Jersey's Best: Elizabeth: A renaissance in the making

Elizabeth has become a destination for dining, entertainment, and cultural activities, with new restaurants, a restored historic theater, and an expanding arts community drawing residents and visitors from across the region.

"We have summer celebrations, a thriving nightlife and dining scene," said Jennifer Costa, executive director of the Elizabeth Destination Marketing Organization. "We are seeing new restaurants opening across the city. A revitalization is underway in our walkable midtown section. We invite people from across the tri-state area to be part of it."

Union County Life is highlighting Elizabeth's community and cultural offerings. Elizabeth has emerged as a dining destination, with cuisine served from every corner of the world. "We have tons of ethnic eateries that also have live music," Costa said. "You get ambiance, great food and entertainment. And in the summer, many have lovely outdoor patios for alfresco dining."

The city's nightlife scene offers options from sports bars to Latin nightclubs. barCode, one of the city's most popular night spots, features tri-state talents, including DJs, musicians, and live talent shows. The venue offers a late-night bar menu with sliders, tacos, and loaded fries.

The Ritz Theatre, restored to its 1920s grandeur, is one of the oldest operating theaters in New Jersey. This summer, it will welcome performers including Mexican singer-songwriter Marcela Gandara and Incaducable, a staging of humor and comedy.

Elizabeth's emerging arts community is visible in street murals throughout the city. The tourism office at 142 Broad Street hosts a rotating art gallery and provides maps and self-guided tours of the city's public art.

Outdoor recreation abounds with more than 45 parks. Mattano Park offers picnicking, while Warinanco Park features paddle boats. Veteran's Memorial Waterfront Park provides harbor views and New York City skyline vistas. The Elizabeth River Trail, a 1.5-mile pathway decorated with local artwork, extends from South Broad to Bridge Streets and is open for walking and biking.

Shopping options range from neighborhood districts to The Mills at Jersey Gardens, the East Coast's largest indoor outlet mall, featuring national retailers and dining options.

For more information about Elizabeth activities, dining, and community news, visit www.goelizabethnj.com or stay informed on Union County Life.

FAQ

Q: What dining options are available in Elizabeth?
A: Elizabeth offers ethnic eateries from around the world, many with live music and outdoor patios. New restaurants continue to open throughout the city, particularly in the walkable midtown section.

Q: Where can I find entertainment and nightlife in Elizabeth?
A: barCode is a popular night spot featuring DJs, musicians, and live talent shows with a late-night bar menu. The Ritz Theatre, restored to its 1920s grandeur, hosts performers and concerts. Many restaurants also offer live music.

Q: What is The Mills at Jersey Gardens?
A: The Mills at Jersey Gardens is the East Coast's largest indoor outlet mall, featuring national retailers from Ann Taylor to Nike, along with dining options.

Q: What outdoor activities are available in Elizabeth?
A: Elizabeth has over 45 parks. Popular options include Mattano Park (picnicking), Warinanco Park (paddle boats), Veteran's Memorial Waterfront Park (skyline views, fishing), and the Elizabeth River Trail (1.5-mile walking and biking path).

Q: What public art is available in Elizabeth?
A: Street murals pepper the city. Visitors can take self-guided tours of public art and visit the rotating gallery at the tourism office at 142 Broad Street.

Q: How do I get more information about Elizabeth activities?
A: Visit www.goelizabethnj.com or stop by the tourism office at 142 Broad Street for maps, information, and art gallery exhibits.