Your Guide to Beating the August Heat in Newark, NJ

Photo Credit: Fudowakira0
Glorious sunshine is one of the hallmarks of August in Newark, NJ. The intense heat compels you to avoid getting stuck indoors, so here’s your guide to beating the August heat in Newark without sacrificing fun.
1. Dive into Culture (and AC!) at The Newark Museum of Art
With the mercury rising, there's no better retreat than the cool, quiet halls of The Newark Museum of Art. It allows you hours of refreshing escape while exploring diverse collections spanning American, African, and ancient art. There’s also an option to cool down while learning about the universe at the planetarium. And if you have kids in tow, the interactive MakerSPACE provides a creative, air-conditioned environment for hands-on activities.
2. Find Your Oasis in Newark's Green Spaces
You can enjoy ample shade and a refreshing breeze at the nation’s first county park (Branch Brook Park). It is perfect for a leisurely stroll in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are milder. And if you are downtown, Military Park offers ample space, so you can enjoy the public art and people-watching from a shaded bench.
3. Catch a Show (or the AC) at NJPAC or Newark Symphony Hall
The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) lets you enjoy concerts, comedy shows, or family-friendly performances in a perfectly climate-controlled environment. There’s also the historic Newark Symphony Hall, where you can escape the heat and immerse yourself in the arts.
4. Explore the Newark Public Library
The main branch and numerous neighborhood branches offer a quiet, cool, and enriching escape. And if their free workshops, lectures, or children’s story times don’t catch your fancy, you can spend hours browsing books, reading magazines, or catching up on work in a comfortable, air-conditioned setting.
5. Retail Therapy in Air-Conditioned Comfort
If you're looking for a more active way to stay cool, the shops at Prudential Center and local boutiques cater to your needs in a cool environment.
Don’t let the August heat keep you from exploring the vibrant culture and attractions that make Newark special. So order some iced tea and delicious Nigerian dishes from Ounje Alabeke.