Looking for the best things to do in Newark? New Jersey’s largest city is a cultural and dining hub with easy transit access. Locals point to the world-class NJPAC, the Newark Museum of Art, the famous food of the Ironbound, cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park, and events at the Prudential Center.
Things to do in Newark, by area
Downtown & the Arts
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), the Newark Museum of Art (New Jersey’s largest), Military Park, and Newark Symphony Hall.
The Ironbound
One of the region’s great food destinations — Portuguese, Brazilian and Spanish restaurants, bakeries and markets along Ferry Street.
Branch Brook Park
Home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the U.S. — a spectacular spring bloom, and a lovely park year-round.
Prudential Center
The “Rock” hosts the NJ Devils, concerts and events downtown.
Things to do in Newark at night
Catch a show at NJPAC or a concert at the Prudential Center, then dinner and drinks in the Ironbound — the city’s liveliest nighttime dining scene.
Free things to do in Newark
- Branch Brook Park (cherry blossoms in spring)
- Military Park downtown
- Strolling the Ironbound
What Newark locals actually recommend
Which Ironbound restaurants are worth it, the best time for the cherry blossoms, what’s on downtown — that comes from people who live here. On Neighborhood Nurturers’ Newark community, real Newark neighbors answer “what should I actually do this weekend?” Join your Newark neighbors free →
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Newark?
See a show at NJPAC, visit the Newark Museum of Art, eat your way through the Ironbound’s Portuguese and Brazilian restaurants, catch cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park in spring, and see a game or concert at the Prudential Center.
What is the Ironbound in Newark known for?
Its food — a dense, walkable district of Portuguese, Brazilian and Spanish restaurants, bakeries and markets, considered one of the best dining destinations in the region.
What are free things to do in Newark?
Branch Brook Park (famous for its spring cherry blossoms), Military Park downtown, and strolling the Ironbound are all free.
Is Newark worth visiting?
Yes — for NJPAC, the Newark Museum of Art, the Ironbound’s food scene, and Branch Brook Park’s cherry blossoms, all with easy transit access.