Elizabeth, New Jersey: 10 Must-Do Attractions and Nearby Day Trips

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10 Fun Things To Do Near Elizabeth, New Jersey (Union County Guide)

Looking for things to do in and around Elizabeth, New Jersey? You’re in a great spot. This Union County city sits just across the river from New York City, close to Newark, and right by major highways, so it’s easy to reach and easy to explore from. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a quick day trip, or just wondering what’s around while you’re flying in or out of Newark Airport, this guide covers 10 fun things to do near Elizabeth, NJ that locals and visitors both enjoy.

1. Shop, Dine, and Play at The Mills at Jersey Gardens

If you only do one thing in Elizabeth, make it The Mills at Jersey Gardens. This huge indoor outlet mall is one of the most popular attractions in the area. It’s less than 10 minutes from Newark Airport and a short drive from downtown Elizabeth.
  • Over 200 stores (think Nike, Coach, Levi’s, and more)
  • Factory outlet prices and tax-free shopping on clothes and shoes
  • Food court plus sit-down restaurants
  • Movie theater for when you need a break from walking
If you like to stretch your vacation budget, this is the spot. I once spent a long layover here and walked out with new sneakers, a carry-on bag, and lunch for less than I’d usually pay for just the shoes. Travel tip: If you’re staying in New York City, there are bus options from Port Authority that go straight to Jersey Gardens, which makes this an easy New Jersey day trip from Manhattan.

2. Explore Historic Downtown Elizabeth

Downtown Elizabeth doesn’t always get as much attention as nearby cities, but that’s part of its charm. It’s real, it’s walkable, and it’s full of history and culture. Stroll around the streets near Broad Street and Elizabeth Avenue and you’ll find:
  • Colorful Latin American bakeries and restaurants
  • Small shops selling everything from clothing to imported foods
  • Murals and historic buildings mixed with everyday city life
If you like to people-watch, grab a coffee or a pastry from a local bakery, find a bench, and just soak in the energy of the city. It’s a great way to feel the true vibe of Elizabeth, NJ beyond the highway exits.

3. Step Back in Time at the Belcher-Ogden Mansion and Elizabeth’s Historic Sites

Elizabeth is one of the oldest cities in New Jersey, and you can actually walk through that history. The Belcher-Ogden Mansion is a beautiful 18th-century home that once belonged to a colonial governor of New Jersey. When it’s open for tours or special events, you can:
  • See period furniture and architecture
  • Learn about Elizabeth’s role in early American history
  • Walk through rooms where important political figures once met
Nearby, look out for other historic Elizabeth landmarks, like old churches and homes that date back to the Revolutionary War era. Even if you’re not a huge history buff, there’s something special about standing in a house that’s seen over 250 years of American life. Pro tip: Check ahead for tour times or special events; hours can vary and some visits may be by appointment or on select days.

4. Relax at Warinanco Park (Roselle / Elizabeth)

Need a break from traffic and shopping? Head to Warinanco Park, a large green space shared by Elizabeth, Roselle, and Roselle Park. Here you’ll find:
  • Paved walking and jogging paths
  • Open fields and picnic areas
  • Playgrounds for kids
  • Sports fields and courts
  • Scenic lake views
In the spring, the trees and flowers around the park make it feel like a little oasis in the middle of Union County. It’s perfect for a casual walk, a family picnic, or simply stretching your legs on a road trip along the New Jersey Turnpike. Local tip: Bring a light jacket even in warmer months. The shade and lake breeze can feel cooler than downtown streets.

5. Catch an Event at the Prudential Center (Newark)

Just a short drive from Elizabeth, in nearby Newark, you’ll find the Prudential Center, one of the top arenas in the region. Depending on when you visit, you can:
  • Watch an NHL New Jersey Devils hockey game
  • Catch big-name concerts and tours
  • See college basketball and special events
If you’re staying in Elizabeth, it’s often easier (and sometimes cheaper) to base yourself there and head over to Newark for a show or game. Parking and hotel prices can be friendlier on the Elizabeth side. Travel note: Ask your hotel about shuttles or public transit options. Many visitors use rideshares for a quick hop between Elizabeth and Newark.

6. Walk the Campus at Kean University and Liberty Hall Museum (Union)

Just northwest of Elizabeth, in the town of Union, sits Kean University and the historic Liberty Hall Museum. This area is a nice mix of college-town energy and deep history:
  • Stroll the Kean campus for a relaxed afternoon walk
  • Visit Liberty Hall Museum, a historic estate with roots going back to the 1700s
  • See lovely gardens, historic rooms, and exhibits
If you enjoy American history, Liberty Hall is a must-see. If you’re traveling with teens who might be checking out colleges, the campus walk can turn into an informal college visit. Tip: Check Liberty Hall’s website for tour times, seasonal programs, and special events like holiday tours or outdoor festivals.

7. Experience Global Flavors in Elizabeth’s Food Scene

One of the best things to do in Elizabeth doesn’t require tickets or tours: just show up hungry. Elizabeth is known for its diverse food options, especially Latin American cuisine. Around town you’ll find:
  • Colombian bakeries with fresh breads and pastries
  • Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants serving grilled meats and seafood
  • Mexican taquerias with tacos, tortas, and more
  • Caribbean spots offering jerk chicken, rice and peas, and plantains
On one visit, I ducked into a tiny Colombian spot near downtown just because it smelled amazing from the sidewalk. I walked out stuffed after a plate of roast chicken, rice, beans, and sweet plantains that tasted like home-cooked comfort food. If you enjoy exploring cities through food, Elizabeth, NJ is a great place to do it without the Manhattan price tag.

8. Take a Day Trip into New York City

One of the biggest perks of staying in Elizabeth, New Jersey is how close you are to New York City—without actually paying NYC hotel prices. From Elizabeth, you can:
  • Drive into Manhattan (traffic and tolls vary, so plan ahead)
  • Take public transit via nearby Newark
  • Use rideshare to reach train stations or PATH connections
Once you’re across the river, you can hit all the classic NYC sights:
  • Times Square
  • Central Park
  • Broadway shows
  • SoHo, Greenwich Village, and more
Many travelers choose Elizabeth as a budget-friendly base, then do day trips into the city. You get access to big-city attractions, plus easy routes back to your hotel near the airport or the Turnpike.

9. Cheer at a Local Game or Community Event

If you like to get a feel for the local community, keep an eye out for:
  • High school football games under the lights
  • Local soccer matches on community fields
  • Cultural festivals and street fairs in Elizabeth and Union County
These events can be surprisingly fun, even if you don’t know a single person on the field. There’s something very real and down-to-earth about cheering from the bleachers on a cool fall evening with a hot drink in hand. Ask at your hotel front desk, check the City of Elizabeth website, or look for community calendars listing upcoming events.

10. Enjoy a Scenic Drive Around Union County

If you have a car and a free afternoon, a simple but enjoyable thing to do is just drive around Union County. Within about 20–30 minutes of Elizabeth, you can reach towns like:
  • Union
  • Cranford
  • Westfield
  • Rahway
  • Roselle Park
Each one has its own small downtown with:
  • Cafes and diners
  • Independent shops
  • Local parks and riverside paths
It’s a nice change of pace from the busy highways. Grab a coffee, walk a few blocks, maybe find a local ice cream shop, and enjoy seeing another side of New Jersey that most people just speed past on the Turnpike.

Final Thoughts: Why Elizabeth, NJ Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List

Elizabeth, New Jersey isn’t just an exit on the highway or a place you pass on the way to the airport. It’s a lively, historic city with:
  • Easy access to New York City and Newark
  • Big outlet shopping at The Mills at Jersey Gardens
  • Rich history at places like Belcher-Ogden Mansion and Liberty Hall Museum
  • Parks, local events, and a food scene full of global flavors
If you’re planning a trip to the New York / New Jersey area, consider spending a little time exploring Elizabeth and the rest of Union County. You might be surprised by how much there is to do within just a few miles.

Share Your Elizabeth, NJ Experience

Have you visited Elizabeth, New Jersey or somewhere else in Union County?
  • What was your favorite thing to do near Elizabeth?
  • Did you find any great local restaurants or hidden gems?
  • Are you planning a trip and still deciding where to stay or what to see?
Drop your thoughts, questions, and tips in the comments—your experience can help other travelers plan their own visit. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are looking for things to do near Elizabeth, NJ.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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