The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Hudson County, New Jersey Now
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Hudson County, New Jersey is a diverse and exciting area with a rich cultural scene and plenty of attractions to explore. Located in Jersey City, Liberty State Park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or to enjoy outdoor activities like biking and birdwatching.
Remember, Hudson County is conveniently located near New York City, so you can easily access the city's attractions via public transportation or by driving. Whether you're interested in art, history, outdoor activities, or cultural experiences, Hudson County, New Jersey has something to offer everyone. These are the top five reasons why Hudson County, New Jersey should be on your bucket list.
1. A Foodie’s Paradise: The Cuisine + Cocktails
Situated in the heart of Kearny, New Jersey on charming Kearny Avenue—Q'tal Bar & Grill is a multicultural restaurant serving an eclectic mix of New American dishes, as well as a tantalizing selection of fresh, approachable cocktails. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying the Spicy Thai Watermelon—concocted with Grey Goose Watermelon, watermelon syrup, jalapeño, watermelon and basil or the Q’tal Summer with Don Q Gold, Liquor 43, fresh-squeezed lime and pineapple, and cinnamon.
With a focus on fresh, beautiful and local ingredients, Q'tal Bar & Grill makes their pasta in-house and ravioli from scratch everyday. Favorite dishes include Yellow Yuca Gnocchi with almond sauce and black garlic, Twelve-Hour Braised Short Rib with yam purée, arugula, cashew, panko farofa, as well as Roasted Octopus with thousand layer potato, Brussels sprouts and champagne sauce.
Don’t second guess dessert at Q'tal Bar & Grill. Enjoy one of many decadent sweets such as Mango Sorbet with strawberry confit and pecan brittle, Hot Belgian Chocolate Cake with vanilla ice cream and almond crumbs, or Panna Cotta with coconut, caramel sauce and pineapple jam.
2. Artistic Enclaves: Mana Contemporary and Local Galleries
Located within Hudson County, Mana Contemporary is a leading contemporary art center and cultural hub located in Jersey City, New Jersey. It is a vast space that encompasses galleries, artist studios, exhibition areas, event spaces, and art storage facilities. Mana Contemporary is known for its commitment to fostering creativity, supporting artists, and promoting the arts through various programs and initiatives. The center houses numerous art galleries that showcase a diverse range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and multimedia installations.
Source: Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development
Mana Contemporary's commitment to supporting artists and promoting contemporary art has contributed to its reputation as an important cultural institution in the New York metropolitan area. It plays a crucial role in shaping the region's art scene and fostering creativity and innovation in the art world. Hudson County, New Jersey, is home to a vibrant street art scene, with numerous murals and public art installations found throughout the area. These murals often add color, creativity, and cultural expression to the neighborhoods they grace. Jersey City has a well-established mural arts program that has resulted in numerous eye-catching murals throughout the city. One of the most famous areas for murals is the Jersey City Mural Arts District in the Journal Square neighborhood, which features several large-scale artworks.
Source: Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development
Hoboken also embraces street art, and you can find murals and public art scattered around the city. The Hoboken Mural Arts Program has led to the creation of several captivating murals, including some along Washington Street, the city's main shopping district. Union City has also seen an increase in murals and street art, with several colorful works decorating buildings and walls throughout the city. North Bergen, like other towns in the county, has seen an increase in public art initiatives, with local artists contributing to the creation of murals and artistic installations
3. Luxury Shopping: Newport Centre and Hoboken Boutiques
Hudson County, New Jersey, offers a diverse range of shopping experiences, from boutique shops to large shopping centers. Located in Jersey City, Newport Centre is a large indoor shopping mall with over 130 stores, including major retailers like Macy's and H&M. Hoboken's main shopping district on Washington Street is a lively area with a mix of shops and boutiques. You'll find a diverse selection of fashion, home decor, gifts, and more. Grove Street in Jersey City is a bustling area known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops. It's a great spot to explore local artisans and find one-of-a-kind items.
Kearny Avenue in Kearny, New Jersey is the main street in town, lined with shops and trendy restaurants such as Q'tal Bar & Grill—it's a great place to explore and get a taste of the local community. The Weehawken waterfront offers a unique shopping experience with several upscale boutiques and stores, along with beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline. In addition to these specific shopping areas, Hudson County has many other local shops, street markets, and specialty stores where you can find unique and interesting products. Whether you're looking for high-end brands or locally crafted goods, Hudson County, New Jersey has something to cater to every shopping preference.
4. Botanic Beauty: Liberty Science Center Gardens and Weehawken Waterfront Park
While not a traditional garden, Liberty State Park in Jersey City offers expansive green spaces with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. It's a popular spot for picnicking, walking, and enjoying nature. The Hoboken Waterfront features a scenic walkway along the Hudson River, offering picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline. It's a lovely place for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the waterfront breeze and green spaces.
Source: Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development
Located in Jersey City, Lincoln Park is one of the county's largest parks, offering walking trails, sports fields, playgrounds, and a serene rose garden. Riverbank Park in Kearny is a scenic green space along the Passaic River, offering walking paths and beautiful views. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing afternoon outdoors. These gardens and green spaces provide residents and visitors alike with opportunities to enjoy nature, relax, and escape the urban hustle and bustle while still being in close proximity to the vibrant city life of Hudson County, New Jersey and nearby New York City.
5. Architectural Marvels: Hoboken Brownstones and Colgate Clock
Hudson County, New Jersey, is rich in architectural history and offers a diverse range of architectural styles and landmarks. Hudson County is known for its iconic rows of brownstone townhouses, especially in neighborhoods like Hoboken and Jersey City. These historic homes, typically built in the 19th and early 20th centuries, feature distinctive brown sandstone facades and are an integral part of the area's architectural charm. Located in Hoboken, the Hoboken Terminal is a historic transportation hub dating back to the early 20th century. It is a fine example of Beaux-Arts architecture and serves as a significant landmark in the region.
Source: Hudson County Cultural & Heritage Affairs/Tourism Development
The Colgate Clock, located in Jersey City, is one of the largest clocks in the world. It stands as a significant landmark and an example of iconic industrial architecture. Hudson County has several buildings showcasing the Art Deco architectural style, particularly in Jersey City and some of its older neighborhoods. Throughout the county, you can find Victorian-style homes that were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adding character to various neighborhoods. The area's history, proximity to New York City, and ongoing development contribute to an ever-changing architectural landscape that blends the old and the new, creating a unique and captivating environment for residents and visitors alike.
WHERE TO STAY IN HUDSON COUNTY, NEW JERSEY
You're going to love your stay at W Hoboken. Perched on the waterfront in Hudson County, New Jersey, this modern pet-friendly hotel is steps from the PATH and New York Waterway Ferry, enabling you to access Manhattan with ease. Closer to home, you can stroll Hoboken’s vibrant nightlife and noteworthy cultural attractions like the Hoboken Historical Museum. Stretch out in gorgeously designed hotel rooms and suites, many of which showcase grand New York City views.
