Image via Flickr by shinya
Most of you know of Newark, New Jersey, as a mere stopover point on your travels to or from New York City.
But did you know that Newark also holds travel treasures in the form of a great museum, a magnificent cathedral, scenic parks, and top-notch restaurants?
Whilst Newark has tonnes of activities and sights on offer for travelers, these are our top three recommendations for a quick weekend getaway to this interesting city.
Newark Museum
Image via Flickr by Amanda Landers
The Newark Museum is the largest museum in New Jersey.
A day alone won't be enough to browse through the 80 galleries of art and natural science exhibits. There are exhibits for those who love ancient art, contemporary art, and decorative art.
It is, however, the Tibetan Gallery that draws the largest number of visitors. Not only does it hold the largest exhibit of Tibetan art in the Western Hemisphere, but it also has a Buddhist altar that the Dalai Lama himself ordained.
The museum is located on Washington Street in Newark's Downtown Arts District.
Recommended Newark accommodations near the museum include the Best Western Plus Robert Treat Hotel and the Hampton Inn & Suites Newark-Harrison-Riverwalk.
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Image via Flickr by Pilgrim Fatima
The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a truly sensational French Gothic Revival Cathedral. It happens to be the fifth largest cathedral in North America. Construction of the cathedral began way back in 1898 and took 29 years to complete.
When you visit the cathedral to witness the stunning architecture, together with its 71-meter towers, you'll understand how much detail and love has gone into this basilica.
The Cathedral is located on the edge of scenic Branch Brook Park. For affordable accommodation options near the cathedral, look no further than the Comfort Suites Newark.
Branch Brook Park
Image via Flickr by Joshua Sinsical Photography
Branch Brook Park is one of Newark's most scenic natural parks.
Schedule a morning to enjoy a picnic on the park grounds. Have a stroll and explore the beautiful, winding pathways that weave their way over bridges and streams and around the lake.
Make sure you visit this park during April, when you'll be able to witness more than 4,000 cherry trees in bloom. The park is home to over 14 different species of cherry trees, and it holds the largest collection of cherry trees in the United States.
For an affordable accommodation option in this area, look at basing yourself at the Comfort Suites Newark. For a beautiful mid-range option, try the Courtyard Newark Downtown.
This is just a sampling of what to do in Newark.
For other great ideas for your Newark itinerary, watch a show at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center or enjoy a sunset stroll along the city's Riverfront Park. You can also indulge in delicious multicultural cuisine in the Ironbound neighborhood, or browse the statues at the Military Park.
Tip: If you are driving around Newark in a rental car, please do not forget to get a good insurance cover. You can check out Bonzah, which is a great company and comes highly recommended!
Nice Article with great image. Thanks for Sharing.
Branch Brook Park is a well known park famous for its cherry trees. This park has 4,300 cherry trees which were imported from Japan. I agree that, there are many more things that you will love about Newark, New jersey.