Newark lies between the Passaic River and the Watchung Mountains in New Jersey and dates back to 1666 when it was founded by Puritans from the New Haven Colony. It is the third-oldest city in the United States and a major transport hub with important road, rail, air and sea links. Although just a few miles from New York, Newark has its own character. It is the state's cultural centre with a wide programme of arts and entertainment throughout the year as well as a world-class museum.
Beer brewing has always been an important part of the city's economy and two of its most impressive buildings, the Ballantine House and the Feigenspan Mansion, were built by brewing families. Today, the city is a vibrant mix of old and new with a skyline that evolves constantly. In recent years it has become increasingly residential, serving as a commuter hub for New York. Former office buildings and warehouses have not only been turned into housing but arts and exhibition centres, restaurants and museums. These give Newark a vibrant cultural buzz that attracts both residents and visitors.
Newark has five districts each with its own attractions. Central Ward is the historic heart while the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is in North Ward. South Ward is full of architectural delights while East Ward (Ironbound) is a foodie destination full of old-world charm. West-Ward is a multicultural district with plenty of outdoor activities.
Newark Museum: This museum brings together art and science and is housed in a brick and limestone mansion once belonging to the Ballantine family. Inside are 80 galleries containing the west's largest collection of Tibetan art as well as exhibits of contemporary American and Asian art and a planetarium.
Branch Brook Park: Designed in 1900 by the famous landscaper Frederick Law Olmstead, Branch Brook Park is a beautiful delight. Try and visit in spring for the cherry blossom. There are over 4,000 cherry trees, the largest collection in America! The park hosts live concerts, an arts and crafts market and children's activities.
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart: Inspired by Reims Cathedral in France, the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is a beautiful building in the French-Gothic style. Its floor plan is enormous while its towers are taller than those of Westminster Abbey in London and Notre Dame in Paris. Inside are impressive rose windows, vaulted ceilings, wood and marble details and chandeliers made from crystal, bronze and silver.
Not only do the cherry trees of Newark blossom, so does its calendar of annual events. Dip into dance and music theatre as well as poetry, heritage and gospel festivals.
African American Heritage Festival: A carnival atmosphere comes to town in spring. This festival celebrates African American heritage with carnival parades, balloon flights. live entertainment and a huge market of food and craft products. The parade goes through central Newark to finish in Weequahic Park where most of the events take place.
Lincoln Park Music Festival: Created to help redevelop the Lincoln Park area, this summer festival held in July has become an annual event. It sees people coming from around the world to enjoy gospel, jazz, rhythm and blues, hip music and more. Its the region's largest free outdoor festival.
Geraldine Dodge Poetry Festival: For four days in October, the Downtown Arts District is transformed into a poetry village. Over 60 of America's and the world's most celebrated and diverse poets gather to take part in readings, Q&As, workshops and more held on the event's ten stages.
The best advice when packing for a visit to Newark is to go prepared for any weather. While the summer can be hot with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) there is always a chance of showers as New Jersey gets a higher annual rainfall than the country's average. Temperatures can drop below freezing in the winter and there's a high chance of snowfall. The currency in Newark is the US dollar ($) and as is usual in the States, tipping for services is expected. In bars and taxis tip 15% of your bill and for good service in restaurants up to 25% of your bill. As in any large city in America, stay safe by being aware of your belongings and surroundings especially after dark. If you do have problems, the number for emergency services is 911.
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This vibrant city has a unique appeal of its own, from spectacular museums and historical attractions, to successful regeneration projects, fine food and - most importantly - superb hotels.
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From Canada you have the options to fly from Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver to Newark.
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