Things to do in South Orange

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Times Square

Locals might bemoan Times Square’s touristy hustle and bustle, but the neon wonderland is undeniably New York City's beating heart. Loud and chaotic, the crowded epicenter is one of the world’s most visited and recognizable tourist attractions.
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Times Square featuring signage, a high-rise building and a city

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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Motion blur effect,Times square with illuminated buildings and advertise on front crowded streets and yellow cabs for transportation tourists,midtown in New York with busy traffic and taxi cars moving

3. Central Park

When it comes to film credits, no green space in the world can match New York City's Central Park. “When Harry Met Sally,” “Annie Hall,” “Home Alone 2,” and “Sex and the City: The Movie” all feature scenes shot in Manhattan’s iconic park, which opened in 1857 and is renowned as one of the city’s most precious outdoor areas.
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spring landscape in the Central park, New York, USA

4. Madison Square Garden

Midtown Manhattan has one of the world’s most famous indoor arenas: Madison Square Garden (MSG). Watch the NBA New York Knicks, NHL New York Rangers and WNBA New York Liberty or your favorite big-name concert performers at this huge venue.
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NewYork_MadisonSquareGarden_6291778_8

5. Rockefeller Center

An ode to 1930s New York, Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan fuses the old and the new, and is at the heart of the city’s annual holiday celebrations.
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Rockefeller Center featuring heritage architecture, a city and a skyscraper

6. Grand Central Terminal

Stand aside from the 750,000 daily visitors rushing to and from their trains and admire the architectural beauty of the majestic Grand Central Terminal. It’s also home to shops and dining options, making it an entertaining one-stop destination.
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Grand Central Terminal which includes heritage elements, city views and night scenes

7. Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is a world-famous landmark, synonymous with New York. It’s renowned as a backdrop in films such as “An Affair to Remember,” “King Kong,” and “Sleepless in Seattle.” In fact, it’s one of the city’s most significant and romantic skyscrapers.
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Close up view of the Empire State Building and the New York city skyline on a beautiful blue sky day

8. Statue of Liberty

Few buildings conjure up as many emotions as New York’s iconic Statue of Liberty, an awe-inspiring symbol of freedom, hope and democracy standing proud on Liberty Island in New York Harbor.
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Statue of Liberty

What to do in South Orange

Popular places to visit

Prudential Center which includes a city and a skyscraper

Prudential Center

4.5/5(2 reviews)

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, theatre scenes and interior views

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 garden

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 showing interior views and art

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

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 acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices in this vibrant area.

Sports Illustrated Stadium
Downtown Newark featuring a city, outdoor art and a square or plaza

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.