8 Fun Facts About Newark, NJ: How Well Do You Know Your City?
From diverse neighborhoods like the historic Ironbound District, where Portuguese and Spanish flavors mingle effortlessly, to the bustling Downtown area adorned with iconic landmarks like the Prudential Center, Newark, NJ, offers a mosaic of experiences waiting to be explored. Whether you’re settling into a new apartment in Newark or have been a longtime resident, this Redfin article will dive into some fun facts about Newark you’ll want to know.
Quick Facts about Newark
| Median home sale price | $450,000 |
| Average monthly rent | $2,066 |
| Walk Score | 76/100 |
| Transit Score | 65/100 |
| Bike Score | 51/100 |
1. One of the oldest cities in the U.S.
Founded in 1666 by Puritans from Connecticut, Newark stands as one of the oldest cities in the United States, having a rich history spanning over three and a half centuries. Its colonial roots are evident in its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks such as the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, serving as a testament to the city’s past.
2. Gateway to the Garden State
Newark is referred to as the “Gateway to the Garden State” due to its location as the largest city in New Jersey. As the home of Newark Liberty International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the nation, Newark serves as the primary entry point for travelers arriving in New Jersey. Newark stands as a major transportation hub with its train stations, and major highways connecting it to the rest of the state and beyond.
3. Brick City
A fun fact about Newark’s nickname “Brick City” is the city’s significant industrial history, particularly in brick manufacturing during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The city was once a hub for brickmaking, with numerous factories producing millions of bricks used in construction projects across the region. Today, while the brick industry has declined, Newark’s nickname endures as a nod to its industrious past.
4. Birthplace of jazz legend Sarah Vaughan
Newark proudly claims jazz icon Sarah Vaughan as one of its own, as she was born and raised in the city. Vaughan’s unparalleled vocal talents and innovative style have left an indelible mark on the world of music, earning her the title of the “Divine One.”
5. Ironbound District
The Ironbound District is a cultural melting pot where Portuguese, Spanish, and Brazilian communities converge, creating a vibrant tapestry of traditions, languages, and flavors. This eclectic neighborhood is renowned for its authentic international cuisine, drawing food enthusiasts from far and wide to savor its culinary delights. For example, visitors can experience the rich flavors of Spanish-Basque cuisine at Casa Vasca.
6. Newark Museum
The Newark Museum is the largest museum in New Jersey and houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. It is known for its impressive Tibetan art collection and its interactive science exhibits.
7. Historic architecture
Newark has a wealth of historic architecture, including stunning examples of Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and Beaux-Arts styles, such as the Newark Public Library. The city’s skyline is dotted with impressive buildings that showcase its rich architectural heritage.
8. Home of the Newark Bears
Newark was once home to the Newark Bears, a minor-league baseball team that played in the city for over 70 years. The team was a beloved part of the community and brought joy to generations of fans before disbanding in 2013.
Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.
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