Harrison Real Estate

The History

Harrison is a town in Hudson County, New Jersey, located along the Passaic River across from Newark. It was originally part of North Bergen Township and was established as Harrison Township in 1840. In 1869, it was officially incorporated as the Town of Harrison. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Harrison became known as the “Beehive of Industry” due to its strong manufacturing base, including industries such as metal works, textiles, and chemical production.

Its location near major rail lines and waterways made it a key industrial hub. Over time, as manufacturing declined, Harrison transitioned toward residential and mixed-use redevelopment. In recent decades, the town has experienced significant revitalization, especially around its waterfront and transit areas.

Things to Do

One of Harrison’s main attractions is Sports Illustrated Stadium (formerly Red Bull Arena), home to the New York Red Bulls Major League Soccer team. The stadium also hosts international soccer matches and special events throughout the year.

The Harrison Riverwalk offers scenic views of the Passaic River and connects residents to nearby Newark. The town’s proximity to Newark provides easy access to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the Prudential Center, and the Ironbound district. With a PATH train station in town, residents can also quickly reach Jersey City and Manhattan for additional entertainment and cultural activities.

Local Restaurants

Harrison’s dining scene reflects its growing and diverse community. Visitors can find a mix of Portuguese, Spanish, Brazilian, and Latin American restaurants, influenced by the nearby Ironbound neighborhood in Newark. Traditional barbecue spots, tapas restaurants, and casual eateries are popular choices.

Newer developments have brought modern cafés, gastropubs, and pizza places to the area, particularly near the PATH station and waterfront. Whether looking for authentic Iberian cuisine or quick casual dining, Harrison offers a variety of options within a compact area.

What It’s Like Living There

Living in Harrison offers an urban-suburban blend with strong commuter convenience. The PATH station provides direct service to Newark and New York City, making it attractive to professionals who work in Manhattan or Jersey City. Its location near major highways and Newark Liberty International Airport adds to its accessibility.

The town features a mix of older residential streets and newly constructed apartment complexes, particularly in the redeveloped waterfront district. Residents often appreciate the walkability near the town center, access to public transit, and ongoing redevelopment. While it is more urban and compact than many New Jersey suburbs, Harrison maintains a tight-knit community feel.