Planning a visit to Central Park and wondering how to get to Central Park from New Jersey? Whether you’re commuting from Jersey City, Hoboken, Newark, or any part of North or Central New Jersey, this guide provides all the travel options—including subway, PATH train, bus, car, and ferry—so you can choose the fastest, cheapest, or most scenic way to reach Central Park in Manhattan.
📍 Where Is Central Park?
Central Park is a massive public park in the heart of Manhattan, stretching from 59th Street (Central Park South) to 110th Street, between 5th Avenue and Central Park West. It’s easily accessible from all parts of New York City, including New Jersey, via public and private transportation.
🚇 Option 1: PATH Train + Subway – Fastest and Most Reliable from Jersey City & Hoboken
If you’re coming from Hoboken, Jersey City, or Newport, the PATH train is the most efficient way to get to Manhattan. Once you arrive in Midtown, a quick subway transfer takes you directly to Central Park.
🛤️ Step-by-Step Directions:
- Take the PATH train from Journal Square, Grove Street, Newport, or Hoboken to 33rd Street Station in Manhattan.
- Walk one block to 34th St–Herald Square Subway Station.
- Take the B, D, or F subway uptown to 59th Street–Columbus Circle or 72nd Street for park access.
🕒 Total Time: 35–45 minutes
💲 Cost: $2.75 (PATH) + $2.90 (subway)
✅ Best For: Commuters and frequent travelers from Hudson County
📌 Use an OMNY card or Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard to avoid lineups at kiosks.
🚌 Option 2: NJ Transit Bus to Port Authority + Subway – Budget-Friendly for North NJ Travelers
If you’re coming from North Bergen, Secaucus, Union City, or Weehawken, taking a New Jersey Transit bus to the Port Authority Bus Terminal (PABT) is a convenient and affordable choice.
Directions:
- Take an NJ Transit bus to Port Authority (42nd Street, Manhattan).
- From PABT, walk to 50th St or 42nd St Subway Station.
- Take the A, C, B, or D train uptown to 59th St–Columbus Circle (Central Park entrance).
🕒 Total Time: 50–70 minutes
💲 Cost: ~$3.50 (bus) + $2.90 (subway)
✅ Best For: Travelers from northern NJ suburbs
📌 Check NJ Transit for up-to-date schedules and fares.
🚢 Option 3: NY Waterway Ferry – Scenic Route from Hoboken, Weehawken, or Edgewater
For a unique and relaxing journey, take the NY Waterway Ferry across the Hudson River, then walk or take the subway to Central Park.
Steps:
- Board the ferry from Hoboken 14th St, Port Imperial (Weehawken), or Edgewater to Midtown/W. 39th Street Ferry Terminal.
- Walk east to 8th Avenue and catch the A, C, B, or D subway to 59th Street–Columbus Circle.
🕒 Total Time: 45–60 minutes
💲 Ferry Fare: ~$9 (one way) + $2.90 (subway)
✅ Best For: Tourists, photographers, scenic lovers
📌 Use the NY Waterway app for schedules and updates.
🚗 Option 4: Driving from New Jersey to Central Park – Door-to-Door Access
Driving offers direct access but may involve tolls, parking fees, and traffic delays, especially during rush hour.
Routes:
- Take I-95 (NJ Turnpike) or Route 495 through the Lincoln Tunnel or Holland Tunnel into Manhattan.
- Use Waze or Google Maps to navigate to:
- Columbus Circle (59th & Broadway)
- 5th Avenue & 72nd St
- Central Park West & 81st St
🕒 Travel Time: 30–60 minutes (depending on traffic)
💲 Tolls: $14–$17 (Lincoln/Holland Tunnel)
💲 Parking: $25–$60/day (garage rates near Central Park)
✅ Best For: Families, group travelers, or those with heavy luggage
📌 Reserve parking in advance using SpotHero or ParkWhiz apps.
🚴 Option 5: Bike from NJ to Central Park – For Active and Adventurous Travelers
For the eco-conscious or those seeking an adventure, biking from New Jersey to Central Park is possible via the Hudson River Greenway.
Route Overview:
- Cross into Manhattan via the George Washington Bridge or Hoboken Ferry–Manhattan route.
- Ride south or north on the Hudson River Greenway, which runs parallel to the West Side Highway.
- Enter Central Park at 72nd St, 79th St, or Columbus Circle.
🕒 Time: 45–75 minutes (depending on starting point)
💲 Cost: Free (or ~$5/day with Citi Bike)
✅ Best For: Cyclists, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers
📌 Citi Bike NYC has docks near Central Park entrances.
🗺️ Closest Central Park Entrances by Transportation Mode
| Entrance | Recommended For |
|---|---|
| Columbus Circle (59th & 8th) | Subway (A, B, C, D), PATH transfers, taxis |
| Grand Army Plaza (59th & 5th) | Buses from Port Authority, walkers from Midtown |
| 72nd St & Central Park West | Upper West Side, scenic bikers, Strawberry Fields |
| East 72nd St Gate | Upper East Side visitors, ferry + subway route |
🔍 FAQs – Getting to Central Park From New Jersey
Q: How far is New Jersey from Central Park?
It depends on your starting point. From Jersey City, it’s about 6–8 miles. From Newark, about 13–15 miles.
Q: What’s the fastest way to get to Central Park from New Jersey?
The PATH train + subway combo is the fastest and most consistent way for those near Jersey City and Hoboken.
Q: Is it safe to travel from NJ to Central Park by public transport?
Yes, NYC and NJ transit systems are generally safe, especially during daytime. Use well-lit stations and avoid empty subway cars at night.
Q: Can I walk to Central Park from New Jersey?
No, but once you’re in Manhattan (via ferry, train, or bus), Central Park is walkable from most Midtown entry points.
🧭 Summary: Best Ways to Reach Central Park From New Jersey
| Method | Travel Time | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PATH + Subway | 35–45 mins | ~$5.65 total | Speed, affordability, daily commuters |
| NJ Transit Bus + Subway | 50–70 mins | ~$6.40 total | Budget and North NJ travelers |
| Ferry + Subway | 45–60 mins | ~$12 total | Scenic, relaxed travelers |
| Driving | 30–60 mins | $40–$70 total | Comfort, groups, and families |
| Citi Bike/Personal Bike | 45–75 mins | Free–$5 | Adventurous and eco-friendly options |
🏁 Final Thoughts
Getting to Central Park from New Jersey in 2025 is easier than ever. With multiple routes available—including trains, ferries, buses, cars, and bikes—you can choose the transportation method that fits your schedule and style. Whether you’re commuting for a morning jog or exploring the park’s iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, or The Mall, New Jersey offers seamless access to one of the most beloved destinations in New York City.
🔗 Helpful Resources: