Here Are 7 Reasons Why This Underrated Park In New Jersey Should Be On Your Summer Bucket List
I’ve been to Liberty State Park dozens of times and I’ve never seen it particularly crowded. Sure, tourists flock here to take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, but it doesn’t nearly get the attention it deserves. Maybe it’s because it’s tucked away off the turnpike, or maybe it’s because people don’t see Jersey City as a major park destination, but it has a lot to offer: 1. Amazing skyline views. 2. Numerous recreational activities. 3. Spectacular dining options. 4. A historic railroad terminal. 5. A striking monument. 6. Family-friendly events. 7. A unique nature preserve. Read on to learn more.
The view of the Jersey City skyline from Liberty State Park.
Liberty State Park was established in 1976 to celebrate the country's bicentennial celebration. It is comprised of over 1,200 acres on the Hudson River Waterfront, providing exceptional views of Manhattan and Downtown Jersey City.
In addition to recreational activities including grilling, fishing, hiking, biking, boating and picnicking, the park has numerous amenities and attractions. You'll find two incredible restaurants, Maritime Parc and The Liberty House, along with a brand new beer garden, Baozi Brew. Both Maritime Parc and The Liberty House offer amazing food and views - visit in the evening for a spectacular sunset or check out either for an unbelievable brunch.
I haven't visited Baozi Brew yet, but I expect great things from the dumpling house/beer garden fusion. The menu includes dumplings (of course), dim sum and satay, and the venue hosts movies in the park on Sunday and Thursday nights.
In addition to delicious dining options, you'll find a formerly abandoned train terminal (damaged during Hurricane Sandy), newly reopened. The busiest rail hub in the New York area between 1892 and 1954, it was the starting point in America for many passing through Ellis Island.
There is also a beautiful tribute to the victims of 9/11, the empty sky monument. The striking memorial is dedicated to 746 New Jerseyans killed in the World Trade Center in 1993 and in the September 11 attacks.
The park hosts a free summer concert series (Sundays and Tuesdays), offers kayak eco-tours and guided Segway tours. It is also home to a 36-acre nature preserve, one of the few remaining tidal salt marshes along the Hudson River estuary.
Liberty State Park is adjacent to major attractions including the Liberty Science Center, home to one of the largest IMAX dome theaters in the world, and the prestigious Liberty National Golf Course whose members have included Justin Timberlake, Mark Wahlberg and Eli Manning.
This picturesque urban park is an oasis in the midst of a massive city. Worth a visit for the dining alone, head to Liberty State Park as soon as you can. For more New Jersey state parks, see my previous posts on Ringwood State Park and Wharton State Forest.
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Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.
