Last updated: 2025-04-22
Newark’s indoor attractions offer a vibrant escape from everyday routine, blending cultural richness with engaging experiences. From historic museums to contemporary art spaces, the city provides diverse indoor activities that capture Newark’s unique artistic and historical landscape.
Whether exploring the stunning Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart or discovering contemporary art at Aljira, visitors can immerse themselves in Newark’s dynamic indoor venues that showcase the city’s creative spirit and architectural heritage.
Discover Newark’s coolest indoor adventures right here!
Featured Indoor Activities in Newark
- Liberty Science Center (Jersey City)
- The Newark Museum of Art
- Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange)
- Newark Symphony Hall
- Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- Rutgers Geology Museum (New Brunswick)
- Aljira, A Center for Contemporary Art
- Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center
Aljira, A Center for Contemporary Art
What to Expect
Contemporary art center supporting emerging artists
Description
Aljira is a nonprofit contemporary art center in Newark that showcases innovative visual art from emerging and established artists. The center provides exhibition spaces, artist support programs, and educational opportunities that highlight diverse artistic perspectives and experimental contemporary art practices.
Where: Newark | More Info: Aljira, A Center for Contemporary Art
Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center
What to Expect
Full-service roller skating center with comprehensive entertainment options
Description
Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center offers a comprehensive indoor entertainment experience in Newark, NJ. Featuring a massive roller rink with state-of-the-art sound systems and live DJs, the venue also includes a fully stocked cafe, extensive arcade, and professional skating lessons for all ages and skill levels.
Where: Newark | More Info: Branch Brook Park Roller Skating Center
Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
What to Expect
Largest Gothic cathedral in North America
Description
Historic Gothic cathedral showcasing remarkable architectural details and spiritual significance. The cathedral features stunning stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and impressive neo-Gothic design. Visitors can explore a profound architectural and religious landmark representing significant cultural heritage in Newark.
Where: Newark | More Info: Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Liberty Science Center (Jersey City)
What to Expect
Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium - largest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere
Description
Liberty Science Center offers an immersive, interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and live animal encounters. Visitors explore cutting-edge scientific displays including dinosaur experiences, space exploration exhibits, and sensory challenges like the Touch Tunnel, providing engaging STEM learning for all ages.
Where: Jersey City | More Info: Liberty Science Center
Newark Symphony Hall
What to Expect
Century-old performing arts institution preserving cultural heritage
Description
Newark Symphony Hall serves as a historic cultural venue showcasing diverse performing arts experiences in New Jersey. The hall hosts community events, educational programs, and performances that celebrate Black and Brown creative talents. Offering a rich artistic platform, it connects audiences through music, theater, and cultural programming.
Where: Newark | More Info: Newark Symphony Hall
Rutgers Geology Museum (New Brunswick)
What to Expect
Comprehensive geological collection with free public access
Description
The Rutgers Geology Museum offers free educational exhibits showcasing extensive geological collections. Visitors explore diverse mineral displays, rock formations, and scientific specimens that illuminate Earth's natural history. Interactive exhibits and public lectures provide engaging insights into geological sciences for all ages.
Where: New Brunswick | More Info: Rutgers Geology Museum
The Newark Museum of Art
What to Expect
Comprehensive multicultural art and science museum collections
Description
Historic art museum featuring diverse collections spanning American art, contemporary works, decorative arts, and natural science exhibits. Offers extensive galleries showcasing multicultural artistic expressions with significant holdings of contemporary and traditional art from various global regions.
Where: Newark | More Info: The Newark Museum of Art
Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange)
What to Expect
Comprehensive wildlife education and conservation center in New Jersey
Description
Essex County's premier wildlife conservation center featuring diverse animal exhibits spanning multiple habitats. Visitors explore native and exotic species across carefully designed environments, with opportunities to observe animals from different global regions. Educational programs and conservation-focused displays highlight wildlife preservation efforts.
Where: West Orange | More Info: Turtle Back Zoo
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