Newark in 5: Budget-Friendly Fun and Adventure!

Newark on a dime: explore the city without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

If you're on a limited budget, Newark can still offer plenty to see and do. Start with a visit to the Newark Museum and its impressive collections of art and artifacts. Then wander through the Ironbound neighborhood, known for its Portuguese and Spanish cuisine, and finish off the day with a stroll through Branch Brook Park to admire its cherry blossom trees.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Downtown Newark

Check into the TRYP by Wyndham Newark Downtown hotel
Take a walking tour of the historic downtown district
Visit the New Jersey Performing Arts Center for a show or concert
Enjoy a meal at the popular local spot, McGovern's Tavern
End the day with a drink at The Ironbound Hard Cider taproom

Day 2

Glimpses of Art and Nature

Start the day at the Newark Museum, with an impressive range of art and science exhibits
Head over to Branch Brook Park for a scenic walk and picnic by the lake
Explore the grandeur of Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Get your vegan fix with a meal at Vonda's Kitchen
Shop for souvenirs and artisanal crafts at the Ironbound Market

Day 3

Discovering the Industrial Side

Tour the Thomas Edison National Historical Park for a piece of American industrial history
Glimpse the formidable architecture of the abandoned former Essex County Jail
For lunch, gorge on a variety of Oriental cuisine at the Asian Food Markets
Take in the vibrancy of the Newark Arts Festival
Cap it off with a night of laughter at the Stress Factory Comedy Club

Day 4

A Day Trip to the City

Take the PATH train to New York City
Visit the One World Trade Center for breathtaking views of the city
Explore the National Museum of the American Indian
Walk around the iconic Central Park and grab a hot dog from a food cart
Enjoy the ragtime jazz at the Edison Ballroom

Day 5

The Best of Brunch Spots

Befittingly start with breakfast at Uncle Willie's Pancake House
Learn about African-American history at the Paul Robeson Galleries
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Ah Pizz café with mouth-watering gelato
Take a walk to the nearby Riverfront Park
End the trip with a meal to remember at the trendy 27 Mix Kitchen and Bar.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Newark by plane is to fly into Newark Liberty International Airport. Many major airlines offer direct flights to this airport from cities around the world.

Car

To get to Newark by car, you can take the New Jersey Turnpike or Garden State Parkway, both of which lead directly to the city. However, traffic can be heavy during peak times, so it's best to plan your travel accordingly.

Train

There is a train station in Newark, but it primarily services regional trains. The best option for long-distance travel by train would be to take Amtrak to Penn Station in New York City and then take a regional train to Newark.

Boat

Newark is not accessible by boat, as it is not situated on a major waterway. The closest significant port is the Port of Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal, which is primarily used for shipping containers and not passenger transportation.

Bus

The best way to get to Newark by bus is to take a bus to the Port Authority Bus Terminal in New York City and then take a regional bus to Newark. Many national bus companies offer routes to this terminal.