Newport Green Park: An Urban Oasis and Playground in Jersey City

5/18/17 - By Laurie Rein

Nestled between two urban downtowns is a gem of a play area known as Newport Green Park. Created in 2012 as part of Jersey City’s revitalization, this peaceful oasis boasts an imaginative playground, the Hudson River’s only man-made beach, and a walkway to Hoboken, all with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop. This day trip–worthy park is also home to a carousel and splash pad.

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Playground
Newport Green Park's colorful, soft-grounded play area houses unique sets of structures for kids ages 2–5 and 5–12 year old playground crew. Younger visitors will love the two climbing contraptions, one of which is shaped like a pirate ship, plus the swings. There’s also an arch climber suitable for tots. The older crowd can challenge themselves on the intricate rope climbers, with dangling bridges and seats, plus rock walls and steep slides. Kids can round out the play area fun by getting dizzy on various spinners, and tired moms and dads can relax at the umbrella-covered picnic tables.


Hit the splash pad on hot summer days.

Splash Pad and Carousel
Cool off at the park’s vibrant splash pad, complete with all kinds of sprinklers and dumping buckets. If you need a break from activity, go for a spin on the playground’s whimsical carousel while taking in views of the playground and skyline. Both the splash pad and carousel open for the season at the end of May.


Ball field and beach.

Beach and Surrounding Area
No need to fight shore traffic for a beach excursion. Enjoy sand and sun on Newport Green’s small beach, featuring Adirondack chairs and umbrellas (no swimming). Lush ball fields and gardens surround the play area.


Stroll down the walkway. Photo by the author.

Walkway
Take an easy, scenic walk from Newport Green to downtown Hoboken via the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, adjacent to the playground. The walkway offers gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline, with viewfinders and signage along the way.


Sip a bubble tea in a lightbulb cup at the whimsical Babo Teahouse. Photo courtesy of the teahouse.

Nearby Eats
With two adjacent cities, there is no shortage of eating options. Stick around the Newport vicinity to grab a quick bite at Babo Teahouse, Bwe Kafe, Cosi, or Loradella’s Family Pizza. Or take a 10-minute stroll to Hoboken for tons of eateries, the closest including Hansel ‘n Griddle, Spa Diner, Basile’s Pizza, and Carlo’s Bakery (Cake Boss!).

Parking/Restrooms
While I’ve always lucked out finding free street parking near the grounds, there are metered spaces nearby. The playground is easily accessible from the PATH, Light Rail, and Jersey Transit. Be prepared: the playground lacks on-site restrooms. There are porta-potties nearby and a Target with restrooms across the street.

Top photo: Playground. Unless otherwise noted, photos courtesy of Newport Green.

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