Newark, New Jersey, offers a lot to its visitors! For the best travel experience in Newark, New Jersey, check out our curated list of things to do in Newark, New Jersey and the best places to visit in Newark, New Jersey below. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter has big plans to shake things up in the field.
Table Of Content
- Branch Brook Park
- Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant
- Ironbound
- Manu’s Kitchen Bar & Sushi Lounge
- Military Park
- Mompou Tapas Wine Bar and Lounge
- Nasto’s
- Penn Station
- Historical Society
- Performing Arts Center
- Symphony Orchestra
- Museum of Art
- Nico Kitchen and Bar
- PortuCale Restaurant
- Priory Restaurant and Jazz Club
- Prudential Center
- Riverfront Park
- Thomas Edison National Historical Park
- Vonda’s Kitchen
- Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Branch Brook Park
Are you looking for an outdoor spot to explore besides Military Park?
The Branch Brook Park has a 359-acre land space that is well-known for having an abundance of cherry blossoms!
Its vastness is not what brings hikers and nature enthusiasts here, but the cherry blossom trees.
With more than 14 different kinds of flowering trees and more than 4,000 different kinds of trees, it has more pink and white blossoms than even Tokyo.
Bring a blanket and have a picnic on the lawn beside the fountain during your stay, or try to attend the Cherry Blossom Festival.
If the weather is great, as it usually is in the spring and summer, this is one of the nicest things to do in Newark.
This park is a must-see to see the beautiful cherry blossom trees and bathe the entire park in the cutest pink hue!
Address: Park Avenue and Lake Street, Newark, NJ 07104.
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one of the best places to visit in New Jersey.
When it comes to architecture, the Cathedral Basilica of the Holy Heart is an excellent place to visit.
Even if you don’t believe in God, you may appreciate the beauty of this church’s complex design and construction.
It took 55 years from the time the foundation stone was laid in 1899 until it was completed and dedicated in 1954.
Many people attend concerts in addition to religious services, such as Catholic Masses.
Aside from the cherry blossoms, the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark’s Branch Brook Park is the most interesting thing about the park.
This gigantic structure is known as a basilica and is the country’s largest church.
You can come here to relax, look at the 71-meter-tall towers and the mix of European architectural styles that moved across the Atlantic at the start of the 20th century, or just listen to some relaxing chamber music.
Address: 89 Ridge Street, Newark, NJ 07104, USA
Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant
Smell, see, and enjoy Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant, which can be found among the streets of suburban South Orange!
It serves rib-eye steaks and pizza, double-cooked chips, shared nachos, quesadillas, Tex-Mex, and traditional shrimp and grits.
The beer, without a doubt, takes center stage.
Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant was launched in 2009 in South Orange, New Jersey.
It is a family-run business that produces unique beers using only the best ingredients and time-honored brewing methods.
Food is produced from scratch on the premises using only the freshest ingredients.
All sweets and pieces of bread are made in this full-service pastry shop.
There are robust mainstays like the Bison Brown Ale, which is brewed in the manner of English country brews, or the Big Dog Porter.
It has a coffee-bean edge and Canadian malts, not to mention the easy-going Pin-Head Pilsners prepared in the style of the Czech Republic’s ancient Bohemian concoctions.
And that’s only to name a few! So visit Gaslight Brewery & Restaurant now.
Address: 15 S Orange Ave, South Orange, NJ 07079
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Ironbound
In the blink of an eye, a trip along Ferry Street in the Ironbound District will take you across the ocean.
The multi-ethnic working-class populates Newark’s Ironbound area, which spans four square miles.
Even though Ironbound is a residential area, it has more than 100 food shacks and hole-in-the-wall restaurants that serve Spanish, Asian, European, Cuban, and Cajun food.
In Newark, you may receive a genuine Old World experience for the price of gas and tolls or a bus or train ticket.
Some call it “Little Portugal,” while others call it “Miniature Spain.”
Visitors come for the Argentine empanadas and sizzling paella. Additionally, gaucho steaks and spicy chorizo from Madrid are also popular.
The area is a multi-ethnic, close-knit working-class community with several stores and more than 170 eateries.
Explore the clothing and jewelry on display at local businesses!
Gather your companions because it’s time to go to Ironbound!
Address: 1 New York Avenue, Newark, NJ 07105.
Manu’s Kitchen Bar & Sushi Lounge
Manu’s Kitchen Bar & Sushi Lounge, located in Newark’s lively Ironbound area, is a great dining establishment that is a must-try.
Manu’s was started by someone who has always loved good food and good architecture. It is in the historic Ironbound neighborhood.
It carefully combines traditional Mediterranean dishes with a Japanese foundation.
The end result is a distinct selection of seductive foods that will meet your appetite.
It offers sidewalk tables outside the restaurant if you wish to eat alfresco.
The Portuguese chorizo and Mediterranean sushi fusion are must-order items on the menu.
In its attractive and quiet two-level dining space, the restaurant serves Italian and Japanese delicacies.
Imported sake, wines, and beer will enhance the flavors of your cuisine.
Manu’s is a unique combination of a sushi lounge and a tapas bar.
It is a well-balanced city with a diversified multi-ethnic culture that you will experience via its neighborhoods, arts, and cuisine.
This is one of the top restaurants in Newark if you’re looking for a unique dining experience.
Address: Newark, NJ 07105, USA 90 Ferry St
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Military Park
Visit Military Park as soon as possible! A lively park with family-friendly activities.
It’s conveniently located in the heart of downtown Newark, only steps from a prominent attraction like the New Jersey Historical Society.
During the American Civil War, the site was utilized for training Union soldiers before becoming the town’s primary common.
Recent renovations have added a café and additional paths, but the massive Wars of America structure by Gutzon Borglum of Mount Rushmore fame remains the focal point.
This triangular-shaped, 6-acre park is more than just a pretty sight; it is frequently the location of events and activities for people of all ages.
The Military Park is divided into areas for various purposes.
There are several areas to sit back, relax, and take in the scenery.
Newark’s Military Park is Newark’s most historic and well-preserved urban green area that you must see.
Address: 51 Park Place, Newark, NJ 07102
Mompou Tapas Wine Bar and Lounge
Mompou Tapas Wine Bar and Lounge is fashionable and contemporary, and it’s packed even on weeknights. It’s a terrific spot to get authentic Spanish tapas!
Inspired by the creative and energetic essence of Spain’s tapas culture, strives to introduce guests to the beauty and vibrant homeland through a combination of modern interpretations of traditional and innovative cocktails, Spanish cuisine, and small wine selections.
This is matched by the emphasis on exceptional service and guests’ entire experience.
The atmosphere was fantastic, with a warm and friendly sense.
Since 2005, Mompou Tapas Wine Bar and Lounge has changed the way people eat in Newark’s historic Ironbound District.
There are eight beers on tap from the top microbreweries, 30 different types of bottled beer, and 100 different types of wine, including some extremely outstanding vintages from Spain.
The sangria is also excellent. Live music is available every night!
Address: 77 Ferry Street, Newark, NJ 07105, USA
Nasto’s
Have you had a horrible day? Relax and enjoy an amazing and unique ice cream at Nasto’s in Newark!
People may stand outdoors and see their ice cream being prepared.
They used the original, authentic recipes from Frank Sr Homes town of Nocera, Italy, to make Spumoni and Bisque Tortoni, two specialties from Italy.
Nasto’s “Old World Desserts,” a maker of quality ice cream and frozen dessert delicacies, started small.
Nasto’s Ice Cream was founded in 1939 by the late Frank Sr. and Angelina as a mom-and-pop neighborhood shop.
Kids with wide eyes queue up to see the gelato being produced.
People now come to Nasto’s for his sumptuous Tiramisu, Reginetta, Tortoni, Spumoni, Tartufo, and other sorbets, ice creams, and gelatos.
There are even some sidewalk tables.
If you’re wondering about the “Mediterranean-sushi fusion,” try the Portuguese chorizo drenched now!
Address: 236-40 Jefferson Street, Newark, NJ
Penn Station
Many bus and rail routes converge here at Newark Penn Station, making it easy to go throughout the area and even spend a day in New York City!
As a transportation hub, Newark’s Penn Station is sometimes overlooked, yet it is an important part of the city’s cultural landscape.
The waiting area is a study in Art Deco exuberance, with brilliant terrazzo flooring, carved wall medallions, metalwork, and blazing chandeliers painted with Zodiac signs.
The state of New Jersey and Nj Transit is working on a five-year, $190 million rehabilitation and upgrade project to return Newark Penn Station to its full splendor as the hub of the region’s transportation network.
To see the sights, you can also take the train to Jersey City or Hoboken.
Address: 1 Raymond Plaza West & Market Street, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
Historical Society
The New Jersey Historical Society honors all aspects of New Jersey’s history. Here you may learn about the history of Newark and New Jersey as a whole!
One educational display is about New Jersey’s part in World Wars I and II, while another is about the New Jersey river system.
During the American Civil War, the site was utilized for training Union soldiers before becoming the town’s primary common.
Recent renovations have added a café and additional paths, but the massive Wars of America structure by Gutzon Borglum of Mount Rushmore fame remains the focal point.
Past aficionados who wish to learn more about Garden State’s rich history should definitely stop by.
The society, which has been around since 1845, gives walking tours of Newark and puts out the academic journal New Jersey History.
For students interested in learning how to use society’s collections, interactive tutorials are provided here in Historical Society.
Address: Newark, New Jersey, 52 Park Place
Performing Arts Center
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center is a terrific spot to visit if you’re seeking romantic date night ideas in Newark.
The center has played an important part in Newark’s development.
It has been one of the largest and busiest places for performing arts in the country for almost 20 years.
The institution showcases everything from stand-up comedians to jazz jam sessions, R&B shows, and classical ensembles, drawing huge crowds from both New York and the greater Garden State.
It also holds events such as the regular jazz festival, stand-up comedy concerts, jazz sessions, R&B gigs, and classical ensembles, which all draw large crowds from the surrounding New York region and the broader Garden State area.
One of New Jersey’s finest performing arts facilities for more than two decades has been the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark, which you must see if you’re in Newark.
Address: 1 Center Street, Newark, NJ 07102
Symphony Orchestra
This particular place in New Jersey is well-known across the country!
Since the 1920s, Newark Symphony Hall has been a part of New Jersey’s arts and entertainment scene.
Since its inception in 1922, the ensemble has performed all around the world.
For many years, it was known as the Mosque Theater.
Moreover, there are regular performers at the center and six other places in New Jersey.
The Symphony is the resident orchestra of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
It plays in six places in New Jersey, such as Princeton University and the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood.
To see one of their amazing live shows, go to the administrative office for bookings.
The New Jersey Symphony Orchestra Academy is another educational initiative that provides kids with the opportunity to flourish musically via collaborations between schools and the orchestra.
Address: Newark, New Jersey, Military Park Building, 60 Park Place
Museum of Art
The Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in New Jersey.
The Newark Museum of Art is underappreciated as a fantastic site to visit — it’s one of the top things to do in Newark and New Jersey’s largest museum.
The museum’s displays have changed and expanded throughout the years, and it now houses a broad art collection from all around the world.
The Newark Museum’s collection of Buddhist treasures is regarded as one of the world’s most excellent Sino-Tibetan displays.
There are over 5,000 relics, including an altarpiece blessed by the Dalai Lama himself.
The Newark Museum, founded in 1909, is New Jersey’s biggest museum, with various world art and natural science exhibits.
It has a Buddhist altar blessed by the Dalai Lama in its Tibetan galleries, and its Tibetan collection is thought to be one of the best in the world.
If you enjoy art and natural sciences, this museum is for you.
Address: Newark, New Jersey, 49 Washington Street
Nico Kitchen and Bar
Whatever your mood is, you’re in the mood for Nico!
The Nico Kitchen and Bar is one of Newark’s most renowned restaurants inside the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.
It can accommodate around 200 people, with a capacity of more than 60 at its bar.
The restaurant is frequently full-on performance evenings.
It is a classy establishment with spacious, private rooms.
The dining area appears more significant due to the high ceiling. Yet, the soft earthy color palette and comfy chairs make it feel cozy.
The restaurant retained its beautiful and friendly dining experience.
High-end Italian shared meals, drinks, and wine are served at this sleek, high-ceilinged bar and cafe.
Enjoy your crave-worthy American food for lunch, dinner, or happy hour in a unique indoor dining area in Nico Kitchen and Bar!
Address: Newark, NJ 07102, USA, One Center Street
PortuCale Restaurant
Bring your loved ones to a restaurant that will transport them to a different era and place in history!
It is a traditional Portuguese restaurant that serves new dishes that are inspired by traditional Portuguese food.
A lot of popular components include onion, garlic, olive oil, tomatoes, and wine.
Portuguese cuisine is enhanced by its concentration on seafood and the usage of products from Portugal’s former colonies across the world.
The Mediterranean diet is exemplified by Portuguese food.
Many famous meals incorporate rice from the Orient, fiery peppers from Africa, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger from India, and New World items like potatoes, tomatoes, and fish from Newfoundland.
During happy hour, unique bar snacks such as flamed Portuguese sausage, crab meat-stuffed mussels, and codfish pastries are served.
PortuCale Restaurant & Bar is a Portuguese restaurant in Newark, New Jersey, that serves delicious food and great banquet services in a real Mediterranean setting.
Address: 129 Elm Street, Newark, NJ 07105.
Priory Restaurant and Jazz Club
Visit this relaxed hangout with casual meals, a small menu, some decent jazz, with a full bar!
The Priory Jazz Series takes place within St. Joseph’s Plaza.
The Priory Restaurant and Jazz Club owned and run by New Community Corporation and housed in a reconstructed church.
Moreover, it intends to provide training and employment for NCC residents and graduates, all while keeping Newark’s jazz traditions alive and producing cash to maintain the CDC.
The Priory is known for more than just being a restaurant in an old church. It is also known for its jazz music.
It has a catering service in addition to its restaurant, which specializes in Creole and Cajun food.
Every Friday night, crowds gather for musical performances and parties.
The Priory Restaurant and Jazz Club provide a tranquil environment because of their unique religious architecture and beautiful glass windows.
Address: 58 Park Place, Newark, NJ 07102
Prudential Center
The Prudential Center is one of the top attractions in New Jersey.
Another major tourist attraction in Newark is the Prudential Center.
This big arena, like the NJPAC, hosts a variety of events, mostly athletic events and concerts.
The Prudential Center is a big indoor arena that can be used for many different things.
It is on Lafayette Street in the heart of Newark’s business district.
The center, which opened in 2007, routinely seats over 17,000 people for hockey games and over 18,000 people for basketball games.
It has already hosted several sporting events since its inception in 2007, including the National Hockey League showcasing the home team, the New Jersey Devils, and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Seton Hall Pirates.
Also, if you have children, Disney on Ice is performing during your stay.
The center has been an important part of downtown Newark’s comeback with near public transportation.
Seeing a New Jersey Devils game at the Prudential Center is somewhat of a rite of passage for every first-time visitor to the Garden State.
Address: 25 Lafayette Street, Newark, NJ 07102
Riverfront Park
The city’s Riverfront Park, which adheres to the Passaic River, meanders as it bends and turns through the districts of downtown Newark.
Riverfront Park may possibly be the best site in town for watching sunsets and seeing the city lights come on after nightfall.
A strange mix of art pieces and renovations is taking place as part of urban revitalization in the area.
Brill Street upon this Passaic Water’s southern edge links the Ironbound area of Newark to the riverfront.
Newark Riverfront Nature reserve is a favorite place for residents and visitors alike.
It is also the only park of its sort in Newark with a beachfront.
Most of Newark’s summer festivals and community events take place in Riverfront Park.
The park’s entrance is located on Somme Street.
Skateboarders and rollerbladers join runners and bikers in cruising to Ironbound’s special blend of world music, reflecting the varied ethnic influences of the surrounding region.
Pay a visit to Riverfront Park if you’re in Newark!
Address: 727 Raymond Blvd, Newark, NJ 07105
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
This place is a national historical landmark because it is dedicated to preserving the life, times, and works of Thomas Edison, who was one of the most inventive and creative people in the United States.
The house and laboratory of Thomas Edison are a trip back in time when machinery was powered by belts and pulleys and music was played on phonographs.
At West Orange Industrial Park in West Orange, about a minute from downtown Newark, the great man first tested audio recording and new models of phonographs, batteries, and even microfilm cameras.
The Edison laboratory was in operation for about 40 years.
Approximately half of Edison’s 1,093 patents were based on studies carried out at his laboratory here.
The motion picture camera, better phonographs, sound records, silent and sound movies, and the nickel-iron alkaline electric storage battery came from the West Orange laboratory.
This is a great spot for taking pictures, and you can also find out more about the local history here.
Address: 211 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052, USA.
Vonda’s Kitchen
Are you not in the mood to cook? Taste Newark’s greatest pizza!
The ever-popular Mercato Tomato Pie may be found in Newark.
The best eateries in Newark serve more than just pizza.
For a treat, try some of the finest local cuisines.
Take in the views of the gigantic 225-square-foot handcrafted brick oven that takes center stage in the dining area, whether you’re there for lunch or supper.
Each recipe is made with farm-fresh ingredients, cheese made from scratch, and carefully chosen sausage and pepperoni to give every bite the most flavor possible.
See what all the hype is about with Margherita Pizza!
This neighborhood institution has built an exceptional reputation over the years.
Overall, their menu also includes salads and pasta, but the star of the show is unquestionably the pizza.
Make sure you get something to drink with your meal. The bar is well-stocked and offers a decent selection of drinks and beers on tap!
Address: 212 Market St., Newark, NJ
Volunteer At Animal Shelters
Consider helping out at a local animal shelter. Uncontrolled breeding and irresponsible pet owners have resulted in a significant pet overpopulation problem. To reduce the number of stray, homeless dogs and cats, extreme measures such as culling must be implemented. Animal shelters are required to address the issues generated by an excess of abandoned pets.
Not only will you be helping others by volunteering with animals, but research has shown that spending time with pets has significant health benefits for people. Petting a cat or dog not only relieves stress and anxiety but has also been shown to lower blood pressure.
Volunteer opportunities include: dog walking at shelters, fostering cats for rescue groups, office work for a good cause, fundraising and event planning for local animal charities, and participating in community events to raise awareness about animal care.
Learn more about the animal shelters in Newark, New Jersey, where you can dedicate your time. Donate to an animal shelter.
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