Providing incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty, Liberty State Park has captured the attention of audiences across the United States. Located in Jersey City, New Jersey, the park has numerous features that connect the entire space to the history of the region while also cultivating experiences that resonate with audiences of all eras.
Connected to New Jersey’s Transportation History
Serving a vital role in the development of New Jersey’s metropolitan region and the history of the United States, the area that now comprises Liberty State Park was a major waterfront industrial area in the late 19th century. Much of it was built on land that was reclaimed or filled. It was and is defined by the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal building that served 30,000 to 50,000 commuters every day during this time period, highlighting the activity that it supported and cultivated across the region and nation.
Built in 1889, this building remained in operation until 1967. After sitting abandoned for years, the building was renovated and incorporated into Liberty State Park, which was created thanks to the efforts of environmentalists and historians who wanted to see the area preserved and protected for the benefit of the entire community. Dedicated on the bicentennial of the nation in 1976, the park was intended to serve as New Jersey’s bicentennial gift to the nation. As part of this transformation, land with decaying buildings, overgrown tracks and piles of debris was transitioned into a modern urban state park.
These efforts enabled the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal building to become listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places, the National Register of Historic Places and also be considered a New Jersey State Historic Site. Ferries to the Statue of Liberty National Monument, Ellis Island, and Liberty Island now depart from the building on a daily basis.
Traveling to other landmarks in the area is just one of the experiences that audiences can have at Liberty State Park, highlighting the many different ways it has been able to create engagement with residents and visitors.
Monuments, Walks and More
The Liberty Walk is a two-mile path that links the picnic area with the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal building. As audiences walk across this path, they are exposed to incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River, which includes a view of the Statue of Liberty.
An outdoor performance area defines the northern section of the park while the western area features the Liberty Center, which is an interactive science museum and learning center. Public playgrounds, picnic areas, fishing access and boating access are just a few of the other amenities that audiences can partake in throughout the year. The park also features trails for hiking, biking, nature walks and fitness.
When it comes to special events, the park is the location for a Fourth of July fireworks celebration. Other events that serve as a means of connection for the community take place on a regular and annual basis throughout the year. All of this is in addition to monuments that have been interspersed across the park.
The “Empty Sky” 9/11 Memorial honors the memory of the 749 people that lived in or had ties to New Jersey that lost their lives at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. U.S. Flag Plaza, the Columbus Monument and the Grove of Remembrance are just a few of the other monuments located in the park that provide audiences with a sense of the history and culture that Liberty State Park celebrates.
Much of the 1,122-acre park is open space, while over 300 acres have been developed for public recreation. This openness along with the variety of activities stems from an endeavor to ensure that the history and legacy of the space is both protected and preserved for audiences of all eras.
Preserving and Celebrating a Legacy
Mentioned as a green oasis in the middle of metropolitan New York and New Jersey, over four million guests a year visit Liberty State Park. A space that might have otherwise been redeveloped or lost has instead been transformed thanks to multiple experiences and monuments that enable connection for both residents and visitors of all eras.