Best Towns for Day Trips

LIBERTY SCIENCE MUSEUM

A day in this diverse city is a must for its family-friendly activities, amazing eats and epic New York City skyline views.

Your first stop in Jersey City should be the Liberty Science Center. This massive science museum is filled with animals, hands-on exhibits, an amazing infinity climber that hangs in mid-air, a touch tunnel and live demos on electricity and more. Make sure to see a show at the planetarium, the largest in the Western hemisphere, where you can gaze at the stars or watch a mesmerizing 3D movie.

Afterwards, head to Liberty State Park to bask in the outdoor space, catch spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and visit the Empty Sky Memorial, a moving tribute to 9/11. If you want to take the kids or out-of-town guests to Ellis Island or the Statue of Liberty, the ferry leaves from Liberty State Park, saving you a trip to NYC. Get exceptional artisan pizza at Razza, try rooftop dining at Porta, score homemade brats at Würstbar or try a new twist on old-school dining at the newly-opened Automat Kitchen.

Liberty State Park, New Jersey

For a unique night out, try the Italian food at 15 Fox Place. With its homey décor and food, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported right back to your grandma’s house. Lutze Biergarten has a family-friendly vibe with outdoor picnic space and city views. For fine dining with an unbeatable NYC views, Jersey City has a few spaces that are often spots for events and weddings, but perfect for a special occasion of your own. Maritime Parc in the Liberty Landing Marina specializes in traditional seafood with a modern look, including a raw bar filled with local shellfish. Liberty House offers farm-to-table cuisine with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Battello has upscale Italian fare with a heavy seafood-influence.

Finish your day with dessert. Bang Cookies are packed with flavor and come in original or booze-infused treats (and yes, they ship!), Ample Hills has gourmet ice cream and Milk Sugar Love has two locations in JC and offers ice cream and baked goods for the best of both worlds.