Jersey City residents are pretty lucky to call this side of the Hudson River home. With unbeatable views of NYC, there are photo-worthy spots around every corner. Whether it’s time for an engagement shoot, headshots, or just a little OOTD snap, there are plenty of options, indoor and out, that will serve as a stellar backdrop. From green spaces to cozy cafes, and historical architecture, let’s take a closer look at the gorgeous corners of our city. Content Creators, this one’s for you! Read on for a list of the most Instagrammable spots in downtown Jersey City.
Bleu Coffee | 175 2nd Street
On the upper level of Bleu Coffee sits a quiet and private lofted work area. With a plant wall and aesthetically pleasing lounge set-up, it looks like something out of a home-interior Pinterest board. From oversized chairs, comfy booths, and funky wallpaper, this is an ideal spot for some behind-the-scenes work content, headshots, or admirable coffee photos.
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Colgate Clock Park | Hudson River Waterfront Walkway
Just past the Goldman Sachs Tower on the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, look for the unmistakable Colgate Clock. Across from this mini green space are up-close-and-personal views of Lower Manhattan. Come here early in the morning for peaceful sunrises, calm water, and cruise ships galore for undisturbed photos.
Flower Mural at Henderson Lumber Mills | 197 1st Street
Murals tucked away in city streets are always such a pleasant surprise. This charming flower mural painted by Emilio Florentine adds a pop of color to this block on 1st Street in Jersey City. Take outfit photos or get creative with new ways to showcase this show-stopping art.
Greene Street | Between Sussex Street + Morris Street
Washington Street is to Dumbo as Greene Street is to Jersey City. With a direct view of the World Trade Observatory, this is THE spot to strut your stuff and snap some fierce photos. Visit this spot after work hours for empty streets and clear sidewalks.
Owen Gundy Park | Hudson Street
Right by the Exchange Place Path is a waterfront “park” with seating, checker tables, a playground, and a mini sound stage. Its proximity to all the activity plus a PATH and Light Rail station means you certainly won’t be the only one taking photos here. Take in the NYC skyline from top to bottom while gazing over the Hudson.
Lackawanna Coffee | 295 Grove Street
Lackawanna Coffee is a staple in downtown Jersey City. With three beautiful locations, the Grove Street location o has a particularly special feature: a secret door to a private backyard garden. It’s just the spot to escape the city and settle in for some photo-worthy moments. On a beautiful day, this space can fill up rather quickly so arriving close to opening is recommended. Lackawanna Coffee remains open from 7AM-5PM daily.
Liberty Science Center | 222 Jersey City Boulevard
While the wonders of the Liberty Science Center speak for themselves, have you ever explored the roof deck area? All that’s needed is a quarter and a camera to play tourists and capture an unseen view of NYC. To check access hours call the information desk at 201-200-1000.
Lokal Eatery + Bar | 2 2nd Street
The views and food at Lokal are hard to beat as the sparkling city steals the show. The main dining room serves as a stunning backdrop for food photos and more. Photos can be taken indoors or outdoors thanks to the patio seating.
The Priscilla Gardner Main Library | 472 Jersey Avenue
The Priscilla Gardner Main Library is a local historical gem. The entire building is filled with hidden corners that look like passages to another time. The grand marble staircase that spirals up several stories is one of the most marvelous parts, ideal for romantic photos.
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Van Vorst Park | 257-287 Montgomery Street
Little pockets of greenery in cities feel like a wondrous escape. Van Vorst Park stretches across an entire block bordering Montgomery Street, York Street, Barrow Street, and Jersey Avenue. This green space looks like something out of a fairytale. This is a magical spot for engagement photos, wedding photos, and more. Plus, across the street are some of the city’s most beautiful brownstones and extraordinary stoops.
