Short List of Jersey City Favorites
I was on the train the other day thinking, I really should create an old-fashioned links page or even just directory of very special Jersey City businesses and cultural org.s which we support, commit to, and with which we do business.
Present Day Goods' goal is to keep things local and network with neighbors and community members, to keep our human and wildlife culture going. If you have a favorite indie business you think deserves to get some extra love, email/DM me and I will put it up here.
*By purchasing from our brand you are also supporting the organizations and businesses on this list.*
Jersey City Birds - Jersey City Birds aims to promote awareness, appreciation, and protection of wild birds and their habitat; to educate the community about the importance of birds to our ecosystem; and to make Jersey City better for birds and birders.
Hudson County Native Plant Society - The Hudson County Chapter of the Native Plant Society of New Jersey is dedicated to supporting a healthy ecosystem and sustaining urban wildlife habitats within our diverse communities. Our hope is to help educate and empower our neighbors about how important native plants are to maintaining biodiversity.
Swarm King Apiaries - a treatment-free, Jersey City–adjacent apiary run by veteran beekeeper Roger Moss, who rescues swarms across the region and produces thoughtfully harvested honey and beeswax with deep care for bee health.
Busy Bee Organics - an indie, Jersey City–based organic café and catering company led by holistic chefs and nutritionists, known for thoughtfully sourced, sustainable ingredients and nourishing prepared foods.
Lincoln Park, Jersey City Farmer's Market - is a neighborhood staple founded in 2014 that brings fresh local food, small vendors, and community-centered programming—like yoga, music, and workshops—to Jersey City for 20 vibrant weeks each summer.
Riverview Park, Jersey City Farmer's Market - is a beloved Jersey City Heights institution that has spent 15 years supporting local farmers and small businesses, expanding SNAP/EBT access, and serving as a vibrant community hub through markets and signature cultural events.
Hoboken Farmer's Market - is a lively, dog-friendly community market held three days a week, offering local produce, prepared foods, fresh-baked treats, and live music that makes wandering the stalls as enjoyable as the shopping itself.
SMUSH Gallery - is a vibrant Jersey City community art space near Journal Square offering year-round art classes, exhibitions, and workshops, plus a beloved boutique holiday market each December featuring local makers (including us!).
Speer Cemetery, Jersey City, NJ - is a historic Jersey City cemetery preserved by Friends of Speer, Inc. since 2012, honoring its 19th-century roots while serving today as a meaningful community space—including an annual Day of the Dead celebration that brings history, remembrance, and art together.
Treehouse Coffee - we love Treehouse Coffee, and Jersey City does too because they have expanded from the location I knew on West Side Ave. to Downtown, Van Vorst and Whealth Kitchen in Journal Square.
Stormy Cafe - is a cozy neighborhood café serving specialty coffee, halal breakfast and lunch plates, artisan pastries, and treats—anchored by seriously good sandwiches, a standout iced brown sugar shaken espresso, and a warm community vibe that’s quickly becoming a local essential.
