Your Odyssey of the Seas Cruise Guide

A waterfront Jersey City hotel with Hudson River views and on-site dining.

Why we picked it: Choose a waterfront stay for your advance-day visit, then plan the road transfer to Cape Liberty separately.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

A Powerhouse Arts District hotel near the Grove Street PATH station.

Why we picked it: A good candidate when your advance-day plans include Jersey City and a separate outing to Manhattan.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Newport lodging with The Bistro and an indoor pool.

Why we picked it: A practical option for travelers wanting a Jersey City base with dining at the hotel before transferring to Bayonne.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Exchange Place rooms and kitchen-equipped suite categories with a rooftop venue.

Why we picked it: Check the exact category: the hotel sells both guestrooms and suites, so a full kitchen should be selected explicitly.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, whether an accessible room is available, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Airport-area lodging with on-site dining and an EWR shuttle.

Why we picked it: Consider it for the night you land. Confirm airport pickup instructions and arrange Cape Liberty transport separately.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

An EWR-area hotel with an indoor pool and airport shuttle.

Why we picked it: It serves an airport-arrival need; ask about your specific cruise-terminal transfer instead of assuming the airport shuttle covers it.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Suites near Newark Liberty International Airport with included breakfast.

Why we picked it: An airport-area option for a family arriving the day before; leave the terminal transfer as a separate part of the plan.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

An Elizabeth hotel with made-to-order breakfast and airport shuttle service.

Why we picked it: Consider this for an EWR arrival night; confirm the suite layout and onward Bayonne transfer for your party.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Downtown Jersey City suites with full kitchens and included breakfast.

Why we picked it: Adds a self-catering family option for a longer Jersey City visit before sailing from Bayonne.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Jersey City suites with kitchens and guest laundry facilities.

Why we picked it: Adds another extended-stay option for families; request parking terms for your full trip before leaving a car behind.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

An EWR hotel with airport shuttle service and on-site dining.

Why we picked it: A practical arrival-night option; its airport shuttle is separate from the journey to Cape Liberty.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Harrison lodging on the Newark riverfront with included hot breakfast.

Why we picked it: The riverfront location is an alternative to the airport cluster; price the trip to Cape Liberty before deciding.

Pro tip: Before reserving, confirm the room occupancy, total charges for your dates, and transportation to Cape Liberty.

Parking: Confirm overnight and cruise parking terms with the hotel.

Mediterranean seafood with panoramic Hudson River views on the Bayonne waterfront

What to order: The grilled octopus is tender and perfectly charred. Fresh fish specials change daily. The mezze platter is ideal for sharing.

Pro tip: One of the closest waterfront restaurants to the port. Outdoor seating puts you right on the water with skyline views. A great option for a pre-cruise dinner without a long drive.

Parking: On-site parking available at the Bayonne Harbor development.

Revamped Italian place right in Bayonne. Hearty red sauce classics, done right.

What to order: Classic Italian comfort food — chicken parmigiana, baked ziti, and pasta dishes. Generous portions that'll fuel you through embarkation.

Pro tip: This is the closest quality sit-down restaurant to the port. Perfect for a quick lunch before boarding if you don't want to venture far. Reopened as Buon Appetito 2.0 at the same location.

Parking: Street parking along Broadway. Small lot behind the restaurant.

Family-owned Bayonne gem with homemade breakfast and lunch — local favorite for decades

What to order: The pancakes are thick and fluffy. Omelets are massive and loaded. Their homemade desserts are worth saving room for.

Pro tip: This is where Bayonne locals eat. No frills, just genuinely good home cooking at honest prices. Get here early on weekends, since it can fill up.

Parking: Street parking on JFK Boulevard. Metered spots available.

An Italian-inspired steakhouse on the waterfront at Port Liberte, aged steaks with the Manhattan skyline behind them.

Closed Mon & Tue

What to order: The dry-aged porterhouse is the star. The Italian-inspired sides like truffle risotto pair perfectly. Save room for their house-made tiramisu.

Pro tip: This is a splurge-worthy pre-cruise dinner. Located at Hudson House in Port Liberte, the outdoor terrace has direct views of the Statue of Liberty on clear evenings. Reservations essential on weekends.

Parking: Valet available. Parking in the Port Liberte complex.

Classic Jersey diner right near the port, doing pancakes, omelets, and bottomless coffee at family-friendly prices.

What to order: Big breakfast platters with eggs, bacon, and toast. Pancakes are fluffy. Lunch sandwiches and burgers are solid. Nothing fancy, just reliable diner food.

Kids: Kids menu with pancakes, grilled cheese, chicken tenders. Booths fit families comfortably. Quick service.

Pro tip: The closest sit-down diner to the port. Great for families who want a quick, affordable breakfast before boarding without a long drive. Open 24 hours.

Parking: Parking lot on-site. Easy in and out.

Family-owned Bayonne tavern with great bar pies, sandwiches, and prices that won't break the bank

What to order: The bar pies are legendary — thin crust, perfectly crispy. Hot sandwiches are hearty and well-priced. A Bayonne institution since 1954.

Kids: Pizza and chicken fingers. TVs keep kids entertained. Casual, family-friendly atmosphere. High chairs available.

Pro tip: A real neighborhood joint with friendly staff, family-run since 1954. Perfect for a casual, quick meal that won't cost much. Located at the corner of 22nd Street and Prospect Avenue.

Parking: Street parking on Prospect Avenue. Usually easy to find a spot.

The reliable pancake house everyone knows — hot breakfast fast with a kids menu that covers all the bases

What to order: Stacks of pancakes, French toast combos, and omelets. Predictable, but exactly what you need with hungry kids on cruise morning.

Kids: Full kids menu with funny face pancakes, chicken strips, mac and cheese. Crayons and activity pages. High chairs and boosters.

Pro tip: Open 24 hours and located right on Route 440, which is the same road you take to the port. If you have picky eaters, this is the safest bet — every kid knows what they want at IHOP.

Parking: Parking lot on-site on Route 440.

Festive Cuban spot in Jersey City where kids eat free on weekdays and meals come in paper cars

What to order: The Cuban sandwich is authentic and filling. Ropa vieja and arroz con pollo are hearty picks. Tropical smoothies for the kids.

Kids: Kids meals served in paper cars. Options include pressed ham and cheese, chicken fingers, hamburgers with fries. Kids eat free on weekday specials.

Pro tip: Kids meals are served in cute paper cars — your little ones will love it. The festive atmosphere with Latin music makes it a fun family stop.

Parking: Street parking on Newark Avenue. Can be tight on weekends — try side streets.

Huge smokehouse and biergarten in Jersey City — long tables, smoked meats, and a kids menu that actually delivers

What to order: The smoked brisket and pulled pork are excellent. Mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Craft beer selection for the adults.

Kids: Kids menu with chicken nuggets, hot dogs, mac and cheese. High chairs available. Spacious layout for strollers.

Pro tip: The communal seating and casual vibe mean nobody cares if your kids are loud. Huge space so you won't feel cramped with strollers or bags.

Parking: Parking garage at Harborside or street parking on Greene Street.

Hip Jersey City burger joint with crayons, coloring books, and burgers that satisfy every age group

What to order: Creative gourmet burgers for the adults, classic sliders for the kids. The milkshakes are thick and indulgent. Sweet potato fries are addictive.

Kids: Coloring books and crayons provided. Kids menu with sliders, chicken fingers, and mac and cheese. High chairs available.

Pro tip: Come hungry — the portions are generous. They hand out crayons and coloring books for kids, so you can actually enjoy your meal.

Parking: Street parking on Newark Avenue. Municipal garage nearby.

Romantic Italian-inspired waterfront spot in Jersey City with one of the best skyline views anywhere

What to order: The seafood tower is a showstopper. The Littleneck clam risotto and prime ribeye are both excellent. Their wine list is deep and well-curated.

Pro tip: Sit on the patio if weather allows — you'll feel like you're floating on the Hudson. Great for a special pre-cruise dinner the night before sailing.

Parking: Valet parking available. Street parking in the Harborside area is limited but possible.

Casual Jersey City gastropub with massive burgers, wings, and a relaxed vibe kids fit right into

What to order: The burgers are enormous and juicy. Wings come in creative flavors. Mac and cheese balls are a hit with all ages.

Kids: Casual atmosphere welcoming to families. Simple kids options available. Outdoor seating in season.

Pro tip: Laid-back enough that families won't feel out of place. The outdoor seating in warm weather gives kids room to wiggle between courses.

Parking: Street parking on Brunswick Street. Garage nearby on Greene Street.

Jersey City's favorite ramen spot, where kids go wild slurping noodles out of big steaming bowls.

What to order: The tonkotsu ramen is rich and deeply savory. Chicken karaage is a perfect starter. Customize your broth and toppings — kids love the interactive aspect.

Kids: Mild broth options available. Portions are shareable. Staff accommodating with kids — noodles are a natural crowd-pleaser.

Pro tip: Arrive before noon to beat the lunch rush. Kids love the noodle-slurping experience, and the staff is very accommodating with families.

Parking: Street parking on Newark Avenue. Nearby municipal garage.

Voted best waterfront restaurant in town, an upscale bar and grill on the Hoboken waterfront.

What to order: The cheesesteak egg rolls are legendary. Steaks are perfectly cooked. The bar menu is excellent for a lighter pre-cruise bite.

Pro tip: The outdoor patio overlooking the Hudson is spectacular on a nice day. Great happy hour if you're killing time before an afternoon boarding.

Parking: Valet available. Metered parking on River Street and nearby garages.

Chic cocktail lounge and restaurant on the Hoboken waterfront with creative brunch menus

What to order: The brunch cocktails are creative and strong. Try the short rib hash or the truffle grilled cheese. The vibe is trendy without being pretentious.

Pro tip: Best for a lively pre-cruise brunch with friends. Hoboken has a great walkable downtown — combine this with a stroll along the waterfront for skyline photos.

Parking: Metered street parking on Sinatra Drive or municipal garages in Hoboken.

Sleek waterfront restaurant at the W Hotel in Hoboken — brunch with skyline views

What to order: Weekend brunch is the best meal here. Lobster eggs Benedict, avocado toast, and bottomless mimosas. Dinner features excellent seafood and craft cocktails.

Pro tip: Hoboken's waterfront is gorgeous for a post-meal walk. The views of Lower Manhattan from Sinatra Drive are some of the best in the metro area.

Parking: Valet at the W Hotel or metered street parking along Sinatra Drive.

A Bayonne waterfront park with a wetland boardwalk and nature views.

Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time

Pro tip: Check the current boardwalk access and weather; do not assume sports fields or splash facilities from a nearby park apply here.

Hands-on science exhibits and planetarium experiences in Jersey City.

Best for: Curious kids who love touching, building, and exploring

Pro tip: Check the ticket inclusions and show schedule; allow an advance-day visit rather than fitting a full museum into a boarding gap.

The authorized ferry trip to Liberty Island and Ellis Island from New Jersey.

Best for: First-time visitors, history buffs, anyone who wants the experience

Pro tip: Reserve through the authorized operator and check screening, island access, and the last return ferry; use a separate day.

An outdoor recreation visit to Liberty State Park's waterfront.

Best for: Active teens, outdoor enthusiasts, anyone wanting something more than walking around

Pro tip: Check whether kayaking programs or bicycle options are operating on your date; equipment and access need separate confirmation.

A Newport waterfront park with a playground and seasonal play features.

Best for: Families with toddlers and young kids needing outdoor play time

Pro tip: The operator describes warm-weather play facilities; confirm what is operating on your visit date.

A neighborhood playground and park stop on Montgomery Street in Jersey City.

Best for: Families with toddlers who need a quick outdoor stop

Pro tip: Check current park access and plan the onward trip to Cape Liberty separately.

A walk along the Jersey City section of the Hudson River waterfront.

Best for: Couples, urban explorers, foodies who want to combine a walk with a meal

Pro tip: Choose a short section around Exchange Place and verify the trip back to your hotel before heading to Bayonne.

An indoor Newport mall stop, with children's play facilities to confirm before visiting.

Best for: Families needing an indoor option on bad weather days

Pro tip: Check whether a play area is currently available; the mall's existence does not verify the older play-area description.

Indoor electric kart racing with arcade and other games in Jersey City.

Best for: Thrill seekers, competitive groups, anyone needing an adrenaline fix

Pro tip: Check current age, height, footwear, and reservation requirements for each activity.

A Bayonne waterfront park with recreation areas and views of Newark Bay.

Best for: Consider your group's interests and available time

Pro tip: Check current park access and choose a short visit with a separate road transfer to Cape Liberty.