10 Exciting Things to Do in Jersey City This Week (May 18-24, 2025)

Jersey City’s waking up this May. The warm weather is finally here, and the city’s neighborhoods are buzzing with activities—indoors and out. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Jersey City has exciting events that really show off its personality and keep things interesting for every age and taste.

This third week of May? It’s loaded. There’s everything from waterfront festivals to gallery openings, plus free community get-togethers, family activities, and cultural performances that reflect the city’s mix of people. The spring calendar is packed with old favorites and some seasonal surprises that draw crowds from all over.

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1) Visit Liberty State Park for stunning skyline views and outdoor activities

Liberty State Park is a must-see. The views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan are something you need to see for yourself, especially now that May’s warmth has settled in.

Stroll along the two-mile Liberty Walk promenade. You’ll get great photos of New York Harbor, and the path links up with picnic spots and playgrounds.

Kids love the climbing structures and sailing ship play area. It’s a solid pick for a family day, honestly—there’s a little something for everyone.

Bring a picnic for the laid-back lawns by the water. Even though you’re minutes from downtown, it feels like a real escape.

Try catching the sunset behind Manhattan if you can. The colors are unreal, and it’s a peaceful way to end your visit.

2) Explore the 9/11 Memorial at the New Jersey Waterfront

The Downtown Jersey City Waterfront 9/11 Memorial is a powerful spot for reflection, with sweeping views of Manhattan. The memorial honors New Jersey residents lost on September 11th and features steel beams from the original towers.

You’ll see the names inscribed along the monument—quiet but moving. Go early or at sunset for the best light and a more contemplative vibe. It’s free and open every day.

Afterward, take a walk along the waterfront. The promenade connects to Liberty State Park, so you can keep soaking in those harbor views.

There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby if you want to sit and process your thoughts. Getting here’s easy with public transit from anywhere in the city.

3) Attend free health screenings at West Bergen Branch Library

Staying on top of your health doesn’t have to cost a thing. The West Bergen Branch Library is offering free health screenings on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 9:30am to 12:30pm.

Drop by for quick checks on your vitals—no need to book a doctor’s appointment. The staff is professional and can flag anything you might want to follow up on.

The library’s moving soon to a new space at 546 West Side Avenue, but these screenings are at the current spot. Double-check the address online before you go.

No appointment needed, but these events do get busy, so showing up early is smart. It’s open to all Jersey City residents and totally free.

Events like this are always popular—Fairview Library’s screenings drew a crowd recently. Preventative care might not be glamorous, but it’s worth your time.

4) Walk and dine along Newark Avenue in the Historic Downtown District

Newark Avenue’s pedestrian plaza in the Historic Downtown is a favorite hangout. The mix of old-school architecture and new restaurants gives it real character.

Weekends are lively—no cars, just people wandering, eating, and enjoying the scene. You’ll find plenty of spots to eat, like Better Days (143 Newark Ave) or Ani Ramen (218 Newark Ave).

Sometimes there’s a Midnight Market, which is a late-night food fest with local vendors. If you’re around when it’s on, don’t miss it.

The street has really transformed—benches, greenery, and outdoor seating make it feel more like a plaza than a street.

If you’re lucky, your visit might line up with the All About Downtown Street Fair. It draws even more energy and showcases local businesses.

5) Join the Jersey City Vendor Improvement Program events at City Hall Annex

The Jersey City Vendor Improvement Program is back this week with training sessions at City Hall Annex #4. These workshops are for local vendors looking to sharpen their business skills and get a leg up in the city.

On Tuesday, May 20, there’s a session from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm focused on certifications and paperwork. The Office of Diversity and Inclusion puts these on, and they’re practical—no fluff.

If you own a business or want to start one, these free trainings are a solid way to learn and network. The program’s workshops are tailored for Jersey City’s competitive scene.

No need to sign up ahead. Just show up at City Hall Annex #4. The VIP program is all about supporting local businesses.

Bring something to take notes and maybe a few business cards. Sessions fill up, so arriving 15 minutes early won’t hurt.

6) Experience the Lantern Festival for Justice and Unity

This Saturday, May 17, the Lantern Festival for Justice and Unity returns to Edgemont Memorial Park in Montclair. It’s a bit of a trek from Jersey City, but honestly, it’s worth it for the experience.

The festival goes from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. You can catch activities in the daylight, then watch the lantern lighting as night falls. Bring a blanket if you want to get comfortable on the grass.

Food trucks will be there—plenty of options for dinner or a snack. There are activities for kids, so families are welcome.

Live music fills the park, with performances inspired by Asian American traditions and songs about liberation and resistance. It’s entertaining and meaningful.

This is the fifth year for the festival, and it seems to get bigger every time. Enter Edgemont Memorial Park from Valley Road in Montclair.

7) Enjoy family-friendly fun at local petting zoos and drive-thru zoos

Looking for something with animals? The Friendly Farmyard is a great spot for little kids—gentle goats and sheep, all ready for a gentle pat.

Just a quick drive away, Abma’s Farm Market, Greenhouses, and Petting Zoo mixes fresh produce shopping with a visit to rabbits, chickens, and other barnyard regulars.

For something different, the Six Flags Safari in Jackson Township lets you drive through and see exotic animals from your car. It’s especially handy if you’ve got kids of different ages (or just don’t want to walk much).

Turtle Back Zoo in West Orange is another good bet. Indoor and outdoor exhibits mean you won’t get rained out, and their touch tank is a hit.

If you’re into wolves, the Lakota Wolf Preserve offers tours where you can see wolves up close. Definitely call ahead for weekend hours.

8) Take a day cruise departing from Jersey City Waterfront

Jersey City’s waterfront is the perfect launch point for scenic day cruises with those classic Manhattan skyline views. City Cruises New Jersey has a bunch of options, from sightseeing to dining cruises.

You can hop on a 60-minute Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise for close-up views of Lady Liberty and Ellis Island. These run daily and are ideal if you’re short on time but still want the highlights.

If you’re feeling fancy, try a dinner cruise along the Hudson. These usually last a couple of hours and include a meal with your skyline views.

Book ahead for weekends—these fill up fast. Most cruise companies offer free cancellation, so it’s low risk if plans change.

Prices start around $30 for the basics; dinner cruises can run $80-150. A few boats leave from Weehawken, which is just a short ride away.

Bring a jacket—it gets breezy on the water. And don’t forget your camera for those skyline shots.

9) Discover breweries and beer gardens around Journal Square

If you like beer, Journal Square has some solid options. Departed Soles Brewing Company is a standout, known for creative brews.

902 Brewing is another favorite, with a relaxed taproom and a good mix of seasonal and regular beers.

For a classic neighborhood bar, New Park Tavern is a longtime go-to for locals and visitors alike.

Check out beer garden events happening this week—outdoor drinking is finally back on the table with the warmer weather.

Parking’s tough around here, so public transit is your friend. Most places are an easy walk from the Journal Square PATH station.

10) Visit the Hoboken Girl pop-up events for food and fashion

Hoboken Girl throws pop-up events all over Jersey City and Hoboken, bringing together local food vendors and fashion boutiques. You get a chance to meet small business owners and browse their stuff in a lively, sometimes a bit chaotic, atmosphere.

Pop-up locations change, so check their website or Instagram for the latest. The @thejerseycitygirl Instagram page usually posts up-to-date info on where and when things are happening.

This weekend, you might stumble on food tastings from new restaurants and displays by independent designers. A lot of vendors give out discounts just for showing up, which is always a nice surprise.

You don’t need a ticket or a reservation—just walk in and see what grabs your attention. The events usually last a couple of hours, so you can drop by whenever.

The organizers really try to highlight local entrepreneurs, not chains. So if you care about supporting Jersey City’s creative scene, these pop-ups are a pretty genuine way to do it. Plus, it’s a good excuse to meet neighbors and maybe discover your new favorite place.

If you’re into food and fashion, you’ll probably find something that feels fresh and local. The laid-back vibe makes it easy to stop by, even if you’re short on time.

Tips for Making the Most of Jersey City Events

Jersey City’s event scene is lively, but it helps to know a few tricks before heading out. A little prep can save you time, cash, and the occasional headache.

Navigating Local Transportation and Parking

PATH trains link Jersey City to Manhattan, with stops at Exchange Place, Grove Street, Journal Square, and Newport. Trains run often, but they get packed during rush hours and weekends. It’s $2.75 for a one-way ride, and you’ll need a SmartLink card or a single-ride ticket.

The light rail connects the waterfront for $2.25 per ride. NJ Transit buses—routes 80, 82, 83, and 86—cover most neighborhoods.

Driving? Street parking goes fast, especially near busy venues. Your best bets:

Central Avenue Parking Garage ($15 max per day)
Grove Street Garage ($20 max per day)
Liberty Harbor Parking ($18 max per day)

Try parking apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz to snag a spot ahead of time. Sometimes it’s easier just to use a ride-share, especially when events draw big crowds.

Weather Considerations and What to Bring

May weather here is all over the place—anywhere from 55°F to 75°F, and rain shows up when you least expect it. Check the forecast before heading to weekend events.

For outdoor events, pack:

A lightweight, water-resistant jacket
Small umbrella
Sunscreen (clouds don’t block UV, trust me)
Reusable water bottle (most places have refill stations)

If you’re hanging out at Liberty State Park or along the waterfront, the wind can catch you off guard. Even on warmer days, bring a light sweater—better safe than shivering.

Seating’s often limited, so a folding chair or blanket can make things more comfortable. And don’t forget comfortable shoes! Jersey City’s best seen on foot, and you’ll end up walking more than you planned.

Finding Family-Friendly Activities

Bringing kids? Jersey City has you covered. The Liberty Science Center is still the go-to spot for interactive exhibits—great for ages 2-12. Buy tickets online to save a few bucks and skip the line.

For outdoor play, check out:

Hamilton Park (good playground and splash pad)
Van Vorst Park (weekly kids’ activities)
Pershing Field (sports facilities and seasonal events)

Plenty of restaurants downtown are family-friendly. Iron Monkey, Departed Soles, and Roman Nose all have menus that work for kids and staff who don’t mind a little noise.

The Jersey City Connects website lists weekly programming for children and special weekend activities. Central Avenue’s Special Improvement District often hosts free events with face painting, crafts, and performances—worth checking out if you’re in the neighborhood.

Dining and Entertainment Near Event Venues

Jersey City’s packed with great places to eat and hang out, especially near the main event spots. Whether you want a quick bite before a show or a place to unwind after, there’s plenty of choice.

Best Local Eateries for a Night Out

Paradise Lost is a favorite near the entertainment district. They mix local ingredients with global flavors—honestly, it’s a solid pick for dinner before a show.

Restaurants by the waterfront serve up killer Manhattan views. If you want a table on a weekend, book ahead—events make things busy fast.

Need something fast? Around the Jersey City Performing Arts Center, you’ll find several casual spots with pre-theater menus. They know you’re in a hurry and get food out quick without skimping on quality.

Staff picks for pre-event dining:

The Junto Attic Bar – Small plates, good for sharing
Maritime Parc – A bit fancier, great for special nights
Mathews Food & Drink – Casual, perfect for groups

Unique Bars and Lounges to Experience

Perico Speakeasy and The Woo Woo bring a certain charm to post-event drinks. You’ll find craft cocktails, maybe even some live music if you’re lucky, and a vibe that lingers into the night.

Downtown’s got a handful of rooftop bars with those sweeping nighttime views everyone talks about. They get crowded fast after big events—so if you want a seat that isn’t next to the elevator, better show up a bit early.