Today, Newark is home to many attractions that are sure to give everyone in the family something to do. In the same day, you can catch a show at the glamorous New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), check out a National Hockey League game to cheer on the New Jersey Devils, and finish off the day with dinner in the Ironbound district known for its restaurants with bold flavors. Did we mention all in one day?
However, we can't talk about Newark without mentioning its serene nature side. Surrounding the town's buildings and skyscrapers are breathtaking conservatories and nature areas. Take a stroll through the nation's largest collection of cherry blossoms, or experience a boat ride up and down the Passaic River. Its juxtaposition against the city gives visitors the perfect balance between adventure and revival.
Best Time to Visit Newark, New Jersey
Looking for the best time to plan your trip to Newark? You're in luck. Even though it has four distinct seasons, all of them have their unique perks. Summer is the most popular time to visit, but if you're looking to avoid the crowds (especially on the shores), spring and fall are a bit cooler with smaller crowds and many festivals. If you're looking for a snowy romp in the city, head on over during the wintertime when the crowds are avoiding the cooler weather.
Our suggestion? Springtime is better because the weather is mild, and it's the season of the nation's largest cherry blossom festival. However, when you decide to go, bring some backup rain clothes because weather can sometimes be unpredictable. Keep an eye on the forecast to avoid getting caught in the rain.
Weather aside, pricing is relatively consistent throughout the year. Any time can be good to book, so look out for prices and specials to get the best deal. By planning ahead, you'll be able to spot deals earlier on.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Newark, NJ:
Newark, NJ: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below we've posted 3 graphs illustrating avg. nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Newark, NJ. Browse these illustrations to evaluate the cheapest time to book in Newark for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Newark, New Jersey — Sleeping in Style
4 Star Average Prices: $195.27
Sometimes, vacation is about pampering yourself. If you're looking to spend the extra money for luxury, the Newark area is packed full of hotels that can give you true five-star experiences.
Located a bit off to the side in Elizabeth is the Renaissance Newark Airport Hotel. It was built specifically to help business travelers feel more relaxed and cared for as opposed to just staying at a run-of-the-mill hotel. It's close to the airport, has an indoor pool, free breakfast, and complimentary shuttle service. What makes this place so incredible is its modern and sleek interior design. Warm colors can be seen throughout the property and give it a luxurious feel while still being approachable.
Or, if you're looking to pop into Manhattan for a bit of adventure, take a quick 10-mile drive to Cambria Hotel & Suites New York - Chelsea. Staying here gives you everything to love about Newark, with some added NYC bonuses, like a quick walk to the Empire State Building or Times Square. Its modern design and crisp rooms are sure to make you feel like a jet setter as soon as you open the door.
Finally, the Hilton Newark Penn Station is located near the heart of Newark's business district and directly connected to Penn Station. This Hilton is a great choice for both business and leisure travelers. Nearby, the Newark Museum was established to educate and inspire, so be sure to take a look at their pieces from around the world and from different cultures. Fun fact: the first modern American museum is right here in Newark!
Newark, New Jersey, on a Budget
3 Star Average Prices: $132.12
Not every vacation can be a lavish one, and despite Newark's popularity, there are still plenty of places to stay that don't break the bank and still allow you to enjoy your experience. So, we've gathered a list of some of the most budget-friendly hotel options in the area.
A stay at the Best Western Plus Robert Treat Hotel in the heart of downtown means you don't have to give up an incredible experience for a lower price. Booking includes free breakfast, an incredible bar, and complimentary shuttling to and from the airport. Also, it's located within walking distance of Penn Station, so you're only a quick train ride away from the big city. It's also near the NJPAC and Military Park. Newark's Military Park is the most historically significant park downtown. Opened in 1667, it originally served as military training grounds and has grown with the area ever since.
Next up is Candlewood Suites Secaucus. While it may seem like a bit of a hike from the airport at 35 minutes, its proximity to places like the Harmon Cove Outlet Center, MetLife Stadium, and Mill Creek Mall more than make up for it. Take advantage of amenities like the barbecue grills to have a fun lunch with before hitting the town.
Finally, sometimes the best deals are right in front of you. Right near the airport is the Holiday Inn Newark Airport. With free transportation to and from the Newark Liberty International Airport and such a centralized location, this hotel is by far one of the most convenient options available. More than just access, this hotel has a modern, clean look that gives you the feeling of luxury without having to pay for it.
2 Star Average Prices: $114.99
Best Discounts in Newark, New Jersey
If you know where to look, you can save even more money during a visit to Newark by adding benefits like AAA, military, or group rates. With AAA, members can save 10 percent or more and earn 10 percent bonus Rewards points or Gold Passport points when booking hotels like the Best Western Plus Robert Treat Hotel or the Grand Hyatt New York.
If you're a member of AARP or a senior of 62 years or older, the Courtyard Newark Downtown may be a money-saving option to consider. It's centrally located near Newark City Hall, Gallery Aferro, and Downtown Newark. Gallery Aferro offers 12 exhibits per year featuring contemporary art from national and international artists. Or, you can save when booking at the Best Western Plus Newark Airport West. Their age requirement is younger at 55 and applies to a wide choice of rooms.
Best Value Options in Newark, New Jersey
Newark is no stranger to discount and luxury, but it also has plenty of options for midrange budgets. The Hampton Inn & Suites Newark-Harrison-Riverwalk will certainly make you feel at home. It's located near the Riverfront Stadium, home of the Bears and Eagles baseball teams. If you missed the game, don't sweat it. The Riverfront has some beautiful nature trails and dining options.
One of our favorite hotels to stay in is Hotel Indigo Newark Downtown. The building was constructed in 1912 as a bank, and the interior design echoes much of the original structure. This boutique hotel was gorgeously renovated with exposed, rustic brick and artwork that reflects the area. It rests on the corner of Broad and Market streets, one of the busiest intersections. You'll have no trouble finding things to do and places to eat here.
Grab a Bite in Newark, New Jersey
We've walked you through some great places to stay and great sites to see, but no vacation is complete without the perfect meal. In the North Ironbound district, you'll find the Spanish Tavern. Rated the number one Newark restaurant on Trip Advisor, this warm and welcoming space fills you up with authentic Spanish food and carefully selected Spanish wines. It's open for lunch and dinner, and it's close enough to fall under the shuttle service system of many nearby hotels. We recommend trying a plate of their seafood-packed paella.
For something a bit quicker, try downtown's Hobby's Delicatessen & Restaurant, an old-school style deli that's been a local favorite for years. Family owned and operated since 1962, Hobby's is more than just a deli, but an experience in itself. From its potato pancakes, to pickled corned beef and daily specials, Hobby's can satisfy any craving. Pro tip: stop by for a Devil's pre-game celebration to enjoy drinks and good specials.
If you've got a big group to feed, look no further than historical Market Street's Mercato Tomato Pie. It's been creating artisanal, coal-fired pizzas for over 50 years that are made for sharing. The restaurant's mission is to make everyone feel like they're a part of the family, so expect warm service and friendly faces all around.
So, next time you're looking for a new perspective of the Tri-State Area, or you find yourself in the neighborhood, Newark is the place for you. There are gorgeous cherry blossoms to see and the city to experience. Throughout the area there are both luxurious and budget-minded hotel options to fit everyone's wallet. The best part of all? The centralized location just can't be beat, truly making Newark the hub of the Garden State.
Newark, NJ summarized
Newark may be New Jersey's largest city, but a journey into the place will make you feel you're in five distinct areas. The state's Gateway Region is ethnically diverse, ranging from quiet suburban enclaves to lively urban districts. Newark mainly functions as a port city, and is home to the East Coast's largest container shipping facility. Guests can expect each entry into the city to be as busy as the next option, but soon after everything else goes smoothly. The Garden State's nucleus has food of Greek, Brazilian, Spanish, and Portuguese influences waiting to welcome inquisitive palates. Formerly an agrarian settlement back in 1666, Newark has a collection of historical sites that charted its evolution into a bustling port city. The embossed leather walls of the Ballantine House, glass-sheathed Park Plaza, and the gothic architecture of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart provide guests with distinct textures. Heading to the Four Corners of Broad and Market Streets is the perfect way to end a visit into Newark where diversity is at its best - at least in the busy market setting.
'Heaven looks a lot like New Jersey., These beautiful words were said by an American singer and songwriter, record producer, philanthropist and actor John Francis Bongiovi, better known as Jon Bon Jovi, the founder and the leader of a popular American rock band Bon Jovi.
Where the History Meets the Man
Newark is the largest city of New Jersey, the United States. It was founded in the year 1666 by Robert Treat and his fellow Connecticut Puritans. Today called by the nicknames of 'The Brick City, and 'The Gateway City, back in the old days also had some different meanings of the name that it has now. Some colonist saw the possibility of calling the city by the name of New Ark, as for the 'New Ark of the Covenant, and the other part of the colonists was willing to name the city New Work, meaning the settlers' new and continuing work with God. Today we don't know how the dispute ended, but the name was shortened to Newark. You think that the legend itself is something fascinating and worth knowing? Then go and check some Newark hotels, because you will need some really good amount of time if you really want to see and know all the stories and most famous places of Newark. There are lots of hotels in Newark, so don't worry, you will be able to get one that will fit your needs.
Affordable Hideouts in Newark
In these kinds of places of interest like Newark you will be able to find some really cheap hotels to safely put your bags, get a quick shower and go on some great quality sightseeing. You should definitely go and check these cheap hotels in Newark: Wyndham Garden Hotel Newark Airport, Best Western Plus Robert Treat Hotel, Fairgield Inn & Suites by Marriott Newark Liberty International Airport or Comfort Suites Newark.
A Glimpse of Newark Luxuriousness
The Brick City also has to offer some fascinating high quality hotels in Newark: the Hilton Newark Penn Station, Ramada Plaza Newark Liberty International Airport or the Manor Court. Some of these Newark hotels belong to the worldwide chain of high quality hotels, and some of them are only situated in Newark, which means that you will be able to get the worldwide quality as well as the glimpse of New Jersey hospitality.
Seeing the City of Bricks
Even though the whole city of Newark is full of gorgeous historical buildings, you should definitely not miss a chance to visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, St. Lucy's Church, the Jewish Museum of New Jersey, Branch Brook Park and even the one and beautiful Mount Pleasant Cemetery. For those who want to get in touch with the people of Newark, there are plenty of bars to have a drink and a good chat. We recommend you to visit the Hell's Kitchen Launge, Krug's Tavern, the Village Bar & Tavern, Adega Vine Bar or Villas Indios, to get a little different taste of other cultures too.
FAQs about hotels in Newark