For a view of the New York City skyline that seems as if it was plucked straight from the opening credits of a movie, there are few places better to visit than Edgewater, NJ. But this little strip of land on the west bank of the Hudson River boasts of so many more must-visit stops beyond its ferry terminal. Below, you will find a guide on how to make the most of your time on a day trip to one of Jersey’s most scenic riverside towns, from places to grab food and ways to pass the time. And, of course, as no Edgewater travel guide would be complete without it, the best spots to catch a glimpse of that iconic Manhattan cityscape.
Get Breakfast at Brownstone Pancake Factory
Kick-off your day with breakfast at Brownstone Pancake Factory, a highly-rated diner on River Road. This family-owned establishment is so popular that it has expanded to include three branches since the conception of its original location in Jersey City in 1968.
Brownstone Pancake Factory operates on a no reservation basis. If you don’t want to miss your chance of grabbing a meal at this iconic Edgewater eatery, arrive as early as possible for better chances of beating the line. The restaurant fills up quickly but the expansiveness of its menu alone is worth the wait.
The diner offers a vast selection of all-day breakfast items but the real show-stealers are its namesake pancakes. Their iconic pancakes come in a variety of flavors and combinations you wouldn’t have known existed. From more savory options like Jersey Chicken and Cheddar to sweeter concoctions like their Fried Oreo Cheesecake, this restaurant does not hold back on presentation.
In dire need of a sugar rush to fuel the rest of your day? The Brownstone Pancake Factory has been featured in many magazines and news channels for its colorful, gravity-defying milkshakes. Their Instagram account routinely posts that week’s “Ultimate Insane Milkshake.” Past milkshakes included one topped with popcorn and caramel-drizzled Twinkies and another with a whole slice of chocolate fudge cake and M&Ms.
The desserts are nothing short of picture-worthy, but make sure to save space on your camera roll for the rest that Edgewater has to offer!
Unwind at Sojo Spa Club
Sojo Spa Club, a towering building replete with nine year-round pools and an artificial waterfall, is a staple Edgewater attraction that is hard to miss. This Korean spa is spread out over four floors devoted to wellness and boasts facilities such as a Himalayan salt sauna, an ice room, and many more unique therapy rooms all with their own benefits.
The spa is a favorite of both Edgewater locals and tourists alike, with many agreeing that its best feature is the cinematic view it offers of the Hudson River and the New York skyline from its signature infinity pool, away from the noise and crowds.
Thinking of extending your stay in Edgewater, NJ? The spa club is conveniently connected to Hotel Sojo, a boutique hotel with rooms decorated in a minimalism-meets-contemporary-Eastern flair.
Shop and Snack at Mitsuwa Marketplace
A five-minute walk away from Sojo Spa Club is Mitsuwa Marketplace, a Japanese mall that includes a grocery store and food court.
The marketplace is also home to the sought-after mochi donut from KAI Sweets, a must-try treat that combines the chewy texture of the mochi rice cake with the shape of a traditional ring donut. Other sweets to look out for are the authentic Japanese snacks from the Minamoto Kitchoan confectionary. Among their signature products is tsuya, a traditional Japanese pancake filled with sweet red bean paste. Another bestseller is the kingyo jelly, a clear grape jelly made to look like a fish bowl, complete with a miniature goldfish swimming inside.
With no shortage of places to shop and dine, Mitsuwa has something for everyone. Among its shops are a specialty store offering anime merchandise to a general store with items imported from Japan. Younger visitors are sure to enjoy the market’s indoor arcade.
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Enjoy Bubble Tea with a View at Umacha
If you find your sweet tooth has yet to be sated, you can enjoy a drink by the waterside at the neighboring Umacha, located just behind Mitsuwa.
On colder days, you can sit inside this bubble tea cafe’s warm and stylishly decorated interior, or enjoy the breeze outdoors and take pictures on the deck. The cafe’s romantic arch trellis makes this another Instagram-worthy Edgewater spot. After all that shopping and eating, Umacha is the perfect place to pause and soak in the view of the Hudson from up close.
If there’s still room in your stomach, don’t leave without trying Umacha’s signature drink: cheese cream boba tea made with their original cream cheese—a perfect blend of sweet and salty!
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Picture Perfect Ending at The Yacht Club
By the time evening rolls around, Manhattan should already be lit-up just in time for dinner. At The Yacht Club, you can dine on seafood against the backdrop of the New York City skyline.
One of the best things about The Yacht Club is its ambiance. The restaurant features an outdoor bar and patio open year-round and equipped with heating, so you can appreciate the elegant atmosphere to the fullest extent.
If you happen to be visiting on a Sunday, you can join the Sunday Lobster Feast. For $49, you can enjoy a two-course meal complete with dessert.
Finish with one of The Yacht Club’s specialty cocktails and cheers to a picture-perfect ending to a day well-spent.
Thinking of taking a day trip to Edgewater, NJ? Let us know in the comments!