Main Street NJ: Elizabeth

On Jan 12, 2024

Elizabeth is New Jersey’s most convenient travel gateway, just minutes from New York City and Newark Liberty International Airport. The city’s rich authentic American Revolutionary War history, as well as its diverse eateries, shopping destinations, and entertainment districts, are drawing national and international attention, attracting a growing number of tourists.

Popular Culture

Elizabeth is one of America’s oldest and most historic cities. It was New Jersey’s first capital.

Historic Liberty Hall hosted many celebrated guests, including several presidents. Now a museum, it offers public and private tours.

Elias Boudinot, a member of the Continental Congress, lived in Boxwood Hall, which is now a National Historic Landmark and open to the public every weekday.

Film Production: Scenes of the upcoming film “Nonnas,” starring Susan Sarandon and Vince Vaughn, were filmed in the famed, but now shuttered Spirito’s Restaurant in the Peterstown section of Elizabeth. Past movies shot in the city include: “The Wrestler” (2008); “War of the Worlds” (2005); “Smile” (2002); and “The Sorcerer” (1977).

About Elizabeth

Founded: 1664 – Elizabeth, formally known as Elizabethtown, was the first capital of NJ.

Population: 134,283

Mayor: J. Christian Bollwage, longest standing mayor in Elizabeth history serving for 32 years

County: Union County

Main Shopping Districts: Morris Ave., Elizabeth Ave., Broad St. & Elmora Ave.

In the Zone: UEZ, BID, SID & Opportunity Zone

Upcoming Events

For the latest events, visit:

www.goelizabethnj.com/events

Town Favorites

Food: Elizabeth Ave. boasts some 67 restaurants and bakeries hailing from 15 different countries, including two popular hot dog joints often named the best in the state – Jerry’s Famous Frankfurters and Tommy’s Italian Sausage & Hot Dogs. Other favorites include: Rancho Mateo Columbian Steakhouse, First Republic Lounge & Restaurant, and Valenca Restaurant.

Retail: The Mills at Jersey Gardens is one of NJ’s most visited tourist attractions in 2022, drawing more than 18 million visitors; Sweden’s IKEA chose Elizabeth as its original USA flagship location and 1st international store; and the Elizabeth Farmers Market.

Attractions: The Street Art Mural Tour, Historic Walking Tour, Boxwood Hall

Did you know: Alexander Hamilton once called Elizabeth home. He lived in Liberty Hall, alongside the family of New Jersey’s first governor, William Livingston.

GoElizabethNJ.com

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