Best Parks in Jersey City

Public parks provide much-needed fresh air, open space and serenity in even the most bustling cities. Jersey City is no exception, being home to nearly 60 different parks full of green grass, wildlife and foliage. Whether you’ve recently relocated or you’re just stopping by, visiting these parks in and around Jersey City is an excellent way to get acquainted with the city and make the most of your time in it.

Here are the top Jersey City public parks to visit for recreation, education, relaxation and beyond.

Liberty State Park

Spanning over 1,200 acres, Liberty State Park is Jersey City’s most popular and recognizable public park. With the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline serving as its backdrop, this quintessential New Jersey park’s views alone make it worth a visit.

Walk, jog or bike along the two-mile promenade, Liberty Walk, for sweeping views of the Hudson River. You can also lay out a blanket on one of the many picnic areas, fly a kite on a breezy day, catch an outdoor performance or kayak the Hudson River Estuary. In the western portion of Liberty State Park you’ll find the Liberty Science Center, perfect for a day with the family. After exploring the park, hop on a ferry to nearby Liberty Island or Ellis Island.

Washington Park

This 100-year-old, 22-acre park near Jersey City offers a nice refuge from the hustle-and-bustle of urban life. With several baseball diamonds, tennis courts, basketball hoops and soccer fields, Washington Park is a recreational sports lover’s paradise. The kids will also love the playgrounds and small water park in the heat of summer. There’s even a dog park for the furry members of your family.

Lincoln Park

Originally known as West Side Park, Lincoln Park is adored for being lush, spacious and impeccably maintained. Recreation lovers will enjoy the 21 outdoor tennis courts, seven baseball fields, cricket pitch, running track, five basketball courts, two football fields, two soccer fields and four handball/paddleball courts that this Jersey City park has to offer. Nature lovers can traverse the Lincoln Park Nature Walk adjacent to the Hackensack River. Of course, there are also several playgrounds for the kids.

Van Vorst Park

At just two acres in size, this small park in Jersey City is perfectly quaint and understated. After an extensive restoration in 1999, Van Vorst Park became a beautifully landscaped urban green space in one of Jersey City’s most historic districts. Its attractions include a large gazebo at the center, two playgrounds, a splash park, a dog park and a cast iron water fountain. The local community maintains the park’s beautiful gardens.

Plan the Perfect Jersey City Park Picnic

If you’re planning a trip to one of Jersey City’s beautiful public parks, don’t forget to bring food for the family! Sandwiches from one of Jersey City’s best sandwich shops are the key to a great picnic in the park.