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things to do
We love a good weekend routine as much as the next person, but sometimes it’s fun to mix it up. And while old favorites are favorites for a reason, there’s something to be said for trying something new. Read on for a list of some of the most unique activities to try out in Hoboken + Jersey City.
Hoboken
Asana Soul Practice – Glow Yoga and Watercolor Meditation | 411 Jefferson Street
Image courtesy of Asana Soul
This community favorite is taking things beyond the mat with creative workshops like Glowga (glow yoga) and watercolor meditation sessions that bring a fresh, fun twist to the practice. One such class, The Art of Becoming, combines free-flowing watercolor painting with meditation, encouraging self-expression beyond technique, per the event description. General manager Stacey Lawrence shared that these experiences are designed to make yoga and meditation more accessible, while also creating opportunities for deeper connection through instructor-led programming.
Bloomie Flower Studio – Floral Arranging Workshops | 107 4th Street
Image courtesy of Bloomie
Bloomie’s floral workshops are all about getting hands-on with flowers. From beginner bouquet classes to more detailed design sessions, each workshop is tailored to the participant’s skill level and hosted in small groups (typically 1–8 people). Classes are scheduled based on demand, with options for private events too.
Bodega Cards – Collect Trading Cards | 119 Monroe Street
Bodega Cards has quickly become a go-to spot for Hoboken’s growing collector community. The shop regularly hosts community-driven events, including trade nights, pack wars for kids, and local vendor pop-ups, all designed to make the hobby feel welcoming at every level. Whether you’re opening your first pack or have been collecting for years, this space makes it easy to get involved.
Cantu Custom Embroidery | 1422 Grand Street Suite 3E
Image courtesy of Cantu Custom Embroidery
From monograms and phrases to fully custom designs, the Cantu team turns everyday pieces into something personal, whether you bring your own or choose from items in the studio. You can book a one-on-one session or make it a group outing, perfect for a girls’ day or special event. The studio also offers patch customization, with options for heat transfer or a DIY sewing experience (with guidance).
The Collective – Hoboken Hat Bar + Italian Charm Bar | 79 Hudson Street Suite 103LL
The Collective is Hoboken’s newest crafty spot, with three local businesses sharing space. Two offer interactive experiences: Hoboken Hat Bar and the DIY Italian charm bar. This appointment-only custom hat bar offers a fully personalized experience from start to finish. Guests design their own hats using ribbons, pins, florals, and more, starting with Sanglier Hats, the shop’s in-house brand crafted from 100% Australian wool. Optional branding and engraving add an extra custom touch. This experience is now available for both individual appointments and private group bookings (hello birthday and bach plans). There’s also a DIY Italian charm bar where you can mix, match, and personalize your own charm bracelet with tons of options to choose from. No appointment needed for the charm bar, so it’s a fun little add-on to any Hoboken day. Visit any time Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM–6PM, with extended hours until 7PM on Thursdays.
Ivy Mane – Concrete Pouring Classes + Make Your Own Leather Journal | 1012 Grand Street, Suite 11
This concrete pouring class introduces guests to the process of casting with concrete in a fun, approachable way. Participants choose from a selection of molds and pigments to create a fully customized piece, ranging from trays and bowls to decorative home objects. The experience is hands-on and design-focused, with guidance throughout. Pieces are left to cure and are ready for pickup about one week later. One of the other standout workshops invites guests to take their journaling hobby to the next level by crafting a custom leather journal from start to finish. Participants choose their leather (including a cowhide option), cord color, and grommet finish, then personalize their piece with charms from a curated thrifted collection. Each journal is designed as a refillable cover, and guests leave with starter inserts ready to use.
Little Bar – Cocktail Classes | 1401 Hudson Street
Image courtesy of Little Bar
Tequila enthusiasts will want to add this one to their list. Little Bar is making a big splash with its hands-on cocktail experiences that go beyond the basics. Guests can shake and stir refined drinks in an intimate setting while learning from expert mixologists. These classes are hosted monthly, including their upcoming tequila experience that will “guide you through the craft of building refined tequila cocktails while exploring the nuances from blanco to añejo,” according to the event description.
Little Stitchery – Needlepoint | 736 Washington Street
Image courtesy of Little Stitchery
Little Stitchery is bringing needlepoint back in the cutest way. This newly opened studio offers beginner-friendly classes, decorative stitch workshops, and finishing sessions, with more classes continuing to roll out. It’s a great hands-on activity to learn something new and unwind. Locals can sign up for upcoming classes directly through the website as new sessions are released.
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Mothership IRL – Vintage Games and Tournaments | 257 First Street
Mothership aims to be a true “third space” for Hoboken locals, bringing together a place to hang out, shop, and tap into creative activities. Inside, you’ll find vintage arcade games like Dig Dug and Pac-Man, plus claw machines stocked with Pokémon booster packs. The space also hosts events like Super Smash Bros. tournaments, adding to its community-driven feel. It’s an easy spot to pop in for a quick game or stay awhile with friends, with a coffee shop also in the works for this summer. Follow along on Instagram for updates and upcoming events.
The Studio – Adult Dance Classes | 251 1st Street
The Studio creates a space where adults can feel comfortable trying something new, with no pressure and no experience required. Classes span everything from ballet and tap to hip-hop and contemporary, with levels ranging from beginner to more advanced. The vibe is inclusive, supportive, and all about movement as both a creative outlet and a mental reset. The team also offers private lessons for engaged couples prepping for their first dance (they’ve worked with over 250+ local couples).
Jersey City
Betty’s Ceramics Club – Ceramics Workshops and Classes | 224 9th Street
Image courtesy of Betty’s Ceramics
We’re always on the lookout for a new activity or skill that doesn’t involve a screen, and ceramics might be just the thing. Say hello to Betty’s Ceramics Club, offering everything from hand-building to wheel-throwing classes for both beginner and experienced artists. The studio welcomes kids and adults to take a class or join as a member and get their hands a little messy in the best way. Along with regularly scheduled favorites like Date Night and Brunch Club, the studio also hosts fun specialty workshops, including upcoming events like the Ceramic Jewelry class.
The Collective Brew – Try Nepalese Teas | 198 Van Vorst Street
The Collective Brew is introducing Jersey City locals to a more elevated, creative tea experience, with varieties sourced directly from the Himalayas of Nepal. The menu ranges from classic black and green teas to more unique offerings like the 24–48 hour cold-brewed “White Champagne” and citrusy Zen Chill, plus tasting flights for anyone looking to explore different profiles. They’ll also be hosting the first-ever tea tasting workshop later this month, offering a deeper dive into the brewing process and Himalayan tea culture.
Jersey City Art School – Drawing and Painting Classes | 313 3rd Street
Image courtesy of Jersey City Art School
Creative classes are available at Jersey City Art School for every skill level. The studio offers everything from eight-week beginner drawing and painting sessions to more advanced courses, so there is truly something for everyone. One standout on the schedule is the Pet Painting Workshop, where guests are guided step by step in watercolor techniques to create a portrait of their furry friend. Sign up on the website here, hosted on the last Saturday of each month. Jersey City locals can browse the full class calendar online.
Jersey City Ballroom – Dancing Lessons | 189 Brunswick Street, 3rd Floor
Image courtesy of Jersey City Ballroom
Jersey City Ballroom is making it easy to live out your Dancing with the Stars dreams with classes in styles like Waltz, Tango, Salsa, and Bachata. With group classes happening almost daily, it’s a fun way to try something new with no partner or experience required. Private lessons are also available for a more personalized experience, and monthly dance socials help keep the community connected and moving.
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Ping Pod – 24/7 Ping Pong and Table Tennis | 31 River Drive S
Image courtesy of Ping Pod
PingPod is a fully automated, 24/7 table tennis spot where you can book a table whenever the mood hits – even at 2AM. The space features five open pong tables, plus gear, video replay tech, and snacks and drinks available for purchase. You can keep it casual with a quick game or level up with lessons, joining a league, or hosting your own event. Pricing varies by time and membership.
Pixel Lab – Play Vintage Arcade Games | 381 1st Street
With the tagline “Old games. New games. Good games,” Pixel Lab delivers with over 1,000 physical games in-store, as well as vintage games dating back to 1985. From space shooters and driving games to puzzles and more, it’s easy to lose track of time here. A $25 day pass gives you unlimited access, making it a fun, low-key way to spend an afternoon in Jersey City.
Rug Swoosh – Tufted Rug Workshops | 15 Wilkinson Avenue
Image courtesy of Rug Swoosh
For a hands-on experience that’s equal parts creative and cozy, Rug Swoosh’s tufting workshop lets guests design and create their own custom rug from scratch. The three-hour class is beginner-friendly, with all materials, guidance, and even snacks included. Guests can bring their own design or choose from a catalog, and after booking, a design consultation helps bring the vision to life. You’ll leave with a finished rug and a new skill to show for it.
Smush Gallery – Sewing Classes and Dance Fellowships | 340 Summit Avenue
Image courtesy of SMUSH Gallery
SMUSH Gallery is a creative hub known for its mix of exhibitions, performances, workshops, and community events. Since opening in 2018, the space has hosted 50–60 events each year, partnering with local artists and groups to create programming that feels welcoming, engaging, and accessible. From open mics and markets to hands-on classes like sewing and dance fellowships, there’s always something happening.
Youssoufiani Leather Craftsmanship – Custom Leather Bag Workshops | 33 Wayne Street
Guided by Ani Youssoufiani, these leather craft workshops are designed to leave you with more than just a custom piece. Guests create everything from card holders and pouches to handbags and keychains, learning the fundamentals of leatherwork along the way. The experience is hands-on and approachable, whether you come solo or make it a group outing. Workshops run throughout the week with flexible time slots to fit your schedule.
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