Newark Liberty International Airport, also known as Newark Airport is one of three international airports that serve New York City. It is located near Midtown Manhattan and between New Jersey cities of Newark and Elizabeth.
You can easily explore several interesting attractions in NYC or stay across the river in New Jersey and check out some of the sights there. Whatever you do, do not stay cooped up in the airport waiting for your connecting flight, there is too much to see!
Grab a cab and get ready to take a look around. Before hitting the streets for some sightseeing, find a luggage storage service in Newark Airport and leave your bags to move through the city unencumbered. The busy streets can be crowded enough without having to lug your bags with you.
New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Being one of the largest performing arts centers in the U.S. has its advantages, especially when it comes to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Tourists love to drop by for one of the behind-the-scenes tours during layovers at Newark Airport.
If you have a long layover, maybe you even have time to take in a performance at the center. Various live performances are held throughout the year, ranging from musical concerts to stand-up comedy and even dance recitals.
You may even be lucky enough to be passing through Newark Airport during one of the annual festivals the center holds, such as the TD James Moody Democracy of Jazz in November or the Sounds of the City held during the summer.
Newark Museum
Spend some time in the biggest museum in New Jersey; the Newark Museum is home to large collections of Tibetan artifacts and artwork as well as American art, Asian, African, and South American art pieces.
This eclectic museum is the perfect place to lose yourself in art from around the globe ranging from ancient pieces to more modern realism. The Buddhist collection is one of the most expansive in the world and should definitely not be missed.
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
When you are near Newark Airport, you have to take the time to visit North America’s fifth-largest cathedral. The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is the seat of the Newark Roman Catholic Archdiocese.
Construction began in 1898 and it took 29 years to fully complete the cathedral. Today, visitors can come to listen to chamber music while taking in the majesty of the building with its towers that stand 230 feet tall.
Military Park
This interesting city park covers six acres and is laid out almost in a triangular shape. It was developed during the colonial era and is still a popular destination for locals and visitors. Military Park sits between Broad Street, Park Place, and Rector Street.
The park is just steps from the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and is one of the oldest city parks in New Jersey. This expansive outdoor space was once used as a training ground for Union Soldiers during the Civil War.
Take a stroll along the paths to learn more about the history of the park. Don’t miss the bronze busts of President John F. Kennedy. You will also want to visit the Wars of America monument created by Gutzon Borglum.
Essex County Riverfront Park
If the timing works, enjoy the beauty of the sunset when you visit Essex County Riverfront Park. This 12-acre park follows the Passaic River and offers fantastic views of the city lights when the sun goes down.
If your visit is earlier in the day, bring a picnic. There are plenty of shady spots! Or meander along the walkways that lead along the river. Sit and watch your kids play on one of the playgrounds or relax in the sun and soak up some warmth before heading back to the airport.
The Priory
Located in the University Heights neighborhood, The Priory actually adjoins Saint Joseph’s Church and is a legendary Jazz club you do not want to miss. Most of the artists that play here have a strong jazz background with a bit of Gospel tossed in.
Visit on a Friday night when things are really hopping for fantastic live music and a vibrant party atmosphere. Or visit on a Sunday afternoon for lunch, or brunch, for fragrant, traditional Creole cuisine.
Thomas Edison National Historical Park
If you have ever wondered about the inner workings of the mind of Thomas Edison, visit his laboratory and home in West Orange New Jersey. The home and lab were designed by architect Henry Hudson Holly in 1887.
Both are now part of the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, a protected national landmark that has preserved the life and works of Thomas Edison, one of the most famous American inventors.
Edison Laboratories is where the first audio recording was tested and where the newest phonograph models and film cameras were assembled for almost four decades during the 19th century.
Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant
This old-time delicatessen has been in business since 1962 and is a staple in Newark. Stop by Hobby’s Delicatessen & Restaurant for their famous corned beef which is homemade and has been hand-cured and pickled right there at the delicatessen.
While it is a traditional Jewish Deli, it has so much more, including Eastern European and Italian dishes as well as hearty American fare. Where else can you get a Cajun burger and a German frankfurter or even a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Newark Airport is a major hub, being one of only three international airports that service the New York City area. You can expect long layovers or delays when you land at Newark Airport but that should not get you down. Instead, take the time to explore!
Newark holds a treasure trove of places to see, eat, and shop. You do not want to miss seeing some interesting landmarks or enjoying delicious food while you are waiting for your flight to take off. Grab a bite to eat in the neighborhood and start exploring.
