Welcome to Hoboken, New Jersey. This tour is a relatively easy walk, with beautiful views of the Manhattan Skyline. The entire city is just two square miles and .75 square mile of that is water. Much of the other he other 1.25 square mile is under water when it rains. In addition to historical data and paranormal legends, we’ve included a couple recommended detours for food, beverage and snacks along the way. Click links in YELLOW for Google maps GPS help. The full tour is just over two miles and takes 90 minutes. But we encourage you to take breaks from the tour, or even make a day of it, and enjoy some of the local pubs, cafes and bakeries locals claim to be as good or better than anything across the river and with far better views. The Gold Coast, the New Jersey coast line from Hoboken to the George Washington Bridge, is filled with casual and fine dining with with views of Manhattan. If you are visiting New York city, hop on the ferry for a 8-10 minute ride across the Hudson River to Hoboken, Newport (Jersey city) Weehawken/West New York/North Bergen, and Edgewater. There is also a 6+ mile walk/bike path with just a few places, no more than a short block, you have to leave the waterfront for private residential development. Have a picnic lunch at the park under the George Washington Bridge. Watch out for aggressively protective nesting geese around Palisade Medical Center. Walk your bike through Hoboken Terminal and trek all the way to Liberty State Park for some great views of the New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

Hoboken, New Jersey, with a rich history dating back to the time when it was originally inhabited by the Lenni Lenape (The Delaware People), holds a significant place in American history. Explored by Henry Hudson in 1609 and initially named Hobuck Island, it witnessed the Lenape sale of the territory in 1630. The William Bayard estate, established later, was confiscated at the end of the Revolutionary War. In 1784, John Stevens purchased the land, transforming it from marshy terrain into a thriving hub through ambitious development projects. Stevens undertook the draining of the swamp, construction of roads and railroads, and the development of the waterfront, setting the stage for the city’s evolution. Hoboken was officially incorporated as a city in 1855.

Let’s Begin – Hoboken Terminal

Hoboken Terminal in New Jersey, a hub of historical significance, has not escaped the whispers of paranormal tales. We start here as many of you might arrive here via the Ferry, Path Train or NJ Transit buses and trains. The Ferry is our favorite route to the big city. Take the Light Rail south to Liberty State Park or north to North Bergen and Weehawken. We will bring you back here at the end. Among the stories circulating about this iconic transportation center are those of a ghostly woman in white wandering the platforms. Witnesses claim to have glimpsed her ethereal figure, creating an air of mystery and intrigue. Whether a residual spirit from the past or a figment of collective imagination, the presence of the woman in white adds a layer of spectral allure to the bustling energy of Hoboken Terminal. Now mostly white collar offices and retail hub, Manhattan used to be a major factory town. Before the great bridges and tunnels were built, textiles and more would cross the river on barges and then loaded onto trains to reach the rest of America. The Hoboken Lackawanna Terminal was one of the most important transportation hubs in America.

• DETOUR Make sure you check out the old train station. While many updates have been made over the years, it still has the old New York charm. Also Sinatra Park next store will give you a view of the famous Lackawanna sign that faces in coming ferries. The tour will end at the park as well so you can take some more selfies then. Also a great spot to see July 4th Fireworks, with views of both NYC and Jersey City shows and a view of the Water’s Soul shushing Manhattan. Erected in 2020, probably not paranormal, but it freaks us out! 😆

The Shannon

The Shannon, a well-known establishment in Hoboken, New Jersey, has been linked to reports of paranormal activity, with patrons sharing experiences of unexplained noises and sightings. While details about specific incidents are not provided in the available information, the accounts suggest an ambiance that goes beyond the typical bar atmosphere. Witnesses have reported hearing mysterious sounds and claiming to have seen inexplicable sightings, contributing to the belief that The Shannon may be haunted. These anecdotes add a layer of intrigue to the pub’s history, creating a blend of local lore and social gathering that makes it not only a place for drinks and camaraderie but also a spot where patrons might encounter the unexplained.

The Brass Rail

The Brass Rail, a historic bar and restaurant in Hoboken, New Jersey, is shrouded in a paranormal legend that adds a ghostly twist to its storied history. According to local lore, a tragic incident unfolded in 1904 when a bride fell to her death during her wedding at the bar. The unfortunate event occurred as she tripped down the stairs, breaking her neck in front of the horrified wedding party and her betrothed. Overwhelmed by the trauma, the grief-stricken groom reportedly took his own life on the spot. Since that fateful day, reports of supernatural occurrences have persisted, particularly among the waitstaff who claim to have witnessed the apparitions of the ill-fated couple. These ghostly sightings are most frequently reported late at night when the staff is cleaning up, further solidifying the Brass Rail’s reputation as a place where the echoes of a tragic love story may linger in the afterlife.

Arthur’s Tavern on Washington Street

Arthur’s Tavern on Washington Street in Hoboken, New Jersey, has earned a reputation for more than just its steaks and lively atmosphere—it’s said to harbor paranormal activity. The restaurant is believed to be haunted by three mischievous ghosts that have been the source of various reported incidents. Guests and staff alike have experienced mysterious footsteps and witnessed flickering lights, contributing to the establishment’s eerie ambiance. The paranormal occurrences have attracted the attention of parapsychologists, with one reportedly expressing a particular sense of unease in the upstairs bathroom. The haunted tales of Arthur’s Tavern add a supernatural layer to the dining experience, making it not only a spot for delicious meals but also a place where the line between the living and the spectral may blur.

Our Lady of Grace Church

Our Lady of Grace Church, carries a rich history intertwined with whispers of paranormal activity. Established to serve the local Catholic community, the church dates back to the late 19th century. Over the years, it has become the subject of claims regarding ghostly sightings during religious services. Some parishioners and visitors assert that they have witnessed apparitions or sensed a spiritual presence within the sacred confines of the church. The Church can be seen in ON THE WATER FRONT, although interior shots were filmed at SS. Peter and Paul, closer to Steven’s Park, near the end of the tour.

Church Square Park

Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful Church Square Park, the subject of paranormal tales that add an element of mystery to this public space. According to local reports, visitors to the park have described experiencing strange shadows and an unsettling feeling of being watched. The presence of such tales has garnered a reputation for more than just its recreational and communal aspects. Years ago a Hoboken Ghost Tour started at the Gazebo of Church Square Park.

• DETOUR On the way to Frank Sinatra’s Birthplace, you can stop by St. Francis Roman Catholic Church, where Sinatra was almost baptized as Albert. But thanks to a mix up with the godfather and bishop, we got Frank to sing along.

Frank Sinatra’s Birthplace

Frank Sinatra’s Birthplace in Hoboken, New Jersey, is not only a historical landmark but also the subject of paranormal legends. Locals and enthusiasts have long whispered about the lingering spirit of Ol’ Blue Eyes in the vicinity. Frank Sinatra, one of the most iconic voices in the history of music, was born in this humble home in 1915. Some claim that Sinatra’s enduring presence can be felt around the birthplace, with reported sightings of spectral figures and unexplained phenomena. The original house was destroyed by a 1967 fire that killed 5 people.

• DETOUR The Elysian Café is the oldest continually operated bar/restaurant in Hoboken. Opened originally as Dillenger & Jeffson’s in 1895, it continued through prohibition as an ice cream parlor and as a hair salon. The Elysian currently offers a French Bistro style menu, accompanied by Hoboken’s first 100% smoke-free bar. Not a formal stop known for paranormal activity, but according to THE HOBOKEN GIRL blog, an episode of AHS spin off American Horror Stories just film an episode there.

Maxwell’s Tavern

Maxwell’s Tavern in Hoboken, New Jersey, is rumored to be haunted, with claims that a former employee’s spirit lingers within its walls. Now closed, Maxwell’ was honored by VULTURE as one the most important venues for the New York City music scene. Witnesses, including staff and patrons, have reported strange happenings and unexplained phenomena, attributing them to the presumed ghostly presence. Haunted tales often include sightings, mysterious sounds, or other eerie incidents that contribute to the belief that Maxwell’s Tavern carries a supernatural ambiance, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its historical significance as a well-known music venue and gathering place in Hoboken.

Elysian Park

Elysian Park, sits between the V intersection created by Hudson Street and Frank Sinatra Deive, and is famed for its picturesque views, but as night falls, reports of paranormal activity surface. Elysian Park in Hoboken holds historical significance, dating back to the 19th century. Originally known as Elysian Fields, stretching down Frank Sinatra drive to Castle Point Skate Park and Sybils Cave. it served as one of the earliest baseball grounds in the United States. This park hosted significant baseball games and was a prominent venue for the sport during the mid-1800s. The area also played a role in the development of organized baseball, witnessing the evolution of the game. Over time, Elysian Park has transformed into a public space, preserving its historical charm while offering scenic views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline. Visitors describe an eerie ambiance, with sensations of being watched, cold spots, and mysterious sounds. Some claim to have glimpsed fleeting shadows, contributing to the park’s reputation for a haunting presence. The park’s after-dark mystique adds an element of curiosity, leaving the origin of these experiences open to speculation and local folklore. There are centuries of history, but perhaps, dating back to the William Bayard estate years, when the area was famous as “The Dueling Ground,” there are a few lingering sould that were robbed of life. You are not far from the famous Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr dueling spot, just a tad north in Weehawken, but was part of the land back then. Famous visitors included Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, Martin Van Buren, Daniel Webster, and Washington Irving.

• DETOUR On way to next stop on the tour, if you have time, hang a left on Sinatra Drive North. This is the newest section of Hoboken. Stop by 16 Handles Yogurt. During summer months check out the food trucks and beer garden on Pier 13. Ferry to Manhattan on is on Pier 14. Let us know if you encounter any local spirits. The construction is all new on the North side of town, but built upon centuries of working docks and more. Many boats have sunk in the area, even in recent times.

Castle Point Skate Park

If you walk down the hill of Frank Sinatra Drive, just before you reach the Hudson River you will see Castle Point Skate Park on the left. I local hang out for skate board and bike trick enthusiasts, Castle Point Skate Park has become shrouded in local lore, particularly after nightfall. As the sun sets, locals have reported encountering an unsettling atmosphere, accompanied by eerie sounds and mysterious shadows. Rumors persist about the spirit of a former skateboarder who met an untimely end in the park. Some claim to have heard faint echoes of skateboards rolling on the pavement or witnessed inexplicable movements reminiscent of someone navigating the park’s ramps and rails.

Sybil’s Cave

Sybil’s Cave in Hoboken, New Jersey, holds a spellbinding history that traces back to the 19th century. Originally a natural spring, the cave transformed into a sought-after spa destination during the mid-1800s, drawing visitors in search of the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich waters. However, Sybil’s Cave is indelibly marked by the haunting events of 1841 when Mary Rogers, a young woman, met a tragic end near its vicinity. The unsolved mystery of her death has lent an eerie mystique to the site. Interestingly, Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Mystery of Marie Rogêt,” though set on the steps of the River Seine, draws inspiration from the actual events that unfolded that fateful night in Hoboken. So keep an eye out for Mary tonight. Or perhaps, her boyfriend, Donald Payne, who was accused of murder, but after escaping the justice system reportedly poisoned himself, or was that a murder too?

Castle Point Lookout

Next walk to Castle Point Lookout and capture some of the best views of downtown Manhattan. Up the hill behind you, The Stevens Institute of Technology carries with it a spectral reputation, with persistent rumors of ghostly sightings within various buildings on the campus. One notable location that fuels these ghost stories is the old Castle Point building, a historic structure with a rich history. Originally serving as the residence of Colonel John Stevens III, the founder of the institute, the Castle Point building has witnessed generations of technological advancements. However, its corridors are said to harbor echoes of the past, with some claiming to have glimpsed shadowy figures or experienced unexplained phenomena. October 2021, unexplained, possibly paranormal events were reported in the school newspaper around University Center. “Balls of fire, menacing glowing eyes, and nebulous apparitions have materialized in windows” wrote Benjamin Knobloch. In the article University Center haunted! “I’ve given up on sleeping,” said one freshman. One Year later, Tasha Khosla penned the article titled, President Favardin and the ghosts of Stevens’ past “Our witness reports that three figures from Stevens’ history, Colonel John Stevens, Edwin A. Stevens, and Martha Bayard Stevens, paid President Nariman Favardin a visit.”

Steven’s Park

Next up on the right is Steven’s Park. The unusual ghost in Hoboken from 1902 was described as dark. Its peculiar mission was rather distinct—instead of haunting people or structures, it focused on destroying trees at Stevens’ Park in front of the Stevens Institute of Technology.

• DETOUR Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is up the hill across Hudson Street from Steven’s Park and historically served the German Catholics of Hoboken. Another block in on Washington Street is the famous German Bakery. This area is often called Little Germany. Now there are many restaurants, including some of our favorite Sushi and Mamoun’s Middle Eastern near by.

• DETOUR Back at the waterfront, just passed the soccer fields, is an amphitheater home to live music during summer months. Also, stop for salads, pizza, pasta, and dessert at Blue Eyes, nicknamed for Frank Sinatra, for a glass of wine with a river view.

Hudson River Waterfront Walkway

The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is popular with local and visiting pedestrians and cyclists alike. A beautiful stretch of riverside restaurants and park that stretch out over the Hudson, this site was burnt by a massive fire in 1900 thay destroyed docks, ships and 300+ lives. Late-night walkers along this scenic stretch have reported eerie experiences, claiming to sense an otherworldly presence or catch glimpses of spectral figures lingering near the water’s edge. Beyond tales of ghostly encounters, the Hudson River itself adds another layer to the lore, with stories of phantom ships silently drifting through the mist, evoking a bygone era. Additionally, whispers of river monsters lurking in the depths contribute to the mystique of this waterfront location. Pier C, a park and a work of modern art, closes at sundown.

BONUS

The story of “The Eyes of St. Joseph” at St. Joseph’s Church on Pavonia Avenue in Jersey City is intriguing. We’ve included as this story is amazing amd is included in many lists of Hoboken tales, but it is a bit out of the way. Its a short drive, or Hop on the Path Train to take a look. The mysterious glowing lights seen in the belfry tower, described as resembling glowing eyes, have captivated the local community since reports first surfaced in 1921 and intensified after a sighting on Good Friday in 1954. The lights, often perceived as a miracle or divine sign, have drawn thousands of onlookers over the years. The legend took a darker turn in 1954 when a church sexton, last seen investigating the tower, was found dead in the choir loft. This mysterious death only added to the mystique surrounding the luminescent eyes. The phenomenon has become deeply ingrained in local folklore, even inspiring a documentary by Jersey City storyteller Bob Leach in 2011, documenting the nearly century-old mystery of “The Eyes of St. Joseph.”

Hoboken Cemetery, with its roots dating back to the 19th century, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, but it also harbors a spectral reputation. Nestled in the embrace of time-worn gravestones and weathered monuments, this cemetery is said to be haunted by spirits of the past. Stories echo through the aged trees and winding pathways, recounting sightings of ethereal apparitions and mysterious lights among the tombstones. The ambiance of Hoboken Cemetery is steeped in a sense of the bygone, where the whispers of history intertwine with the unexplained. Those who wander its hallowed grounds often feel a palpable connection to the spirits that linger, adding an otherworldly dimension to this historic resting place. Not officially on the walking tour, the cemetary is just a 10-20 minute drive to North Bergen depending on traffic. Or hop on the Light Rail to Tonelle Station and its just a 2 minute walk. But there are plenty of ghosts walking around town if you want to skip it.