Memorial Day weekend just wrapped up, but Jersey City isn’t slowing down as May slides into June. The city’s arts scene, endless food options, and open spaces are calling, whether you’re a local or just passing through. Honestly, there’s a quirky mix of family activities, culture, and entertainment here that you probably won’t find anywhere else.
From the waterfront at Liberty State Park to the bustling downtown, you’ll stumble onto all kinds of happenings this week. There are special events all over town: art shows, food fests, guided tours digging into Jersey City’s history and its modern vibe. Maybe you want to get outside, try new food, or just soak up the city’s energy—there’s a little bit of everything.
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1) Attend the National EMS Week Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall Balcony
The National EMS Week Flag Raising Ceremony is set for May 20 at City Hall Balcony, 280 Grove Street, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. It’s a heartfelt nod to the emergency medical services folks who keep us safe.
At this event, you’ll see the EMS flag raised at City Hall—a small but meaningful way to say thank you. Usually, city officials and EMS reps give short speeches, but the real highlight is just being there in support.
Show up a bit early to snag parking and a decent spot. The whole thing wraps up in about an hour, so it’s easy to fit into your day.
No tickets needed, and everyone’s welcome. Other towns host similar ceremonies if you’re curious about what’s happening nearby.
2) Explore Liberty State Park and visit the 9/11 Memorial
Liberty State Park is one of those rare spots where you get jaw-dropping Manhattan and Statue of Liberty views—without the tourist mobs. Take a walk along the promenade and let the cityscape sink in.
With 1,200+ acres, there’s space for picnics, lounging, or just wandering. The walking paths wind through open lawns and along the water, so you can set your own pace.
Don’t skip the Empty Sky – 9/11 Memorial. The two walls line up with where the Twin Towers once stood, and standing there is honestly pretty moving.
If you’ve got extra time, the Liberty Science Center is right in the park. It’s hands-on and great for all ages.
Getting there’s a breeze—light rail or car both work, and parking’s not usually a hassle. Give yourself a couple of hours; you’ll want to linger.
3) Visit the Pavonia Branch Library for World Bee Day Events
The Pavonia Branch Library is buzzing with World Bee Day events this week. Stop in and learn why bees matter so much, and see them up close in an observation hive—pretty wild to watch them in action behind glass.
Kids and adults both get a kick out of it. The staff really goes all out with displays and info, and the vibe is friendly.
If you want to check it out, just call (201) 547-4808 or email [email protected] to get the scoop on timing or any special activities.
This branch always has something going on—storytimes, workshops, you name it. The team’s happy to help if you have questions about the bee event or anything else.
4) Take a guided day cruise from the Jersey City waterfront
The Jersey City waterfront is perfect for boat tours, and there’s no better way to see the skyline and harbor. You can book cruises that loop around the Statue of Liberty, glide under the Brooklyn Bridge, or swing past Ellis Island—way better views than you’ll get on land.
Most cruises last about an hour or so, which is great if you’re short on time. Some offer themed experiences, like the International Brunch All White Boat Ride coming up Saturday—think food, music, and dancing on the water.
Boats usually leave from the Hoboken Waterfront area. Try to get there half an hour early; they don’t wait for latecomers.
Prices are all over the map, but figure $35-75 depending on length and extras. Book ahead, especially this time of year.
5) Walk through India Square and sample authentic cuisine
India Square on Newark Ave, near Journal Square, is a sensory overload in the best way—spices in the air, colorful shops, and nonstop energy.
There’s no shortage of incredible Indian restaurants. Clove Garden of India and Swadist are local legends, but honestly, you can’t go wrong. Try a thali for a bit of everything, especially if you’re new to the cuisine—vegetarian options are everywhere.
You’ll spot grocery stores with ingredients you won’t find elsewhere, plus street vendors and tiny shops that make the area feel alive.
Weekends are busiest and most fun, but parking’s a pain. Hop on the PATH to Journal Square and walk over—it’s way easier.
6) Check out the Magic the Gathering game meetups in local venues
Love Magic the Gathering? Jersey City’s got you covered. The Compleat Strategist is a favorite, but Dashop Corp also draws a crowd—folks rave about the atmosphere.
If you want a chill vibe, Sip N’ Play lets you play while grabbing a drink. Not bad for a casual night out.
This week, gaming gatherings are popping up all over. Beginners and veterans are both welcome, so don’t be shy if you’re new.
You can also find special events through Meetup—tournaments, casual games, and card trades. It’s a good way to meet people who actually get your obsession.
7) Join sunset cycling rides along the waterfront
As the sun goes down, Jersey City’s waterfront is magic for cyclists. The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is smooth and easy, with skyline views that’ll make you stop for photos.
Friday night rides are a big deal—on May 30th, join the group ride along the Hudson County Waterfront. These start at 7 PM, just as things cool off.
No bike? Rentals are easy to find near Exchange Place, about $15 an hour. Book ahead if you can, especially for weekend evenings.
The upcoming Jersey City Ward Tour on June 1 has everyone out riding more this week. You’ll find smaller group rides Tuesday and Thursday if you’re after something quieter.
Bring bike lights—rides can go past dusk—and maybe a jacket, since the river breeze gets chilly.
8) Experience Bollywood dance parties in downtown Jersey City
Bollywood fans, this is your weekend. The Bollywood Cruise Party sails Saturday, May 31, and it’s a total South Asian bash.
You don’t need to be a pro—just show up and dance. Downtown venues welcome everyone, and the crowd’s always friendly.
If you want to brush up on moves, check out a workshop like the NAACHCHICAGO DANCE WORKSHOP. They break down the basics so you can hit the floor with confidence.
The Bollywood Nights scene here is growing, with regular meetups for dancing and hanging out. The music’s loud, the lights are bright, and you’ll probably pick up new steps just by watching.
Most places serve drinks and snacks, so you can recharge between songs.
9) Spend time at local petting zoos for family-friendly fun
Looking for animal time with the kids? The Friendly Farmyard is a top pick—hands-on, relaxed, and close by.
A short drive gets you to Abma’s Farm Market, Greenhouses, and Petting Zoo, where you can see animals and shop for fresh produce. Their weekend hours are family-friendly.
For more variety, Turtle Back Zoo has over 100 species, and they run special kids’ programs this week.
Brookhollow’s Barnyard is smaller but super interactive—think alpacas, goats, and more right up close.
Don’t forget hand sanitizer, and check feeding rules before you go. Most places sell animal feed, which keeps the critters safe. Early mornings mean fewer crowds and more playful animals.
10) Tour breweries and beer gardens in Jersey City Heights
Jersey City’s craft beer scene has boomed lately, especially up in the Heights. Spend an afternoon hopping between spots, sampling local brews, and soaking up the neighborhood’s lively vibe.
902 Brewing Company is a standout. Their taproom rotates a solid lineup of handcrafted beers—nothing too fussy, just good beer in a chill industrial space. If the weather’s nice, the outdoor seating is hard to beat for a laid-back evening.
Looking for something different? Check out the Yoga & Beer Flights event at 902 Brewing this Friday, May 23rd. It’s a 60-minute yoga class (all levels welcome) followed by a curated beer tasting. Not your average Friday night, right?
The Bohemian Beer Garden has a big outdoor space and hosts events like silent discos and live music. It’s a great spot to meet up with friends and try both European and local beers.
Most places offer beer flights, so you can taste a handful of styles without committing to a full pint. Don’t be shy—ask the staff what they recommend. They usually have opinions.
Weekdays are quieter, making it easier to chat with brewers and learn about what’s on tap. Weekends? Expect a lively crowd and a bit more energy.
Planning Your Jersey City Adventure
Jersey City’s compact layout means you can get around pretty easily, but honestly, a little planning goes a long way. There’s a mix of transportation options, usually pleasant weather in May, and plenty to do whether you’re solo, with friends, or wrangling kids.
Getting Around the City
PATH trains link Jersey City to Manhattan, running all day and night. Trains come every 5-15 minutes, and a single ride is $2.75—pretty reasonable for crossing the river.
The Light Rail covers north-south routes in Jersey City for $2.25 a ride. Stops include Liberty State Park and Exchange Place.
Uber and Lyft are everywhere, and you’ll usually wait just a few minutes for a car.
If you’re just going a short distance, Citi Bike stations are all over. A daily pass runs $15. Downtown is flat, so biking actually works.
Honestly, walking is often the best bet in downtown and along the waterfront. Most attractions are within a 20-minute stroll.
Weather Considerations for May
Late May usually means temps in the 65-75°F (18-24°C) range during the day. Evenings cool down to about 55°F (13°C), so a light jacket isn’t a bad idea.
Rain happens—expect 8-10 rainy days in May. Most showers roll through in the morning and clear up by afternoon, so keep plans flexible.
The sun gets strong, especially from 11am-3pm. Even if it’s cloudy, slap on some sunscreen if you’re heading to Liberty State Park or any outdoor spot.
Humidity usually sits between 45-65%, which feels pretty comfortable for things like the Spring Bird Walk or hanging out by the water.
Winds along the waterfront average 8-12 mph—sometimes a little gustier than inland. Makes for great boat rides if you’re up for it.
Tips for Families and Groups
A lot of Jersey City restaurants have early dining specials before 6pm—perfect if you’ve got little kids. Definitely call ahead, since reservation rules can be all over the place.
The Jersey City moms’ meetup is a handy way to connect with local families for playdates or tips on kid-friendly spots.
If you’re rolling with a group (usually 10 or more), you can get discounts at some attractions like museums and boat tours. Book at least 48 hours ahead to lock those in.
For bigger groups, think about:
- Private dining rooms at spots like Battello or Liberty House
- Group packages for waterfront cruises
- Guided tours of Downtown Jersey City’s historic neighborhoods
Family-friendly places like Liberty Science Center and the Central Railroad Terminal have interactive exhibits that work for a range of ages.
Enhancing Your Local Experience
Jersey City’s got more going on than just the main attractions. If you want to really get a feel for the place, dive into the food scene or check out a community event—you might end up with a much more memorable trip.
Must-Try Jersey City Eats
Honestly, Jersey City’s food scene can hold its own against Manhattan, but with fewer crowds and better prices. Head to Downtown Jersey City to find everything from fancy restaurants to laid-back spots.
The Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza is packed with great restaurants serving food from all over. Razza’s wood-fired pizza gets a lot of hype, and it’s deserved. Mathews does modern American with seasonal twists—never a bad pick.
If you’re up early, Wonder Bagels is a local favorite for classic New Jersey bagels. Coffee fans should check out Modcup or The Grind Shop for fresh-roasted beans and a chill place to plan your day.
Food trucks pop up at different spots during the week, so you can always grab a tasty, affordable bite between activities.
Supporting Community Events
Getting involved with local events is honestly one of the best ways to experience Jersey City’s energy up close. This weekend, there’s a bunch of events in Hoboken and Jersey City that might be worth a look.
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Jersey City! Look for deals here:
Jersey City Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs
If you poke around the Jersey City Connects site, you’ll spot a pretty packed May calendar—art shows, neighborhood cleanups, you name it. The idea is to bring people together, whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through.
Memorial Day weekend? You’ll see ceremonies and parades for veterans, plus more laid-back stuff like outdoor concerts and community BBQs.
Farmers markets pop up in a few neighborhoods. The Historic Downtown Farmers Market runs Mondays, and Grove Street’s is on Thursdays. Besides fresh produce and handmade goods, you get a chance to chat with local vendors—and maybe discover something you didn’t know you needed.
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
Plan Your Stay in Jersey City, NJ
Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
