The Best Things To Do in Jersey City Heights

Jersey City Heights is becoming a new go-to spot for living, eating, and playing. It is formerly known as Hudson City and offers an abundance of lush green parks, shops, restaurants, and a fantastic arts district. In this post, we will explore some of the best things to do in Jersey City Heights with the whole family.

Rumba’s Cafe

513 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

This warm, inviting, and relaxing space serves up some delicious and authentic Afro-Cuban food, making this restaurant one of the best things to do in Jersey City Heights. They serve breakfast, sandwiches, hot and cold drinks, fresh juices, and desserts. You will feel right at home with their warm and comforting dishes with a unique combination of tastes and flavors.

ModCup Coffee

479 Palisade Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

This modern-style coffee shop offers some of the best views of the NYC skyline from its adorable space. Their coffee bar serves up some of the best coffee in all of Jersey City. They have espresso drinks, freshly brewed coffee, and a variety of other handcrafted drinks as well. The shop also sells their coffee for you to take home as well, so you can brew a fresh cup from the comfort of your own home. This modern coffee shop is definitely one of the best things to do in Jersey City Heights.

El Sazon de las Americas

449 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

This restaurant has been in operation since 1994, specializing in Pollo a La Brasa (Rotisserie Chicken). If you are in a rush, you can even order from their online menu and pick up your order. This is a great feature for busy families looking for a quick, yet home-cooked style meal.

 Riverview Arts District

The Riverview Arts District in Jersey City Heights offers tons of art galleries to walk through, art on the street, and is filled with young and creative artists. You can spend the day walking around this section, admiring all of the stunning artwork this district has to offer.
Here is some background on the district:
“First proposed in the early 1980s by then Councilman Tom Hart, the RAD was forgotten for almost three decades. On February 27, 2013, a city zoning amendment was approved to create an Artist Overlay Zone covering a large portion of the eastern Heights (see map) and allows an artist to have studios or work/ live units within the District.”

Jersey City Reservoir

This scenic location is filled with tons of family-friendly outdoor activities. You can choose from activities like walking and hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, art festivals, and so much more! It is also the perfect place to just take a packed picnic lunch and relax on the grass on a warm and sunny afternoon. The main gate is located at the Northwest corner at Summit Ave. and Reservoir Ave.

Riverview Farmers Market

498 Palisade Ave, Jersey City

This takes place on Sundays 10 am – 2 pm.
Located at Riverview Park in The Heights, you can get fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, grass-fed beef, pasture-raised chicken and pork, free-range eggs, cheese, dairy, fresh-baked goods, candles, home goods, food vendors, carts, and trucks.
Enjoy shopping, eating, and supporting local farmers and artisans. Embrace the beautiful NY-NJ skyline views while shopping.

Riverview Fisk Park

Paterson Plank Road, Palisade Avenue, Griffith Street, and Bowers Street

With amazing views of the NYC skyline and the Hudson River, Fisk Park is the perfect place to spend a weekend day. You can relax in the gazebo, play basketball of one of their two courts, or have the children run around the playground. They also host a weekly farmers market, have some of the best views of fireworks on the 4th of July, and have the Riverview Jazz festival.

The Riverview Farmers Market is a huge attraction for families at Fisk Park. They have tons of vendors, events, and activities that are perfect for young kids and families.

Pershing Field Park

201 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

This park has heaps of things to do – especially activities the kids will absolutely love. According to one Yelper, “Nice new swimming pool with membership or day fees. Free tennis, basketball, baseball, running track, renovated kids play area, ice skating rink(may have fees). Trees, wooden benches. Lovely place to have in the neighborhood.”
You will enjoy this park and all of the outdoor fun it has to offer!

Renato’s Pizza Masters

278 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

Established in 1959, this pizza place knows a thing or two about making some of the best pizza around. Family-owned and operated, they specialize in authentic pizza with traditional and unique flavors. Choose from pizzas like Grandma’s style pizza and pepperoni to flavors like broccoli rabe and baked potato ranch!

Dulce de Leche Bakery

376 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307

This family favorite bakery features delicious baked goods that are to die for. They are an Argentine-style bakery; they only use fresh butter in their pastries and are famous for their bread and empanadas. You must also try their traditional Argentine-style quiche. It’s filled with ingredients like ham and cheese, broccoli and cheese, spinach, potatoes, and more!

Spark Place

411 Palisade Ave, Jersey City

A nature-inspired children’s play space thoughtfully designed with parents in mind, Spark Place is a beautiful nature-inspired space created to provide joyful entertainment and learning opportunities for children, and a warm, welcoming environment for parents to recharge and connect.
Their Open Play area is perfect for children ages 6 and under to explore, imagine, and move freely. Sitters, Crawlers and Early Walkers can enjoy a designated space curated just for them. Parents and caregivers can take a breath while watching their little one play from a comfortable seat, with a warm beverage in hand.
With a separate space for parties and classes, the possibilities for sprinkling some magic in The Heights are endless.

Jersey City Free Public Library: Heights Branch

14 Zabriskie St, 07307

This renovated library is bright, contemporary, and inviting. The updated space offers more room for studying, a separate area for children, and plenty of computers for public use. Reviewers also praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff, well-maintained restrooms, and the ease of requesting and picking up books. A few visitors, however, feel that the on-site book collection could be more extensive.
They offer events like ‘Let’s do lunch’ and ‘Storytime in the Heights’ for kids and families. Branch Services include WiFi, public computers, wireless printing, and events.

Bread and Salt

435 Palisade Ave, Jersey City

 Bread and Salt is the place to go to if you are looking for flavorful sandwiches, Roman-style pizza, and well-crafted pastries, including bomboloni, prepared with fresh, authentic ingredients. Customers also frequently compliment the warm, attentive service provided by the staff. The affordable coffee and distinctive selection of Italian grocery items add to the appeal.

The Hutton Restaurant and Bar

225 Hutton St, Jersey City

The Hutton Restaurant and Bar is a lovely restaurant for an evening out with friends or family. The spacious covered patio features its own bar, televisions, and heaters, making it a comfortable spot to enjoy in almost any weather. Inside, guests will find a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with plenty of character.
There is usually a game on the screens or live music to enjoy, creating a lively setting for gathering with friends and family over good food and drinks.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, beginning at 11:00 AM each day. Brunch is also served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Updated 25 Aug 2026