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Photo: John Broderick
Photo: Yvonne Tang
Exchange Place PATH Station
★4.5(423 reviews)FreeActivity
🕑 15-30 minutes at the station itself, plus travel time to your destination👶 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.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
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.Purchase a SmartLink card for easier boarding with kids,no fumbling for exact change while managing strollers and little hands
- 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.Use the elevator access on the waterfront side,it's much easier with strollers than navigating the stairs
- 4.The nearby Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is perfect for burning energy before or after your train ride, with playgrounds and open space
- 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.
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