Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal stands at the edge of Jersey City’s waterfront, a beautifully restored 1889 railroad terminal that once served as the gateway to America for millions of immigrants arriving through nearby Ellis Island. Today it anchors Liberty State Park and offers one of the most iconic views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline you’ll find anywhere.

The terminal building itself is a striking Richardsonian Romanesque structure with soaring arched windows and original ironwork. Step inside and you’ll find interpretive exhibits tracing the building’s history as a bustling rail hub where passengers transferred between ferries and trains. The waiting room, with its vaulted ceilings, evokes the grandeur of 19th-century travel.

Outside, the terminal serves as the departure point for Statue Cruises ferries to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island — making it a practical launching pad for two of the region’s most visited landmarks. The surrounding waterfront promenade is perfect for walking, jogging, or simply sitting on a bench and watching harbor traffic drift by.

Birdwatchers will appreciate the nearby Caven Point Natural Area, while history enthusiasts can explore the Empty Sky memorial honoring New Jersey’s September 11th victims, located just steps away.

Visit in spring or fall for comfortable walking weather and thinner crowds at the ferry terminals. Summer weekends draw heavy traffic, so arrive early if you’re heading to Liberty or Ellis Island. There’s no camping on-site, but the terminal and its surroundings easily fill a rewarding full-day outing.

Explore Nearby

• Browns Park Recreation Area — Public Land
• Florida Black Bear Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in Florida
• Statue of Liberty — Lighthouse in New York
• Native American Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in North Dakota
• Government Trail — Public Land