Tourist attraction ideas for visitors to jersey city

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Jersey City, New Jersey may not be the first place people think about when they want to go on a vacation, but perhaps Jersey Citys image needs a makeover. Rich in history, museums and only a short boat or train ride to New York City, Jersey City is a place that deserves some consideration if you want to really get to know America and its cities.

Jackie Robinson played his first game in a white league in Jersey City. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are a short distance off its coast. The Underground Railroad had many stops in Jersey City. These are just a few of the interesting things that can lead you to a greater discovery about America if you choose to spend some time in Jersey City.

Here are some attractions you dont want to miss when you visit Jersey City:

Liberty State Park C This 1000 acre park has over 300 of its acres developed for public recreation. It is located on the New Jersey side of the New York Harbor, just a short 2000 feet from the Statue of Liberty. Both the statue and Ellis Island are accessible from Liberty State Park. There is also a magnificent view of Manhattans skyline visible from the park.

Ferry service will take you to both the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island and Ellis Island, where from 1892 C 1954 over 12 million immigrants were processed before entering the United States. Ellis Island now is home to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum which tells the story of these immigrants. Both attractions are open year round except on Christmas Day, and it is wise to check into getting tickets before your trip.

In addition to its convenient access to The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, Liberty State Park has a large playground for kids, miles of walking trails, picnic facilities and much more.

The Liberty Science Center C Explore nature, technology and humanity at this museum which is located inside Liberty State Park. A great place for families, the center offers the opportunity for visitors to learn about inventions, the environment and much more as they explore the museums three floors. A film at the museums IMAX Theater completes the visitors experience at the Liberty Science Center.

Loews Theatre - Journal Square C This majestic Baroque style 3 story theater was built in 1929 as a movie theater. After many reincarnations, this restored theater is now home to film festivals, classic movies and live performances.

Statue of Jackie Robinson - Journal Square C On April 18, 1946, a year before his color barrier breaking first game in the major leagues, Jackie Robinson played his first game on a white team for the minor league Canadian Royals in Jersey City. This statue commemorates Jackie Robinson and this historic game.

The Afro American Historical Society Museum C 1841 Kennedy Blvd C Since 1977 this museums exhibits have highlighted New Jerseys African Americans, the Underground Railroad, the civil rights movement and much more.

The Underground Railroad Historical SitesC various places throughout the city C Many slaves making the dangerous trip from the South to Canada found a refuge in Jersey City. There are many homes still in existence that housed slaves during the day who were fleeing for their freedom, and they are worth a look.

Spirit of New Jersey C Leaving from the nearby city of Weehawkin, NJ, this ship that is part of the Spirit Cruise lines, will take you on a dinner cruise that includes dancing, entertainment, fabulous food and an amazing view of Liberty Park and the Manhattan Skyline.

The Attic Ensemble C The Barrow Mansion, 83 Wayne Street C For an evening of theater, enjoy a production from the Attic Ensemble whose home is in the historic Barrow Mansion. The theater portion of the 1837 mansion has been restored to its original glory.

New York City C Jersey City is just a short, inexpensive PATH (the local train system) or ferry ride away from Manhattan. You can hop across New York Harbor and enjoy some site seeing, theater, and great restaurants and easily return to Jersey City in the same day.

There are many other gems to discover on a trip to Jersey City, also. If you are fortunate enough to be there on St. Patricks Day, you are in for a real treat. The city has a large Irish population, and the city really does St. Patricks Day right with a huge parade, many St. Patricks Day activities and of course some fantastic celebrating in the local bars.