Things to do in South Orange

Activities, attractions and tours

Aerial Drone of South Orange New Jersey
Aerial Drone of South Orange New Jersey
The Duck Pond
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Top places to visit

1. Times Square

This live and kicking neon jungle is arguably the life and soul of New York City, despite its label as a touristy clique by local New Yorkers. As one of the most visited spots in the world, Times Square beats, shouts and screams behind its neon exterior.
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2. Central Park

Central Park is a movie star in its own right, having featured in movies such as “When Harry Met Sally”, “Annie Hall”, “Home Alone 2” and “Sex and the City: The Movie”. Together with hosting some of the most famous musical artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, Central Park is an iconic space of natural beauty known worldwide and adored by native New Yorkers.
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spring landscape in the Central park, New York, USA

3. Grand Central Terminal

Approximately 750,000 commuters come and go through this station every day; but don’t let that get in the way, as this architectural masterpiece is definitely worth a visit. Its shops, dining areas and bistros make this venue one to remember. Sit back in one of the cafes and watch the world roll by your window in this palace of gothic majesty.
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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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view from top on Madison Square Garden and Empire State Building

5. Statue of Liberty

New York’s Statue of Liberty is one of the few structures in the world that evokes a profound sense of emotion among its population. This pinnacle of freedom and democracy stands tall on New York harbour as a symbol of courage and hope for millions across the world.
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6. Rockefeller Center

Reminiscent of a swinging 1930s New York, the Rockefeller Center is an icon of outstanding architectural achievement, combining past and present in seamless elegance. It is situated in Midtown Manhattan and today is the centrepiece of the city’s annual holiday celebrations.
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7. 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

What to do in South Orange

Popular places to visit

Prudential Center

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

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
Photo – crowded soccer stadium, football fans support the team

Sports Illustrated Stadium

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

Sports Illustrated Stadium
Branch Brook 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
Seton Hall University from an aerial view

Seton Hall University

Explore the campus of Seton Hall University as part of your travels around South Orange. Experience the entertainment choices or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.

Seton Hall University
Rubella tortoise in the zoo. Three turtles are standing on their backs, one on one. Trachemys Scripta Elegans .

Turtle Back Zoo

Visit the native and exotic animals who call Turtle Back Zoo home during your travels in West Orange. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.

Turtle Back Zoo
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
Montclair Art Museum

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
Newark Museum of Art

Newark Museum of Art

With extensive art collections, fascinating science exhibits and exciting interactive displays, you could easily spend the whole day in New Jersey’s largest museum.

Newark Museum of Art

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 travelers 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 vacation, 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 neighborhood located about 3 kilometers from the city center.
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 traveling 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 neighborhoods, 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.