Escape to the Eagle Rock Reservation in Essex County. This forest reserve and park takes up more than 400 acres of land in this densely populated metro area. The park is filled with rolling hills, valleys, streams and an extensive trail system. The rustic view of the great outdoors is not all that will take your breath away, however. The Essex County 911 Memorial provides an unparalleled view the New York City skyline.
The East Coast Greenway, or ECG, spans almost 3,000-miles along the Atlantic coast, linking several major cities with its urban path. The section that runs through New Jersey is 97 miles long and encompasses many major metro areas like Newark and Jersey City. Get a taste of this enormous path while enjoying recreation at the popular Weequahic Park.
It’s hard to miss the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart as you explore downtown Newark. This French Gothic-styled cathedral features more than 200 stained glass windows and 14 giant bells imported from Italy. The fourth largest of its kind in North America, this cathedral is not only a beautiful architectural attraction but also a performance venue for several choirs and symphonies.
Built and staffed by the NJ Youth Corps, the Jersey Explorer Children’s Museum allows children to “live” history and “play” science through a variety of excellent interactive exhibitions and attractions. The minute you and your kids walk through the door, everyone becomes an explorer! Search for an ancient mummy, journey through a distant galaxy, travel back to the Underground Railroad and much, much more!