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Exchange Place PATH Station car rental in Jersey City, NJ
Photo: Edwin
View of Exchange Place PATH Station in Jersey City, NJ
Photo: John Broderick
View of Exchange Place PATH Station in Jersey City, NJ
Photo: Yvonne Tang

Exchange Place PATH Station

★4.5(423 reviews)FreeActivity
🕑 15-30 minutes at the station itself, plus travel time to your destinationđŸ‘ļ Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers are thrilled by the train experience itself, while older elementary-aged kids appreciate the independence of navigating public transit and exploring the city. Train-loving kids of all ages will be especially delighted.

About

Exchange Place PATH Station serves as a fantastic gateway for family adventures, connecting Jersey City to Manhattan and beyond. Kids love the excitement of riding the clean, efficient PATH trains, and the station's prime location makes it incredibly convenient for accessing Battery Park, the Statue of Liberty ferry, and numerous NYC attractions without the hassle of driving into the city.

Highlights

  • ✓Direct access to World Trade Center and downtown Manhattan attractions in under 15 minutes
  • ✓Clean, modern trains that fascinate young transit enthusiasts
  • ✓Spectacular waterfront views of Manhattan skyline from nearby walkways
  • ✓Easy connections to Statue of Liberty ferries and Battery Park
  • ✓Safe, affordable alternative to driving into NYC with kids

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Purchase a SmartLink card for easier boarding with kids,no fumbling for exact change while managing strollers and little hands
  2. 2.Take the train during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) to avoid rush hour crowds and secure seats for the whole family
  3. 3.Use the elevator access on the waterfront side,it's much easier with strollers than navigating the stairs
  4. 4.The nearby Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is perfect for burning energy before or after your train ride, with playgrounds and open space
  5. 5.Bring snacks and entertainment for the ride, though the 10-15 minute journey to NYC is typically short enough to keep kids engaged just watching out the windows

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mid-mornings (9:30 AM - 11:00 AM) or early afternoons (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM) offer the least crowded trains, making it easier to board with kids and strollers. Weekends can be busy but are more relaxed for family travel than weekday rush hours.

What to Know

PATH fares are $2.75 per ride (children under 44 inches tall ride free), and the station operates 24/7 with elevator access for strollers. There are restrooms available in nearby Liberty State Park, about a 10-minute walk away.

Seasonal Notes

The PATH operates year-round with consistent service. Winter months may have occasional delays due to weather, so check service alerts. Summer offers the best experience for combining your trip with outdoor waterfront activities.

Nearby Eats

Battello offers waterfront dining with a kids' menu just steps from the station, while Surf City food hall provides multiple casual options perfect for picky eaters, including pizza, tacos, and burgers.

More Activities Near Jersey City

Park

Skyline Drive

Free

Skyline Drive offers families a stunning waterfront escape with playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad, and breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline across the Hudson River. This spacious park combines active play areas with scenic walking paths, making it perfect for everything from toddler playdates to family picnics with older kids who'll love the sports facilities and open green spaces.

Theater

New Jersey Children's Theater Company

$$

New Jersey Children's Theater Company brings the magic of live theater to young audiences with productions tailored specifically for children. From beloved fairy tales and classic stories to original musicals and interactive performances, this professional theater company creates enchanting experiences that spark imagination and introduce kids to the wonder of theatrical arts in an age-appropriate, engaging way.

Arcade

Westfield

$

Westfield Garden State Plaza in nearby Paramus offers one of the premier family shopping and entertainment experiences in the New Jersey area, with dedicated play spaces, an expansive food court, and regular seasonal events that make it more than just a mall. Families can enjoy interactive play areas, catch the latest family films, and participate in holiday character meet-and-greets throughout the year.

Activity

Riverview Community Garden

★5.0Free

Riverview Community Garden offers hands-on nature experiences where kids can learn about growing food, sustainability, and connecting with the environment. With educational programs, seasonal workshops, and family-friendly activities, this welcoming community space turns gardening into an engaging adventure for curious young minds while teaching valuable lessons about where food comes from.