With their vast selection of parks and riverside pathways, both Hoboken and Jersey City are great places to take a daily jog or run. As a lifelong runner and Downtown Hoboken resident, Brown Harris Stevens Agent Cara (Saluppo) DiTommaso is an expert on the best running spots in the area. Here are three of her favorites, along with her preferred local eatery for healthy workout fuel.
Run From Pier A Park to Pier 13
"My favorite time to go for a run is right around 9:30-10AM, after my morning coffee and emails. When I stay local, I run from Pier A Park (100 Sinatra Drive), towards uptown, past Maxwell Place Park (11th Sinatra Drive N), up to Pier 13, and back!"
The roughly two-mile route is mostly flat and can easily be done within 30 minutes. It allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the water while taking in breathtaking views of Manhattan. On days when she prefers an even shorter sprint, DiTommaso runs within Pier A Park itself.
"The park has a large grass quad with a running path around it. It’s perfect to do a couple laps around, running or walking," she said.
Run with Your Furry Friend at Church Square Park
"About 10 months ago I became a dog mom and now have a new running partner to accompany me on my waterfront runs! Hoboken is an excellent dog-friendly community with dog parks on each side of town."
One of these is Church Square Park in Downtown.
Bordered by Willow Avenue, Garden Street and 4th Street, it's one of the few parks in the city with waking paths, playgrounds, basketball courts, and a large dog park—Willow's favorite spot!
Run to and Around Liberty State Park (Jersey City)
If you’re in Hoboken and looking for more of a challenging incline trail for your next run, DiTommaso suggests running towards Jersey City.
“It’s hilly as it overlooks Hoboken, but very close by for easy access on foot. It’s also a very nice residential area with mostly single-family homes.”
Her favorite park in the area for running is Liberty State Park. The lush, beautifully landscaped park has an extended running/walking path that overlooks lower Manhattan with stunning clarity and scope.
Fuel Up at Shaka Kitchen
Located on Washington Street in Downtown Hoboken, DiTommaso recommends Shaka Kitchen for their smoothies and healthy grab-and-go items, including sandwiches, açaí bowls, tacos, and more.
"My usual is the Vitamin Sea Smoothie, which is made with coconut water, orange juice, spirulina, ginger, fresh mango, and spinach."