10 Things to Do in Hoboken, NJ This Summer

Known as the “Mile Square City”, Hoboken isn’t very large, but its personality sure is. Walkable and alive with rich culture, this bustling city is packed with brownstones, trendy restaurants, cool bars and an eclectic shopping scene. Located on the Hudson River across from lower Manhattan, it delivers waterside walkways, great views and plenty to do too.

  1. Grab a Paddle – And let’s go! Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, outrigger canoeing and more are yours at the Hoboken Cove Community Boathouse on the Hoboken waterfront. Be sure to ask about free paddling days, river trips and upcoming races on the Hudson River.
     
  2. Get a Taste – Hoboken’s main thoroughfare, Washington Avenue is lined with an exciting array of eateries and drinking spots you’ll want to check out. Pop into East LA for authentic Mexican fare or pull up a chair at Amanda’s for American classics with an upscale spin.
     
  3. Get Fired Up – Little ones (and parents too) have much to see and do at the Hoboken Fire Department Museum. Climb onto the shiny red Ahrens Fox fire engine, circa 1932, explore memorabilia, learn about the early days of Hoboken and some of the fiercest fires from the early 1900s.
     
  4. Wake up Your Wardrobe – From vintage to cutting-edge, modern to unique, when it comes to fashion and home décor, you’ll find it in Hoboken’s unique boutiques. Some places to add to your shopping agenda: Brooke + Bel, Alba and Vintage on First.
     
  5. Take Your Pic – Pack a blanket, a great book and take in the breathtaking scenes of NYC on Pier A Park on Sinatra Drive in Hoboken. Peaceful and picturesque, it is a favorite among families, tourists and anglers alike. You’re bound to get some pretty postable pics here too.
     
  6. Walk the Walk – The 18.5-mile Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is yours for the biking and the waking, the running and just plain enjoying. Enjoy Hoboken’s parks and piers along the way and unsurpassed views of the New York City Skyline. Grab a bite in Blue Eyes Restaurant too.
     
  7. Icing on the Cake – Think of Hoboken and the hit show Cake Boss featuring Carlo’s Bakery may spring to mind. No trip to Hoboken would be complete without a visit to this legendary bakery filled with Italian pastries, creative confections, sweet treats and renowned specialty cakes.
     
  8. Dive into History – Get a glimpse into the interesting backstory, diverse culture, vast architecture and historical landmarks that make this amazing city even more fascinating. Packed with themed exhibitions, artifacts and collections, the Hoboken Historical Museum is not only educational but exciting as well.
     
  9. Count on Pier 13 – Food, fun, drinks and friendly activities await you on Pier 13 extending out into the Hudson and overlooking the eye-catching NYC skyline. Enjoy a sangria, get a bite from one of the food trucks, kick back and relax, listen to live music and check out the winning line-up of events.
     
  10. Stay at the W – Unwind and enjoy a luxurious stay in an urban oasis on the waterfront at the W Hotel Hoboken. Known for well-appointed rooms with eye-catching vistas, the W is close to all the exhilarating attractions in the Mile Square, and it’s pet friendly too.

Summer is what you make of it – so make it fantastic in New Jersey. Be sure to check with your destination’s website and social media pages before you go for the latest updates and information. Find more ways to experience New Jersey at VisitNJ.org. Access your free travel guide too.