Jersey City’s buzzing with energy as summer kicks off this first week of June. From waterfront festivals to quirky art pop-ups, there’s a wild mix of things to check out—whether you’re a local or just wandering through. Here’s a handpicked list of ten happenings that’ll show off both the city’s big draws and some fun little surprises, all without torching your wallet.
This week, you’ll find events showing off Jersey City’s creative side, green spaces, and food scene. Liberty State Park hosts a bunch of activities, and downtown is alive with music and art installations that are honestly worth a detour. The weather’s looking mild, so it’s a good chance to bounce between indoor and outdoor adventures.
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1) Visit Liberty State Park and enjoy scenic waterfront views
Liberty State Park is kind of a breath of fresh air if you need to get away from the city noise. There’s plenty of green space and some pretty killer views of Manhattan across the Hudson. Take a stroll on the promenade or just sprawl out on the grass—both work.
It’s a relaxing spot for a picnic, or to just wander with friends and family. Early June is prime time: the fields are lush, and the vibe is easygoing.
The trails wind through the park for walkers and bikers at all levels. You’ll see the city from different angles, and it’s never the same twice.
If you’re into boating, the launch at Parking Lot 2 lets you hit the Hudson River with your own trailered boat. Makes for a solid start to an afternoon on the water.
Twilight is when the skyline really pops—the lights come on and it’s a photographer’s dream. Bring your camera or just soak it in.
You’re also just a short walk from the Liberty Science Center, so you can easily double up on activities if you’re feeling ambitious.
2) Explore the 9/11 Empty Sky Memorial
The Empty Sky Memorial, tucked inside Liberty State Park, stands as New Jersey’s tribute to the 749 locals lost on September 11, 2001. It’s a striking, quiet spot for reflection.
Two long, stainless steel walls—each 30 feet high and 208 feet long—frame your view right where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of New Jersey’s victims are etched into the steel, making it personal and moving.
If you get there early in the morning, before the crowds, the place feels even more contemplative. The memorial opens at 6:00 am.
The 2.6-acre memorial was designed by Jessica Jamroz and Frederic Schwartz, chosen after a 2004 competition. “Empty Sky” refers to the gap left in the skyline.
If you’re visiting with kids, the space can help spark important conversations about 9/11’s impact, both personal and historical. It’s sobering but meaningful.
3) Walk along the Jersey City waterfront and the Downtown promenade
The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is one of those walks that makes you stop and stare. It hugs the Hudson’s western edge, with Manhattan showing off in the background.
Kick things off at Exchange Place—spot the Katyn Memorial—then head south toward Liberty State Park for a longer trek, or north to Hoboken for a change of scenery.
Downtown’s waterfront is full of piers and lookout spots that are basically made for Instagram. Benches dot the path, so you can take it slow.
This weekend’s forecast (mid-70s, not too humid) is tailor-made for a waterfront stroll. Go before 11am if you want cooler temps and fewer people.
Pop into a café for a drink or snack—lots of spots have outdoor seating, perfect for people-watching or just catching the river breeze.
Don’t forget to pause at the 9/11 Memorial along the walk, framed by the skyline.
4) Attend a history program at the CRRNJ Terminal Blue Comet Auditorium
If you’re into local history, check out the programs at the CRRNJ Terminal’s Blue Comet Auditorium. This old rail terminal now hosts talks and presentations that dig into Jersey City’s past.
This week’s highlight: a deep dive into the Explosion at Black Tom, a 1916 act of sabotage that shook the Statue of Liberty and was felt all the way to Philly.
Park staff lead these 90-minute sessions, sharing rare photos and stories that make history feel surprisingly vivid.
The CRRNJ Terminal is part of the Historic Trilogy with Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty—lots of immigrants started their American lives right here.
For times and sign-up info, call (201) 915-3400 x503 or email [email protected]. Parking’s easy, right in Liberty State Park.
5) Check out local art events at Liberty State Park
Liberty State Park gets artsy this week. You’ll catch history programs spilling over from May, plus new art popping up at the CRRNJ Terminal.
Each evening from 5-8pm, local artists set up along the waterfront paths. The displays change daily, so you never really see the same show twice.
Diamond Art exhibitions—check the Jersey City Times calendar—blend painting and cross-stitch for some surprisingly cool results.
The monthly art walk lands on June 4th, so if you want to meet artists or buy original work, that’s your moment. Prices are all over the map: $20 for small pieces, $200+ for the big stuff.
Photography workshops run at 10am and 4pm, teaching you how to capture the skyline. Bring a camera or just your phone.
Kids can jump into free art activities at the main pavilion during the week. Supplies are included, so just show up.
6) Dine and shop at the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza
Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza is the beating heart of downtown’s food and shopping scene. No cars, just people, music, and a jumble of restaurants and quirky shops.
This week, the Applause in the Plaza music series is back, with live bands playing from 6-9pm. The concerts are free and make dinner way more fun.
The plaza’s always getting new decorations—recently a Mother’s Day photo wall, and now, summer-themed stuff. It’s festive, sometimes a little over the top, but fun.
Food-wise, you’ve got everything from pizza to fancy spots with outdoor patios. Happy hour deals pop up most weeknights, so you can eat well without blowing your budget.
Since it’s pedestrian-only, shopping is easy—no dodging cars, just wandering from store to store. Early June weather makes it extra pleasant.
Evenings are the sweet spot: string lights come on, patios fill up, and the vibe is lively but not overwhelming. Weekends get crowded, so if you want a laid-back feel, go on a weeknight.
7) Experience live music or festivals happening this weekend
The music scene in Jersey City is heating up this weekend. Daddy Rabbit is playing at a local spot—always a good time if you’re into live tunes.
It’s also the first weekend of June, which means festivals galore. You’ll find everything from food fests to cultural celebrations, both in Jersey City and nearby towns.
If Arabic music’s your thing, Djam NYC Arabic Night brings together traditional and modern Middle Eastern sounds, plus authentic food and dancing.
Families can check out events around Hoboken and Jersey City—lots of these are kid-friendly, with live entertainment that’s actually enjoyable for adults too.
Heads up: tickets for popular shows usually sell out ahead of time. Prices run from $15 to $45 depending on the event.
8) Visit the Liberty Science Center for interactive exhibits
The Liberty Science Center is the go-to for hands-on science fun, rain or shine. You’ll meet over 100 animal species in the Wild About Animals exhibit—great for animal lovers, or just the curious.
On the first floor, the Skyscrapers exhibit lets you walk across a steel girder 18 feet up. It’s a little nerve-wracking, but surprisingly popular—kind of gives you a taste of what construction feels like, minus the risk.
Kids love the hurricane simulator, which safely lets you feel the power of a real storm. Most exhibits are interactive, so you’re not just staring at stuff—you get to play and experiment.
Special shows rotate in and out. This week, you can catch the Latest Webb Telescope Wonders or the One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure for families.
Definitely check the schedule and map before you go, so you don’t miss the good stuff. You’ll want at least two or three hours to do it justice.
The only gripe? Food inside is pricey and just okay (see reviews). Eat beforehand or bring snacks if you can.
9) Explore Journal Square and its vibrant India Square neighborhood
Journal Square is a cultural hub with solid transit access. Start at the Loew’s Jersey Theatre—it’s a gorgeous old movie palace that sometimes hosts events and screenings.
Walk down Newark Avenue and you’ll hit India Square, which feels like stepping into a different world. The area is packed with Indian grocery stores, jewelry shops, and clothing boutiques.
But honestly, the food is the main event. You’ll find restaurants serving dishes from every region of India—Punjab, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, you name it. Most spots have tons of vegetarian options and street snacks.
If you want something different, see if Midnight Market is happening—they host food events here sometimes, but check the schedule first.
After you eat, wander the neighborhood (more tips here). The mix of old architecture and vibrant culture makes it worth a half-day, easy.
Looking for something quirky? Jersey City Archery offers indoor archery—fun for newbies and pros alike.
10) Enjoy family-friendly activities at local parks and zoos
Liberty State Park is a classic weekend spot for families, no matter your kids’ ages. Pack a picnic—those Manhattan skyline views never get old—or wander into the Liberty Science Center right there in the park for hands-on exhibits that’ll keep everyone busy.
Jersey City’s parks have all sorts of stuff going on: playgrounds, trails, and big open lawns. In summer, you’ll stumble on plenty of weekend events just for kids. Sometimes you’ll find live music, sometimes crafts or pop-up performances—worth checking the schedule.
If you’re up for a little drive, the Lakota Wolf Preserve is honestly fascinating. They run guided tours (about an hour) where kids can see wolves up close and learn a few things about wildlife that you probably won’t hear at the zoo.
Animal lovers might prefer one of the local petting zoos—kids can feed goats, pet bunnies, all that good stuff. Not exactly a full day out, but it’s a sweet way for little ones to meet some animals up close.
Then there’s the Strawberry Festival at Von Thun Farms. It’s a quick trip from Jersey City, and you can pick your own berries, join farm games, and hang out in the fresh air. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday, honestly.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Week in Jersey City
If you plan ahead, you’ll probably save yourself some hassle (and cash) while exploring Jersey City. Timing and transport can make or break your day.
Transportation and Parking
Getting around isn’t too tough here. The PATH train zips between Jersey City and Manhattan, stopping at Grove Street, Exchange Place, and Journal Square—trains show up every 5-10 minutes during rush hour, which is pretty convenient.
For local trips, the Light Rail system connects waterfront spots and neighborhoods farther in. A single ride is $2.75, but if you’re planning to ride a lot, a weekly pass ($36) might be worth it.
Parking downtown can be a headache. These garages are usually reliable:
- Liberty State Park ($7 daily)
- Newport Mall ($24 daily)
- Journal Square Transportation Center ($18 daily)
Rideshares are everywhere, though prices jump during rush hours (8-9 AM and 5-7 PM). If you’re up for biking, Citibike stations dot the city, and a 24-hour pass is $15. Not a bad deal if you want to avoid traffic and get some fresh air.
Best Times to Visit Popular Spots
Liberty State Park is almost empty before 10 AM on weekdays—best time for those postcard views of Manhattan without dodging crowds.
The waterfront fills up at lunchtime (12-2 PM), so if you want a quieter stroll or a table at a restaurant, try going between 3-5 PM instead.
Downtown restaurants get packed for dinner after 6 PM. If you’ve got your heart set on places like Razza or Maritime Parc, book a table at least two days ahead.
Weekend special events bring big crowds to Hamilton Park and Van Vorst Park. It’s smart to peek at local event calendars—either to join in or steer clear.
Museums and galleries? Tuesdays and Wednesdays after lunch are your best bet for peace and quiet. You can actually see the art instead of just people’s backs.
What to Bring for Outdoor Activities
Early June weather swings between 75 and 85°F, but don’t trust the forecast too much. Bring layers you can throw on or peel off as the day goes.
Packing list for Liberty State Park:
- Water bottle you can refill
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+ is smart)
- Hat with a brim
- Good walking shoes
- Light rain jacket (just in case)
For anything on the waterfront, polarized sunglasses help with the glare. The wind off the Hudson can surprise you, so a light windbreaker isn’t a bad idea, even if it’s warm.
If you’re hopping on Citibikes or local trails, skip cotton and wear something that wicks sweat. Public water fountains exist, but they’re not always working—bring your own backup.
A portable phone charger is a lifesaver. Between photos and maps, your battery will vanish faster than you expect.
Navigating Local Events and Venues
Jersey City’s event scene is lively, but it pays to plan ahead. If you want to avoid last-minute stress, it helps to know how to snag tickets and what to expect from different venues.
How to Reserve Tickets in Advance
Big events like the Jersey City Jazz Festival sell out fast. Most spots let you book online, either on their own sites or through Eventbrite, which lists tons of Jersey City events.
For city-run events at Liberty State Park, like the New Jersey Symphony performance, tickets usually drop two to three weeks before the date. Set a reminder—those go quick.
Here’s a tip: buy early if you can. Many places knock 15-20% off if you grab tickets at least a week in advance.
Some smaller venues (like WFMU’s Monty Hall) only sell tickets at the door. If you’re set on going, show up 30-45 minutes early and you should be fine.
Accessibility Information for Major Venues
Jersey City’s main venues really try to make things accessible for everyone. White Eagle Hall has wheelchair ramps at both entrances, accessible restrooms, and reserved seating with great sightlines for folks with mobility needs.
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Liberty State Park’s event spaces have paved pathways that work for both wheelchairs and strollers. During summer events, they set up accessible viewing areas with some shade—not a bad touch.
If you’re heading to the Jersey City Night Markets, just a heads-up: some of those historic districts have cobblestone streets that can be tough to get across. Market organizers post accessibility maps on their website, so you can check out the best routes ahead of time.
Most venues offer assistive listening devices if you ask at the information desk. Outdoor events like the Color Festival usually list their accessibility details right on the event registration page.
Getting Around Jersey City, NJ
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Things to Do in Jersey City, NJ
