HC Urban Adventures

Statue of Liberty

Few sights mean more to America than the Statue of Liberty. It was given as a gift by the people of France and became an icon of freedom and of the United States, seen as a symbol of welcome to immigrants arriving by sea. There is lots to do while visiting the Statue of Liberty, from climbing to the Statue’s crown, taking a ranger-guided tour of Liberty Island or checking out the Museum which takes you deep into the iconic statue’s history. Open daily from 9:00am-5:00pm from Liberty State Park using Statue Cruises. Ticket booth located in the Central Railroad Terminal.

200 Morris Pesin Drive Liberty State Park
Jersey City, NJ

The Colgate Clock

The Colgate Clock, the fourth largest clock in the world at 50 feet in diameter. Recreated to imitate the original Colgate Clock, which is now located in Indiana, this clock is all that remains of the Colgate Factory which was in Paulus Hook, Jersey City for over 140 years. Open 24/7, shines with beautiful LED lights at night. Now not far from the original site the clock has become an iconic part of the Hudson County Skyline.

Near Exchange Place, Jersey City, NJ

Water’s Soul

Overlooking the Hudson River, this 80-ft. tall installation is artist Jaume Plensa’s tallest public sculpture to date placed on the newly redeveloped historic waterfront pier. It depicts the serene face of a young subject holding a finger to her lips in a state of silent contemplation.

1 Park Lane South, Jersey City, NJ

White Mana Diner

The White Mana Diner is a historical landmark and is the original 1939 World’s Fair building. When originally introduced, it was called the “diner of the future” and an “Introduction to Fast Food.” It is famous for its hamburgers and sells approximately 3,000 a week. In 1997, the Jersey City Historic Preservation Committee declared the diner a local landmark.

470 Tonnele Avenue, Jersey City, NJ

Loew’s Jersey Theater

This show stopping venue with old-fashioned charm, is the gem of Journal Square, opened in 1929 and holds a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. After serving as a cinematic hot spot for 57 years, today, the Theater is maintained entirely by volunteers from “Friends of the Loew’s” in order to protect its history and beauty. Its main purpose will be to serve its community as an arts and entertainment center for the diverse people who live in Jersey City and is currently under a renovation by the city to preserve this historical wonder. The outside is still open to marvel as part of this tour.

54 Journal Square, Jersey City, NJ

Weehawken Dueling Grounds

Host to at least 18 known duels between 1700 and 1884, but most famously known for being the site of the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr in 1804 where Hamilton was fatally shot by Burr. Behind the base of the Hamilton bust there is a boulder which is the only surviving physical connection to the original dueling grounds. Open 24/7.This park is situated on JFK Blvd East and overlooks the entirety of the NYC Skyline.

24 Hamilton Avenue Weehawken, NJ

Sybil’s Cave

Sybil’s Cave is the oldest manmade structure in Hoboken, created in 1832 by the Stevens Family as a folly on their property that contained a natural spring. By the mid-19th century the cave was a recreational destination within walking distance from downtown Hoboken.

Frank Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ

Frank Sinatra Statue

The statue of Frank Sinatra in Hoboken, his hometown, is located in the Sinatra Park section of the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. The monument is strategically placed so visitors can see the New York City skyline in the background, reminding them of the Sinatra song “New York, New York”. The statue was dedicated on December 12, 2021, on what would have been his 106th birthday. The statue is meant to honor what an impact Sinatra had on his hometown Hoboken residents. Open 24/7

340 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ

Cinderella Man Braddock Statue

Before he was dubbed the “Cinderella Man,” he was the “Bulldog of Bergen.” and a resident of North Bergen. In 1935, James J. Braddock stunned the boxing world when he defeated Max Baer for the heavyweight title and was heavyweight champion from 1935-1937. He was a 10-to-1 underdog entering the ring. Since his famous bout with Baer, Braddock has gone down in history as an inspiration; a man whose unshakable self-determination led him to boxing greatness. His story, which inspired many in the 1930s during The Great Depression, was made into the film “Cinderella Man,” starring Russell Crowe and Paul Giamatti, in 2005.

James J. Braddock North Hudson County Park, North Bergen NJ

Hoboken Terminal

Hoboken Terminal is the last survivor of the great Hudson River (New Jersey) waterfront stations still serving in its original function. More than 50,000 people use the terminal daily, making it the ninth-busiest railroad station in North America. The terminal was a milestone in American transportation development, combining rail, ferry, and pedestrian facilities in one of the most innovatively designed and engineered structures in the nation. Open 24/7 for tourists and commuters alike!

1 Hudson Place, Hoboken NJ

Weehawken Water Tower

You don’t have to be an architecture buff to enjoy an excursion to Weehawken Water Tower. This notable tower has a long history and was designed after the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy. Built in 1883, and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

4050 Park Avenue, Weehawken, NJ

Bayonne Bridge

Bayonne Bridge is an arch bridge spanning the Kill Van Kull and connecting Bayonne, New Jersey with Staten Island. It carries New York State Route 440 and New Jersey Route 440. It is the sixth-longest steel arch bridge in the world, and it was the longest in the world at the time of its completion which was newly redone for required clearance. Bayonne Bridge also has a pedestrian and bicyclist walkway open to provide alternative means of transportation for commuters and a unique experience for recreational users. Open 24/7

Connects Bayonne and Staten Island

Secaucus Greenway

This is a popular trail and nature reserve in the NJ Meadowlands along the Hackensack River for birding, trail running and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. The Secaucus Greenway is a trail that runs 1.6 miles from Mill Ridge Road to Laurel Hill. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 38 minutes to complete. This trail has two playgrounds at the beginning and one at the turnaround point. It’s scenic and tranquil with some trees and wildlife. Open 24/7

Runs from Mill Ridge Road to Laurel Hill, Secaucus, NJ

Pier C

Pier C Park is located along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway in Hoboken, NJ, Pier C Park is an active recreation pier for all ages. Enjoy a number of activities in the Promenade, which provides ample space and seating for some family fun and a perfect view of the Manhattan skyline.

340 Sinatra Drive, Hoboken, NJ

Clam Broth Sign

The historic Clam Broth House, opened in 1899 on Hoboken’s bustling waterfront, serving food, drinks, and yes—Clam Broth. Anyone who was anyone in Hoboken had spent some time at the Clam Broth House, which attracted attention with several giant hand-shaped signs. There were two giant hand-shaped signs, one hanging on the outside of the Clam Broth House that pointed downward towards the entrance, and one on a neighboring building (which is all that remains of the restaurant today).

the corner of River and Hudson, Hoboken, NJ

Tear Drop Memorial

One of the memorials honoring the attacks at The World Trade Center on 9/11 “To the Struggle Against World Terrorism” or “Teardrop Memorial” holds a special place in the heart of Hudson County. The massive teardrop hanging between two jagged edges symbolizes both the heartache terrorism causes, while, if you position yourself right, creates the illusion of where the twin towers once stood just across the river in Manhattan. Open 24/7

51 Port Terminal Boulevard, Bayonne, NJ

General Pencil

Founded in 1889, General Pencil Company is a family-owned and operated company that manufactures a range of handcrafted pencils. General Pencil has been operating out of the same factory since 1914 and guests can still visit that factory today.

67 Fleet Street, Jersey City, NJ

Lincoln Park Fountain

Lincoln Park is home to the world’s largest concrete monument, the 365-ton Lincoln Park Fountain at the center of the park’s traffic circle. The fountain is 53 feet tall and, after recent restorations, the Fountain has returned to its charming exterior, including images of Triton, gargoyle heads, dolphins and an eagle, as well as over 25 waterspouts and beautiful light fixtures. Enjoy its beauty every few Wednesday’s during the summer by attending “Music at the Fountain.” Open 24/7

679 West Side Avenue, Jersey City, NJ (closest entrance)

Wishing Well

In 1967, to celebrate Kearny’s centennial the Kearny Lions Club erected the Wishing Well. The well was originally designed to allow visitors to make a wish with a coin thrown into the well. The coins were donated by the Lions Club to assist the blind. Open 24/7

900 Passaic Avenue, Kearny, NJ

Newport Carousel

Enjoy the warmer weather and take a spin on the carousel! The carousel is open for rides from May until September, though visitors can snap a picture with it year round! The ocean themed carousel has 12 horses and two chariot benches and is in Newport Green Park which has its own small public beach. According to Newport representatives, it is the only carousel within an hour radius of Hudson County. Open 24/7 though can only be ridden 12:00pm until dusk May-September.

14th Street and Washington Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ

Harsimus Cemetery

Harsimus Cemetery is a historic rural cemetery located in Jersey City, New Jersey. It was established in 1829 by the first cemetery company founded in the State of New Jersey. It is the resting place of soldiers from the Revolutionary & Civil Wars, the War of 1812, the Spanish-American War, WWI & WWII as well as Jersey City founders and legends. Come explore 350 years of Jersey City history. Open Thursday-Monday 8:00am-6:00pm, Tuesday & Wednesday 8:00am-4:00pm. Numerous events are hosted here throughout the year to help support the upkeep of the grounds.

435 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ

WMCA

WMCA is the first New York Metro Radio Station to broadcast a Beatles song! Started airing in 1925, and broadcasted the first African-American focused anthology series on radio in 1944. Became famous for the “Good Guys” brand, the era of the high-profile, fast-talking Top 40 disc jockey with an exuberant personality aimed at a youthful audience. WMCA’s transmitter building is located along Belleville Turnpike in Kearny, New Jersey. The building is abandoned and no longer a working station. Open 24/7

Ellis Island

Visiting Ellis Island is an immersion in America’s cultural history. A century ago, some 12 million immigrants arrived here to start anew. Their stories span the island, and you can witness it all for yourself. Ellis Island’s most popular attraction is the Immigration Museum. This historical treasure tells the tales of America’s immigrants. Walking the halls, you’ll see artifacts and relics from the 1500’s to present; these pieces bring the nation’s “melting pot” history to life.

200 Morris Pesin Drive, Liberty State Park, Jersey City, NJ

Central Railroad Terminal

This historical terminal was built in 1889, it operated until April 30, 1967. The station has been listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places, the National Register of Historic Places and New Jersey State Historic Sites. Currently, ferries to the Statue of Liberty National Monument, Ellis Island, and Liberty Island depart from this terminal daily. Trains no longer depart from this station.

1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ

Empty Sky Memorial

A memorial dedicated to the 9/11 attacks, it sits in Liberty State Park. The design was voted on by Families and Survivors of the attack. The name of the memorial comes from a Bruce Springsteen song of the same name. The monument has twin walls anchored by a granite path that is directed toward Ground Zero. The length of each wall is exactly equal to one side of the former World Trade Center Towers as the height of the wall reflects proportion of the former buildings. The seven hundred and forty-nine (victims’ names from the State of New Jersey face one another on the interior walls within easy reach. The walls channel visitors to the location in the Manhattan skyline where the former World Trade Center towers once stood.

1 Audrey Zapp Drive, Jersey City, NJ

Elysian Fields

The “birthplace of baseball” is the site of the first organized baseball game in 1845. Elysian Fields was very popular with prominent New Yorkers and saw famous visitors like Charles Dickens and Edgar Allen Poe. Currently there is a park nearby to where the original fields are believed to have been, as well as a marker denoting where the baseball diamonds where. Open 24/7

Historic marker at the intersection of 11th Street and Washington Street, Hoboken, NJ

Paul Bunyan Statue

Fans of “The Sopranos” may recall the giant statue of Paul Bunyan that made a cameo appearance in the opening credits of the show. Also known as the Carpet-Clutching Muffler Man, the oversized marketing marvel stands in the shade of the Pulaski Skyway outside Wilson’s Carpet. This statue is one of many Paul Bunyan statues that are around the United States.

220 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ

Mana Contemporary

Founded in 2011, Mana Contemporary is one of the largest and most innovative contemporary arts organizations in the United States. Dedicated to celebrating the creative process, its mission is to maintain and empower a continually evolving constellation of creative communities. Visitors receive unparalleled access to projects taking place inside, experiencing a range of art techniques and presentations first-hand. Mana offers a profound and personal approach to contemporary art. Tours are available Tuesday-Friday starting at 3pm.

888 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ

Apple Tree House

The house was the site of a meeting between George Washington and the Marquis de Lafayette in 1779. The name Apple Tree House is given to the home because of a former apple orchard and cider press that were located on the property. Jersey City plans to turn the house into a museum but it is currently used for community events and offices of Jersey City.

298 Academy Street, Jersey City, NJ

The Wave

The “Wave” sculpture is located at the north entrance of Hudson County’s Washington Park. The artist who created “Wave” is Chakaia Booker a native New Jerseyan born 1953 in Newark. She is an internationally renowned and widely collected American sculptor known for creating monumental, abstract works from recycled tires and stainless steel. “Wave” is another spectacular example of her work, a brushed stainless steel sculpture piece that stands 14 feet high and 35 feet wide. She has made a name for herself with striking works of public art which evoke strong emotion with simple geometric shapes. Her recent public installation highlights include locations as geographically diverse as Chicago (2016-2018), New York, NY (2014), and Washington DC (2012). “Wave,” was the first work of public art commissioned by the county as part of Hudson County Executive Tom DeGise’s “One Percent for Public Art” initiative, which sets aside 1 percent of the total capital budget for public art on county property.

intersection of Central Avenue and Paterson Plank Road, Jersey City, NJ

Hudson County Courthouse

Built in 1910, the William J. Brennan Courthouse, named after a New Jersey supreme court justice, is the seat of Hudson County’s government. The courthouse was saved from destruction and restored into the architectural wonder we know and love today. Go inside this public building to see museum-quality murals depicting everything from Revolutionary War history to Jersey City’s turn-of-the-century streetscapes. Enjoy the stunning marble workmanship this place is known for using granite from as far away as Maine. Each of the eight courtrooms has a different design as a nod to the newfound wealth of Jersey City. There are even marble busts of important Hudson County figures you should be sure to snap a picture of! Guests can take tours, sit in on trials, and even host weddings in this majestic building!

583 Newark Avenue, Jersey City, NJ