Newark is both a stones-throw from Manhatten and a world away, in terms of attractions, culture, architecture and food. Instead of competing with the heart of NY City, Newark is capitalizing on the very things that have previously kept visitors away – the seedy alleys, run-down neighborhoods and rough-and-ready reputation of this still blue-collar city.
Architecture
When visiting New York, there is a good chance you will pass through Newark anyway, as this is the transport hub of budget airlines and extensive bus and rail networks. For those who take a little time away from the depot, Newark's downtown is a surprisingly well-preserved example of early 20th century architecture (from the Deco style of the 1920s through the Nouveau era of the later 1930s). This was not a deliberate preservation, rather a happy coincidence – Newark's local authorities were, for many years, simply too poor to demolish and replace these buildings. Now, as Newark experiences a resurge of popularity, these buildings are being restored.
Things to Do and See
Newark is well-known as being a Catholic city, and the beautiful Sacred Heart Basilica is well worth a visit, particularly around Christmas when you may be lucky enough to hear High Mass in Latin – a living reminder of the old-world roots of the city. These working-class origins are lovingly shared with visitors by the attendants at the Newark Museum. Although the museum features artefacts from all over the world, it is the history of Newark that is best highlighted, particularly the stories of immigrants who settled the area.
Newark is not only a jumping-off point for other major American cities – it is also the gateway to the entire New Jersey region, which has some hidden gems for nature-lovers and history buffs. Near the Monksville Reservoir is the old Ironworks, the site of a once-thriving industry that is now in the process of being restored. A huge site complete with the former homes of ironworkers, this is a slice of the industrial history that the 'workers who built New York' were steeped in. Guided tours are easily available and during the month of November, a night-time lantern tour is a great way to experience the Ironworks as they once were.
Off the Beaten Path
For an even deeper look into the past, try your hand at mining at the Sterling Hill Mine. On the last Sunday of every month, the mine is opened up for those who want to try their hand. Most of the ore is pretty boring to look at, but amateur geologists will get a kick out of the rare and collectible rocks that are still regularly pulled out. Take your own UV light if this is your thing, as the equipment-hire kiosk doesn't have them. For those who are a little claustrophobic, there is a museum and gift shop that detail the history of the mines.
Hotels
The beauty of Newark (and New Jersey in general) is that it is so inexpensive compared with Manhatten. Airport hotel rooms retail for around $65 per night (unheard of in New York City proper) while hotel rooms nearer to the heart of Newark range between $50 - $150 per night.
Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in Newark.
(Photo:Fotolia/Aaron Kohr)
