With extensive art collections, fascinating science exhibits and exciting interactive displays, you could easily spend the whole day in New Jersey’s largest museum.
The only problem you’ll have when you visit Newark Museum is where to start. Browse one of the world’s finest collections of Tibetan artifacts or watch exciting displays in the Planetarium. Visit a restored Victorian house to learn about life in the era or spend some time in the huge natural history collection.
Explore the extensive art collection, with significant artworks from around the world. The American Art display encompasses four centuries, with a large Impressionist section and a fine collection of Hudson River landscapes. The African art collection is one of the largest in the United States. Over 4,000 objects, including masks used in rituals and contemporary paintings from Ghana, are on display.
Head to the section featuring the arts of Asia to discover one of the finest collections of Tibetan artifacts anywhere in the world. Among approximately 5,000 objects is an altar consecrated by the Dalai Lama. You can also learn about the history of the country in the Tibet Information Zone.
Children will love the museum’s interactive displays. Among the most popular is the Dynamic Earth Zone, where animations and displays explain plate tectonics. The Planetarium is another favorite. Come here to watch a fascinating display about Saturn.
Explore the Ballantine House, a restored period home fitted out to portray how the area’s Victorian-era residents would have lived. In the Dreyfuss Memorial Garden you will find an old schoolhouse that dates back to 1784. There is also a Fire Museum which details the difficulties fire fighters faced in the 19th century.
It is worth taking at least a full day to explore the Newark Museum. When you need a break, head to the museum café, which provides a range of snacks and drinks.
Newark Museum is located on Washington Street in Newark’s arts district. It is open Wednesday through Sunday. Note that along with the admission fee there may be separate charges for certain exhibits such as the Planetarium.