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Jersey City: What to do in the neighboring big town

Just two to three stops from Manhattan on the PATH, Jersey City offers big city experiences in what feels like a small town setting that locals say offers a completely different vibe from New York City.

It’s the second-most populated city in New Jersey after Newark, but JC’s brownstones, small shops, converted factories and picturesque government buildings make it feel more like a New England town.

With history stretching past the Revolutionary War and the Dutch colonies, the city bordered by Newark to the west, Hackensack to the north and Elizabeth to the south, has seen battle, the arrival and decline of industry, and a renaissance of small shops and businesses.

Don’t let the fact that it’s in Jersey scare you — it’s got such character that it may charm you. Bonus: It really is a short trip from NYC. Get on the PATH at the World Trade Center, or Christopher, 9th, 14th, 23rd or 33rd streets, and ride until you get to Exchange Place or Grove Street.

Once you do, don’t miss the following places.