Some might think that a city so close to New York doesn't have much to offer in terms of its own entertainment options. But this couldn't be further from the truth when talking about Newark, New Jersey. This is the largest city in the state and has been experiencing a huge renaissance in the past decade when it comes to arts, sports, and entertainment options. If you're looking for a festival where you can win a car or are interested in the ballet than there are plenty of things to see and do here throughout the year.

If you're interested in arts and culture than there are all kinds of options to suit any tastes in Newark. This is the home of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra and the New Jersey State Opera, which performs at the gorgeous New Jersey Performing Arts Centre. City Without Walls Gallery and Aljira, a Centre for Contemporary Art are some options if you're someone who covers your walls in American and Canadian art prints and the Newark Museum has something to interest everyone.

Those that are sports fans might want to take in a game while they are in Newark and you can see the New Jersey Devils hockey team play at the Prudential Center. This would be an excellent choice of something to do for those that are visiting to attend ice hockey camps and those that are fans of the team. The Newark Bears Minor League baseball team plays at Riverfront Stadium right downtown and there are several golf courses in the area for those that want to hit the links.

When you're visiting anywhere new, you should make sure you check out want events and festivals are taking place in the area while you're there. There are plenty of them going on throughout the year for those that are passing through Newark and those who live here. If you're taking a break from working in daylighting and want to get outside than you should visit Branch Brook Park during the Annual Spring Festival. Or you could stop by the Sarah Vaughan Jazz Festival in November. This will feature the sort of music that was heard in theatre in the 1930s and the kind that will remind you of dark bars where you could catch your cheating spouse.

A trip to Newark is not complete without taking in the Ironbound District. This area is known for it's more than one hundred restaurants and you can experience everything from Brazilian food to some of the best seafood you have ever tasted. There are also some great coffee shops and some spots where you can stop for dessert if you're not interested in a full meal.