A city in its own right, Newark sets itself away from the melting pot of NYC, thanks to its tranquil retreats and relaxing atmosphere. The Garden State’s largest urban area also includes a lively university and acts as the headquarters of educational and commercial organisations. But with your hire car from Newark International Airport, you'll be able to take in everything New Jersey and New York have to offer too.
A walk in the park
Although it's the largest city in New Jersey, you'll be able to find peace and quiet throughout Newark thanks to its beautiful parks. It’s refreshing to find one of the city's main attractions is Branch Brook Park, a huge area of greenspace. The old Victorian public area covers a massive 360 acres and contains more than 4,300 cherry trees, the largest collection in the US. It’s one of America’s largest urban parks and not surprisingly there’s a spectacular cherry blossom festival each April.
Alongside the park, look out for the Gothic Basilica of the Scared Heart. This impressive Roman Catholic Cathedral is one of the largest in the country and is home to one of the largest pipe organs too.
For those looking to try their hand at true American sports like baseball or basket, head to Independence Park, where'll you find a fantastic neighbourhood greenspace fit with great sporting facilities.
Cultural Newark
Newark offers a unique blend of historic attractions and modern day masterpieces, making it a great city to explore. A Victorian mansion, John Ballantine House, is a glorious antique-filled landmark set in gardens and demonstrates the wealth of this brewery-owning family. It even has its own 18th-century schoolhouse and is one the city's more popular attractions.
Into the modern day, the New Jersey Performing Arts Centre is the heart of the cultural life of the region. This world-class waterside venue has entertained more than nine million visitors since it opened. Try to get tickets for events and even if you can’t, the daytime behind-the-scenes guided tours are almost as entertaining. Nearby you’ll be able to appreciate the impressive collection at Newark Museum, a grand complex including 80 galleries, a zoo, and sculpture garden, all of which you can take in at your own pace.
NYC and beyond
Newark makes a convenient base to explore New York from - without the liveliness of the city that never sleeps. You can drive across the Hudson Bridge to explore NYC’s world-famous sights. Make the long climb up the stairs of the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center to witness breath-taking views across all of the Big Apple, or spend an afternoon soaking up the atmosphere of Times Square. Take a boat tour out onto the open waters and explore the history of Ellis Island, and get up close and personal with the biggest lady in NYC – the Statue of Liberty.
For a relaxing retreat, head right across to the east of New York in your hire car and visit the Hamptons. This coastline resort is the perfect hotspot to enjoy the sandy beaches and sunshine, as well as offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city centres of NYC and Newark.
