Where to Drink, Dine & Dance: A Guide to Nightlife in Hudson County, NJ
Whether you’re looking for a craft cocktail with a view of the skyline or a secret speakeasy tucked away from the bustling streets, this curated list highlights some of the best spots to experience the vibrant energy of Hudson County after dark.
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RoofTop at Exchange Place
Perched atop the Hyatt House in Jersey City, the RoofTop at Exchange Place is an energetic spot perfect for intimate date nights and milestone celebrations alike. The all-season patio with a retractable glass roof keeps the atmosphere lively year-round.
The menu leans into bold, elevated American fare. Shareable plates, handhelds and hearty bowls are best paired with a signature cocktail, mocktail or a draft beer. Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
143 Social
This speakeasy-style cocktail bar sits in the heart of Jersey City. The 143 Social team prides itself on pushing boundaries with clever techniques, unexpected infusions and flavor combinations that deliver truly memorable drinks.
Signature creations take center stage, including the 100 Year Old Fashioned, a rotating lineup of innovative house cocktails and customizable espresso martinis. Reservations are recommended for this stylish, intimate spot, which is open Wednesday through Saturday.
W Hoboken
The W Hoboken hotel serves as an ideal destination for after-dark adventures. Start at the Living Room Bar, a newly renovated lounge known for its spirited atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling city views. If you’re craving an upbeat dinner, Sushi by Bou delivers a fast-paced, “disco-sushi” omakase that’s as much about the music as the fish.
Round out the night at Halifax, where the menu highlights artisanal Atlantic flavors. Whether it’s a milestone celebration or a casual nightcap, these spots keep the energy high.
Liberty Science Center After Dark
Curiosity has no age limit – by day, Liberty Science Center is a beloved Jersey City destination for families, educators and aspiring STEM minds. But after dark, the museum transforms into a 21-plus playground where science meets nightlife.
Held on select Thursdays, these themed evenings pair delectable bites and beverages with immersive learning and entertainment. Each event kicks off with a Space Talk, followed by exhibits, planetarium shows and interactive experiences.
The Junto Attic Bar
Junto Attic Bar in Jersey City is perfect for after-dinner cocktails and cozy evenings. Located above Franklin Social, it draws inspiration from Benjamin Franklin’s original social club. The menu balances bold creations with expertly executed classics.
Adventurous guests go for the “Dealer’s Choice,” selecting a spirit and flavor profile while the bartender mixes a unique cocktail on the spot. The bar is first-come, first-served and opens at 6 p.m. daily, making it a must-stop for cocktail enthusiasts.
White Eagle Hall
Since its doors first opened in 1910, White Eagle Hall in downtown Jersey City has evolved from a community hub into a premier destination for the performing arts. After a meticulous 2016 restoration, the hall now balances historic soul – like its iconic wraparound balcony – with world-class production technology. From intimate dance performances to electric concerts, every night is an immersive experience supported by full-service dining and three distinct bars.
The Laugh Tour Comedy Club
While the Laugh Tour Comedy Club began as a series of pop-up shows, it soon evolved into a permanent fixture inside Dorrian’s Red Hand’s Jersey City location. Over the years, The Laugh Tour has staged more than 135 sold-out performances, spotlighting comedians who went on to become household names, including Chris Distefano, Natalie Cuomo and Nate Bargatze.
Guests can order directly from Dorrian’s wide-ranging menu for the full dinner-and-a-show experience. Steak frites, wings, burgers and chicken pot pie are among the favorites.
Pier 13
Set along the waterfront in Hoboken, Pier 13 is a family-friendly beer garden that fully embraces summer on the Hudson River. Rotating food trucks offer scrumptious snacks to enjoy with beer, frozen drinks, housemade punch and specialty cocktails. Weekday happy hour runs from 4 to 6 p.m., and Tuesdays are dedicated Family Fun Days.
Pier 13 also hosts a steady lineup of movie nights, outdoor fitness classes, pet adoption events, run clubs and live music. Open seasonally from May through October, it’s a popular place for making the most of warm weather.
Where to Find the Best Pizza in Jersey City
Razza Pizza has been a Jersey City staple since 2007, earning its reputation as the region’s best pizza through an unyielding commitment to craft. In 2019, The New York Times awarded Razza a rare three-star review. It’s the only pizzeria in the country to earn that distinction.
Razza’s menu is rooted in Italy, grounded in New Jersey and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence. Ingredients are sourced as locally and seasonally as possible, with particular reverence for tomatoes. The dough is made with locally milled flour and a house-maintained wild yeast culture.
In summer, pies highlight sweet corn, zucchini, figs and eggplant at their peak, allowing each vegetable to shine.
While the pizza draws the headlines, Razza is also known for its hearty meatballs with ricotta and housemade bread and butter churned from local milk. All are crafted with the same meticulous attention to sourcing and technique that defines the pies.
Reservations are recommended but not required. Whether you plan ahead or walk in, one thing is certain: Razza Pizza is worth the trip.