Elizabeth Travel Guide

The largest city in Union County, Elizabeth draws in crowds of tourists every year with its sandy beaches, ocean views, and thriving nightlife. There's something fun to do around every corner of Elizabeth's downtown sector.

Things to Do in Elizabeth

To start their trip with a bit of outdoor fun, visitors can go biking, fishing, or skating at Warinanco Park where they can also have a family picnic. They can also spend the afternoon at the Boxwood Hall State Historic Site, touring the Boxwood mansion’s elaborate museum and gift shop, or take an hour to stroll the halls of the Benches-Ogden Museum. Visitors can also catch an early movie at AMC Loews Jersey Gardens and then spend the rest of the day shopping at any of Jersey Gardens’ 200 retailers or eating at one of the 20 dining options available. Alternatively, visitors can make their way to Danz Studio for dance or fitness classes such as Zumba and salsa dancing, or to the O'Brien Field for a game of soccer or to run through the sprinklers.

Best Places to Stay in Elizabeth

Elizabeth is far from lacking in adequate vacation accommodations. The city has a variety of great rentals to choose from, most of which are near a park or shopping center and are within walking distance of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors who choose to rent a beach cottage won't be disappointed, as Elizabeth has some of the best skylines and most peaceful beaches in all of the state, making a perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner outside.

Best Time to Visit Elizabeth

The best time to visit is during the beginning and end of the summer season.

Best Events in Elizabeth

The annual Tour de Elizabeth is a popular bicycle tour that takes hundreds of participants through Elizabeth's unique landscapes, with the tour route and theme changing each year. Elizabeth's Waterfront Memorial Day Carnival, which features music, family-friendly rides, and cuisine from all over the world. A few other annual events include the ever-popular Midtown Car & Bike Show, Jingle Bell Run 5K, the educational Annual Historical Reenactment, and the Elizabeth Portugal Day Parade.

Things to Do for Families in Elizabeth

Crossing into New York, animal-loving families can enjoy a day at the Staten Island Zoo, where guests can feed and pet friendly animals, witness rare creatures in their habitats, and learn all about the lives of the creatures they see through a number of guided tours and informational exhibits. Families with children can also check out the Staten Island Children's Museum, which is home to a variety of interactive art and cooking classes, hands-on science experiments, story telling, live performances, and 12 educational exhibits- 10 indoors and 2 out.