What to do in South Orange, NJ

Activities, attractions and tours

Places to Visit in South Orange

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in South Orange, Newark while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best South Orange attractions from NZ$39, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group South Orange tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 22 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular South Orange. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Times Square

Times Square may not always be to the locals’ taste, but this busy and energetic area dubbed the “Crossroads of the World” is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. The atmosphere is loaded and chaotic, exuding the energy and diversity for which New York City is so renowned.
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The electric atmosphere of the New York’s busiest square will leave your head spinning, an essential experience for all visitors.

2. Broadway

Broadway is called the “Great White Way” for the dazzling lights surrounding the popular Times Square portion of this avenue. Take a moment to look in all directions from your spot at the center of Times Square. Every December 31, about 1 million people crowd into this space to watch the 12-foot (3.6-meter) ball drop from One Times Square in celebration of the New Year.
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Ed Sullivan Theater featuring a city and signage as well as a large group of people

3. Central Park

New York may be known as the city that never sleeps, but visitors should never overlook the calm and tranquillity offered by the famous Central Park. Situated in the heart of New York between the Upper West and Upper East Side neighbourhoods, this beautifully conceived green space covers 6% of Manhattan, providing woodland, lakes and charming landscaped gardens. The park, which opened in 1857, was conceived by design duo Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmstead. The latter also responsible for projects such as the Stanford University Campus and the Niagara Reservation in Niagara Falls.
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Central Park which includes a park, flowers and a pond

4. Rockefeller Center

To many, the Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st Street epitomises New York of the 1930s, but it is also the face of the modern city. Known for being at the centre of the city’s annual holiday celebrations, with its outdoor ice rink and magnificently illuminated Christmas tree, it is also a year-round destination with top entertainment and attractions.
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Rockefeller Center

5. Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, standing at an impressive 93 metres from the ground to the tip of the torch, is perhaps the most easily recognisable of all of New York’s iconic attractions. The figure of Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, was gifted to the United States by France in 1886 to commemorate the American Declaration of Independence. This landmark is often credited with embodying the most fundamental American values, including the freedom and opportunity offered in the “New World”.
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Statue of Liberty featuring heritage elements, a monument and a statue or sculpture

6. Grand Central Terminal

This bustling transport hub serves over 750,000 visitors, both commuters and tourists alike and is an absolutely must-see venue when visiting New York. Designed by the firms Reed & Stem and Warren & Wetmore, this magnificent building’s architectural style is a triumph, and it houses a large number of shops and restaurants.
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Grand Central Terminal

7. Empire State Building

The Empire State building is one of the most recognisable landmarks on the New York skyline. So much so, that the city has gained the nickname Empire State, a connection equal to that of Big Ben to London or the Eiffel Tower to Paris. It was the tallest skyscraper in New York for 40 years, a title it took over from the Chrysler Building when it opened officially in 1931.
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Empire State Building featuring a high-rise building, a city and views

What to do in South Orange

Discover the most popular places to visit in South Orange

Prudential Center featuring a high-rise building and a city

Prudential Center

See everything from electrifying hockey games and huge musical concerts to monster truck rallies and children’s shows at The Rock.

Prudential Center
New Jersey Performing Arts Center which includes modern architecture, interior views and theatre scenes

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

Come for a night at the theater and be dazzled by a Grammy Award-winning symphony orchestra, an international ballet company or a famous rock group.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Pleasantdale Chateau

Pleasantdale Chateau

You can learn about the history of West Orange with a stop at Pleasantdale Chateau. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Pleasantdale Chateau
Branch Brook Park which includes a park

Branch Brook Park

The largest park in the “Garden State” features lakes, waterways, forests, meadows and a spectacular cherry blossom festival in spring.

Branch Brook Park
Montclair Art Museum which includes art and interior views

Montclair Art Museum

Use the audio guide to learn about historic and modern Native American art and sip wine at a live music event.

Montclair Art Museum
Military Park

Military Park

Inspect the array of military sculptures and see the sword from above in this scenic park in the downtown area.

Military Park
South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain Reservation

Explore the great outdoors at South Mountain Reservation, a lovely green space in Newark. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

South Mountain Reservation

The Mills at Jersey Gardens

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You can search for that perfect souvenir at The Mills at Jersey Gardens during your stay in Elizabeth. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.

The Mills at Jersey Gardens

Sports Illustrated Stadium

Catch an event at Sports Illustrated Stadium during your trip to Harrison. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Sports Illustrated Stadium

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from South Orange

Downtown Newark which includes a square or plaza, outdoor art and a city

Newark

Frequently asked questions

Is South Orange worth visiting?
South Orange has a unique mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional food, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in South Orange?
Once you've checked off popular attractions like Turtle Back Zoo and Hyatt Hills Golf Course, spend the rest of your day experiencing South Orange's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in South Orange?
The top tourist attraction in South Orange is Turtle Back Zoo, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in South Orange?
You can easily visit popular attractions like Turtle Back Zoo, Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart and Liberty Hall Museum with a three-day escape to South Orange. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out New York.
Is South Orange a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your type of holiday, South Orange is an ideal destination. Find major sights, including Turtle Back Zoo, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Lower Vailsburg, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 3 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in South Orange with kids?
Deciding what to do in South Orange with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in South Orange for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in South Orange for adults including The Manor and Newark City Hall.
Are there free things to do in South Orange?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in South Orange is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.