First Date Ideas in JC
Jersey City presents an exciting and romantic environment – the busy downtown area, trendy art scene, and incredible view of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline gives so much room for strong connections. In the Hoboken Girl article, What It’s Like Dating in Jersey City v. The Suburbs: A Look at Regional Dating Differences, Julianna Lubbe stated, “All drinks aside, there are so many other ways to cultivate connections within Jersey City. Going for a walk along the waterfront is a fun and unique way to get to know someone while enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views of the New York City skyline.”
See below the classy, lively, and intriguing first date options in Jersey City.
Elegant
143 Social opened just in May and found itself under the burger restaurant, Bareburger. Getting into the speakeasy shows an experience within itself – the transition of walking through the cool, casual environment of Bareburger then stepping downstairs to the chic cocktail bar offers a unique, trendy entrance.
The bartenders put extra time and care into creating elegant crafty drinks, so the exquisite energy only makes sense for a first date.
143 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07302 (Under Bareburger)
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For the best view in Jersey City, a first date at Rooftop at Exchange Place would be breathtaking. The floor to ceiling glass indoor decor, on top of the outdoor deck with the panoramic view of the world trade center all the way to the Statue of Liberty, makes guests feel as if they’re in the middle of the Hudson River.
The menu at the rooftop includes: Brunch, Happy Hour, Appetizers, and Food Specials with a full list of cocktails, wine, and beer.
1 Exchange Place, Jersey City, NJ 07302
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Lokal Bar is another gem on the Jersey City Pier – the trendy decor, colorful cocktails, and classic music gives a modern atmosphere with a splash of vintage. In addition, they provide food specials, such as $1 oysters, food boards, and appetizer specials. Taking a date here guarantees an intriguing time.
2 2nd St, Jersey City, NJ 07302
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A BYOB had to make the list – this classy restaurant serves Mediterranean food, such as homemade pasta and brick pressed chicken. Bring your bottle and your date and bon appetit!
212 Washington Street Jersey City, NJ 07302
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This popular NJ bakery opened their Heights’ location back in 2016. Dulce De Leche Bakery bakes authentic Argentinian desserts. The cafe itself includes “ample seating and modern cafe ambiance where you can grab a quick bite or sit down and stay a while.” A breakfast date with gourmet lunch and pastry options, just feels ideal.
376 Central Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07037
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Active
For those wanting an “adrenaline pumping” experience on the first date, compete one on one at Jersey City’s indoor Race Car Track. RPM Raceway opens their track to all individuals – whether the only race car experience you have is to play mario kart or drive like Trevor Bayne, all participants are expected to have a fun time. What’s a better way of breaking the ice than going head to head on the track?
In addition, they offer food, drinks, and an area to play pool!
99 Caven Point Rd, Jersey City, NJ
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Jersey City’s bowling alley, Hudson Lanes is located on Garfield Ave and has 60 lanes with a bar and lounge, a fun and wholesome first date.
1 Garfield Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07305
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Walking distance from Liberty State Park, the Liberty Science Center grants visitors a spectacular science experience. Explore each other’s intellect through the exciting exhibitions, which are: The Building, 2023, Infinity Climber, Wobbly World, Wild About Animals, Dino Dig Adventures, Block Party, and many more. Also get romantic, by watching the stars in the museum’s planetarium.
Tickets are $30.99 for general admissions
222 Jersey City Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07305
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Try a social and interactive date at an event through Jersey City Connects. Jersey City Connects is a social group that throws events to bring the community closer together. Whether you need to find a date at one of their speed-dating events or want to participate in their board game parties together or attend their couple mixer, Jersey City Connects ensures a great time! They host events monthly for multiple types of occasions that welcome all kinds of residents in the area. To get more information and tickets to their events, sign up for their newsletter and follow their social media.
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Art and Entertainment
Comedy Night w/ The Laugh Tour
Comedy definitely helps with any date jitters and this group is the funniest in Jersey City. The Laugh Tour is a popup comedy group that offers a new headline of local comedians every Friday and Saturday. Locals enjoy the Laugh Tour as they gave them over 150 positive reviews and the club sold out over 40 times.
Tickets start at 25 dollars with showings at
7:30 PM – 9:00 PM and 9:45 PM – 11:15 PM on Fridays,
and 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM on Saturdays.
555 Washington Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07310
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Jam out to some live music with your date at Fox and Crow. The restaurant serves American cuisine, “munchies,’ ‘feast,’ and ‘light(ish)” and hosts live performances every Thursday and Saturday.
Tickets for live shows are $10
594 Palisade Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07307
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Beyond the Plate Tour – Jersey City Food Tour
Get a unique date experience with the Beyond the Plate Tour. This experience is located both in Downtown and the Heights in Jersey City. The tour embraces the diverse culture and food of the area and grants exclusive access to local restaurants with opportunities to meet the chefs and owners. The availability is every weekend and the hours vary based on the vendors. Each restaurant stop is a 10 minute walk maximum from each other with 3-4 stops, 2-3 beverages included with a 3 hour duration.
Tickets are $105
Downtown location: Grove Street PATH Plaza, Newark Ave and Grove Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302, Jersey City, NJ 07302
The Heights location: Along Central Ave in Jersey City Heights. Exact meeting location and parking information will be emailed before tour start
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Located in Journal Square, Emma’s American Bistro opened during the Pandemic taking over Pj Ryan’s Squared’s previous spot. The bistro hosts live entertainment Wednesday – Saturday nights. The following is their weekly schedule:
Wednesday Night: Karaoke at 8:30 PM
Thursday Night: Live Music (Often Jazz)
Friday Night: Live Music
Saturday Night: DJ
So, enjoy the live entertainment with your date at Emma’s!
Journal Square, 4 Path Plaza, Jersey City NJ
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Lastly, wind down with your date by learning how to make candles over some wine. Rewax & Unwine holds classes the first Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of the month at 9PM. The course includes BYOB, slow jams, and 50 candle fragrances to choose from.
2 Division Street, Jersey City, NJ, USA
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So, go on that first date and bond with someone over the intriguing places in Jersey City.
