Hudson County’s culinary scene and waterfront vistas impress even the toughest critics, but you don’t have to travel far to experience the area’s highlights. From Jersey City and Hoboken to Hudson County’s newest waterfront gem, Port Imperial, there’s fun to be had—and time to be saved—on a stress-free day exploring Hudson County. The views, brews, and food are just one NY Waterway or PATH Train ride away from Manhattan.
Mark these excursions for your next local trip!
Port Imperial, NY Waterway Terminal: Catch the NY Waterway ferry from Midtown/ 39th Street over to Hudson County’s hip and budding waterfront oasis, Port Imperial, for stellar views and drool-worthy bites, all within walking distance of the ferry terminal. This Weehawken neighborhood bursts at the seams with culinary bravado, from fresh wood-fire pizzas and spirited cocktails, to an inspired and rustic menu at skyline-view The Highwood, where pistachio pesto pasta and shrimp scampi pizza merely scratch the surface of dinner delights. Prepare to be equally wowed at the new Marcus at NoHu Rooftop, a luxe venue with locally sourced fare, craft cocktails, and arguably the best vantage point of Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Those who’d like to bike off those bites can also try the Hudson Bike Loop, a scenic cycling loop along the Hudson County and Manhattan waterfronts, accessible via ferry.
Hoboken
Hoboken PATH Station: For a one-square-mile city, Hoboken’s bites and sights are truly out of this world—and many of them are walking distance from the Hoboken PATH Station, accessible via Manhattan’s west side, from Penn Station to Christopher Street. Some of the best nearby establishments include Tony Boloney’s, an eclectic pizza parlor with a highly creative menu; the dog-friendly Cork City Pub, a vintage speakeasy serving over 150 brews; and La Isla, an authentic Cuban restaurant where “Havana meets Miami in Hoboken.” Downtown Hoboken’s allure extends well beyond food, with two must-see skyline-view parks, Pier A and Pier C, where bikes are also available to rent for an afternoon. And, if java’s more your scene, don’t miss downtown Hoboken’s colorful Empire Coffee & Tea, a famed local stop with fresh beans, creative drinks, and a charming patio.
Jersey City
Jersey City, Exchange Place PATH Station: To experience Jersey City’s wave of culinary and cultural fun, take the PATH train one stop from Manhattan’s World Trade Center station to Exchange Place, where restaurants, bars, and artwork await. Dining options here run the gamut, with chic sushi bar Domodomo; upscale Italian favorite Porto Leggero, located along the Hudson River; and stylish waterfront gastropub Hudson & Co., where nautical digs pair with breathtaking Manhattan views. And, to soak up Jersey City’s culture, stop by Lokal, a hub where the area’s global roots shine through delicious cuisine. Craving art? You’re covered. Head half a mile west from Exchange Place down Christopher Columbus Drive to enjoy a sea of colorful murals, including Welcome to Jersey City 2 by Queen Andrea and the Jersey City Wave by Shepard Fairey.
For more great recommendations for New York City and the Tri-State Area, please visit our friends at Time Out New York, who authored this article.