Destination Series: Newark, NJ

by Emily Pitz

Getting a little R&R couldn’t be easier. Rapid City Regional Airport now offers a nonstop flight linking Rapid City to Newark, NJ and many major metropolitan destinations on the East Coast. If Newark isn’t your final stop, New York City is just 8 short miles away. Or if you desire to travel to more exotic lands, there are over 30 airline carriers connecting you to many other alluring locations from Newark. Whether you stay in Newark and experience all it has to offer or hop a flight or taxi to your next destination, you'll be sure to find rest and relaxation.

Newark, New Jersey is one of the oldest cities in the United States, exceeded only by New York and Boston. It has been welcoming travelers since its first hotel opened in 1670. Today, major air, shipping and rail hubs are located in Newark. It is rich with history and has much to offer visitors.

Newark boasts many interesting attractions. America’s first and oldest public park, Branch Brook Park, and the nation’s fifth largest cathedral, Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, are located in Newark. The first ever skyway built in the U.S., the General Pulaski Skyway, connects Newark to Jersey City.

Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Every spring, visitors can take in the largest collection of cherry blossoms in North America at Branch Brook Park. While Gutzon Borglum is well known for carving Mount Rushmore, he also sculpted four public works in Newark. Most notably is the Wars of America monument in Military Park, which portrays 42 humans and two horses and honors those who died in service to our country. For the music lover, take a tour of the Grammy Museum Experience and take part in hands-on fun, like singing onstage interactively with music stars and legendary musicians. Stop by New Jersey native Shaquille O’Neal’s super-sized cinema, Shaq DX, at CityPlex 12 Newark and check out an epic 3D screen with stadium seating, or catch a concert at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

Hop on the AirTrain, grab a taxi or car service and experience the Big Apple. In no time at all you’ll be exploring the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Times Square, the 9/11 Memorial, Empire State Building and Broadway. Coney Island Beach, just 24 miles away in Brooklyn, NY, offers three miles of sandy beaches and a bustling boardwalk. Sensible travelers know they can easily have adventures in NYC and stay in Newark for less. You can be at the center of it all with New York style at a fraction of the price.

Times Square, New York City

Plan on traveling a little further than Newark? Connect to popular domestic and international destinations worldwide at Newark Liberty International Airport. Grab a flight and explore the beauty of London, Tel Aviv, Hong Kong, Paris or Copenhagen. Plus JFK and LaGuardia airports are roughly only 15 minutes away by airport transfer shuttles.

Wherever you decide to go once you’ve reached Newark, you won’t be disappointed. Staying and checking out what the city has to offer, exploring New York City, continuing on and traveling to a far off destination are all fantastic options. It’s never been easier to go on an adventure. BHW

Cherry Blossoms at Branch Brook Park