Nicknamed the Mile Square City, Hoboken packs a lot into a small space. The New Jersey town just across the Hudson River from New York City has unparalleled views of the Manhattan skyline, plus a lively food and culture scene all its own, with contemporary art in the Barsky Gallery and historic artifacts from the city’s past in the Hoboken Historical Museum. Beaux-Arts architecture is prominent throughout Hoboken, displayed at City Hall and the Hoboken Terminal, which features a vaulted ceiling and 2,000-foot stained-glass skylight. Washington Street, the city’s main thoroughfare spanning 15 blocks, is lined with bookstores, boutiques, and bars hosting live music. Enjoy postcard-worthy views of the Hudson River from the George Washington Bridge or explore the waterway on a kayak or paddleboard.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is less than a 20-minute drive to the city. You won’t need to rent a car, as Hoboken boasts an extensive public transportation system. From the airport, there are bus services and train lines to the Hoboken/NJ Transit Terminal. The Hoboken Terminal is a central transportation hub for the tri-state area, with frequent ferries to lower Manhattan and midtown. The compact city, which has been cited as a Gold Level Walk-Friendly Community, is best explored on foot. Those who prefer two wheels to reach their Hoboken vacation rental will appreciate the ever-expanding bike lane circuit around town.

Hoboken is a four-season destination, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. While there’s no escaping the summer humidity, it’s a great time to enjoy one of the city’s many outdoor festivals. Spend a night under the stars at Frank Sinatra Park for the annual Shakespeare in the Park festival. The tree-lined streets burst with color as fall brings cooler temperatures and the beloved arts and music festival in October. Harsh temperatures and snow can’t keep you from enjoying the city’s award-winning cuisine during the biannual event in January and February that offers two weeks of special prix-fixe menus. With moderate temperatures and blooming flowers, spring is a great time to visit Hoboken and enjoy a self-guided walk around the charming cobblestoned streets of downtown.

Hoboken Historical Museum

Step inside the Hoboken Historical Museum and discover the city’s history, culture, and architecture. Housed in the former Bethlehem Steel machine shop — known today as the Shipyard — the museum has exhibitions on shipping history and the city’s contribution to music. The upper gallery features six local artists’ work each year.

Monroe Center for the Arts

Monroe Center for the Arts spans two buildings of artist studios, galleries, retail space, and a performing arts theater in a converted factory complex. Resident artists hold hands-on classes for kids and adults, and open studio tours attract an eclectic mix of creatives from around the tri-state area.

Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

Stretching 18.5 miles along the Hudson River from Bayonne to the George Washington Bridge, the Waterfront Walkway connects Hudson County’s most scenic waterfront neighborhoods. A popular spot for hiking, fishing, and kayaking, this bike-friendly walkway is accessible from Hoboken’s Frank Sinatra Drive and offers unobstructed views of Manhattan. Bikeshare rental stations are available along the path, and kayak rentals can be found in Hoboken.