The best Jersey City hotels

Sometimes, to get a good look at something, you need to take a step back. So step on over to the Hyatt Regency Jersey City On the Hudson. It quite literally does what it says on the tin, sitting on its own pier, jutting out into the the river, and offering breathtaking picture-postcard views of the city skyline and New York Harbor. On the inside, it’s what you’d expect. A sleek, modern lobby, leading to rooms with Hyatt Grand beds, clean lines, and luxury furnishings. Plus the aforementioned incredible view. Wining and dining comes courtesy of Vu and Vu Lounge, a twin restaurant and cocktail bar that also offers a private dining room—all with a panoramic view, naturally. As you’d expect, there’s 24/7 fitness center and an indoor heated pool, and yes, both also offer that same view. It's practically on top of Exchange Place PATH station—there is even an entrance inside the building—the Light Rail stop is only two blocks away, and Paulus Hook ferry terminal offering services to Midtown and FiDi, is only a short hop down the promenade. Locations don't come much better than this.

The Westin JC Newport is your other high-end option on the left side of the Hudson. Situated a little further up the bank toward Newport (and the Holland Tunnel) this hotel oozes the kind of contemporary grandeur you might expect from the chain—complete with the obligatory inspiring views of Manhattan. An ambient-lit lobby of glass, steel and wooden panels is graced by giant staircases beckoning you to one of 400+ rooms, each featuring the chain’s signature Heavenly Bed. All rooms, suites and public spaces have been designed to incorporate “natural, relaxing palettes” and cool features, such as LED lit bathroom mirrors (even the little ones). There are dining options aplenty: Fire & Oak is a sophisticated American Grill serving “gourmet comfort food”, while Half Moon Restaurant & Lounge offers à la carte breakfast in the morning and drinks, snacks and entrées at night. Getting around is relatively easy, with Newport PATH station and a Light Rail stop a couple of blocks either side of the hotel, plus ferries to Manhattan within easy reach.

Located between Newport and Exchange Place, the DoubleTree is the first all-suite hotel among the JC set and sits at the intersection of comfort and value in this neighborhood. The rooms are clean, comfortable and well-appointed (sofa, microwave, fridge, desk, coffee maker) without attempting to be anything more. What you get is great service, a decent array of business and fitness amenities, a restaurant—Hudson Grille offers “varied yet no-nonsense American Cuisine in a hip yet unpretentious setting”—and not forgetting a warm chocolate chip cookie for every guest upon arrival. You also get the classic skyline view of Manhattan from some select rooms and public areas. There's a Light Rail stop on the doorstep, with PATH stations (Newport and Exchange Place) and ferry services a few minutes’ walk to both north and south.

If you are familiar with the Courtyard chain, then you already know what to expect. The rooms are modern and comfortable, featuring signature Marriott bedding and ergonomic work spaces (with complimentary wifi). Some even boast unbeatable views of the city. The Bistro provides breakfast, dinner and cocktail options, but there's plenty nearby if you're craving, say, Indian (Raaz), Japanese (Komegashi Too) or a good ol' classic sub (Cosi). Guests also get 24/7 access to a modestly appointed fitness center and an indoor pool. The Courtyard JC scores highly in the location category, being situated right next to both the Newport PATH and Light Rail stops, and it's within spitting distance of the midtown ferry and Holland Tunnel. It’s also a short hop into Hoboken, should the mood take you.

Hyatt House Jersey City is not in Manhattan – obviously. It’s in Jersey City. Which is why it’s on this list. But it’s so damn close to the Big Apple and all that dwell there, that you might just feel like you’ve booked a stay on the other side of the river. As it is, you’ll be in a residential-inspired hotel that specialises in longer-duration stays (perfect if you’re staying for business reasons and commuting each day). It’s just 180 metres from the PATH train station and 400 meters from the NY Waterway ferry. But don’t let that kid you into thinking the only reason to be here is proximity to Manhattan. The hotel’s own selling points include a killer rooftop bar, a chummy Breakfast Bar, a 24/7 fitness suite and superb views across the river to NYC.

Situated in the Powerhouse Arts District—aka PAD—the Canopy by Hilton takes inspiration from its surrounds, adding artsy flourishes throughout. These include highlights such as parquet feature walls, craft beers on tap and free use of bright orange Dutch bicycles. The Canopy Bar and Bistro offers tapas-style dining made with local ingredients. Grove Street PATH station is on the doorstep and from there you can reach Manhattan in 15 minutes, or stroll along the waterfront, which is less than a ten-minute walk.

The brand formerly known as Candlewood made the swift change over to Sonesta back in 2020, but the ethos at this outpost in the Financial District of Jersey City remains the same. All suites, all of the time. Although, it is a budget option on our list, so when you think of a suite, imagine clean and stylish modern aparments with fully equipped kitchens (including dishwashers and ice makers), TVs, sofas, desks and free wifi. As you might expect, amenities are limited, but there is a 24/7 snack shop, business center and a fairly sparsely appointed gym. (Hey, you can always go for a run along the Hudson.) The location is just a block from the river in the Harborside district. The Light Rail stop is a block away, while PATH trains (Exchange Place and Newport) are a 10-12 minute walk either side, and ferries just a little further. Plus, they're genuinely pet-friendly, welcoming your furry friend with treats on arrival, providing mats and bowls if you need, and they don't have breed or weight restrictions.

Given the name, you can probably guess that this JC hotel is situated right across the street from the Holland Tunnel toll booths. Convenient or what? This is either exactly what you need or precisely what you don’t want. So choose accordingly. The property is a no-frills affair—“a straightforward motor lodge”—but it’s on this list because the staff make an effort and patrons review it favorably. Its rooms feature basic, “traditional” decor, but you do have modern conveniences like mini fridges and microwaves to play with. Not only that, check out what you get for free: parking, wifi, buffet breakfast, newspapers… it’s all included! It’s a half mile to the PATH train, but that’s okay—you’re here because you’re driving, right?

Unlike the other properties on this list, the Ramada JC is not situated on or near the Hudson. Rather it’s at Journal Square. If you're okay with that, then you might have yourself a bit of a bargain. It’s a Ramada after all, so it’s not luxurious, but nor is it awful. In fact, within the walls of this characterful old building are well appointed rooms with TVs, mini fridges, microwaves and coffeemakers. Some even boast ergonomic workspaces and pull-out sofa beds. There’s also a modest gym. Parking isn't free, but wifi and breakfast are, plus there’s a complimentary shuttle to Newark Airport. Now about that location… although it’s further from NYC than the others, this hotel is just a short walk from the Journal Square PATH station, which will get you to Manhattan in less than 30 minutes.