Got plans for the Big Apple this fall? Think again.
No, you don’t need to cancel your trip. Just alter it a bit. If you’re flying into Newark, even better!
While New York City’s urban sprawl transforms into a colorful playground of endless adventure during autumn, it’s NYC’s “sixth borough” that’s trending upward across the Hudson River.
Often overlooked as a destination city, apparently 2024 is the year of new beginnings for this underrated gem.
Beyond Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx’s melting pot of cultures lies Jersey City, an extension of New York and a burgeoning hotspot with its own distinct charm and character.
National Geographic has been hyping up JC as the region’s new “it” destination this fall, even as neighborhoods like Harlem have undergone extensive aesthetic and cultural changes.
Who Needs Central Park Anyway?
If there’s a movie based in New York, chances are you’ve seen Central Park for what seems like a million times.
I get it. It’s pretty, it’s iconic and one of the best New York City sensory-overload destinations for people-watching and cheap streets eats.
Just because everybody goes there doesn’t mean you have to follow the crowd. Actually… one could argue the crowd is building in Jersey City.
NYC’s sibling across the Hudson is all the rage – a booming arts scene, a diverse community, bustling markets have drawn in more visitors giving more popular neighborhoods a run for their money.
Not to mention how pretty New Jersey’s own parks are in and around the area from Hoboken to JC and beyond as reds, golds, and rustic browns begin to pop in color.
While you can’t go to the top of the Empire State Building or enjoy a famous Broadway show, the views of the city skyline are immaculate from Jersey City, giving visitors perhaps the best urban views anywhere.
4 gorgeous parks to check out in the fall:
- Riverview-Fisk Park
- Liberty State Park
- Bethune Park
- Pershing Field Park (hidden gem!)
Swap Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade For JC’s Fun Festivities
One of the biggest NYC events is the world-famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
As someone who’s been, I can tell you the experience is better on TV.
Flying Spongebobs, frigid weather, and elbow-to-elbow crowds don’t beat the warmth and comfort of your couch.
That being said, fall is still an incredible time to visit the area. Whether Jersey City ends up being your base or an add-on to a fun New York trip, there’s a lot happenin’ across the Holland Tunnel.
Ranging from Oktoberfest, annual street fairs, to my personal favorite, the very lively Navratri – a multi-night festival overtaking the streets of ethnically rich India Square.
However, no official dates have been announced for the latter yet. Last year began on October 20.
Jersey City’s buzzing arts scene knows it deserves to be celebrated; that’s why there are pop-up events and showcases year-round.
However, one of the most intriguing events this fall is the Jersey City Art and Studio Tour, which will give guests a front-row seat to the inner workings of local artists’ creations from October 4 to 6.
But it wouldn’t fall without a fall festival, right?
Set in beautiful Bethune Park, the Autumn Festival is the perfect way to kick off the season with seasonal goodies from local vendors.
And yes, they definitely have PSL’s!
New York Vibes Without The Thick Crowds
Ever been to Times Square? It’s pretty hard to navigate.
With thousands upon thousands of tourists gawking at neon lights and vendors selling *definitely real* Louis Vuitton bags, good luck getting through all that!
Jersey City is the best of both worlds – a little bit of suburbia, a lot of culture, and similar New York vibes, just scaled down.
There’s still plenty to see and do, or you can follow my example of making Jersey City your base and exploring New York by day.
Jersey City is super easy to reach from Manhattan by taking the PATH train.
Just keep in mind, unlike New York’s unlimited balance for subway rides, PATH trains are pay-as-you-go if using your MetroCard.
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