Orlando City head to New Jersey for a Friday night matchup against the New York Red Bulls for the second time this season. While the opposing team’s name may indicate the hustle and bustle of New York, fans will be pleasantly surprised by the waterfront city in New Jersey.
The Venue
The New York Red Bulls play at Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey, just 8 miles from Hoboken. The Stadium holds up to 25,000 fans. Red Bull Arena features a translucent, partial roof which allows natural light to illuminate the field during the day. This soccer-dedicated facility isn’t restricted to MLS games; it has opened its doors to International games hosting teams from all over the globe.
The best way to reach the stadium is on the PATH Railway system, arriving at Harrison station. There are also free shuttle buses from Newark Penn Station and New Jersey Transit's Newark Broad Street station.
Sights to See
Washington Street
Named one of the top 10 great U.S. streets, Washington Street in Hoboken is a great way to spend your time shopping and socializing while soaking in the history. This old-fashioned style street will draw you in solely by its aesthetics. Jam-packed with bars and restaurants, you won’t need New York’s nightlife when you’ve got Washington Street just a few miles from the stadium.
Sinatra’s Birthplace
Although he was famous for singing “New York, New York,” Frank Sinatra was a Jersey boy born-and-raised. The original house that Sinatra grew up in on Monroe Street has been demolished and replaced by a museum which then closed down in 2006, but there are other Frank Sinatra sights around the area. Lepore’s Home Made Chocolate, located on 537 Garden Street, is the best place to go for anything Sinatra. The owner of the chocolate shop is a big Frank Sinatra fan and will give city-wide tours of Sinatra sights upon request. Lepore’s is also home to authentic Sinatra memorabilia and other merchandise.
PATH or Ferry to NYC
If you’re one of those people who thrive on social interaction and you’ve seen all that Hoboken has to offer, hop on the Port Authority Trans-Hudson (PATH) and indulge in all that is offered by the city that never sleeps. You can also take one of the NY Waterway ferries for a nice leisurely ride to the Big Apple.
Restaurants and Bars
Carlo’s Bake Shop
Located on the iconic Washington Street, this delicious pastry, dessert, and cake shop will satisfy your sweet tooth in-between bar hopping and shopping. You my recognize Carlo’s Bake Shop from its feature on Cake Boss.
Fiore’s Deli
This authentic Italian deli is not located amongst the heart of Hoboken, but is definitely worth the trip to experience genuine Italian cuisine. Located at 414 Adams St, this off-the-beaten path deli is the closest thing to Italy that New Jersey has to offer.
Onieals
Onieals is a restaurant and bar that serves food as tasty as its beer. Whether it’s a classic Guinness or a craft American brew, this bar is the perfect place to stop when in need of a cold one. Located across from Church Square Park, Onieals is ideal for your match-day drinks.
