Jersey City is a vibrant community filled with family-friendly neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions. Many parents rely on the PATH train for daily commutes, but it is not the only way to get around. Families navigate Jersey City like locals with various transportation options that offer more flexibility, convenience, and even fun for children. By choosing local transport, biking, ferries, and walkable routes, parents can avoid crowded train stations and long waits. Make the best out of this spring in Jersey City by stepping outside and exploring this city.
Local Buses: A Practical and Affordable Option
Jersey City’s NJ Transit and private jitney buses serve as an alternative for families traveling beyond the PATH train and light rail routes. These buses provide a reliable way to reach areas that may not be directly accessible by train. NJ Transit buses operate throughout the city and connect major neighborhoods. Parents can use the NJ Transit mobile app to check bus schedules and plan their routes. Private jitney buses, though less structured, run frequently and offer a quick way to get from one area to another. Bus fares are budget-friendly, making them a cost-effective choice for families. Although buses can get crowded during peak hours, they remain a convenient option for short trips around the city.
How Local Transportation Helps When You Plan Your Relocation
In order to plan your short-distance relocation within Jersey City when moving locally, it’s important to consider factors such as the proximity of your new location to work or school, access to public transportation, parking availability, and the overall safety and amenities of the neighborhood. Getting familiar with transportation options can make the transition smoother, especially for families. Whether you’re moving from The Heights to Downtown or from Journal Square to Paulus Hook, knowing how to get around without relying solely on a car will help you settle in faster.
Using the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail to explore your new neighborhood ahead of time can help you locate schools, grocery stores, and parks before the move. Walking and biking routes allow you to adjust to your surroundings while getting kids comfortable with their new routines. By embracing this transportation for moving locally, families can make their move feel seamless from day one.
Hudson-Bergen Light Rail: A Smooth Ride for Families
The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail is an efficient way to travel across Jersey City without relying on the PATH train. This above-ground rail system connects major neighborhoods, including Downtown, Liberty State Park, and Journal Square. Unlike the PATH, the light rail is more spacious, making it a great option for parents with strollers and young children.
One of the biggest advantages of the light rail is its access to family-friendly destinations. Liberty Science Center, a must-visit spot for kids, is just a short ride away. Newport Centre, a shopping mall with play areas, is also accessible through the light rail. Families looking for outdoor activities can take the light rail to Liberty State Park, where they can enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty. Tickets are affordable, and children under five ride for free when accompanied by an adult.
Ferry rides will amaze you with beautiful views.
Ferry Rides: A Scenic Alternative
Taking the ferry is an enjoyable way to travel while keeping kids entertained. The NY Waterway ferry connects Jersey City to several locations in Manhattan and along the Hudson River. Unlike subways or buses, ferries provide open spaces, fresh air, and beautiful city views.
For families, ferries offer a smoother, more relaxing experience. Young children can watch boats glide across the water, and parents can enjoy a moment of peace before reaching their destination. Many ferries stop at Exchange Place and Paulus Hook, making it easy to reach nearby parks, restaurants, and museums. The ferry is especially useful for families planning weekend trips to New York City. Instead of dealing with traffic or crowded subways, parents can take a quick ferry ride to downtown Manhattan. The short travel time and scenic journey make it a great alternative to traditional commuting options.
Safe and Easy Biking Routes
Navigate Jersey City like a local with bike rides. Jersey City has made significant improvements to its bike infrastructure, creating a safer and more accessible environment for cyclists. Biking is a great way for families to explore the city while staying active. Parents can use Citi Bike rental stations or bring their own bicycles for a fun ride through various neighborhoods. Some of the best bike-friendly areas include Liberty State Park, which offers wide, traffic-free paths with stunning waterfront views. Washington Boulevard features protected bike lanes, providing a safe space for families to ride together. Lincoln Park is another excellent location for biking, offering dedicated trails and open areas where kids can practice their cycling skills.
Biking around Jersey City is a fun activity to try.
Stroller-Friendly Walking Routes
Walking remains one of the best ways to explore Jersey City, especially for families with young children. Many waterfront trail areas have plenty of attractions within walking distance. Newport Waterfront is a popular walking destination, offering a smooth path along the Hudson River with breathtaking skyline views. The route is perfect for strollers and allows families to enjoy the fresh air without the stress of heavy traffic. Hamilton Park provides a charming neighborhood atmosphere with tree-lined streets, playgrounds, and family-friendly cafés. Parents can take a leisurely walk while children enjoy the park’s open spaces. Grove Street is another excellent area to explore, featuring local markets, shops, and restaurants that welcome families.
Family-Friendly Transport at a Glance
Here are summarized family-friendly transport in Jersey City:
- Hudson-Bergen Light Rail: Budget-friendly, stroller-accessible, and stops at major attractions.
- Ferry Rides: A quick, scenic, and fun way to travel across the Hudson.
- Biking Routes: Safe, easy, and perfect for exploring parks and neighborhoods.
- Walkable Areas: Stroller-friendly paths with shops, parks, and great views.
- Local Buses: A practical way to reach different areas of the city.
- Rideshare Services: Flexible for families, with car seat options available.
Renting an Electric Scooter or E-Bike
Electric scooters and e-bikes have become popular in Jersey City, allowing locals to move quickly through busy streets. While these options are not ideal for young children, they can be a fun and efficient way for older kids and parents to travel. Scooter and e-bike rentals are available at designated locations like Grove Street and Exchange Place. The Waterfront Walkway is a great route for a smooth and enjoyable ride. Parents should ensure that children follow safety guidelines, including wearing helmets and staying within permitted areas.
Navigate Jersey City like a local with your whole family!
Finding the Best Way to Navigate Jersey City Like a Local
Families in Jersey City have multiple ways to move through the city beyond the PATH train. The light rail, ferry, and biking routes offer safe and enjoyable alternatives while walking remains one of the best ways to explore neighborhoods. Local buses and rideshare services provide additional options for getting to places that are not directly accessible by train. By mixing different transportation methods, parents can create a flexible and stress-free travel plan that works for their family’s needs. Whether commuting daily or exploring new parts of the city, these alternatives help families navigate Jersey City like a local with ease.
Authors Bio
Angie Sims used to work in the traveling industry for 6 years, and now she works in the relocation industry. For the last 3 years, she has been specializing in helping people with their domestic and international relocation. She is also a full-time mom and a part-time blog writer. From her own experiences, she writes about traveling and moving with children on her blog.
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