It’s a well-known fact that New York City never sleeps, and we can only assume that means there’s plenty to do. But what about its next-door-neighbor, Hoboken? Luckily, this city is also host to a wide variety of opportunities and wholesome activities, so whether you and your family are moving long-distance or just across city lines, there will be a ton of fun things to do.
Here it is our list of the best things to do in Hoboken.
1. Movies Under the Stars all summer long at Pier A
Nothing says summer nights quite like laying out a blanket and sitting back to watch a movie on the outdoor screen. What makes it even better is when it’s at the Pier, and it’s free. Make some new friends and enjoy those summer sunsets over the water at this free movie series.
2. Free kayaking on the Hudson
How great is it that Hoboken’s non-profit boathouse offers free kayaks for public use? From May through September, the volunteers of the Hoboken Cove Boathouse will get you set up with kayaks and send you out cruising on the river. If you’re interested in a more guided experience, take a look at the river trip schedule. Paddlers must pass a short paddle test to ensure they can handle their boat for the journey, and trips are booked on a first-come, first-serve basis, so get there early!
3. Visit the Hoboken Historical Museum
Hoboken residents are no strangers to the ever-changing weather of the northeast, so of course, you’ll need indoor options, too. Head to the Hoboken Historical Museum to learn more about the history of the town, perhaps on a more national level, or to participate in one of the museum’s regular educational programs. The weekly Uptown Stories series will keep the kids entertained, and a rotating exhibition series offers age-appropriate opportunities for kids of all ages. Have a look at the calendar to take advantage of all the museum has to offer.
4. Concerts, theater, yoga, art, and fitness in the park
The city hosts a wide range of free activities scattered across the parks, all summer long and into the fall with the Fall Arts Festival, as well as hosting winter holiday events like the Christmas Tree Lighting or the Halloween parade. Whether you’re looking for a fitness class for yourself or a family-friendly weekend outing, you’ll find something for everyone. Learn about what to do when visiting Hoboken by checking out the Visit Hoboken page. Participating in activities like these is also a great way to meet people after moving to a new city.
5. Shop fresh at Hoboken Farmer’s Markets
They call it the Garden State for a reason — you can bite into an heirloom tomato or some fresh local greens on Thursdays from 2-7pm, June through October, and stroll the booths with your Hoboken neighbors. It’s a good step towards eating seasonally, supporting your local farmers, and of course, getting to know your new city on a whole new level.
6. Visit the Barsky Gallery
This gallery serves two purposes: to showcase interesting contemporary artists in themed exhibits and to show you amazing art that you could buy for the walls of your new home. They host regular art fairs as well as offer consulting services for those who want to decorate their Hoboken home with some contemporary artistic flair, though of course, you’re welcome to peruse the galleries without needing to buy. Keep an eye on their website to stay up-to-date on upcoming openings and changing exhibits.
7. Carlo’s Bakery Classes
Carlo’s Bakery offers you the opportunity to learn how to create beautiful and tasty cakes of your very own. Whether you’ve always wanted to know how they make those frosting flowers or you want to host a little gathering with your friends, Carlo’s Bakery will take good care of you.
8. Mangia Hoboken! The Hoboken Food & Culture Tour
So you thought to get good food, you had to go to the City? You would be wrong. Join one of Mangia Hoboken’s foodie tours and you’ll be delighted by all that Hoboken has to offer. They offer a behind-the-scenes experience at many of the restaurants, getting the attention of the NY Times for the quality of the experience. It is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to see the city as you taste your way through some of Hoboken’s best restaurants.
9. Visit Frank Sinatra’s Birthplace
The actual building itself no longer exists commemorated only by a star on the sidewalk and a brick arch, but Hoboken is where Blue Eyes got his start. Rumor has it that if you visit Lepore’s Homemade Chocolates, the proprietor will arrange for a walking tour of the city’s Sinatra sights. There are other fan hotspots in the city, too: Piccolo’s has a backroom shrine devoted to the singer, and Leo’s Grandevous has a jukebox of Sinatra tunes and a collection of photos on the wall.
10. Festivals galore
From the Italian Festival to St. Ann’s Feast, you can find some incredible music, art, and food at the city’s festivals. With the Italian culture that is still so rooted in this city, finishing off your meal with some zeppoles is an experience that is truly, deeply Hoboken.
