Fun Things to Do on New Year’s Day in Jersey City

The new year is just around the corner, and while your New Year’s Eve plans are probably all set, have you thought about how to spend the first day of the year? Unless you’re working or waking up somewhere exotic, here are a few fun ideas for things to do on New Year’s Day in Jersey City. There’s a saying in some countries that the way you spend the morning sets the tone for the rest of the day, so why not start the year off on a positive note?

Start 2025 with a tasty meal

As you wake up on the first day of the new year, you’re sure to be hungry. Why not treat yourself and your family to a delicious brunch at one of Jersey City’s fine dining spots? Many people go all out with holiday meals, but if you’re not one of them, going out for brunch is a much easier option than cooking breakfast after a New Year’s Eve celebration. Here are a few places you might want to consider.

City Diner: While Italian and Japanese cuisine are delicious, sometimes all your stomach craves to start the year is a classic American breakfast. This diner offers dishes that will take your taste buds on a delightful ride. Vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten sensitivities will also find plenty of options to suit their needs. This place is one of those perfect ones to take your whole family to. All in all, a great New Year’s Day brunch option.
Lighthorse Tavern: This spot is a bar and restaurant with a cozy pub vibe. The food is fantastic, and the wines are great if you’d like to raise a toast to the first day of the year. Those who’ve dined there rave about the Onion Soup and the Steak Sandwich, calling them absolutely amazing.

Ice skating is one of the fun things to do on New Year’s Day in Jersey City

After treating your tummy to a well-deserved delight at home or at one of the open restaurants on New Year’s Day, why not get a bit active— in a fun way, of course? Ice skating is a great option! There are lots of venues for this activity in and around Jersey City, but the most festive one and the closest is the one in Newport. Here are the working hours for this venue:

Mon-Fri: 4 PM – 9 PM
Sat: 11 AM – 10 PM
Sun: 11 AM – 7 PM

If you’re new to skating, there’s no need to worry about owning equipment— you can rent everything you need right on the spot. Additionally, if you’re looking to improve your skills, skating lessons are available, but be sure to schedule them in advance. For local residents, there’s the added bonus of a special discount on admission fees.

Visit a day spa for ultimate relaxation

For the ultimate relaxation and a royal start to the new year, head to one of Jersey City’s top day spas. While we all need a little pampering throughout the year, after a night of dancing and perhaps indulging in one too many drinks, a visit to the spa is less of an indulgence and more of a remedy! Here are some of the finest relaxation centers you should consider.

Spa Blue: No matter which part of you needs some beautifying, this place has you covered. From hair and face treatments to full-body services, Spa Blue offers it all. Located in one of Jersey City’s most desirable areas, if you’ve recently moved here, especially during the winter months, you might just become a regular. Yes, moving in the winter can be tough, but the good news is, while the pros handle your relocation, you can unwind and relax, enjoying the finest your new neighborhood has to offer— and Spa Blue is definitely one of its highlights.
Zahar Day Spa: It’s more than just a spa. If you’re having trouble with your skin or simply want to keep it in perfect condition, Zahar Day Spa is the place to go. Trust your face and body to their experts, who use a line of high-quality organic products that you can even purchase to take home. One of their standout services is the stress relief facial— a perfect way to unwind and start the new year feeling refreshed.

Take a walk down the streets of Newport and enjoy magic lights

As the night falls and New Year’s Day in Jersey City comes to a close, why not extend the magic just a little longer? Take a stroll through the streets of Newport and experience a holiday fairy tale, surrounded by the dazzling lights. Even the coldest hearts are softened by the sparkling decorations, especially the romantic and childlike ones. These unique holiday displays, which only appear once a year, make the perfect backdrop for selfies. So, bundle up in your outdoor holiday gear and get ready to light up your social media profile.

Final thoughts

As you can see, there are pretty fun and relaxing ways to start 2023 with. Surely, you can spend it in bed with lots of food around you and TV to keep you company. But our suggestion is to choose one of the things to do on New Year’s Day in Jersey City that we have mentioned here. It will make you feel more energetic and improve the relaxing mood of the first day of the year. Besides, doing new and exciting things may lead to getting your life to take a new and exciting direction this year. It’s worth a try, and a fun try at that!