Jersey City, a city that hides in the shadow of New Yorks towering skyscrapers, is filled with secrets and oddities that few people know

about. But to really get under its skin and explore the eclectic culture of this vibrant town, you need to be willing to go beyond the obvious tourist destinations its the offbeat spots that truly capture Jersey Citys charm.

One such hidden gem is The Loews Theater (54 Journal Square Plaza), an ornate movie palace built in 1929 that has been lovingly restored over the years. It stands out as one of only five remaining fullsized theaters from this era in New Jersey and boasts original handpainted murals on its proscenium archway. The theater also hosts live jazz concerts & special screenings throughout the year.

If youre looking for something more unconventional, try Strange Adventures (115 Coles St,), a vintage store packed with ancient artifacts selling everything from oversized animal skulls to antique chandeliers. This place is not for everyone but if you have an eye for curiosities or collectibles like old maps or prints or unusual objects, then it might just be your paradise.

Another curious attraction worth mentioning is Mana Contemporary Art Center (888 Newark Ave,) a massive warehousecumart space exhibiting cuttingedge contemporary art from around the world as well as hosting creative workshops across mediums ranging from painting, sculpture performance art and photography on different floors of its cavernous interiors.

For some historical exploration head West Side Pike Cemetery(1121 Westside Ave,) where visitors can learn more about famous residents who made history including William BaldwinFounder of Baldwin Locomotive Works; Mary PhilbrookNew Jerseys first woman lawyer; Charles YoungProfessor at Howard Universityonetime commander of allblack troops during World War I

Finally no visit here complete without walking through Paulus Hook district home to landmarks like Colgate Clock after which *Colgate* toothpaste was named, and the Old Bergen Church that has stood watch over town since its construction in 1660.

These are just a few of the remarkable hidden treasures scattered across Jersey City. So next time youre looking for an adventure, put on your explorers hat, dive beneath the surface level attractions and see what secrets this fascinating city holds!

Websites & Twitter handles:

The Loews Theater loewsjersey.org

Strange Adventures Vintage Store strangeadventuresjc.com

Mana Contemporary Art Center manacontemporary.com/jerseycity/

West Side Pike Cemetery findagrave.com/cemetery/2126806/westsidepikecemetery

Paulus Hook Districthvrising.com/paulushookjerseycitysfinestneighborhood/