History that makes you think…art that incites conversation…dining that takes you around the globe. Does this sound like your kind of summer? Get a taste of urban energy on outings to Newark, Jersey City and Paterson this season—with a little help from your friends at New Jersey Travel & Tourism.
The Must List
Our urban trio offer plenty of things to see and do, but let’s start with the essentials: Newark Museum, Liberty State Park (including Liberty Science Center) and Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. While you could easily spend days exploring these year-round attractions, summertime provides opportunities you and your family won’t want to miss. At Newark Museum, view the outstanding Arts of Global Africa, a newly reinstalled gallery in the museum’s flagship first-floor space. Take the ferry from Liberty State Park to discover your roots at Ellis Island. Or take younger children on an adventure to the kingdom from Disney’s The Lion King at Liberty Science Center. The Lion Guard: The Exhibit is open now through September 8. And learn the story and national importance of Paterson Great Falls. Guided tours are currently offered Monday-Friday at 2 p.m.
Inspiring Finds
Find architectural and spiritual inspiration at the magnificent French gothic edifice that is Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Throughout the year, the Cathedral offers an uplifting calendar of music, much featuring its massive Schantz pipe organ. See New Jersey’s very own English castle and an icon of the Gilded Age at Paterson’s Lambert Castle Museum, once the private residence of silk magnate Catholina Lambert. And another hidden—and affordable—gem is the Paterson Museum, where you can learn more about the city’s change-making industrial history. Admission is $2 for adults and free for those under 18.
On View & On Stage
Feel streetwise and art savvy as you experience Jersey City’s vibrant collection of mural art. Launched in 2013, the Jersey City Mural Arts Program connects mural artists with property owners to create a city-wide outdoor art gallery. Download a printable guide to the 66 public murals at JerseyCityCulture.org or use mural tour tips from Hudson County. Another surprise in Jersey City: Mana Contemporary, a former tobacco warehouse that is now a hive of artists at work and ever-changing gallery space. (Tasty tip: Explore downtown Jersey City with Jersey Girls Food Tours, and be sure to come hungry!)
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark engages the community with a diverse array of arts and entertainment, ranging from jazz to lectures. But in summer, NJPAC’s most jammin’ scene is the Horizon Foundation Sounds of the City, a series of seven free outdoor concerts on Thursday nights in July and August. (For updates on who’s playing and other Newark festivals, go to NewarkHappening.com.) And see who’s on the other Newark stage (Prudential Center), like chart-topper Shawn Mendes, playing two nights on August 10-11.
Urban Melting Pot
Serious foodies know all about Newark's Ironbound District, a hub for old-world Portuguese, Spanish and Brazilian dining. It’s hard to pick favorites, but you might sample the Spanish Tavern, Casa Vasca and Forno’s of Spain, where the number of paella choices alone will astound you. (Another Newark tip: go to Vonda’s Kitchen for soul food with style.) For authentic baklava and more, head to Paterson’s Main Street “micro city” of Middle Eastern commerce. At its epicenter: Nouri Brothers Market. Find everything from gold bangles and pita bread to tahini and electronics—plus more choices of olives than you thought possible. Visit nearby Nablus Sweets and Pastries for the aforementioned baklava and the delectable cheesy pastry called kanafeh.
And while you’re in an urban mood, don’t miss Jersey City’s trend-making dining and nightlife scene. Check out an exhaustive list of where to eat and drink (from coffee to Korean, Spanish to sushi) at JCMakeItYours.com, or sample some TripAdvisor favorites like Razza Pizza Artigianale, Light Horse Tavern and City Diner. For views (hello, Lady Liberty!) and Jazz Sunday brunches, you can’t beat Liberty House Restaurant. And for a cool late-night vibe and Neapolitan-style pizza, chill out at the rooftop bar of Porta. Nightlife tip: try the RoofTop at Exchange Place for stunning views and swanky cocktails.
In New Jersey, every new day brings a brand-new destination…like Newark, Jersey City and Paterson! Plan an urban summer outing or getaway at visitnj.org, where you can find places to stay, download a free NJ travel guide or sign up for e-news from New Jersey Travel and Tourism.
