2 Star Hotels in Newark

The Ironbound District buzzes with Portuguese and Brazilian energy, from colorful storefronts with traditional azulejo tiles to the mouthwatering aromas of pastéis de nata from family bakeries. Ferry Street pulses as the neighborhood's main artery, where visitors can browse specialty shops selling imported goods and dine at authentic eateries serving grilled sardines, francesinha sandwiches, and feijoada. Newark Penn Station connects this walkable neighborhood to the wider city, with NJ Transit buses running along Ferry Street for easy exploration. Most visitors stay in downtown Newark hotels since lodging within the district is limited. This genuine cultural enclave offers a taste of Portugal without tourist crowds.

University Heights buzzes with the energy of campus life as students from NJIT and Rutgers-Newark fill tree-lined quads and modern buildings. You'll hear multiple languages and feel the intellectual vibe while exploring this budget-friendly neighborhood. Cultural diversity shines through authentic ethnic eateries and community events that give visitors a genuine slice of Newark's academic heart. Getting around is a breeze with three metro stations and regular bus service connecting you to downtown Newark and NYC. When hunger strikes, dig into generous portions at halal carts or Caribbean joints without breaking the bank. Budget hotels and extended-stay properties offer clean, functional rooms perfect for campus visitors and curious travelers.

Step back into the Gilded Age in Forest Hill, where stately Victorian mansions line streets shaded by century-old trees. Wander through this architectural time capsule before heading to Branch Brook Park, home to America's largest cherry blossom collection. The Althea Gibson Tennis Center offers courts for active travelers, while nearby historic sites like Mount Pleasant Cemetery reveal Newark's rich past. Local cafes and family-run eateries serve up comfort food with authentic Newark flavor. Two metro stations—Davenport Avenue and Bloomfield Avenue—make city exploration easy, while the neighborhood's peaceful streets invite leisurely strolls among the historic homes and gardens.

Newark's Central Business District mixes corporate polish with cultural treasures, making it more than just a sea of suits. Catch world-class performances at NJPAC or cheer on teams at the Prudential Center. Military Park offers a green escape with historic monuments, while the Newark Museum of Art showcases impressive collections just steps from office towers. Getting around couldn't be easier with Newark Penn Station connecting to NYC in just 30 minutes. Several metro stations dot the district for quick exploration. Business-focused hotels dominate the accommodation scene, while dining options range from quick lunch spots to upscale steakhouses catering to the weekday crowd.