'Dollar vans'
Intrepid wanderers might find the "dollar" vans a quick and cheap way to travel around town. These vans, which are operated largely by Hispanic immigrants to serve that community, arose in response to the lack of frequent and reliable bus service in the area. Although no longer a dollar the fare is now $1.50, these small buses travel from Newport Mall up Newark Avenue, brush past Journal Square, and travel up Palisade Avenue towards the Heights similar vans run up Kennedy Boulevard from Journal Square. Also, they run to-and-fro between NYC and Journal Square, the fare being $2.50, which is much cheaper. These vans don't travel on a fixed schedule, but operate relatively frequently during the day they come by every five minutes or so. To get on board, flag the driver down. To get off the bus, say "next stop" to the driver about a block or so before your desired stop. Pay the driver as you leave the bus.
The best way to navigate within Jersey City, as a tourist, is likely by PATH or light rail. Most of the major sections of town are serviced by these forms of transport. The bus system is arcane, and even locals have difficulty understanding where buses go or how often they run.
Unlike in Manhattan, taxis can be difficult to come by in Jersey City. You often have to call ahead to have one pick you up, although taxis are stationed at the Exchange Place, Grove Street and Journal Square PATH stations. Taxis in Jersey City can run either metered or unmetered flat rate; the price is generally the same either way. If you are going unmetered, ask the price before getting into the taxi or ask the dispatcher when you call ahead. Taxis are not cheap; a cab from Grove Street to Journal Square is about $10.
Zipcar is available in Jersey City. Most locations are downtown, although there is also one location each for Liberty State Park and Journal Square. Cars are within walking distance of all PATH stations in Jersey City as well as light rail stops between Newport and Liberty State Park. Zipcar locations can also be found in neighboring Hoboken. Generally, cars are readily available on weekdays. Availability is not as certain on weekends, although some cars should be available if one is flexible and only needs the car for a few hours.
