Looking for a trendy spot in North Jersey that has impeccable shopping, an abundance of gourmet dining options, a historical atmosphere, and spectacular views of New York City? Head to Hoboken, one of Hudson County’s oldest riverside communities, and take our guide with you.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in the “Mile Square City.”
Explore Downtown Hoboken
An array of shops and restaurants line bustling Washington Street, Hoboken’s famed “main streetâ€, one of the city’s most famous.
If you’re looking to get lost in a good book, make a stop at Little City Books, located just off the main sprawl on Bloomfield St. near 1st Street in Downtown.
A true Hoboken staple can be found at Elysian Cafe, located on Washington and 10th St., serving up modern French cuisine. Sit inside in its warm victorian quarters or outside on its garden patio facing Washington Street to be amongst flowers and fresh blooms or just to relax and people watch.
Looking for something sweet? Head to the famously known Carlo’s Bakery, located on Washington and 1st St, in the heart of downtown. Here, you’ll find dozens of Italian pastries, cannolis, espresso, and of course American favorites such as cupcakes, chocolate chip cookies, and a wide array of cakes that you can even have customized for special occasions. The bakery is home to the famous “Cake Boss”, airing on TLC.
Grab a Bite to Eat
An excellent stop for a great cup of coffee is just down the street at Choc O’ Pain French Bakery & Cafe, a cozy French-inspired cafe serving fresh coffee brews, lattes, cappuccinos, pastries and sandwiches.
Empire Coffee is another unique spot for coffee set in bohemian vibe with an on-site roaster offering a wide variety of coffee blends from around the globe. Scoop your own coffee here and bring it home!
One of my all time favorites for coffee is an iced vanilla & cinnamon latte with almond milk at City of Saints Coffee Roasters, a tiny coffee shop with a contemporary eco-friendly vibe.
A spot for fine dining in an upscale Victorian atmosphere is at Amanda’s, located directly on Washington Street between 9th and 10th Street — a quaint spot for classic American comfort food in a circa-1895 brownstone. A must-try is their Sunday brunch with their famous eggs benedict, omelettes and other gourmet breakfast specialties. Be sure to make reservations in advance especially on the weekends.
Check out Court Street Restaurant and Bar, too — just a short walk down a picturesque alley off of Washington Street — for the exact Hoboken vibe you’re looking for.
Take a Walk
If you’re on the cobblestone and historic homes hunt, take a stroll down Willow Terrace North & South. I’d also highly recommend a walk down Hudson Street, Bloomfield Street, and Garden Street to take in the majestic architecture and craftsmanship of this city’s industrial past.
Breathtaking views of Manhattan await on, head to Frank Sinatra Drive, where you can stroll along the Hudson passing up adorable green spaces on Pier C. Check out excellent gourmet food trucks at Pier 13 overlooking New York City.
For a more historical trip through Hoboken, take this walking tour, courtesy of Hoboken Historical Museum.
Hoboken is a one-of-a-kind destination that remains the center of historic charm. A walk on tree-lined streets is a true delight and part of what makes Hoboken a unique destination in New Jersey. Did we miss anything with our guide? Let us know in the comments!
