Background

Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

Explore a beautifully preserved gateway to American history, where millions of immigrants began their journey at this iconic terminal in Liberty State Park.

4.6

The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, located in Liberty State Park, Jersey City, is a historic transportation hub dating back to 1889. It served as a major gateway for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island and a bustling commuter terminal. Today, it stands as a beautifully preserved landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the 9/11 Memorial adjacent to the Terminal to pay tribute and reflect.
  • Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for a comprehensive historical experience; purchase tickets in advance.
  • Check the Liberty State Park website for updated information on events, programs, and seasonal hours.
  • Explore the terminal's architecture and exhibits to learn about its role in immigration and transportation history.
  • Enjoy a walk along Liberty Walk, a two-mile promenade offering scenic views of the Hudson River and access to other park attractions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Jersey City, take the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail (HBLR) to the Liberty State Park Station. From there, it's approximately a one-mile walk or bike ride south along Audrey Zapp Drive to the Terminal. Alternatively, from Newark Penn Station, take the PATH train to Journal Square and transfer to the HBLR. A single fare on the HBLR costs $2-$4. A monthly pass costs $118.

  • Walking

    From within Liberty State Park, follow Liberty Walk, a two-mile promenade, to the CRRNJ Terminal. The walk offers scenic views of the Hudson River and connects various park attractions. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Driving

    Take Exit 14-B off the New Jersey Turnpike and follow the signs to Liberty State Park. Ample parking is available within the park for a nominal fee. Parking costs vary but expect to pay around $7 per day.

Unlock the Best of Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

The Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, also known as Communipaw Terminal, is a nationally significant historic site in Jersey City's Liberty State Park. Built in 1889, it replaced an earlier terminal from 1864 and operated until 1967. This terminal played a pivotal role in American immigration history, serving as the first stop for approximately two-thirds of the 12 to 17 million immigrants who passed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954. These newcomers purchased their train tickets here, embarking on journeys to new homes across the United States. The terminal's architecture, designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by Peabody and Stearns, is notable for its rounded arches and cylindrical windows. The facility once included over a dozen platforms and several ferry slips, accommodating 30,000 to 50,000 people daily at its peak. Although some structures have been removed, the main building and train shed, the largest ever built at the time, still evoke the terminal's bustling past. Today, the terminal is integrated into Liberty State Park, offering exhibits and programs that explore its history. Visitors can view the exterior from park walkways, see the 9/11 Memorial, and explore the train sheds. The terminal also serves as a departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. It hosts community events and has even been featured in films. Despite damage from Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the terminal has been restored and remains a welcoming space, linking visitors to the past and offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

Popular Experiences near Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

Popular Hotels near Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal

Select Currency