Parks
57 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.
- Van Vorst Park0.2 mi from downtown
- Morris Square Park0.2 mi from downtown
- Professors' Dog Park0.6 mi from downtown
On a budget
Free things to do in Jersey City
5 kinds of free outings in and around Jersey City.
Good days out in Jersey City don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.
Libraries
Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.
- Jersey City Public Library472 Jersey Avenue
- Pavonia Branch326 Eighth Ave.
- Lafayette Branch307 Pacific Ave.
Historic places
25 landmarks on the National Register, many easy to see on a walk.
- Holland TunnelBuilt 1927
- Statue of Liberty National MonumentBuilt 1924
- Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal
Hiking
Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.
- National Parks of New York Harbor4 mi south
- Camp Gateway - Staten Island8 mi south
- Camp Gateway- Brooklyn Ny12 mi southeast
Wildlife viewing
Birding and nature watching on public land.
- National Parks of New York Harbor4 mi south
- Camp Gateway - Staten Island8 mi south
- Camp Gateway - Sandy Hook19 mi south
Around town
Get a feel for the city
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Visit The Liberty Science Center
An activity Short shared by Strides & Scenes.
Watch on YouTube ↗
THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT
Water’s Soul in Jersey City
An activity Short shared by NJ.com.
Watch on YouTube ↗Questions
What are free things to do in Jersey City?
Parks, Libraries, Historic places, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.
Are there free events in Jersey City this weekend?
Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.
Do I need a library card to use the library?
No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.