Newark: the Brick City

Newark, New Jersey, offers a unique urban experience with a rich heritage, vibrant arts scene, and diverse cultural influences. Explore the home of the Newark Museum, the Prudential Center, and the Ironbound District and discover what makes Newark so special!

Things to see in Newark

Book your flights and don't miss the following attractions when you visit Newark:

Branch Brook Park

Branch Brook Park is the oldest neighborhood park in the country and the first neighborhood park in the United States to be opened to the public. Located in eastern Newark, the park covers 360 acres.

Its many recreational facilities and breathtaking city skyline views make it an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing day out. The park is also known for its cherry blossoms, which bloom yearly from April to May and are a beautiful sight.

Branch Brook Park offers a variety of activities and attractions, including a lake, golf course, walking trails, and a skate park. There is also a sculpture garden and a children's playground.

The park is also popular for birdwatching, as it is home to over 230 species of birds. Visitors can also participate in outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and biking.

Newark Museum

Located in the heart of Newark, the Newark Museum is one of the largest art museums in the United States. It features various exhibits, from ancient artifacts to modern works of art.

The museum also houses many interactive exhibits like the Science Center and Planetarium. There is also a unique collection of African art and artifacts and an impressive collection of Asian art.

Throughout the year, the museum offers a variety of events and activities, including lectures, workshops, and concerts. Visitors can also participate in guided tours that provide insight into Newark's history and culture. In addition, the museum offers several educational programs, such as the Summer Art Camper, designed to introduce young people to the visual arts.

Military Park

Military Park is a historic park located in downtown Newark. Originally created as a rallying point for troops during the Revolutionary War, it is now a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

The park has many attractions, including a Revolutionary War Memorial, a World War II Memorial and a statue of General George Washington, a bandstand, a playground, and a walking trail.

Throughout the year, the Military Park hosts a variety of events. These include music and dance performances, art exhibits, and festivals. There are also a variety of food and vendor booths and a beer garden. Visitors can also participate in various activities such as yoga and meditation classes, film screenings, and art classes.

Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is an impressive Roman Catholic church in Newark. It is the fifth-largest cathedral in the United States and one of the most impressive churches in the country.

The cathedral is a striking example of Gothic architecture with its tall towers and intricate stonework. Visitors can participate in various activities at the cathedral, including tours, services, and concerts.

The cathedral also houses many works of art and artifacts, including a marble statue of Christ and paintings by famous artists. Visitors can also tour the many chapels, including the Sacred Heart Chapel and the Nativity Chapel. The cathedral also has a crypt containing several famous people's remains, including Cardinal Joseph F. MacRory and Archbishop Thomas J. Walsh.

Ironbound District

The Ironbound District is the cultural and commercial heart of Newark. This vibrant neighborhood has various restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The Ironbound District is known for its diverse cuisine, with many Portuguese, Brazilian, and Spanish restaurants and some American eateries. The area is also home to many bars, nightclubs, and live music venues.

The Ironbound District has many attractions, including the Newark Riverfront Park and the Newark Museum of Art. The district also offers various shops, from vintage stores to specialty shops. Visitors can also participate in various activities in the district, such as walking tours, food tastings, and street festivals.

Getting around Newark

Driving is one of the most popular forms of transportation in Newark. I-95 and I-280 provide quick and easy access to the city and its suburbs. To get to Newark Liberty International Airport, take I-95 north to exit 14A. Parking is available at the airport and nearby, but it can be expensive.

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Newark Penn Station is located in downtown Newark and is the main hub for NJ Transit and Amtrak trains. NJ Transit services Newark Liberty International Airport and other cities and towns in New Jersey. Amtrak serves other cities and states, including Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

Newark is served by two major bus companies: NJ Transit and DeCamp. NJ Transit provides local, express, and long-distance bus service, while DeCamp operates buses to surrounding cities. Both companies offer discounted fares for seniors, students, and the disabled.

Newark has instituted a bike share program where people can rent a bike from one of the many rental locations throughout the city. The city also has a bike lane network that makes it easier and safer for cyclists to get around.

The History of Newark

The area that is now Newark, New Jersey, was first settled in 1666 when a group of Puritans from Connecticut established a trading post. The city was officially incorporated in 1693 and named after the English town of Newark on Trent. Newark quickly developed into a major port and shipping center, as well as a manufacturing center.

In the 19th century, Newark had a thriving Jewish community. The city was also known for its arts and cultural scene, with many theaters, museums, and other attractions. In the early 20th century, however, Newark experienced an industrial decline as industrial jobs moved away.

In 1967, civil unrest broke out in Newark when a long-standing racial conflict between African Americans and whites turned violent. The riots caused widespread destruction and left the city in chaos. Afterward, Newark experienced a period of revitalization with new businesses and development projects.

Today, Newark is a vibrant and diverse city. It has a thriving arts and culture scene with many museums, galleries, and theaters. There is also a thriving business sector with many companies in the city. Newark has several universities and colleges, including Rutgers University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

Newark fun facts

You probably didn't know these fun facts about Newark:

  • Newark is home to the world's largest Tibetan art collection outside Tibet.
  • Newark is the birthplace of poet, author, and playwright Amiri Baraka.
  • The New Jersey Devils hockey team was originally called the Newark Devils.

Your trip to Newark

Newark is served by NJ Transit buses, PATH trains, and Amtrak. This makes getting around the city convenient and easy. It's also a great way to explore Newark's many unique neighborhoods.

If you're looking for a great place to eat, you'll find it in Newark. The city has everything, from classic Italian restaurants to modern eateries. Don't forget to check out the food trucks for an even more unique experience.

There's something for everyone, from the Newark Museum to the Prudential Center to the Newark Public Library. Check out the city's calendar of events and take in the iconic skyline. Whether you're having a drink on the roof of the Prudential Center or admiring the nighttime skyline from Military Park, you'll fall in love with Newark!

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