Green City Guide: Jersey City
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Take an EV escape to Jersey City, a melting pot of cultures with beautiful waterfront views of the New York City skyline and EV charging options galore.
Right across the Hudson from New York City, Jersey City is a hub of culture, entertainment, and makes a perfect destination for an EV day trip or weekend getaway. A center for immigration through Ellis Island, Jersey City’s history is rooted in diversity with the flavors and influences of an international population. Many come to Jersey City for its beautiful waterfront views of the New York City skyline, historical landmarks and lively entertainment; but with EV-chargers galore, Jersey City is especially perfect for an EV escape.
Jersey City is dedicated to an electric future and is prepared for current EV drivers with over 30 charging stations around the downtown area including 20 that are owned and managed by the city. This makes it easy to plug in while you explore all that Jersey City has to offer. In addition to their charging infrastructure, Jersey City has committed to 100% of new municipal fleet vehicles to be fully electric by 2030.
Have we piqued your interest yet? If so, here’s your guide to exploring the second largest city in New Jersey in an EV. Below, you’ll find our favorite restaurant, hotel and shopping recommendations, all conveniently located near public EV charging stations.
Editor’s Note: We understand that travel can be complicated right now and restrictions vary state to state. Check out the New Jersey COVID-19 information hub for up-to-date New Jersey guidelines. If you plan on visiting any of the below destinations, we recommend wearing a mask and checking their official websites for possible closures, limited access announcements, and general safety guidelines.
Friday:
4 P.M.
Check-In
The Westin Jersey City Newport
Start off your weekend getaway by checking into the Westin Jersey City Newport, an upscale hotel with scenic views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline. The Westin is centrally located next to great dining, shopping and entertainment options, and has both fast charging and Level 2 chargers within walking distance.
6 P.M.
Dinner
Just a short walk away from your hotel is Hudson & Co, a stylish gastropub featuring water-front dining with incredible views and a menu to match! Try out the specialty sushi rolls or their brick oven pizza! No matter what you’re in the mood for, they’ll have something for you.
8 P.M.
Scenic Stroll
After dinner, take a stroll along the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway for more uninterrupted views of the Hudson River and NYC skyline before heading back for your overnight accommodations at The Westin.
Saturday:
9 A.M.
Breakfast
Half Moon Restaurant (in-house dining at The Westin)
Start your day in Jersey City Newport with a delicious breakfast at Half Moon Restaurant. With your car charging down the street, fuel yourself up for the day with some pancakes or an omelet.
11 A.M.
Explore
Whether you’re into 500-page novels or cleverly scented literary-themed candles, find it all at WORD Bookstores.
Grab something for the kids at Hazel Baby & Kids and something for the fur-kids at Hound About Town.
Take in the scenery at Hamilton Park, where you can turn the pages in that new hardcover or indulge in a sweet treat from nearby Milk Sugar Love.
1:30 P.M.
Lunch Break
Stop into Prato Bakery for specialties like the schiacciata that the bakery uses to make its sandwiches, along with imported Italian meats, cheeses, and homemade veggies. Also try the traditional Cantucci cookies, a Tuscan specialty that’s baked right in the Jersey City storefront.
3 P.M
Novelty Finds
Check out home goods, furniture, and unique finds at Sloane Square, an upscale personal shopping and design consultant. Call ahead to schedule your private consultation, or, if you’re traveling with friends, ask about hosting a Sip & Shop event.
Grab a craft beer to-go for later from Departed Soles Brewery – they have both Gluten-free and #DefinitelyNotGlutenFree options.
7 P.M.
Dinner & Dessert
For dinner, try Skinner’s Loft and Cove, a family owned and operated restaurant. Skinner’s is an homage to the family matriarch and has deep roots in the Jersey City community. Their seasonally inspired menu uses the freshest available local ingredients to blend contemporary and traditional cuisine. The enticing food and drinks are matched only by the level of hospitality at Skinner’s Loft.
Grab a famous Pineapple Dole Whip Float at Downtown Yogurt for a sweet treat after dinner.
9 P.M.
Nightlife & Late Night Bites
After dinner, continue your Jersey City experience as you walk down the Newark Avenue Pedestrian Plaza, an outdoor walkway home to an eclectic mix of eateries, shops, and charming downtown scenery. Take your choice from the many bars in the downtown area.
Sunday:
9:30 A.M.
Light Breakfast
Lackawanna Coffee boasts three shops in Jersey City so you are never far away from a fresh cup! Hot, iced, caffeinated or not, @lackawannacoffee has a satisfying coffee and pastry combination for even the dreariest of days.
10 A.M.
Relax
After all this city exploration, relax with a spa day at om.Life. Enjoy services including the sauna, energy therapy, or a massage.
12 P.M.
Brunch
For your final stop in Jersey City, grab some food at Franklin Social, a traditional tavern style restaurant and bar inspired by Benjamin Franklin. A blend of old and modern, the menu is seasonally driven to highlight local ingredients.
Charging:
There are convenient EV charging options throughout the city, so you can charge while exploring all Jersey City has to offer! Here are just a few of the centrally located chargers:
Fast charger
Level 2 charger
30 Mall Dr W, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Level 2 charger
Tesla charger
2 2nd St, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Propark The Morgan at Provost Square
Level 2 charger
Tesla charger
160 Morgan St, Jersey City, NJ 07302
Ready to take the next step and purchase an EV? Check out these dealerships:
905 Communipaw Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304
943 Communipaw Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304
Hudson Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram
625 NJ-440, Jersey City, NJ 07304