The east coast of the US consists of a string of exciting cities and cool coastal resorts facing out onto the wild Atlantic. With Newark Airport as your base, you can easily see the landmarks of New York and New Jersey, or relax in Newark itself, with its superb parks, million-acre nature reserve and coastlines.
Newark’s cultural heart
If you’re spending time in Newark, you’ll find a vibrant city with a collection of wonderful parks and intriguing museums. Chief among the former is Branch Brook Park, with its ponds and lakes, bridges and lawns. It’s famed for its cherry trees - the largest concentration in the country – with the stunning cherry blossom displays every spring.
You can lose a whole day inside Newark Museum, with its huge collection spanning numerous countries – there’s a particularly good range of Tibetan art. The same site also boasts a sculpture garden, zoo and more. Head to Washington Street for another part of it, the John Ballantine House. This US National Historic Landmark was built in 1885, and is an elegant residence that’s open to the public.
Take a bite of the Big Apple
Newark is an ideal base for a visit to New York – hotel prices are notably cheaper in New Jersey than in Manhattan. You can dip in and out at your leisure with car rental.
Tick off all the main sites – Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, Central Park, Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, Macys – but delve deeper to unlock the true magic of this unforgettable city.
In good weather, walk the High Line then head to the boating lake at Central Park, surrounded by the dramatic skyline as you gently scull through the water. Look for the whispering galleries below Grand Central Station – they’re close to the huge and beautiful oyster bar.
Book well ahead for Broadway tickets, or catch a show at Radio City. There’s so much to do in New York you’ll be planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
Dining out in Newark
While New York dining is all about the shock of the new – a city that acts as a testing ground for the latest trends and flavors – restaurants in Newark have some surprises in store for your taste buds too.
The grand daddy of Newark eateries is Iberia Tavern on Ferry Street. They’ve been serving up the cuisine of the Iberian Peninsula – Spain and Portugal – since 1926. Classics include pork with clams, paella and superb seafood.
For something more modern, Nico Kitchen & Bar in the Performing Arts Center has established itself as a key contender. Send your senses into overdrive with refreshing ceviche, comforting spicy cheddar fries with bacon and sour cream, or swordfish with autumn squash and persillade. It’s an ideal place to graze if you’re taking in a show at this esteemed venue.
Explore the tri-state area at your own pace in rental car today.