If you live in Jersey City or Hoboken and have ever wondered what lies north of 14th street — hop on the light rail and set your sights on North Hudson County. The Gold Coast’s lesser-known towns of Weehawken, West New York, and North Bergen are packed with restaurants, bars, and the best skyline views west of Manhattan. Plan a day trip and discover all that these towns have to offer. Keep reading to discover the top things to do in North Hudson County.
Go for a Walk on Boulevard East
Boulevard East sits at the top of the Palisade Cliffs and stretches from just north of the Lincoln Tunnel in Weehawken to the top of James Braddock Park in North Bergen {passing through the towns of Weehawken, West New York, Guttenberg, and North Bergen}. Walk along the pedestrian path to gaze at skyline views on one side, and eclectic 20th-century architecture on the other. The magnificent homes here were once owned by those who ran the factories at the base of the cliffs. Peer down tree-lined streets with unique Victorian homes that look more like a quiet suburb in Upstate New York, rather than a sprawling NJ city. Along the way, you’ll find parks, tennis and basketball courts, and dog parks, as well as a faithful Mister Softee truck that can typically be found parked by 60th Street.
Visit James Braddock Park in North Bergen
There’s no better place to experience fall in New Jersey than in the expansive 167-acre James Braddock Park in North Bergen. With picnic areas, a dog run, nature trails, and newly opened Nature’s Park Cafe, there’s plenty to do to make a full day out of your visit north. Walk around the lake, play tennis in one of the many public courts, or grab a coffee and sit in the grass. The park is a perfect escape from the busy city and noise of the surrounding area.
Jazz Brunch at Harry’s Food + Drink in North Bergen
Every weekend, American Gastropub Harry’s Food + Drink hosts a jazz brunch that’s perfect for bringing large groups together. The restaurant, opened by former Michelin-rated Manhattan chef Austin Torsiello, serves new American fare in a trendy spot just west of James Braddock Park. From the cheesy tots with bacon and guacamole to the lobster hash and eggs, the food is out of this world. Nosh on some cheddar scallion biscuits and sip on bottomless mimosas, sangria, or bellinis while the sun streams in and the band plays soft jazz. If you’re looking for something more intimate, the restaurant offers a private event space on the second floor. Adorned with mismatched velvet couches and a private bar, it’s a great destination for showers and birthday parties.
Read More: 10 Unique Food and Drink-Making Classes Hoboken + Jersey City
Eat Tacos With a View at Charrito’s in Weehawken
Twice a summer, Charrito’s of Weehawken hosts an outdoor Taquiza that brings the whole community together over good food and drinks for what is essentially a taco block party. If you miss these two occasions, fear not — a standard evening at the cliffside Mexican restaurant is just as pleasant. Whether inside the century-old building or out on the patio, each seat has breathtaking skyline views. Guac made tableside and margaritas on the rocks are the perfect pairing to start an evening. Dive into tacos al pastor and fajitas before finishing the night with churros con chocolate.
Sample Craft Brews at NJ Beer Co.
Visit one of Hudson County’s only microbreweries, NJ Beer Company, to sample local beer or take a tour of the brewing process. Brewery tours are free and don’t require reservations ahead of time. Stop in to tour the equipment and meet the team behind the brewing process. After your tour, make sure to stop in the tasting room {open Wednesday through Sunday} to try a flight of the latest hops. NJ Beer Co. is just a few blocks away from the Tonnelle Avenue Light Rail station. NJ Beer Co. is only distributed within the state, so take advantage of the opportunity to try it right from the source.
Enjoy Drinks + Apps on Molos Riverfront Deck
{Photo credit: @molosrestaurant}
You can’t get any closer to the Hudson than the outdoor deck at Molos. Cascading string lights gleam above this Hudson County gem, making it a great spot for date night or happy hour. Try one of the specialty cocktails, or dive into the extensive list of Greek wine. Pair your drinks with appetizers like the meze sampler, grilled octopus, or flash-fried calamari. Stay for dinner and order fresh fish or paella. The deck is a peaceful spot to watch the sunset in warmer months, but the view is just as beautiful through the floor to ceiling windows inside during the winter.
Go to Open Mic Night at Parker Cafe
From spring through the fall, Parker Cafe on Park Avenue in West New York hosts open mic nights in their backyard. Under string lights and over coffee, the community comes together to support local talent. Stay for a drink and watch a few performances while enjoying treats from the cafe. Stay up to date on the next event on their Facebook Page.
Play Tennis or Play Catch at Patricia McEldowney Park
This park is a hidden gem, and if you don’t look closely, you might miss it. Descend the staircase just north of Highland Place on Boulevard East in West New York to find Patricia McEldowney Park overlooking the New York City skyline. The park has two full-size tennis courts and one-half court with a walk for individual practice sessions. No registration or reservation required — stop by and play on any open court. There’s also an adjacent baseball field if tennis isn’t your thing. The park has lights to allow for night games as well. Weekends and evenings are the busiest but don’t be afraid to take a seat on a bench and wait for a court to open.
See More: 12 Interesting Weehawken Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
Sip Sunset Cocktails at NoHu Bar
The recently opened NoHu bar, part of the Envue Hotel in Weehawken, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and an unrivaled cocktail menu. The bar stretches across a long indoor bar with high top tables abutting east-facing floor to ceiling windows, and an expansive outdoor terrace with tables, couches, and open green space. Let the mixologists whip up one of the bar’s signature cocktails {all priced at $15} or order a classic. They also offer light bites in addition to a full restaurant in an adjoining space. The bar plans to host winter activities like an ice luge and construct igloos on the outdoor terrace.
Buy Crystals at Rock My World in North Bergen
Head up to Tonnelle Avenue in North Bergen to check out the wide array of crystals, minerals, and other spiritual lifestyle products available at Rock My World. Everything sold in the store is hand-selected directly from mines and artisans from around the world. Whether you’re looking for energy healing stones or interesting home decor and jewelry, Rock My World has something for everyone. They also serve as a yoga, meditation, and learning center with frequent lectures on metaphysics, crystals, and living a holistic lifestyle. Check out their website for more.
Have you been to one of these North Hudson County Spots? Let us know in the comments!
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