Thelargest park in the “Garden State” features lakes, waterways, forests, meadowsand a spectacular cherry blossom festival in spring.
Come to Branch Brook Park and enjoy the scenery as you walk or jogthe network of trails that wind around lakes, through woodland and across thefields. Bring a picnic and take in the park’s natural beauty as you relax onthe grass. In the springtime, see a breathtaking array of cherry trees in fullbloom.
Branch Brook Park dates back to thelate 19th century and was the first county park to be opened to the public inthe United States. Explore 360 acres (145 hectares) of parkland stretchingnorth to south in a narrow 4-mile (6-kilometer) strip through central Newark.
Visit in spring and be dazzled by thebright pink cherry trees in magnificent bloom. There are over 4,000 cherrytrees in Branch Brook Park. Hordes of visitors come to the cherry blossomfestival each year to marvel at the fantastic colors.
Come here at any other time of year toenjoy the park without the crowds. Spend an afternoon by the calm waters ofBranch Brook Lake. Try your luck at fishing for trout. You’ll also find a narrowriver and several smaller ponds as you explore the park. See how many of the 19bridges you can find as you follow the stream.
Head to the southern end of the parkand you’ll find the Branch Brook Roller Skating Center. Towering above thetrees here, you’ll see the high Gothic features of the Cathedral Basilica ofthe Sacred Heart, which adjoins the park. The cathedral makes a great backdropfor photos, especially with the blooming cherry trees in the foreground.
A number of cafés and restaurants canbe found along Bloomfield Avenue, which dissects the center of the park.Summertime in the park sees a series ofoutdoor concerts and cinema showings. Take your seat on the grass or danceunder the stars to the sounds of a local band. Branch Brook Park is free to enter andis open year-round.
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