20 Cool Things To Do in Newark, New Jersey (That Might Surprise You)

Newark’s one of those cities that doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. For a lot of people, it’s just the place with the airport or a quick train stop before Manhattan. But spend a day—or even a weekend—here, and you’ll find a city packed with culture, food, music, and hidden beauty.

On my last trip, I wandered into world-class museums, ate my weight in Portuguese pastries, and caught a live show that gave me chills. Newark isn’t trying to be flashy—but it delivers.

Here are 20 cool things to do in Newark that will change the way you see this under-the-radar gem.

1. Wander the World Inside the Newark Museum of Art

Step into the Newark Museum of Art, and you’ll quickly forget you're just a few miles from Manhattan. This place isn’t just a regional museum—it’s an international time machine.

I spent hours here and barely scratched the surface. The Tibetan art collection is absolutely transportive, with ancient mandalas and ceremonial pieces that make you feel like you're inside a Himalayan monastery. Then there’s the African gallery, full of intricate carvings and masks that feel alive with story. And don’t skip the American galleries—there’s a rawness to the photography and paintings that speaks to both pride and pain in American identity.

Upstairs, the Dreyfuss Planetarium adds a family-friendly twist if you’re traveling with kids—or just want to escape into the stars for a bit.

Personal Note: The museum’s real strength lies in its ability to weave different global voices together without making it feel like a checklist. It’s curated thoughtfully, not just beautifully.

2. Unwind Along the Passaic at Riverfront Park

I wasn’t expecting Newark to have such a peaceful waterfront, but Riverfront Park surprised me. Sitting along the Passaic River, it offers a refreshing contrast to the downtown hustle. The walking paths stretch out along the water like a slow-moving escape route, where joggers pass dog walkers and families picnic on grassy banks.

One summer afternoon, I grabbed a sandwich from a local spot and lounged on a public sunbed while a DJ played Afrobeat near a small stage. Kids were running through splash pads, food vendors had set up near the edge of the boardwalk, and the energy was alive—but never overwhelming.

In the evening, the skyline reflects off the water as the sun dips low, and suddenly, Newark feels a lot like a city in love with itself—and its future.

3. Catch a Show at the NJ Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)

Newark’s cultural heartbeat lives at NJPAC, and once you step inside, you’ll understand why locals take serious pride in it. The space is elegant but never pretentious—it feels like a true gathering place. Whether you're into jazz, ballet, Broadway, or spoken word, there’s likely something on the calendar that will pull you in.

I caught a jazz performance here that left me speechless—the acoustics are so rich, you feel the music in your chest. What makes NJPAC special is that it features global talent and champions local voices, often in the same season.

The location makes it easy to grab dinner nearby and stroll in. There's just something about being part of an audience here—everyone’s invested. It’s a reminder that art still matters.

4. Cool Off with Old-School Gelato at Nasto’s

When a local tells you, “You have to try Nasto’s,” you listen. And you’ll be glad you did. Open since 1939, this family-owned ice cream shop in the Ironbound isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s just really, really good.

The spumoni is the stuff of legend, and the lemon Italian ice hits that perfect balance of sweet and tart. But what I loved most was the vibe. You’ll find kids fresh off a soccer game, grandparents catching up over cones, and couples sharing spoonfuls on the hood of their car.

Nasto’s isn’t just dessert—it’s Newark tradition, served cold.

5. Experience Bold, Thought-Provoking Art at Project for Empty Space

This isn’t your typical gallery. Project for Empty Space is a nonprofit art space that gives marginalized voices a platform—often tackling subjects that many institutions shy away from: race, gender, injustice, identity.

The exhibit I walked into was all about urban displacement. It was raw. One installation recreated a living room space filled with personal belongings of a displaced Newark family. It wasn’t just art—it was a gut punch.

This is where Newark shows you its edge. It’s not curated for comfort. It’s curated for change. And it’s worth every moment of reflection.

6. Trace the City’s Roots at the New Jersey Historical Society

History isn’t always sexy, but the NJ Historical Society makes it feel alive. Set in a stately downtown building, it explores Newark’s evolution—from its industrial roots to its role in civil rights movements to the immigrant communities that shaped its heartbeat.

I particularly loved the archive room, where you can flip through old photos, journals, and newspapers. You don’t just learn about Newark—you start to understand it.

If you can, time your visit with one of their neighborhood walking tours. The guides are passionate and full of stories you won’t find in a textbook.

7. Soak Up Serenity (and Sculpture) in Military Park

Military Park is one of those spaces where the past and present quietly coexist. Once a training ground during the Revolutionary War, it’s now a beloved downtown green space filled with flowers, benches, and art installations.

I grabbed a bench near the “Wars of America” sculpture—this massive piece by the same artist behind Mount Rushmore—and watched the lunch crowd ebb and flow. Nearby, a yoga class was happening, and a guy played jazz guitar under a tree.

It’s not big, but it’s beautifully human. The kind of park that welcomes you, whatever mood you’re in.

8. Get Lost in Cherry Blossoms at Branch Brook Park

If you think D.C. is the cherry blossom capital of the U.S., Newark has a surprise for you. Branch Brook Park actually boasts the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the country—over 5,000 of them. And in April, it’s an absolute wonderland.

I went during peak bloom, and the air was thick with petals. Kids were playing tag under pink trees, families posed for portraits, and couples rented tandem bikes to cruise the wide, curving trails.

Even without the blossoms, the park is stunning—lakes, stone bridges, meadows. It’s a photographer’s dream, but also a local escape from concrete and noise.

9. Step Inside a Gothic Masterpiece: The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Even if you’re not religious—or usually into churches—you need to see this one. The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is jaw-dropping. It’s one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in North America, and it genuinely looks like it was airlifted from France and dropped in New Jersey.

Walking up to it, the twin spires practically touch the clouds, and the stonework is a masterclass in craftsmanship. Inside, the stained-glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the pews, and the silence feels... sacred, no matter your beliefs.

I visited right after strolling through nearby Branch Brook Park, and the contrast between the nature outside and the spiritual stillness inside made the moment unforgettable.

10. Eat, Sip, and Soak Up the Vibe in the Ironbound District

Ironbound is Newark’s not-so-secret weapon—and honestly, one of the best food neighborhoods in the Northeast. It’s where Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian cultures collide into something absolutely delicious.

Ferry Street is the heartbeat. You’ll smell sizzling chorizo and grilled octopus before you even see the menus. I had dinner at Casa Vasca, where the seafood paella was packed with flavor and portioned like they wanted you to take some home. Then I wandered down to Teixeira Bakery for a flaky, warm pastel de nata and a strong espresso.

But Ironbound isn’t just about food—it’s about energy. It’s soccer matches playing in every café, grandmothers speaking Portuguese on the sidewalk, and local festivals that bring the streets alive with music and flags. It feels lived-in and loved, and you’ll want to stay longer than planned.

11. Dive into Contemporary Art at City Without Walls

Tucked inside an unassuming space, City Without Walls (or cWOW) is a contemporary art gallery that thrives on risk-taking. It’s known for uplifting emerging artists—especially those from underrepresented communities—and challenging the traditional gallery experience.

I stepped into an exhibit on “urban futures” that combined sculpture, video, and collage—and honestly, I felt a little out of my depth at first. But the staff encouraged questions, and once I slowed down and listened, I realized this space isn’t about “getting” the art. It’s about engaging with it.

Whether you’re into experimental visual storytelling or just want to see what the next generation of artists is thinking about, cWOW is worth the detour. It’s raw, fearless, and distinctly Newark.

12. Relish Classic Deli Flavors at Hobby’s Delicatessen and Restaurant

Hobby’s Delicatessen is the kind of place you wish existed in your own neighborhood: family-owned, unpretentious, and filled with the scent of brined meats and fresh rye bread.

The deli has been a Newark staple since 1962, and stepping inside feels like walking into a time capsule. The walls are lined with black-and-white photos, the waitstaff knows the regulars by name, and the corned beef sandwich? It’s a masterpiece—no frills, just flavor and heft.

During my visit, a man next to me ordered “the usual” and shared stories about coming here after Devils games in the ‘80s. You don’t just eat at Hobby’s. You join the tradition.

Pro Tip: It’s a great pre-show or pre-game stop if you’re heading to the Prudential Center nearby.

13. Experience the Thrill at Prudential Center

If Newark has a beating heart, the Prudential Center is one of its loudest thumps. This state-of-the-art arena is home to the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and hosts some of the biggest names in music and entertainment.

I saw a sold-out show here, and from the crowd energy to the lighting to the sound system—it felt like a Vegas-level production. The arena is clean, easy to navigate, and surrounded by bars and restaurants that make it perfect for a night out.

Whether you’re into hockey, hip-hop, or high-octane WWE matches, “The Rock” brings the excitement.

Insider Tip: If there’s a concert you want to catch, grab tickets early—they go fast.

14. Bask in the Euphony at Newark Symphony Hall

You can feel the history in the air at Newark Symphony Hall—and not just because it opened in 1925. This landmark venue has hosted legends like Sarah Vaughan and Dionne Warwick, but what really stands out is its mission to lift up Newark’s own talent.

The night I visited, a local gospel choir brought the house down, and the audience—diverse in age, race, and background—was fully present, singing along, tearing up, clapping between verses.

Unlike the flashier NJPAC, Symphony Hall is a little more worn in, but that’s its magic. It feels real. It’s not about spectacle—it’s about soul.

15. Stroll Through Weequahic Lake and Park

Tucked away in Newark’s South Ward, Weequahic Park offers a quieter, more local alternative to Branch Brook. Centered around one of the largest lakes in Essex County, it’s where early risers jog before work, kids fish with their grandparents, and pickup basketball games go late into the afternoon.

The trails loop around the lake, and if you time it right, you’ll catch golden-hour light bouncing off the water. It’s a park for the people—not designed for Instagram, but rich in everyday joy.

It also has a golf course and sports fields, but I was content just walking and watching life unfold. Sometimes, that’s all you need.

16. Sample Newark’s Spirit at All Points West Distillery

Nestled in a repurposed warehouse in the Ironbound, All Points West Distillery blends local grit with global inspiration. The name itself is a nod to Newark’s past as a shipping hub—and the drinks tell that story in their own way.

I signed up for a tasting and tour, and I’m glad I did. Their gin has these wild notes—juniper with a twist of hibiscus and pink peppercorn—that hit like a cocktail in a botanical garden. The staff were welcoming and clearly passionate about the craft, not just the buzz.

Even if you’re not a “spirits person,” the vibe here is fun and relaxed. Pair a tasting with dinner nearby and make a night of it.

17. Diner Dreams Come True at Tops

This place is legendary. Tops Diner has been feeding hungry crowds for decades, and it’s the kind of spot where “breakfast all day” really means all day. The menu? Massive. The portions? Ridiculous. The vibe? Unapologetically Jersey.

I ordered the lobster mac and cheese—rich, cheesy, generous with the seafood—and followed it with a milkshake because, why not? Around me, tables of families, late-shift nurses, and road-tripping friends were all digging in like they hadn’t eaten in days.

Just be prepared for a wait during peak times. Tops doesn’t take reservations, but no one minds waiting. Because once you sit down, you stay down.

18. Step into Sound at the GRAMMY Museum Experience

Tucked inside the Prudential Center, the GRAMMY Museum Experience is a bite-sized but fun dive into music history. You’ll find interactive exhibits where you can mix your own track, step into a virtual stage booth, or browse memorabilia from artists like Whitney Houston and Frank Sinatra—both Jersey icons.

It’s not a long stop, but it’s worth a visit if you’re a music nerd or traveling with teens. It’s surprisingly hands-on, and you’ll likely walk away humming something new.

19. Follow the Colors on a Mural Walk

Newark’s street art is loud, proud, and deeply personal. You’ll find murals tucked into alleyways, stretched across warehouses, and wrapped around corner stores—each one telling a piece of the city’s story.

I downloaded a self-guided tour map and spent a few hours walking through downtown and the Ironbound. Some murals honored Newark’s jazz legacy, others tackled social justice head-on. My favorite? A sprawling piece on Martin Luther King Jr. towering over a quiet side street.

This isn’t just decoration—it’s declaration. Newark’s past, present, and future, all in paint.

20. Connect with Newark’s Jewish Heritage at the Jewish Museum of New Jersey

Located inside New Jersey’s oldest functioning synagogue—Ahavas Sholom—this small museum offers an intimate look at the Jewish community’s long history in Newark.

Exhibits range from immigration stories to interfaith collaborations, and the space itself is beautiful—full of warmth, memory, and quiet reflection. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how cities are built: family by family, struggle by struggle, celebration by celebration.

Don’t expect flash here—expect heart. That’s what makes it worth your time.

Conclusion

Newark isn’t trying to impress you—it’s trying to be itself. And if you take the time to really see it, you’ll walk away impressed anyway.

It’s a city of contrasts: centuries-old cathedrals and bold new murals. Deli sandwiches and craft cocktails. Opera houses and skate parks. It's not polished everywhere, but it's authentic everywhere.

So if you're just passing through? Maybe stay a little longer next time. Newark has stories to tell—and they’re worth hearing.

Planning to visit the city? Karta has some amazing deals on Newark vacation rentals for you.

FAQ

1. How far is Newark, NJ, from New York City?

Newark is about 11 miles from Manhattan. By train, it’s a quick 20-minute ride on NJ Transit from Newark Penn Station to Penn Station in NYC.

2. What is Newark, NJ, known for?

Newark is known for its rich cultural history, including the Newark Museum of Art, Branch Brook Park (famous for cherry blossoms), and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC).

3. Is Newark, NJ, worth visiting?

Yes! Newark offers a vibrant mix of arts, history, and culinary experiences, especially in the Ironbound District, famous for Portuguese and Brazilian food.

4. What is the best time to visit Newark, NJ?

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal times, with mild weather and events like the Branch Brook Park cherry blossoms.

5. How safe is Newark, NJ, for tourists?

Popular areas like Downtown and the Ironbound District are generally safe. As with any city, staying aware of your surroundings is recommended.

6. What transportation options are available in Newark, NJ?

Newark is well-connected by Newark Liberty International Airport, NJ Transit trains, and PATH trains for easy access to NYC, plus buses and light rail for local travel.

7. What are the top things to do in Newark, NJ?

Top activities include the Newark Museum of Art, Branch Brook Park, NJPAC, exploring the Ironbound District’s dining, and catching a game at the Prudential Center.

8. Where can I stay in Newark, NJ?

Downtown Newark offers a range of hotels, from DoubleTree by Hilton to boutique options, plus Newark Liberty Airport hotels for convenience to both Newark and NYC.

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