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City Living: Jersey City

By Stephen J. Bronner | Special to amNewYork

February 7, 2008

Packer's Shoes specialzing sneakers and streatwear is located at:

380 Luis Munoz Marin Blvd Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 222-2115 (Willie Davis)

One of the best views of Manhattan can be found across the Hudson River, in what many consider to be the sixth borough, Jersey City. In fact, those who earn their wage in Manhattan would find Jersey City's less-expensive housing and proximity to NYC a very appealing alternative to the other boroughs.

Jersey City stands just at the other end of the Holland Tunnel, or a 22-minute ride from midtown on the PATH train. Although many people travel through the area to reach other locations in the Garden State, Jersey City is not just a transportation hub. From its historical brownstones to the Newport Centre Mall and the downtown district, it's easy to see why locals call it home.

"It's like a small town within a large city," said Jennifer Greely, president of the Hamilton Park Neighborhood Association. Hamilton Park lies in the heart of Jersey City's northwest portion, where most of the houses are brownstones. There, residents walk their dogs and hold stoop sales.

Outside of Hamilton Park, and its surrounding neighborhoods, large buildings loom over wide streets. Many developers, including Donald Trump, have started projects in the southern part of the city and along the Hudson River. New buildings have sprung up within the past few years and replaced the old factories and warehouses that used to dominate the area.

Find it: Jersey City is bounded by the Hudson River on the east, the Hackensack River to the south, Hoboken to the west and 14th Street to the north.

5 Facts about Jersey City
Jersey City was the last "station" on the Underground Railroad route through New Jersey.
A mile-long pier on landfill that connected Black Tom Island with the Jersey City waterfront exploded in 1916. The explosion was believed to be a product of
German espionage. The estimated number of fatalities differs but hundreds were injured.
The North River Steamboat left Paulus Hook Ferry [now Jersey City] in 1807.
Frank Hague, a mayor of Jersey City who was said to rule with an iron fist, served from 1917 to 1947, when he retired.
Ellis Island is inside Jersey City's borders, and is managed jointly by the states of New Jersey and New York. . To Eat

Located near a PATH train station, Newark Avenue and Grove Street are the core of Jersey City's nightlife. There are many restaurants and combination bar/restaurants that line these downtown streets.

Skinner's Loft

This relatively new establishment has both an old-school pub and a loft that serves American Bistro. The loft area's décor is made of salvaged things, but adds up to an upscale and casual environment. 146 Newark Ave., 201-915-0600

Sawadee

This Thai restaurant has a soothing atmosphere, assisted by a large Buddhism-influenced fountain along with other pieces of art. 137 Newark Ave., 201-433-0888

Ox

Probably the only restaurant in Jersey City to serve ox tail, this restaurant offers new American cuisine with a seasonal menu in an intimate environment. 176 Newark Ave., 201-860-4000

Marco & Pepe