhattan skyline. Walk along the Hudson River and feast your eyes on those iconic views.
Start at Paulus Hook Pier—ferries to Manhattan leave from here, and the views of downtown are unbeatable for photos.
Head north along the walkway and you’ll find parks and open spaces perfect for a quick rest or just people-watching. The paths are smooth and easy, so anyone can enjoy the walk.
When evening hits, the skyline lights up and the city feels almost magical.
If you can, time your stroll for sunset—the colors over the river are unreal. Plenty of waterfront restaurants line the route if you want to grab a bite.
The whole stretch is about 1.5 miles, but you can make it as short or long as you want. Even a half-hour walk is worth it for those views.
5) Catch live music at Groove on Grove summer series
Every Wednesday from 6-9pm, Groove on Grove turns Grove Street PATH Plaza into a lively outdoor music spot. This free series runs through August 2025, so it’s a great midweek pick-me-up.
You’ll hear a mix of local indie bands and performers, each bringing their own flavor to the stage.
Kids, friends, coworkers—everyone fits in at this family-friendly event. Bring a blanket or just stop by after work.
The setting in Grove Street Park feels relaxed, with vendors selling food if you get hungry.
Get there a bit early for a good spot; crowds can get big, especially on nice evenings. It’s a solid way to plug into Jersey City’s music scene and meet some neighbors.
6) Visit the pedestrian plaza along Newark Avenue
Newark Avenue’s pedestrian plaza in Historic Downtown is a go-to hangout. Without cars, the area feels open and relaxed, perfect for wandering between shops and restaurants.
The plaza mixes classic architecture with trendy eateries—it’s got a vibe all its own. You’ll spot the green-painted street, shaded tables, and planters that make the space inviting.
Early June weather is just right for outdoor dining here. The plaza’s $7 million facelift really shows, making it more welcoming than ever.
Weekends bring extra energy, especially near the Exchange Place Pedestrian Plaza at 134-158 Newark Avenue, where events often pop up. Grab a drink, people-watch, or just soak up the atmosphere.
Day or night, the plaza’s worth a visit. It runs from Barrow Street to Jersey Avenue, so there’s plenty to explore.
7) Dine at Razza, known for top NJ pizza
Razza, at 275-277 Grove Street, is the pizza spot everyone talks about—and for good reason. This wood-fired pizzeria turns out artisanal pies that keep folks coming back.
The menu focuses on small pizzas with top-notch ingredients. Dan Richer, the owner, has been honing his craft since 2003, and it shows.
Don’t skip dessert—the panna cotta with salted caramel gets rave reviews and is worth the $14 splurge.
Razza opens Monday-Thursday from 5-10 pm, and Friday-Sunday from 3 pm. Outdoor seating is first-come, first-served.
The vibe is cozy and welcoming. Make a reservation if you can—this hot spot fills up fast, especially on weekends.
8) Relax at Liberty State Park with scenic views
Liberty State Park is one of Jersey City’s best free escapes. This 36-acre green space delivers jaw-dropping views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island.
Pack a picnic and sprawl out on the lawns—there’s plenty of room to relax away from city noise.
The Liberty Walk takes you past the park’s highlights, and the paths are easy for everyone.
If you love the outdoors, check out the wildlife trails and sanctuaries. They’re a breath of fresh air compared to the busy city streets.
The historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal is worth a look, too—it’s a cool slice of local history.
Early morning or late afternoon visits are best for comfort, especially this time of year. Sunset over the Hudson? Can’t beat it.
9) Experience Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival
The Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival is back on Saturday, June 14 at Exchange Place Plaza, running 1:00pm to 8:00pm where Montgomery Street meets the river.
Two stages keep the music going all day, with Latin jazz acts bringing serious energy. The waterfront setting, with Manhattan in the background, just adds to the vibe.
Food trucks line the plaza, so you won’t go hungry. A lot of people set up chairs and stay for hours.
The festival is free, thanks to Exchange Place Alliance and RiverviewJazz.Org.
Dancing? Absolutely. Salsa breaks out between sets, and nobody cares if you’re a pro or a newbie. The crowd is welcoming, and the music is infectious.
Looks like sunny weather for the event, so don’t forget sunscreen. Public transit is your friend—parking fills up fast.
10) Participate in Bergen Square Day celebrations
On Saturday, June 14, 2025, Bergen Square Day returns, celebrating the neighborhood’s deep roots—dating back to the Dutch in 1660.
You’ll find live music, food vendors, and history tours scattered through the district. It’s a real mix of old and new, with exhibits like “Jersey City Across the Centuries” lining Bergen Avenue.
Bergen Square’s long history as a home for immigrants is front and center during the festival. The area started as Lenni Lenape land, then became the first European settlement in New Jersey, and today it’s a cultural hub.
Get there early to catch all the action. The festival usually runs from mid-morning to late afternoon, giving you time to wander, learn, and enjoy some great local entertainment.
How to Make the Most of Your Week in Jersey City
Jersey City’s got a little bit of everything—waterfront views, food that’ll make you rethink your dinner plans, and more than a few surprises if you’re willing to wander. But squeezing the most out of your week? That takes a bit of planning and some street smarts when it comes to getting around.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
Try grouping your activities by neighborhood; it’ll save you from zigzagging across town all day. Downtown and the waterfront are packed with things to do, and you can actually walk between most of them. Liberty State Park, for example, gives you skyline views that are tough to beat.
If you can swing it, hit the big attractions like Liberty Science Center on a weekday. You’ll dodge the weekend crowds. And for stuff like the JC Kids Run or family events? Grab your tickets online ahead of time—they go fast.
Keep an eye on the weather. June usually sits somewhere between 65 and 85°F, but it’s Jersey, so an umbrella isn’t a bad idea.
Double-check event start times. A lot of outdoor events kick off earlier in June to avoid the worst of the heat. If you’re thinking dinner on Newark Avenue’s pedestrian plaza, get there before 7PM or you’ll probably be waiting for a table.
Navigating Transportation and Parking
The PATH train zips you over from Manhattan and stops at Exchange Place, Grove Street, and Journal Square. During rush hour, you’ll barely wait at all—trains come every 5-10 minutes. On weekends, though, expect a bit of a wait (15-20 minutes isn’t unusual).
Street parking? It’s a headache, but not totally hopeless. Most meters run $4-5 an hour and max out at two hours. If you’re headed to Liberty State Park, the lot there charges $7 for the whole day, which honestly isn’t bad if you’re planning to roam.
Uber and Lyft work well here—usually a 5-10 minute wait, sometimes less. If you’re looking to save a few bucks, the Light Rail connects most of the big spots for $2.75 a ride.
Honestly, just walking is your best bet downtown. Everything’s close—check out the area and you’ll see what I mean.
Understanding Jersey City’s Vibrant Culture
Jersey City’s culture is a mashup of traditions, histories, and plenty of energy, thanks to a wildly diverse population. The city doesn’t just stick to old customs; it’s always coming up with new ways to bring people together, especially in the summer.
Local Customs and Etiquette
People here are friendly but don’t really sugarcoat things. If you’ve spent time in New York, you’ll recognize the vibe—direct, quick, and generally polite. Showing up on time matters. At restaurants, tipping 15-20% is the norm, and at bars, it’s $1-2 per drink.
On public transit, there are a few unwritten rules. Stand to the right on escalators so others can pass. If you’re on the PATH and see someone elderly, pregnant, or with a disability, offer your seat.
Each neighborhood feels different. Downtown is a little more polished, while Journal Square and The Heights keep their strong ethnic roots front and center. Folks here notice when visitors actually respect the character of each neighborhood, instead of just treating them like a checklist of tourist stops. And honestly, isn’t that the whole point?
Key Summer Events in June
June always shakes things up with a bunch of cultural events in Jersey City. The JC Pride Festival usually pops up early in the month, filling the streets with parades, performances, and a whole lot of community energy.
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Movies in the Park kicks off in early June—think June 13, 2025, for the first one. Grab a blanket, bring some snacks, and settle in at one of the parks for a movie night under the stars. Locals love it, and honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a film outdoors once in a while?
Farmers’ markets are in full swing by June. The Grove Street Farmers’ Market (Mondays and Thursdays) and Hamilton Park Farmers’ Market (Wednesdays) serve up fresh produce and all kinds of artisanal finds from nearby makers. It’s the best time to wander, browse, and maybe pick up something you didn’t know you needed.
Down by the Hudson River waterfront, free outdoor concerts start rolling in June. Local bands take the stage, and the mix of music styles keeps things interesting. These shows usually get going around 6pm. You’ll see families, young professionals, and plenty of folks just soaking in those incredible Manhattan views.
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
