Jersey City, with its iconic waterfront boardwalk, offers a front-row seat to one of the most magnificent cityscapes in the world – the New York City skyline. If you’re looking for a leisurely walk that combines breathtaking views, vibrant atmosphere, and a touch of urban charm without the crowds, the boardwalk stretching from Exchange Place to Hoboken is an absolute must.
The walk between Exchange Place and Hoboken is just over 3km and takes about an hour if you’re walking leisurely. You can start from either Exchange Place or Hoboken, either way if you’re coming from Manhattan you can take the PATH train. If coming from midtown Manhattan, Hoboken would be closer and if coming from downtown Manhattan, Exchange Place would be closer. The PATH train is an underground metro like the NYC Subway, but is a separate system so fares need to be purchased separately.
All along the boardwalk you can enjoy some great views of the NYC skyline without all the crowds of Manhattan. From Exchange Place you’ll have clear views of Freedom Tower which is where the previous World Trade Center towers used to be. There is also a 9/11 memorial just south of the station which is definitely worth a visit.
Exchange Place and Newport to the north is mostly an office area so if you go on a weekend it’ll be relatively quiet, and if you go on a weekday expect to see a lot of office workers. There is a big shopping center in Newport but other than that and the 9/11 memorial mentioned above, there probably isn’t too much to do in those areas.
Hoboken though is a bit more charming with a slight Brooklyn vibe. It is the birthplace of the legendary Frank Sinatra, and the city is dotted with reminders of its rich history. Take a moment to enjoy the charming streets, local shops, and a variety of restaurants. Sinatra Park, overlooking the Manhattan skyline, is a great spot to reflect on your journey.
The boardwalk is quite scenic as night as well. As the day draws to a close, find a comfortable spot along the boardwalk in Hoboken to witness the sunset over the NYC skyline. The changing colors of the sky and the gradual illumination of the city create a magical scene. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your adventure along the Jersey City boardwalk. When you’re ready to go back to Manhattan, just hop on the PATH train!