Newark One Day Itinerary

From the largest collection of cherry blossoms in the nation, to one of the country's highest grossing arena's, from Shaquille O'Neal's supersized cinema to the largest collection of Tibetan Art outside of southeast Asia - pro sports, fine arts, urban retail and outdoor adventure, it's all happening here. Mess around in our urban playground, mix it up, and find something wonderful and new.

8:30am-9am: Cozy up to Art Kitchen (Closed Sundays), where the coffee selection is vast and patrons are not averse to ordering cupcakes for breakfast. First timers can find fresh fruit and granola along with other wholesome goodies. Fire up your morning at Mi Gente (Closed Sundays) known for the best Cuban sandwiches in town, their breakfast sandwiches can't be beat. Stop in and savor the aroma at TM Ward (Closed Weekends). They've been roasting coffee in Newark since 1869... you've gotta get it to go but that won't prevent you from reveling in history. In the mood for adventure? Head into the Ironbound to Teixeira's Bakery for pasteis de nata, delicious egg custard tarts. Order up a steaming cup of galão, an espresso and foamed milk beverage that is sure to revitalize. Got a hankering for pancakes? Andros Diner in the Ironbound serves up breakfast with all of the fixings 24/7.

9am-10am: Nature calls! There's a bounty of breathtaking views, majestic parks and public spaces waiting for exploration. In fact, Branch Brook Park tops the American Planning Association's 2013 list of great places in America with 4,300 cherry blossom trees that burst into bloom each spring. Take in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a 19th century gothic that was visited by Pope John Paul in 1995 and featured on the Sopranos. In the heart of downtown Newark you'll find Military Park with a rich history dating back to the 1600's. It was the location of Thomas Edison's first use of electric lights in a public space. Stop by and enjoy yoga, concerts, chess and other outdoor activities. Eating in the Ironbound? Take a stroll along Newark's Riverfront Park; the vibrant orange walkway offers fantastic views of the Passaic River.

10am-12:45pm: Find your true colors at The Mills at Jersey Gardens (Elizabeth), NJ's largest premium outlet mall with over 200 brands including Coach, Neiman Marcus, Brooks Brothers, Cole Haan, Saks Fifth Avenue and even a Disney Store. Best of all, there is no sales tax on clothing or shoes. Traveled more than 30 miles to get here? Great news, present your identification at the Concierge Desk to receive a License to Shop discount booklet, with coupons that will fetch you hundreds of dollars in savings.

1pm-2pm: Give in to temptation; you'll find culinary delights that fit every palate and purse. Smoke it up at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que a nationally acclaimed barbecue joint offering up a linger licking good meal or enjoy dry aged steaks and brick oven pizzas at Edison Ale House. Dine under the stars at Burg, with bountiful burgers and beer all locally sourced. Slice it up at Mercato Tomato Pie where you can indulge in authentic Abruzzese style pizza.

2:15pm-4pm: Take in masterworks and mansions at the state's largest museum. The Newark Museum features over 80 innovative galleries with renowned American and Tibetan collections, sculpture gardens, the Ballentine House, a historic Victorian mansion and even a Planetarium. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12pm-5pm. Play with fire at GlassRoots Studio and master of the art of flame working. Manipulate molten matter and make works of art and delve into glass working rich history, which dates back over a thousand years.

4:15pm-6pm: Mix it up with area art magnets and mavens at one of our indie art galleries. Run over to the new Nike Factory store, where you can stock up on sportswear. Pick a potion at Pooka Pure & Simple, or man up at Ron Tomson a luxury Los Angeles men’s boutique.

6:15-7:45: Kick back at Diamonds N Da Ruff Lounge owned by Gloria Carter, Jay Z’s mom or feast on culinary delights in the Ironbound, a district renowned for it’s Portuguese, Spanish and Brazilian fare. Enjoy full on elegance at Forno’s of Spain where old world charm and plentiful portions are sure to delight. Experience the classics at one of three Iberia Restaurants, where you’ll find endless options that are sure to delight.

Looking for lighter fare? Try Catas where tempting tapas await in this Gaudi inspired eatery. No trip to the Ironbound would be complete without a stop at Natso’s for fabulous ice cream, tartufos, cake rolls and other frozen indulgences.

8pm-10pm: Showtime in Newark! Grab a front row seat to an endless parade of possibilities, our big acts shine bright all over town. Take in a star-studded performance at NJPAC, one of the grandest performing arts centers in the nation, hosting dance, theater, music, poetry and comedic performances. Game time thrills at Prudential Center as the NHL New Jersey Devils and NCAA Seton Hall Men's Basketball strive to win it all. Say hey to superstars, and get ready to Rock the house as iconic artists and international sensations take the stage. Join the stampede at Red Bull Arena for an action packed Major League Soccer showdown.

11pm: If it's sizzling nightlife you're after, the Ironbound is the place to be! Check out one of Newark's hottest weekend spots XL Lounge where you will need to dress to impress to dance the night away in a mini industrial warehouse. The party never stops at Adega Lounge where you'll find people salsa dancing the night away once the restaurant closes. You'll feel like a real VIP at Vivo where you can enjoy bottle service and a huge dance floor. Looking for a unique experience?
Every Thursday night the über artsy Hell's Kitchen Lounge unleashes Brick City Burlesque, an ode to a bygone era with barebacked babes, glitz and glamour. If you're looking for relaxation through cocktail therapy try Taste Venue the perfect place to unwind after the Prudential Center.