Traveling with your family soon? Looking for a great, child-friendly place to visit? One unpopular but very welcoming city for a family vacation is Newark.
Located in New Jersey, Newark is a city that effortlessly blends history, diversity, and modernity into a captivating urban scene. It is a fun, vibrant, and dynamic metropolis that offers a myriad of cultural experiences and exciting activities for both children and adults alike. In this article, let us explore some of the things you can do and places you can visit if you are traveling to the city with your family.
Is Newark a Child-Friendly City?
Newark offers a range of family-friendly attractions and activities that make it suitable for a family vacation. Whether you are traveling with toddlers and young children or teenagers and young adults, there are many places you can explore and activities you can do with them. From museums and art centers to parks and playgrounds, Newark is a warm and welcoming city for families of all types and sizes.
Renting a car in Newark can enhance the convenience and flexibility of your family travels. Through the service of Budget car rental at Newark (EWR) Airport, you can easily access the city’s various attractions and explore nearby areas, such as neighboring towns or natural parks. Newark’s diverse population also means that families can explore a variety of international cuisines and cultural experiences, where having a rental car can provide added convenience for transporting the whole family to different dining destinations.
Fun Activities You Can Do with Your Children in Newark
Ready to explore Newark with your family? Here are the top 8 child-friendly things you can do in the Brick City.
1. Visit the Ironbound Recreation Center.
Officially known as the Sharpe James/Kenneth A. Gibson Recreation & Aquatic Center, the Ironbound Recreation Center is a facility designed to provide recreational and fitness opportunities for the community of Newark. It includes amenities such as a swimming pool, fitness centre, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, and community meeting spaces. This center is named after two prominent former mayors of Newark, Sharpe James and Kenneth A. Gibson, who made significant contributions to the city’s development.
Even if you are from outside Newark, you and your family will be welcome here. Your children can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming in the pool, doing boxing or martial arts, doing arts and crafts, attending dance classes, and more.
2. Explore Cool CAT Network.
Do you have young and culturally curious children? Unleash their inner artist by exploring Cool CAT Newark, a thoughtfully curated selection of arts and cultural events designed with preschoolers in mind. In collaboration with esteemed partners such as the Newark Public Library, NJPAC, Newark Museum, and NJ Symphony, Cool CAT promises to engage and entertain your energetic toddler.
3. Visit the Newark Museum of Art.
Got little scientists? Then, the Newark Museum of Arts is perfect for them! Kids can enjoy a variety of engaging activities, including hands-on art workshops, interactive gallery tours, and planetarium shows exploring space and astronomy. The museum’s Discovery Room offers a dedicated space for hands-on learning experiences related to art, science, and culture, while interactive exhibits throughout the museum encourage children to explore and ask questions.
4. Have a picnic at Branch Brook Park.
Branch Brook Park offers families a delightful experience with its iconic cherry blossoms during springtime, making it an ideal destination for picnics and taking in the beauty of nature. The park’s playgrounds provide fun and safe spaces for children to play and explore, while its walking and biking paths allow families to enjoy strolls and bike rides amidst picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a serene outdoor escape or an opportunity to witness the cherry blossom spectacle, Branch Brook Park has something for every family to enjoy together.
5. Visit the Newark Riverfront Park.
Often referred to as Newark’s urban riverside haven, the Riverfront Park is renowned for its extensive lineup of free summer events tailored for young audiences. Amidst the backdrop of sunny days, starry nights, and the moon above, families can relish a variety of activities, including kayaking, outdoor movie nights, theatrical performances, dance events, and dedicated play areas. It’s a perfect destination for families seeking both relaxation and entertainment along the scenic riverfront.
6. Bring your kids to the Turtle Back Zoo.
If your children are fond of seeing and learning about animals, include Turtle Back Zoo in your Newark itinerary. This family-friendly zoological park in West Orange, New Jersey, is known for its diverse collection of animals from around the world. Visitors can explore naturalistic habitats housing big cats, African elephants, giraffes, reptiles, and more. One of its highlights is the “African Adventure” exhibit, offering a safari-like experience with animals like lions and hyenas. The zoo also engages in sea turtle conservation and features interactive experiences such as touch tanks for aquatic education. With additional attractions like a carousel and a mini-train ride, Turtle Back Zoo provides an engaging and educational outing for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
7. Visit a farmer’s market.
Immerse your kids in Newark’s local food and culture by bringing them to a farmer’s market, which can be a delightful experience for families and food enthusiasts alike. These markets are often held in various neighborhoods throughout the city, offering a vibrant and diverse array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialities. Whether you want to try out some local delicacies or buy unique handcrafted items from local artisans, this is the best place to be.
8. Drive to the Liberty State Park.
With your Budget car hire, taking a short drive to Liberty State Park in Jersey City should be an exciting trip for your children. The park offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, along with a range of family-friendly activities. You can also explore Liberty Science Center’s interactive exhibits and educational programs, delve into history at the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal, have picnics, enjoy outdoor sports, and take in scenic vistas. The park’s proximity to Liberty Island and Ellis Island makes it an ideal starting point for visits to these historic landmarks, offering an educational and memorable experience for families exploring the region.
If you’re still wondering if Newark is an ideal travel destination for your family, the best way to find out is to experience it for yourself truly. Pack your bags and book your flight now. Newark is waiting for you and your kids. Have fun!
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