The Ironbound
The Ironbound, also referred to as “Down Neck,” is one of Newark’s most vibrant and ethnically diverse neighborhoods. Historically an industrial and warehouse hub along the Passaic River and Newark Bay, the Ironbound underwent major redevelopment starting in the 1950s. Today it’s a lively community known for its Portuguese, Brazilian, and Spanish restaurants, making it a foodie’s paradise in Newark. Start your Ironbound exploration with a hearty Portuguese or Spanish breakfast at Seabra’s Marisqueira or Teixeira’s Bakery, local favorites for their wide selection of baked goods and savory entrees. Work up an appetite walking along Ferry Street, the main retail artery lined with fruit markets, bakeries, taquerias, churrascaria barbecue joints, and more. Walk over to Independence Park, also called Peter Francisco Park, right along the Passaic River. This waterfront park has lovely city views along with a beach volleyball court, playground, and even an outdoor track. It’s the perfect spot for your group to unwind after indulging in the Ironbound’s delicious cuisine.
The Coast
Want waterfront views without crossing the river into Jersey City? Then you’ll want to check out Newark’s Coast neighborhood, commonly referred to as “Down Neck” by locals. Here you’ll find Riverbank Park, a scenic riverside park stretching along the Passaic River. The park features a nice walking trail to take in the scenery. During the summer months you may even catch outdoor yoga classes or Zumba in the park. Visit the cherry blossom trees in the spring or the colorful chrysanthemum garden in autumn for extra seasonal beauty during your park stroll. There are also public art installations scattered along the trail and outdoor recreational facilities for sports like basketball, tennis, and handball. After soaking up some sun in Riverbank Park, have your team drop your group off on Market Street for a bite to eat. Taste the flavors of South America at Mompou Tapas and Wine Bar or Las Cositas Restaurant. Elbow Room is a favorite pub-style restaurant serving craft beers and elevated pub grub.
Military Park
Newark is no stranger to the Revolutionary War, being the site of many historic events during the American Revolution. Military Park pays homage to the city’s revolutionary history as the military training ground and encampment site for American forces. Today Military Park serves as an urban oasis in the heart of downtown Newark. The expansive 6-acre park is the perfect spot for your group to take a breather amidst your Newark adventures. Have a picnic lunch under the shade trees on the great lawn or catch one of the park’s free outdoor concerts and movie nights during the summer. Your group can also rent one of the park’s seasonal amenities like the carousel, mini golf course, or ice skating rink for extra fun. The New Jersey Historical Society adjacent to the park offers rotating exhibits on the state’s rich history. Adjacent Hahne & Co. building has several dining options like Marcus B&P and Whole Foods Market to refuel after your park visit.
University Heights
Home to five major universities and colleges, it’s no surprise Newark’s University Heights neighborhood boasts a vibrant youthful energy. The campuses of Rutgers University – Newark, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Seton Hall University School of Law, Berkeley College, and Essex County College are all located here. Start with a stroll through the Rutgers Newark Campus. The school’s magnolia trees and unique modern architecture are sights on their own. Grab an acai bowl, croissant, or coffee drink at the campus cafe, Kilmer’s Market Cafe. Walk over to NJIT’s well-landscaped campus next. The architecture here combines an industrial past of brick factory buildings with contemporary styles. Pick up souvenirs for the kids at the university bookstore. Wrap up your University Heights tour with dinner in the Ironbound or downtown. Your charter bus team will be ready to pick up your group and drop you at Newark Penn Station to catch your train back home.
The North Ward
Historically home to a strong Italian American community, remnants of the North Ward’s “Little Italy” roots still remain through places like Peterstown, an Italian American Business District established in the 1930s. Start your North Ward visit at Peterstown’s Desiderio Bakery, a neighborhood institution since 1914. Pick up some Italian pastries like sfogliatelle shell pastries or cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cream. Then make the short walk over to Spirito’s Restaurant. It’s been serving classic red sauce Italian fare since 1918 inside a historic townhouse. Your group is bound to leave happy and full after indulging in Spirito’s generous portions. Right near Spirito’s lies Branch Brook Park, the nation’s first county park. It’s renowned for its spectacular cherry blossom collection, home to over 2,700 Japanese cherry blossom trees. Plan your visit in the spring to experience the park at peak bloom. The surrounding North Ward neighborhoods also hold an annual Cherry Blossom Festival each April.
Weequahic
Weequahic Park is a must-visit destination in Newark’s South Ward. At 311 acres, it’s one of the largest city parks in the United States. Weequahic Park was designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, also known for designing iconic urban parks like Central Park and Prospect Park. With 80 acres of lake, a 2.2 mile jogging trail, recreational facilities, and more, there’s plenty of space at Weequahic Park for your group to spread out. Play basketball, tennis, or handball at one of the park courts or take a relaxing stroll around Weequahic Lake. Visit between May and September and your group can cool off with a swim at Weequahic Park’s Olympic-sized public pool. It’s the largest pool in Essex County and the perfect place to swim, splash, and relax on hot summer days. After working up an appetite, head to the Weequahic Diner, a classic Jersey diner famous for its pork roll sandwiches and hearty breakfast platters. You’ll leave satisfied and ready for more Newark exploration.
Riverfront Park
If you only have time for one quick stop in Newark, make it Riverfront Park along the Passaic River. This waterfront green space stretches from the Jackson Street Bridge down to Occupy Newark. Catch panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline across the water. Walk along Riverfront Park’s promenade, also home to the iconic “Bridge of Dreams” pedestrian footbridge. Let the kids run wild at the park’s modern playground while your group unwinds at the shaded picnic tables. The park frequently holds community events like food festivals, music performances, art fairs, and movie nights during the warmer months. Even if nothing is scheduled during your visit, Riverfront Park is the ideal place for an impromptu group picnic or leisurely stroll along the river. Wrap up your excursion at Hobby’s Deli, a renowned Newark restaurant specializing in mile-high deli sandwiches. All that fresh air and park exploring is sure to work up an appetite!
Downtown Newark
Much of your group’s Newark exploration will likely start Downtown. Newark’s downtown district lies just west of Newark Penn Station, making it ultra convenient for travelers arriving via Amtrak or NJ Transit trains. It’s also a hotspot for business travelers flying through Newark Liberty International Airport, located just 3 miles south of Downtown. Downtown Newark has plenty of dining and nightlife options for your group. Stop at Newark staple McGovern’s Tavern for classic pub grub and drinks. The upscale Marcus B&P offers new American fare inside the historic Hahne & Co. department store building. Dinosaur Bar-B-Que satisfies meat cravings with its signature BBQ ribs, brisket, and smoked wings. When it comes time for your group to head home, your charter bus can conveniently meet you outside Newark Penn Station or Newark Liberty Airport. Contact Newark Party Bus Company at (551) 233-0076 to discuss group transportation options that best fit your itinerary. Our team looks forward to helping your group explore the real Newark in comfort and style!
Book a Bus With Us
Don’t want to deal with parking and navigating Newark traffic as a large group? Leave it up to the transportation pros at Newark Party Bus Company! Our charter bus rentals can conveniently pick up and drop off your group at hotels, Newark’s airport and train station, and popular attractions around the city. We have a variety of bus options to accommodate groups of all sizes, from minibuses to full-size 56 passenger charter buses. All of our modern vehicles come equipped with luxury amenities to maximize comfort and convenience during your Newark exploration, including: Plush reclining seats with ample legroom Free WiFi so your group stays connected on the go Individual climate controls to keep everyone comfortable Overhead storage for your bags and belongings Bathroom onboard so you can travel confidently without unnecessary stops DVD players and monitors so passengers can watch movies during longer transfers Don’t waste time and energy trying to coordinate travel amongst multiple cars. Leave the driving to us! Our experienced team knows Newark like the back of their hand. They’ll navigate directly to your points of interest so your group can focus on soaking up all this great city has to offer. Ready to book hassle-free group transportation for your upcoming Newark adventure? Call Newark Party Bus Company at (551) 233-0076 or request a quick quote online. We look forward to helping your group explore Newark in comfort and style. Let the adventures begin!