Newark, New Jersey is one of the oldest cities in the United States, with Puritan settlers from New Haven Colony establishing a township there in 1666. Today, it is known as one of the country's leading air, shipping and rail hubs, and as a key gateway for travelers to reach nearby New York City. Arrange a car rental from Newark Liberty International Airport for complete freedom to explore the New York metropolitan area, as well as New Jersey, Pennsylvania and possibly even further afield.
If you're flying into Newark to see the iconic sights that make New York City one of the most recognizable destinations in the world, you can't miss out on a visit to the Statue of Liberty, which is located on Liberty Island. To get there, head to Liberty State Park in Jersey City, just a 20-minute drive from the airport, and take the ferry.
Perhaps the only landmark that could rival the Statue of Liberty as a symbol of New York is the Empire State Building, the 102-story Art Deco skyscraper found on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. Once the world's tallest building, this spectacular structure features observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors that attract millions of visitors every year.
For another unforgettable New York experience, take a stroll around Central Park, which you'll find between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side of Manhattan. As well as simply walking around and soaking up the atmosphere of this unique place, you can look out for attractions like the USS Maine monument and the Dana Discovery Center.
If you're keen to see more of the state of New York, pick up a car rental in Newark and take a drive to Montauk, a popular tourist spot in affluent East Hampton. This scenic destination is home to six state parks, plenty of beaches and the fourth-oldest active lighthouse in the US. You can reach Montauk in about three hours by car from Newark, following a route that will take you over the George Washington Bridge, through the Bronx and across the entire length of Long Island.
Follow the I-95 S out of Newark and you'll be on your way to Philadelphia, which you can reach in less than two hours. This is another destination of great historical significance, having played a key role in the American Revolution and provided the setting for the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the signing of the Constitution in 1787. The city's famous sights include the Liberty Bell, which you can see on a visit to Independence National Historical Park.
The state of New York isn't all about New York City; there are countless other destinations worth visiting throughout the region, from the scenic Adirondack Park to quirky upstate towns and villages. A drive of about three hours north out of Newark will take you to Albany, New York's state capital, which stands on the west bank of the Hudson River. Look out for the New York State Capitol Building, which makes an impressive sight when it lights up in the evening, and the New York State Museum.
If you're planning to drive through some of the busier parts of New York, a compact, practical Newark car rental will make your journeys as easy as possible.
Newark Liberty International Airport
You will come across toll roads when driving around New Jersey, New York and neighboring states, such as the New Jersey Turnpike and I-95.
June and July both enjoy nine hours of daily sunshine on average.
July witnesses 121 mm of rain on average.
Montclair Film Festival, Big Greek Festival, Jersey Shore Wine Festival