The Newark Museum of Art Reviews

We went with a group of children on a very cold day. This museum had so much to offer and see. The children really enjoyed themselves. I am going to go back and visit again when I have more time to explore. I would highly recommend this museum.

I was pleasantly shocked the first time I went here. I thought it would be some tiny boring museum. It is truly a world class museum with many interesting exhibits. Of special note is the Ballantine House, which is a restored Victorian home with full furnishings. It is especially breathtaking at the Holidays.

I didn't realize how big the museum is and how much it offers, tons of exhibits ranging all areas of history...very impressive.

I was here for a private event that I had arranged with a curators. This was my first visit and I left very favorably impressed. The Newark Museum of Art is a pleasant and welcoming place with a great staff at all levels from security to curatorial. It houses a variety of beautiful permanent and temporary exhibitions and spacious places in which people can meet. It’s a real community asset. I use a wheelchair and appreciate that the museum is truly accessible and accessible paths and bathrooms are clearly marked. There is a small café and a museum shop.

As a Newark Public Schools teacher, I have the privledge of attending several evetns each year at the Museum. My students love the planetarium and the Docents are very knowldgeable and kid friendly. The Ballantine house is my favoirte stop! A MUST see!

I was able to see art that I never knew Newark could posses. There is a Planetarium with in the grounds and the Ballatine house is a must to see. There is metered parking along the street if needed.

Went there for a school trip and years later I found myself there again showing my kids. The different exibits.

Good exhibit if you have a few hours spare. Staff member who helped me was SPECTACULARLY helpful....I was hugely impressed and humbled.

Newark Museum –is a really great place for relax and meditation.
Do not miss Ballantine House there; try to feel spirit of nineteenth-century.
Also, I liked very precise and to the point informational notes for each exhibit (Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts, etc).
Definitely, this place is worth to visit.

Say "Newark New Jersey", and many people simply won't even consider going there. Newark is slowly changing, and many people consider it a bad place to visit.Nevertheless, the Newark Museum is MOST DEFINITELY worth the trip! Most of the people visiting here are student school trips, so for the adults that visit - the museum is sparsely populated with people and IT IS A treasure! The American Collection includes artwork from the colonial times to the recent times. There is also a fascinating Tibetan collection. Over and above the artwork is the Ballantine House - a two level treasure of beautiful rooms, furniture, and woodwork. One big negative about the museum is its limited operating hours: Only open 25 hours a week - on Wednesday through Sunday from Noon to 5PM. When I visited on a summer Sunday in June, there were only a handful of visitors. There was an incredibly Bierstadt exhibit with great landscape artwork. This museum is truly a treasure. It really is a cultural pearl; Newark has a tarnished image, and this museum would clearly have big attendance numbers if it was located elsewhere. Spread the message - it is worth the visit!

I was there often while it was being renovated many years ago. My wife and I were sustaining members for quite some time. The collections (both temporary and permanent) are awesome. We look forward to going again soon.

Simplicity of menu and quick service is important since one gets bit tired spending time in a museum. It is conveniently located in the heart of city and close to railroad station.

This museum is a relatively unknown "gem" that everyone in the New York Metro area, including New Yorkers, should consider visiting. Seriously. It's that good.

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to visit the museum earlier this week. During my visit I was impressed by the high quality of the exhibitions. I was also surprised by the apparent lack of patrons. I felt a little bit like I was visiting a gallery in the Metropolitan Museum in Manhattan, after hours, with no one around to disturb me!

What I saw was a wonderful exhibition titled "The Rockies and the Alps: Bierstadt, Calame, and the Romance of the Mountains" which, according the Museum's own website, "places Newark’s renowned collection of 19th-century landscape painting in dialogue with European alpine painting of the same period." To use the current vernacular, it is "totally" worth a visit!

I also visited the newly reopened "Arts of Global Africa" and "Art of the Ancient Mediterranean: Egypt, Greece and Rome" exhibitions. I saw some wonderful Native American costumes, viewed an installation of ceramic plates by Molly Hatch, passed by the planetarium and, unfortunately, completely missed the Asian textiles exhibition and the historic Ballantine House (a historic mansion, physically connected to the Museum). I had run out of time!

It's easy to get to the Newark Museum from within New Jersey and also from New York City. The Museum has its own parking lot, and by car, it's just a short drive from I-280.

The PATH train from the World Trade Center and Midtown provides easy access to Newark-Penn Station although from there you would probably have to take a taxi, Uber or Lyft ride from the station to the Museum. I haven't tried doing that and I'm also not certain how safe it is to walk around the area at different times of the week or day. Newark is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in the USA, so use caution and common sense here.

If it were not for the city's negative reputation, the Newark Museum would likely be jammed with visitors all week long. It's the largest museum in the state of New Jersey and a real gem.

The Newark Museum is a delightful place situated in the downtown area. Exhibits change throughout the year so there is always a fresh look. The bonus is the Ballentine House situated next to the Museum. It is restored to its original beauty and a MUST see when you visit(especially at Christmastime).

great place to visit and explore the history of Newark . Be sure to check the Ballentine exhibit .Quite interesting history of famous brewery.

The museum was offering a show about America depicted through the eyes of artists in the 18th and 19th century. Winslow Homer, Mary Cassat, Peale and so on. Worth a trip if you enjoy art. Easy parking, but not free

I love this museum; every time I visit I see something memorable. Last week it was an exhibit of African contemporary art, I also went on a docent-led tour of a photography exhibit, and I was impressed by a show of works by talented students who attend schools in Newark. The admission is a bargain, and it's never too crowded. Parking right outside is reasonable and convenient. In the summer they have weekly lunchtime jazz concerts. There is a permanent exhibit called "Picturing America" which is a collection of American art starting with Colonial times through the present, which is well worth perusing. There are also small collections of metal, glass and porcelain objects, folk art, and the museum is famous for its Tibetan collection. They have great African, Native American, and Asian art and artifacts. There is definitely a multi-cultural focus, which I like. I find this museum to be just the right size for a visit of a few hours, without being overwhelming. If you like the Victorian era, also visit the historic Ballantine house next door which is attached to the museum. If you check the website ahead of time, you'll find there are often drop in activities for children. I encourage everyone to take advantage of this great resource. After the museum, I like to go over to the Ironbound section of Newark(less than a mile away) and get a great Spanish/Portuguese dinner. Or a mile in the other direction, visit the beautiful Sacred Heart Cathedral and see Branch Brook Park, especially during cherry blossom season.

What a nice day we had at the museum. Went to see the Japanese Block Print Special Exhibit which just opened on teh 15th. We were a ltitle hesitant since we hadn' been in that part of Newark for a long time. Surprisingly, it was very easy to reach and there was a monitored parking lot right next door. Although it was $7 to park, it was well worth the piece of mind knowing that the car was safe. The museum is not huge, so you can see the various exhibits without being overwhelmed especially for young children. The wood block exhibit was wonderful, so then we wandered about and even went to the adjacent Ballantine House, a wonderful example of a true Victorian House with period furnishings, etc. The museum also houses a lovely teapot exhibition, a studio glass exhibit, a modern African exhibit, modern metal exhibit, and a lovely Asian and Tibetan exhibit complete with a Buddhist altar. There was much more to see, but we ran out of time. Museum is not open on Mondays and Tuesdays and on the other days it opens at 12. All in all, this was a wonderful daytrip. 3 Docent tours a day and a lovely and quite nicely stocked gift shop as well. Give it a try and you will be pleasantly surprised. Eat before you go....small food court but no real food to speak of. Senior rate does apply!

Once again it has been many years since he have been there. What a lovely museum. Such beautiful art work, statues, paintings from all different countries. Do not know today's works because it was years ago when I was there. But I can assure you that it was interesting, beautiful and educational and probably still is.

Wonderful museum with great membership packages for families, it hosts an impressive permanent collection of fine art and ceramics (as diverse as American art, decorative arts, contemporary art and art from around the globe) as well as top-drawer traveling exhibits.

It also house three things that our kids have loved growing up:

* The Dreyfuss Planetarium
* The Ballantine House
* The fun and interactive natural history floor.
* The Newark Fire Museum

Also, check out the gardens during warmer days, especially the Jazz In The Garden lunchtime events during the summer.

What a find. We went there to see their Korean collection and were not disappointed. More extant than the Met.
And what a surprise to be able to visit the 1800's house restored to its Victorian style.

It does not matter what what exhibit you came to see, you will find even more to love. As largest museum in New Jersey, the Newark Museum does the state and its city proud. At over 100 years old, the exhibits are in constant flux and Planetarium is just icing on a beautiful cake. The atrium, the garden, the floors are all Hollywood ready. The Ballantine House clearly a Victorian Landmark is always a pleasure to walk through as it takes you back in time. African Art, classic American Art, contemporary Art of the Americas, Asian Art and Science Exhibits offer a full day of fun.

You simply will not be disappointed.

I enjoyed this musem. The exhibits had something for everyone. It is a free trip if you are a newark resident if you are not it does cost to enter but it is worth the money.

A must visit whether you are in NY or NJ. Varied programs, easy access. Great staff. Amazing history. What more could you want in a museum

Permanent collection includes vast collection on Tibet; attached Ballantyne House is a Victorian gem.

Newark has so much of a great history and the actual building of this museum showcases this. Amazing all of the exhibits in this little gem. I never get tired of visiting this place. Children love this even more. Definitely go and visit!

Always enjoy visiting for exhibits and summer concert series. The local staff shows it's passion for the museum with their care and interest for the visitors.

It is not a relatively large Museum but it has a great deal of History not only of American culture but that of the city of Newark as well. I'd recommend a visit for the children because there are also things for them to do that's Hands-On in the museum.

Although Christmas time is beautiful, this is an all year round place to visit. Parking is great, not expensive and the variety of exhibits is wonderful. They always seem to have something going on for the kids too!.

I love this museum and go there often........................

There is something for everyone at this gem of a museum. Art and science come together and constantly changing exhibits make it a place to go again and again.

Great art and wonderful Victorian house decorated at Christmas. Plus it's FREE!!!!!!!!

A lot of hard work goes into keeping this treasure the gem that it is. Beautiful artifacts and the building is still outstanding.

We love Newark Museum. Great programs for kids. The Planetarium is great. The have a fitness area that shows you how to exercise to lose weight. Always a top spot for us.

I was very pleased by this museum. I love to see my favorite American Painters, Homer, O'keefe, Chrurch, ssawThomas Moran saw all of these painters represented in some of their lesser known pieces but absolute treasures. I enjoyed the Hudson River School as the museum wanted its way through to more modern pieces .As well as the sculpture of Lincoln by Saint- Gauden.The Museum offers much more with exhibit from Asia Tibet and Africa.

Took advantage of a Friday off Thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of this museum! They offered a specially featured Zen floor. The museum was financially reasonable as well as $9 parking and a free coat check. There is a beautiful museum gift store too. I loved this museum

Nice museum. Didn't know it existed
But was pleasantly surprised. Not as big as the Nyc museums but nice to
stay locally and be entertained. Truly enjoyed it . Would recommend

A wonderful multi-purpose museum facility that serves Newark residents and visitors alike. It's the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Natural History rolled into a family-friendly, welcoming, community-minded complex. Unlike these two Manhattan tourist stalwarts, the Newark Museum is manageable and not completely overwhelming. Plus, it has the friendliest museum staff I have ever encountered in the metropolitan New York area.

During a recent visit, my main goal was to see a new fine arts installation, but I ended up also seeing the Native American and African Art galleries, and went on a tour of the historic home attached to the museum complex. Our guide to the Ballantine House was very knowledgeable and I suspect had possibly been a teacher (or perhaps she still is) because she introduced us to the house and its past inhabitants with animation and attentiveness to each tour participant, including a young girl.

The museum seems to take pride in making its holdings accessible to everyone, regardless of age, educational level or income. It is free to residents of Newark and costs very little to everyone else. Cookies, coffee and tea are available for purchase -- all $1 each! (can you imagine that at the Met?) -- and there is a rotunda in which to sit and take in the atmosphere.

I would recommend the museum to New Jersey residents and New Yorkers who can easily take the PATH train under the Hudson and make a day of it in Newark. The only downside is that there are not a lot of dining options in the immediate neighborhood if you don't want to go the chain fast food route.

highest rated tibetan collection in the usa & superb african and american collections ~ five stars!

I would call this worthwhile museum a hidden gem, not because it is small or inconspicuous but because it is probably not well known outside of the area.
It is wonderfully eclectic with areas and activities for the kiddies, all kinds adult appropriate art and art forms ranging from antiquity to the present, a beautiful gilded age mansion, a planetarium and even a nice gift shop.
The 1PM public tour gave us a great overview of the museum's offerings. The very knowledgeable docent, whose name may have been Ellen, asked the group what we wanted to see. She did a beautiful job accommodating all of us.
We are looking forward to a return trip.
Parking was free. The admission price was reasonable.
Two words of advice. Hit the cafeteria earlier rather than later. By 2 PM, the selection had been largely depleted. Also, ask in advance which planetarium show is being offered. The one we saw was appropriate for very young children. We both fell asleep.

Time flew while I was in there. So many things to see. I tried the planetarium and it was fun too...

Like any world class museum, it cannot be fully appreciated in one visit, but each time you go there is something wonderful to see. The Newark museum has several temporary exhibits and this visit was no exception. One of these exhibits was especially interesting as it showcased the works and crafts of local people of Newark over the last 150 years. It was more than silk and locomotives.

We also visited one of the permanent exhibits on glass that was outstanding. It showed the various methods of manufacture, its uses and examples from the last 2000+ years. We also enjoyed a new exhibit on jewelry that was intriguing with classic as well as ultra-modern designs.

Our final visit was to the Ballantine House to see again how well-to-do family lived in Newark in the late 1800’s

There are AAA discounts, senior discount available as well.

We want as a family with 2 teenagers and it was mostly boring for them as a bit for us. I recommend it for small kids for the second Sunday that kids have additional activities. The planetarium was not good too, movie was not interesting at all for kids and adults too (we have been in the 3:30pm one that meant for 5-9 age), but maybe the earlier is better.

The museum is definitely a hidden treasure of Newark.It takes several hours to visit,but it is really worth it.It has a vast collection of African American art and pieces from Cuba,Caribbean as well as some African artists doing seasonal exhibitions.It is not as busy as museums of NYC,but definitely has as much on offer and worth seeing

I Love school trips to the museum. I don't remember going when I was a kid so this gives me a chance to experience historic artifacts too.

This has a lot to see from art to science to a mini children's zoo to a planetarium. They also have many activities for children and adults.

Went for the light and color festival.
Made a very nice Tie dye shirt, free.
Saw some wonderful exhibits.
Visited the Ballentine House which is an extension of the museum, a beautifully Victoria home that has been either restored for renovated back to its 1800's beauty.
This museum for me was a very unexpted find.

A small museum but packed with excitement and adventure. Let your imagination run wild as you venture through the exhibitions with awe and wonder.

Situated in mid city this is Old Newark when it was one of America's most important cities.

It has a wide variety of interesting exhibits that will educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

Nice out my brother was in the hospital there so I would find things to do. Not a good walking spot at night be very careful. Don’t go alone. Prudential center safe. Restaurants are safe but do not go alone and be very careful at night

What a well curated Museum
Feel like at The Met
Easy to get to and very close to everything
Well worth the visit

The Newark Museum sponsors private member's mornings for people who hold membership to the museum and on a Sunday morning, the museum is privately opened for us to tour exhibitions before it opens to the public.

We went to tour the work of artist Saya Woolfalk who has the most unusual look to her work which is a combination of science fiction and the natural world. Her use of color and design and use of music has the most calming effect on the visitor. Her use of the color purple and light green puts a more natural look to her art.

We were able to tour the two galleries and get a perspective on the artist and the way she communicates with nature. Her video art was very brilliant and had a very calming nature to it.

It is nice to just see these works with a private docent and have the galleries to us. Afterwards I was able to tour parts of the museum on my own.

A great way to spend an afternoon in Newark. The rotating exhibits are always interesting. There is always something going on for all age groups. The Ballantine House is a must see.

Our most recent visit to the Newark Museum was for a guided tour of its collection of American art. Although its collection doesn't rival those of larger museums, it's quality rivals them. Colonial period portraits by Gilbert Stuart and Remington Peale; excellent examples from the Hudson River School (Benton, Church, Cropsey) and others. Also paintings by Mary Cassatt and John Singer Sargent.

Each year that I go I get inspired about my own collection (of modest means). A great place to visit and to chat with the curator.

They have the best family and children's programs. We go to kid's events in museums all over and this is one of the easiest and most personal. The museum is the perfect size that you have enough to see and do but don't get overwhelmed. We used to be members and visited all of the time. Don't miss this place if you are in the area, it is definitely worth a visit.

A large museum with a varied collection; convenient to NJ Transit and the light rail. It's rarely crowded. The only drawback is that it doesn't open until noon.

This can be the centerpiece of a day trip from Manhattan. Take the PATH to Newark to see the Museum and, perhaps, take in a show at the NJ Performing arts Center, all near the train station the PATH will take you to. This part of Newark is safe and very interesting. The museum has enough of interest to intrigue any art lover, while it occasionally has first rate temporary shows.

I love the Newark Museum. It is such a overlooked gem in the state. Jazz in the Park is going on for the next few weeks every Thursday and it is such a nice event and you get in for free as a member. They have nice programming for members with special member nights around the holidays, cocktail parties and during Christmas the Ballentine House should not be missed. They also have nice shows at the Planetarium.

Nice museum with lots of modern day and post modern day art and sculptures to see. It also has a planetarium. Lots of family activities and events going on there. The museum also has a mini zoo.

The mix of natural history, art, science, and interactive exhibits makes this almost a one stop shop for anything you'd like to see. The art collection is truly impressive, spanning the globe and going back centuries. They have art from some names you may recognize - Andy Warhol, Georgia O'Keeffe, among many others. The current featured exhibition, "The Shape of Light" by Gabriel Dawe, is breathtaking. I've never considered myself to be a huge fan of art, but I enjoyed the art sections quite a bit.

I spent most of my time in other sections that were very interesting, including an Egyptian section, African section, Asian section, and Native American section which all featured many different artifacts and items. There is also a Tibetan Buddhist Altar that was consecrated in 1990 by the Fourteenth Dalai Lama and was very eye-opening to learn about.

The part of the museum that really stood out for me was The Ballantine House, which was built in 1885 for the Ballantine family (you may recognize their name from Newark's own Ballantine beer). It's a stunningly beautiful Victorian home that you can walk around and explore each room in, and it's connected to the actual museum and included in admission. I would pay the admission cost to see the house alone.

Overall, I had a great experience and learned a lot. There's no way I could include everything in this review. Knowing that there's a museum of this caliber only 10 minutes from where I live is great, and I'll absolutely be back.

I have been to the Newark Museum over a dozen times from childhood until adulthood. As a child I loved going to this musuem because you could get close enough to the works of art without and immense crowds surrounding. There is much to offer at this museum for a small price. They also take student ID's as well as AAA discounts. I recommend this museum to anyone who loves art but not the crowds. The Ballentine house is one of my favorite things offered at the museum. The gardens are also lovely in the spring and summer.

I visited the museum, expecting to see a large embroidery exhibit based on a glossy card ad. Even the website made the exhibit seem large and impressive. While the 12-14 pieces in the exhibit had volumes of stitching, the works were small in size and number. Even with gallery guide in hand and guards in place, I found the museum layout confusing to navigate through. Admission at $15 was overpriced as was the $9 parking in the attached garage. Unfriendly clerks at the admission desk and in the gift shop added to the so-so feeling.

The museum has an array of wonderful exhibits; in my opinion, it is underutilized, and therefore, a very well kept secret. The Tibetan Exhibit is among the best in the U.S.

I came down from the suburbs with my disabled son and spent the day t the Museum. Parking is attached to museum and he exhibits were easy to navigate. the mueum houses a smalish planerrium (50 seats), a science wing, numerous arts exhibits that include works by Winslow Homer, Calder,Mary Cassat, sargent and many great american pieces.

The Fire Museum , Junior Musem and arts workshops are great for kids. I loved the quilt exhibit that is currently on diisplay. But bring a lunch or snack if you want to eat there. the cafe has very limited oferings but they have ample seating.

The gift shop is lovely with numerous crafts that are tied to exhibits. we did some Holiday Shopping.

And yes this area of Newark is safe.

This is a great spot to go and learn about history. Its very interesting ,they have many things to see.Its nice and peaceful.The best spot in here is The Ballentine House.

Great place to take the kids, used to take my daughter there when she was small and it was always great fun. Had the pleasure to return recently with my little nephew who loved the planetarium and seeing all the animals on the upper wing. A very peaceful and beautiful place, a great place to spend couple of hours away from crowds

The museum's strength lies in the high quality and variety of its holdings, which are beautifully installed. Today, we went to see a special exhibition on Islamic art composed of the museum's holdings, and ended up visiting several other galleries as well. The collection of American art and furniture is well worthwhile, and the Ballantine House is very special. No less impressive is the collection of Asian art, which includes a Tibetan Buddhist altar painted by Tibetans and consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1990. There are fine examples of Classical and African art; the decorative arts are well represented, and there are fine examples of the arts of the Americas as well. In several galleries there are play areas for children. For example, in the Tibetan gallery there is a space with a tent, toys, costumes, and a mirror. The Ballantine House has, in addition to the usual informative labels, a book describing the conversations and activities that would have taken place in the various rooms. The museum has a small parking lot, and there is a commercial lot nearby. The book and gift shop is a wonderful place for unusual gifts.

I sincerely was not expecting much from the Newark Museum. After all, with giant, world-renowned museums (like the Met) being a train ride away in New York, how can a small museum like this compete?

Well, first off, this museum is not small! I was surprised by its vast collection that could easily take up an entire day! Secondly, the exhibits are of a different variety than you'd find in its big siblings across the state border. There is a Victorian home that has been annexed into the museum building. It presents a beautiful surreal of what life was like in the Victorian Era.

Definitely pay this place a visit while you're in Newark if you're a fan of art and history!

Look up the museum on its website to see what it has. You'll be pleasantly surprised. Then go! Lovers of American art will be happy, and so will lovers of lots of other arts.

I take my 11 year old to this museum a couple times a year. It's fairly inexpensive, and offers various discounts. Also, if you're broke you can just give a donation.
I think the museum has some really good educational displays. My favorite is the paintings of people from history.
We watch a show at the planetarium sometimes, which my child thoroughly enjoys. The staff gives a presentation about that night's stars on the screen after the movie.
This is a gem in a big city where some may be hesitant to go. It's a safe area during the day. I walk there from my job a few blocks away with my child. We've also parked in their paid lot. Must see for locals.

This is a wonderful place to spend time with family and friends. It’s a great place to take children. The Ballantine House is a wonderful historic experience. The current exhibit about Albert Bierstadt is a wonderful experience about the Rocky Mountains and the Alps and how artists influenced tourism in these areas.

This undervalued gem by Rutgers University is a must see in Newark. The curators pay special attention to Black, Asian and Spanish-speaking groups in their choice of special exhibits. The permanent collection is excellent and the planetarium and Ballentine House are really special. Right now there is a special "please-touch" installation for children. And I would give a shoutout to the museum shop buyers.

I found the Newark Museum to be a wonderful surprise right in downtown Newark. It's New Jersey's largest museum and has quite a broad range of art. American, Asian, African, art... contemporary art and decorative art. If you take your time it's easy to spend the better part of the day here. It's closed on Monday and Tuesday but open the other 5 days of the week. There is parking adjacent to the bldg.

What a wonderful museum! As a lifelong resident of the suburbs of Newark I was very pleasantly surprised that such a good museum was so close by!

In addition to the Museum of Newark's permanent collections, they offer some of the finiest exhibits that I've seen. Recently, I toured the museum and the expansive quilt exhibit, before touring the Ballantine house which is another part fo the museum. It was a fabulous day. A great day trip is to pair this museum with a tour of the Sacred Heart Cathedral just minutes away!

I visited the Newark Museum twice in the last two months. Yesterday I visited the Chinese New Year celebrations. I have never seen the museum this packed before but then the admission was free so many more people could access it. There were Lion Dance and Ribbon dance performances, Chinese singers and all sorts of arts and crafts for children. It was a nice family event.

The time before that I visited the Ballentine House, which is a Victorian mansion attached to the museum that was decorated for the Christmas holidays. The museum did a nice job interpreting the holidays during Victorian times and the social protocols.

The sad part about the museum is that the parking lot is now gone and it’s tough to find parking. Also when it is just a regular day at the museum, the place is like a ghost town. It is a hidden gem that more people need to visit.

We had a few hours to burn before our flight and found this museum. It was only $12 pp and took about an hour and half to go through. We were able to find street parking and the cost made it worthwhile for our family of 4. The staff was very welcoming and around if there were any questions.

This museum is well laid out and I appreciate that attention to detail. I liked the silver ware display as well as the access to to the Historical Ballentine House. I am not sure if they are building an addition to the museum or a new one right next door but I will go back once it is finished.

The Newark Museum has a good assortment of displays and a great staff. They are very helpful and happy to provide information about the displays. There are also free tours available at designated times. The museum offers several different discounts to different groups. Rutgers Newark students get in free. With or without the discount, the cost is reasonable and worth the activities that are available.

I stayed at the airport and saw an ad in the Visitor's magazine about an exhibit titled "Angels and Tomboy's". I ventured out to the Museum, near Rutgers Univ, and had only an hour before they closed. The exhibit was wonderful and somewhat mesmerizing. I also had time to shop at the Museum Gift Store which had a suprising variety of items.

Annual black film festival offers a variety of documentaries, historical and entertaining films reflecting cultural, social and political issues.

I have not been here since I was in grammar school and to kids It was as good if not better then I remember. Parking was right there and we all had a good time. Everyone had different interests and things that got excited about and wanted t linger on but we all enjoyed it I thought it was bigger but ,Abe it was because I was small then. Lol before traveling to far away places try visiting your backyard!!

If you wet there soon, they have a really good Norman Rockwell exhibit that takes up 2 rooms. There is one that is all the magazine covers from the Evening Post and another large area with very well done explanations of painting and prints in larger pieces. We like Norman but also thought that the exhibit was well done. We have been to the Major Norman museum in Stockbridge Mass. and these items were from there. Other than that exhibit, there wasn't too much to see. We did like the Ballentine home. Easy to get to and parking is attached so is also easy.

The Newark Museum is always doing something innovative.

This evening I visited the museum for the opening of the 'Wendy Red Star' exhibition and they had a very nice Members Cocktail Party and opening of the exhibit. They really did a nice job. We even got to meet the artist.

The museum is always trying to create different venues for the patrons and this exhibition showed the artists life from childhood until now and the changes that the laws on the Reservations have done to the people that live there. It was interesting to see the progression.

The opening party was very nice and the caterer did a good job with the food. It was just a nice evening out.

I visited the museum because I just wanted to something different and I must say wasn't dissatisfied. The place was beautiful and if you honestly looked at the art, you developed your own opinion and saw you saw your own beauty and enjoyed the experience. You were allowed to think and explore your own imagination. 🙂

We were in nthe area and looking for an indoor activity to keep the kids occupied on a miserably hot humid Jersey summer day. This museum fit the bill. The surrounding area is a bit run-down, but is getting a nice face-lift, with restoration of historic buildings and refurbishing of parks. Still, we did not stroll around much outside.

The museum itself is composed of three buildings that were later joined together. On the summer weekday on which we visited it ws relatively empty, but I imagine they get local school groups quite frequently during the year.

Many of the exhibits geared toward children were nice, but you can see similar exhibits at the Natural History Museum in NYC, or in the various children's museums in the NYC metro area. The material on geology and climates was clearly presented and kept our children engaged, so we could not ask for more.

One exhibit my children enjoyed very much was a genuine 1700s one-room school house brought over brick by brick from a nearby farm community to courtyard of the museum. Simple placards explain how children were all grouped together in one room, and how the schoolhouse physically functioned.

A modest planetarium (holding about 40 visitors) screens 3 shows suitable for teaching children of various age groups about astronomy and astronaut training, followed by a starshow. Tickets for this are extra.

The Tibetian collection is impressive -- one of the finest in the world (who knew?). I didn't expect my children to be so rivited by ethnographic films of Tibet, but they were a bit hit.

There are crafts for children on the mezannine level for no extra charge.

I wouldn't schlepp here from New York, but overall, the Newark Museum is a nice place to visit if you are looking for a quiet, educational activity in central NJ.

Every Time I attend an event at Newark Museum the staff is always happy and the service is fantastic. One of my favorite places in Newark NJ.

Most people, even in NJ, don't have much regard for the city of Newark (a judgment, I think, that is unfair). Even if you are a little hesitant to come to Newark, the Newark Museum is a "hidden gem." Admission to the museum also include Ballatine House. One of the museum's specialities is its collection of Asian art, and there is a full Tibetan altar (consecrated by the Dalai Lama, if I remember correctly) on display. Ballatine House is a nice extra, a good example of Victorian art and furnishings. I went once with a friend who is really "into" antiques, and I had a hard time prying him out of Ballatine House!

especially enjoyed the docent tour of Angels and Tomboys,and the mansion which is incorporated into the museum.

The Newark Museum, at 49 Washington Street in Newark, has a wonderful collection of art works, especially the American paintings. Go and explore. You won't be sorry. The Ballantine House
is also beautiful, and this landmark building is a part of the museum, too.
There is a lovely seating area with a cafe. Take a friend and enjoy an hour or two and wander around this beautiful place.
I have loved the Newark Museum since childhood. It has always been a beautiful place, and with its permanent collection AND its changing exhibits, I am continuing my love affair with this place.
One last thing: don't forget to visit the Museum Gift Shop and come away with a little bit of beauty--in the form of a scarf, a book, a postcard, etc. You will help to support the museum.

Well, it's not really "hidden", but it certainly doesn't get the respect it deserves! Wonderful permanent collection, particularly Early American and Tibetan collections.

An excellent museum with great content, right in the heart of Newark.

I enjoyed my trip to the Museum. Too be very honest ... I am not a museum person . But this visit turned my interest in visiting more museums.

Really enjoy going here. Special exhibits are always first class! Touring the Ballantine House is like stepping back in time. Also has special programs around various holidays for families, many are hands on.

This museum was filled with little treasures. I was excited to learn about Native Americans, wildlife, and early life in New Jersey.

This is an absolutely beautiful museum with a most helpful and friendly staff. I visited their permanent Tibetan Collection recently and it was jaw-dropping. It's the largest Tibetan collection in the Western hemisphere, and includes the reconstruction of a Buddhist temple. In April I attended a reception and free lecture by their Tibetan curator on the Tibetan buddhist caves at Dunhuang, which was nothing short of amazing. The curator was very accessible and even stayed to answer questions well after the event was over. Their special exhibitions are always well-thought out and well worth the visit. Member shopping days during the winter holidays are not to be missed. You will love coming back to this museum over and over again!

We planned this visit in advance and really had a nice afternoon there. The fine city home of the affluent Ballantine family (brewery money-nothing changes!) was an excellent example of 1880s finery. The art collection is very impressive, a fine Hudson School art collection. The planetarium was lots of fun and we saw a show about asteroids and their impact on earth...check it out. Use your local history museum card (if you aren't a member join it) as we got in for free. Had to pay a small sum for the planetarium. great place..daytime is fine to get around, don't worry about crime, etc.

I grew up close to Newark, had family in Newark and went to college in Newark. Had never visited the Museum in my 60++ years.
We had some time between Hotel checkout and flight, so decided to visit the museum.
It was a wonderful experience and I only wish we had time to explore a few more galleries.
Will definitely visit again next time in Newark

Tucked away in the middle of Newark, this museum is a surprise! You don't expect this in Newark, but if you don't try this place you're missing out on one of the best attractions in New Jersey. A must go!

I went to the Newark Museum while on a visit to NY/NJ because I was interested in checking out the Romare Bearden exhibit. Wow. It was only a fraction of what they offered. My host underestimated how long it would take to make our way through the museum. We definitely, and unfortunately, ran out of time. I was surprised at the wide variety of art, artifacts, and other objects on exhibition in the facility. I hope to return on a future trip and see the rest of it! Nicely done, Newark Museum, curators, staff, and other contributors.

Did not have the time to thoroughly visit, but the restoration of a Victorian house as part of the museum is gorgeous!

It was a great pleasure to spend several hours yesterday at the Newark Museum. The staff was very helpful and friendly and there were more than enough exhibits and art work to enjoy. The Tibetan and Asian rooms were particularly enchanting. The Victorian rooms of the Ballentine mansion were quite interesting. The gift shop was spectacular.

We decided to go to Newark rather than the Metropolitan in NY (which we have visited many times) with the expectation that it would be a more leisurely and comprehensible experience. We were not disappointed.

Very sad and annoyed to see my friend and her 11 year's old daughter were turn back at the door because children were prohibited to enter,my friend didn't know neither did I. Really embarrassing. I could finally enter and to my surprise there were kids all ages I got proof of that. Shame on you. You can't do that to an 11 years old girl. I guess she won't be dancing MJ anymore. SHAME ON YOU.

city musium gem &stone musium must visit
indian and assian divison must to visit for more historical expiriance

Small enough to view the entire museum without feeling exhausted like in most museums. Variety of exhibits and well priced entry. Not too crowded, even for a smaller space

This is the best little museum this side of the Hudson. The permanent Joseph Stella paintings are a must see as well as the Ballantine House and jewelry exhibits. Easy to get there. Plenty of parking.

We knew nothing about the existence of this museum. Found on the way back home from Boston. It is a gem. The kimono exhibit was fantastic. We spent a lot of time and money and made two trips to the gift shop, which is top notch, with lots of Japanese items related to the then exhibit. Two areas for children to make/take projects were appreciated. We plan to go back because we did not see everything we wanted and there was some construction going on along with exhibition take down/set up. Attached house museum was a treat, especially as it was decorated for the Christmas holiday. All in all, many very interesting objects and exhibits. Lay out of building was a little confusing to figure out so included too much walking for me with a cane.

Far too few people realize that there is an art museum in downtown Newark, let alone a world class one. The main building dates from the time that Newark was an economic powerhouse, and the cost of the building itself was underwritten by Louis Bamberger, who owned the largest department store in Newark, Bamberger's.

Unlike Bamberger's, which is now a pleasant memory, the Newark Museum continues on, and has expanded into several adjacent buildings. The most noteworthy being The Ballentine House, of Ballentine Beer fame. Newark was once home to many breweries.

The museum's american collections are varied, and feature a number of key African American artists. These collections are a great way to introduce someone to art appreciation, and the
descriptive cards provided by the museum are a great way to start a discussion about the art you are viewing.

In keeping with the demographics of it's home city, the museum has an outstanding collection of art from the Third World, a great planetarium, and a beautiful garden.

If you are visiting from NYC, or out of the area, the museum is an easy walk from either Penn Station Newark, or the Broad Street station. Despite the reputation of Newark, the museum is in a safe area, and the Newark Light Rail runs within a block of the museum.

Enjoy !

Nice museum to share with young children. Also went when circus was in town and they had clowns from Barnum and Bailey. Learned circus acts. Free if you live in Newark!

Been there a couple of times, once for a Tibet exhibit and the other for dinosaurs and NY Saturday Post exhibit. Admission is reasonable. Conveniently located to major highways. The museum is attached to the Ballantine Mansion (beer baron) which is good to see. Exhibits rotate so check the website for the latest information. It is a great family trip as well.

This review addresses only the Ballantine House, which is part of the Newark Museum.

We visited the Ballantine House since it was a local attraction I have not seen in all my years living in Essex County. We chose a time when we knew it would be decorated for Christmas, since we had heard it was done nicely and authentically. We were not disappointed.

Visitors can access the house by paying the entrance fee to the Newark Museum. We only toured the house on this visit, not the rest of the museum. We entered the house through the museum, which is attached to the home.

Visitors may tour two floors of the Ballantine home, a reminder of the important role breweries once played in the economy of Newark. The Ballantine family, originally from Scotland, lived in this impressive home located like other elegant 19th Century homes on Washington Park. It is the only remaining home from the formerly fashionable neighborhood.

The first floor has several rooms to visit: parlors, a dining room, a billiards room, and spacious hallways. Many original features of the home remain: beautiful woodwork, fireplaces, windows, furniture, and artifacts. When we were there, the rooms appeared as the Ballantines would have decorated them for Christmas, with trees, a collection of ornamental birds, china, and reproductions of foods they would have eaten for Christmas dinner. The museum provided visitors with a page of recipes of traditional foods served, including plum pudding and fried celery!

The second floor was a bit of a disappointment because a bedroom area had been converted to a gallery for displaying Tiffany silver, donated by the Tiffany family, who had a factory in Newark. I thought the gallery was an intrusion on the home and was surprised to see it. The silver did not belong to the Ballantine family, but the museum needed a place to display it. I understand the demands of addressing the needs and requests of donors, but the display is just jarring and out of place in the home. I asked a tour guide why they had not restored the area to the original bedroom space, and his only response was that the museum needed gallery space for the silver collection. He agreed that the fit was not good. Fortunately, two other rooms were restored to their original appearance as bedrooms, Jeanette and John Ballantine's room and their daughter's room. Bathrooms have not been restored.

The tour guide who led us through the house was pleasant and knowledgeable and answered all our questions.

We enjoyed the visit and would recommend it for others. Newark has lost so many of its elegant old homes, and its history as a brewing city is no longer so evident. It is good that a house like this remains as evidence of Newark's past.

Convenient to all public transportation . Great exhibits that shine a positive and nostalgic view of Newark. Wonderful traveling exhibits and artists abound . The concerts , movies , lectures , and planetarium and a draw as well. Parking on site as well .

The collection is solid. The exhibitions some time rise to the best any museum can offer (for a small, focused exhibit). However given the inclusion of the Ballentine House, especially at Christmas, this is a surprisingly special place. Great for kids.

I have visited the Newark Museum four times now, and each time I love it even more. The exhibits are informative and beautifully done. The permanent collection is exquisite; I especially love the American art collection. Don't miss walking through the Ballantine mansion, which is attached to the museum and is a great example of a gilded age life. There is so much to see at this museum. (Alos: Visit Jersey Arts on the web and get a free Jersey Arts card; with this, the entrance fee for adults is $8.00 rather than $15.00. You may have to tell the person at the desk that in fact there is a discount for Jersey Arts members.)

The museum is a true gem. Be sure to visit the Ballentine house as well. The workshops are dynamic and fun

great collections, small enough to see a lot and appreciate things, an important collection of Tibetan art, unique exhibits

The museum is filled with great art and history. I particularly liked how the galleries were divided with explanations. We loved the jewelry. The Harlem renaissance piece was amazing. The Ballantine house was beautiful and we enjoyed the history. There is so much to see and it's very comfortable to move through.

If I could describe the staff in one word, it would be "friendly". As soon as we entered the museum, a young gentleman at the entrance greeted us with a smile. He also provided recommendations on what we should see, since we arrived late in the day.

The museum has a little bit of everything. There is an exhibit about Native American art, and entire wing dedicated to Asian art, and another wing that describes the geologic history of the New Jersey landscape and surrounding region. There is also contemporary art displayed throughout the museum, and of course, the Ballantine House is a must!

This was a fantastic experience and offers lots of good information...especially considering the price. I highly recommend this museum if you're in the area!

The Newark museum is a gem. I go there often to attend lectures, special exhibits, and to view their collections. I also love their gift shop! 🌟

All I have to say is that you should not miss 'Jazz in the Park' this July and August. It is the best. It is such a nice afternoon out to just sit back and relax.

Don't miss the planetarium and the new Native American exhibits. They are impressive as well.

The place was excellent to see great attraction and time to talk with family and friends.
Try to stop and walk and listen to the tour and the interesting facts about Nj and Newark NJ

Every Second Friday there's a program geared for the 55+. Painting, sculpture, film, poetry, a plethora of events!

This is hands down the best museum in New Jersey and, dare I say, the Mid-Atlantic region. Of course, I choose not to include New York City in this. However, I feel like this museum would appeal to those visiting the Big Apple. Regardless, this museum is cutting edge and always changing things to attract the same groups back. Being a local, you don't visit these tourist spots much, but when a museum like this is around it gets a lot of repeat customers.

Yes, what a hidden gem hidden beside Rutger's campus in the heart of Newark! I took my moms to see the "Kimono Reimagined" exhibition and was wowed there first and found SO MUCH MORE, like their planetarium and the Ballantine House that is attached and done up for the holidays! So wonderful! One of the better museum gift shops to get a memory of your visit. We have to go back!

I wouldnt treck to Newark just for this, but if you are in the area, its got a nice collectiona and is a calm and untouristed alternative to NYC museums.

We went to the Newark museum the other day....What a wonderful experience! We first explored the Ballantine Mansion (part of the museum). It's quite fascinating. Afterward, we went through the various art galleries. It was quite relaxing, and we saw a diverse collection of artwork.

Excellent shows and quality presentation. Well worth the trip from New York or other spots. Actually easy to get to

Parking there makes you feel victimized. The price of parking coupled with the price of admittance should be something I can write off on my taxes.

I went there my professor and classmate. It was amazing, they have a lot things from ancient times in history. I remember seeing ancient times glass maker, stuff from China, India, Africa Egypt, America and many more. It was my history class but it was amazing that my professor take us there plus it was free for us.

The Newark Museum had so much to offer. The building looks small from the outside, but it covers a wide span of history that everyone, young and old, should see.

The name Newark does not suggest a museum trip, but we go frequently and are not disappointed. Special exhibits imaginative and continuing artwork always interesting. It is convenient to visit and park

The Newark Museum is a very worthwhile institution. I particularly enjoyed the exhibit captioned "Tumbling Into Landscape". There are some amazing pictures in the exhibit--world class images. The Ballantine House is also impressive--although closed at the present time. Park in the lot on Central Avenue--south of the museum building.

This is a hidden NJ pearl. Had heard it was nice but never got there. Had been disappointed with the Liberty Sience Center so was skeptical. Well, finally went and glad I did. Saw the Angels and Tomboys exhibit and was really impressed. Also, went into the Ballantine Mansion part of museum which was beatiful - rooms all decorated in period. Many ancient artifact collections but was getting tired so need to go back to see more of the place. Parking lot on premise. Overall, great experience.

What an amazing place, and I must confess that I never knew it existed! The Newark Museum is an oasis of artistic and scientific treasures in the midst of a concrete urban neighborhood. It consists of a huge collection of Art,Sculpture, and jewelry from numerous areas, including Native American to Pop. An outstanding vertical 5 panel painting by Joseph Stella, " City of NY Interpreted" captures your eyes with its vast angles and bright streaming colors. Adjacent to the Museum is the Ballantine House, a Victorian home from the late 19th century, preserved in its original state of elegance and wealth.The deeply painted interior rooms are corded off but you can sense the presence of the former tenants, lingering near the settee' or elaborately laid tea service. We were genuinely entertained in the MakerSPACE, which features hands on crafts and building materials for children of all ages. There is an outstanding Planetarium inside the Museum, but we did not have enough time to view the spectacular program. One sculpture piece that thoroughly impressed me was a configuration of assorted footwear shaped into a tall black iron design. I shall return to this marvelous Museum, if only to see the Tibetan altar table consecrated by the Dalai Lama in the early 1990s. I highly recommend all their superb collections,and suggest that you visit these one of a kind treasures, and soak in their beauty and inspiration.

Went here to kill a couple of hours before flight back to U.K. Was pleasantly surprised. The old house was decorated for Christmas it was so realistic. It seemed a bit pricey to enter but enjoyed the visit

There have been a lot of changes at the Newark Museum lately especially with the mounting of the new galleries. There is a new gallery for African art and one for the Egyptian art and art of the Mediterranean.

The new Korean galleries are very interesting as well. Soon the new entrance will be open and there will be a whole new look to the museum.

They are making some positive changes to the museum.

When in Newark, go there it is a must! During the warm months there is entertainment in their garden.

You can spend a full day in this museum easily, even with the Ballantine House under renovation. I wish I lived closer as I'd easily be a member. The museum permanent exhibits features quite an outstanding Asian art collection, including a full temple that was, in fact, blessed. The African art collection while minimalist in appearance has striking pieces, all of which have powerful meaning, attendant to both the symbols that are held across the continent and represent a range of countries. There were wings of the museum that focused on a range of American art with powerful pieces that represent the classic landscape and portraiture, to areas of the museum that pay homage to New Jersey's indigenous culture, a collection of art glass, and spaces devoted to Black art. On this visit, I was deeply excited to see Bisa Butler's warmth of other suns and a special exhibit by Saya Wookfalk. Normally biased toward painting and print medium, I was blown away by her graphics and digital arts and bought a few mementos in the museum shop.

The museum store has delightful finds and the museum has a beautiful space for conference sessions.

I have been to this museum at least four times and I feel like I need to come more often.

Just went to the museum to see the Norman Rockwell American Chronicles Tour. It's a worthwhile exhibit if you are in to Norman Rockwell or American Artists. The museum also offers an interesting permanent collection. Worth a trip, and then have lunch at a nearby Spanish restaurant over in the Ironbound section.

Great exhibits, space and experience- admission is a bit on the high side though.

As a former resident of Newark I wanted to share the experience I grew to know with my 8 yr old son. The Ballentine house is still very much in tack and still being shown. The inside of the museum is very well kept. Parking is available. But the best part of the museum is still my favorite - the planetarium...

We visited here on a Saturday in July, and we happened to arrive right when it opened. The front desk and surrounding area is bright, open, and clean. We were greeted cordially by the staff. We spent two hours here, but because we had something else on our schedule that day we had to leave sooner than we would have liked. We could have spent at least another hour here. There were entire areas that we didn’t even see. If you really want to admire and take in all the museum has to offer, I recommend that you set aside 3-4 hours for your visit.

The museum consists of four main buildings: the main building, the Ballantine House, the North Wing, and the South Wing. The museum’s collection consists of art from various cultures (American, Native American, African, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, South Asian, and Tibetan) and times (18th to 21st centuries for American art as well as ancient Mediterranean, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman works), a jewelry gallery, a ceramics gallery, a decorative arts gallery, and a Tibetan Buddhist altar. There is also the Dreyfuss Planetarium, Engelhard Court (an open area with tables and chairs), the Atrium, Victoria Hall of Science, an auditorium, two program halls, and classrooms.

My favorite area was the Ballantine House, the one-time home of the Newark beer-brewing family consisting of eight Victorian period rooms. I was so impressed with it that for me it was worth the price of admission to the museum all by itself.

The museum complex also houses a memorial garden, Discovery Garden, the Old Stone School House, and the Newark Fire Museum (historic firefighting equipment).

Helpful Things to Know:
1) The museum has a different visiting schedule compared to other museums. It’s not open on Monday or Tuesday, and on the days it is open the hours are shorter than regular hours, namely from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. Plan your visit accordingly.

2) There is a parking lot adjacent to the museum. As of July 2019, it costs $9.00 to park on the weekend. Weekdays have varying rates ($6.00 first hour, $10.00 up to five hours, and $16.00 max to close). Be advised that the lot is not striped the usual way—that is, with individual spots marked. Rather, there are long lanes that can accommodate multiple cars each. When we visited there were not many cars in the lot, and we were told to park where we wished. We didn’t have any issue with getting blocked in by anyone else, but I don’t know if that becomes a concern when it gets crowded. I recommend that you ask the parking attendant how their system works when there are many cars there so you can avoid being blocked in. Please note that the parking lot is maintained by a separate entity, not the museum.

3) The museum is surrounded on three sides by one way streets which go counter-clockwise around it, so when planning your driving directions, take this fact into account. Central Avenue to the south is the only two-way street.

4) Admission is $15.00 for adults. Veterans and their families, senior citizens (65 and over), teachers and students with a valid ID, and children cost $8.00 each. Children 2 years and younger are free. AAA adult price is two for one. Admission to the planetarium is additional. Check their website for additional information about general admission discounts.

5) There is a gift shop located on the west (left) side of the entrance lobby. Patrons can purchase books, postcards, framed artwork, hats, throw pillows, woven baskets, decorative objects, and even some clothing and jewelry.

6) Lighting in the Ballantine House is rather subdued. Flash photography is allowed, but in some cases even a camera flash was insufficient to light up certain areas properly.

7) The museum has a large elevator and hence is handicap accessible. They also provide wheelchairs free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.

8) They have a limited number of assistive listening devices which are also provided free of charge.

9) Washington Park is right across the street. It’s a triangular-shaped park that has a few statues and monuments in it, walking paths, the benefit of shade provided by trees, and a NJ Transit train station.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit here, and we would certainly return. In fact, we plan to do so before the summer is over because there is more we want to see. I heartily recommend this site.

Since most reviewers posted photos of the Ballantine House, I will post photos of elsewhere in the museum as well as rooms in the Ballantine House that have not been posted.

If my review was helpful, please consider clicking the thumbs-up button. Thank you!

An incredible treasure in Newark New Jersey? A resounding YES!
When I told friends and family that I would be visiting "The Newark Museum" in downtown Newark New Jersey, there was a collective gasp. Surely, I meant somewhere else. Only 15 miles from New York City, the Newark Museum is a mix of Art Museum, Science Center, and Historic Home.
Located near the New Jersey Performing Art Center and the new Prudential Center, this is a museum that lives in a revived downtown district. Newark has always had a bad reputation, but the area is changing. Access to the museum is easy, and there is an adjacent parking lot, although it is owned by a contractor and the fee is $7.00. Admission to the museum is $9.00.

The art museum's collection focuses exclusively on American Art from the late 1700's to contemporary times. Big name artists include Sargent, Cassat, Innes, Peale, Sully, Copley, Bierstadt, Hartley, and Demuth. Although you may only see one picture from each artist, literally every well known artist is here. I even discovered a great Artic Nautical scene by William Bradford.

The crowing treasure is the Ballantine House which is a 4 story mansion built by the Ballantine Beer magnate. Two floors are open to the public, and the house is an architectual treasure with a stained glass window, special wall and ceiling treatments, and an array of interesting furnishings.

Additional holdings include an Asian Collection, African American and Native American art, plus there is a planterium and science center for the kids. All in all, this is clearly a GREAT place to visit. And its pretty QUIET here; there were more security people than visitors, making this an undiscovered treasure!

I attended the first of a series of Afternoon Teas and lectures at the Newark Museum and it was a very nice event.

We started off with a full service lunch with nice size cakes, sandwiches and scones and there was plenty for seconds. We were eating in the Trustees Dining Room which was the old apartment of rooms on the top floor of the Ballatine House. The only bad part was that we were packed in a little tight both in the room and at the table but that is how popular the event was that afternoon.

The food was wonderful and there was plenty of it. We had three different types of scones, four different types of sandwiches and all sorts of pastries and teas. The caterer had a nice selection of food.

After the tea was over, we had a tour of the Ballatine House which was decorated for the holidays. It was really a good tour and discussed how the Ballatine's would have celebrated the holidays with their family and the neighbors.

I had a really nice time and the Newark Museum does do a great job with their special events.

I can’t believe I grew up in NJ, but only found out about this museum a few years ago. It’s a treasure. Very impressed with the breadth and variety of exhibits and their collection. Staff were enthusiastic and helpful, which added to the experience. Definitely a lot to take in, so I hope to go back. We immediately found a parking space right across the street for not a lot of money.

This museum is like a little sister for the Metropolitan Museum. They have excellent collections and a historic mansion you can visit too. A GREAT gift shop.

During the summer months every Thursday at 12 noon, the Newark Museum hosts Summer Jazz in the Garden. A wonderful event to relax to.

Very pleasant space in downtown Newark. Small, but surpringly deep. Excellent specimens of Native American art, especially baskets and pots; good explanation of anthropology importance of pieces; Asian art including Tibetan altar; room tracing Egyptian, Greek, Roman. Friendly staff waiting to meet you. Events for school children.

I was frankly more than a little bit disappointed with Newark. It's rather ugly and shabby and I expected there to more to do. Perhaps people all head to NYC for culture? That being said, thus museum was very nice with some great paintings.

I liked the variety of items on exhibit at the Newark Museum. Something for everyone. Well-informed docents gladly gave us tours of two exhibits.

Tremendous museum with an amazingly broad first class collection! This collection includes American, African, Asian classical, decorative along with the sciences. They have a renowned, and I think wonderful, American art collection, including Sargent, Hopper, Homer, O'Keefe, Calder to name just a few! For families there is the restored 1885 Ballantine House, always decorated for the holidays. The Dynamic Earth Exhibit with its mineral caves, vast specimens from Africa to the north pole, it has a dinosaur foot print from Hillside and interactive exhibits. The Dreyfus planetarium, great family shows and whose exhibit includes a moon rock plus much more! My family always enjoyed the Tibetan wing which has an Alter which was blessed by the Dali Lama, this floor of the museum includes their Asian exhibits. My children's favorite was the Classical collection (neolithic through Roman) which includes an Egyptian mummy and children games!

Lots of good stuff in here! 1920's American impressionists, quality stuff, Tibetan art, and even a planitarium! worth the visit.

this museum is the best kept secret in Newark. On my first visit I thought it would only take about a half hour. I was there several hours. it has three floors of exhibits. there is so much to see. every time you go, you can see something different.

A small collection. In an interesting building if you have time to visit, it may have an exhibition of N J artists

A jewel that continues to exemplify what Newark has to offer.

wonderful museum in the heart of Newark; filled with family friendly exhibits and hands on experiences for little ones; concerts in the summer add to the value of this gem in the city

After 100 years, this museum just keeps getting better. The largest museum in New Jersey, it provides wonderful exhibits in the sciences and the arts, for adults and children alike, including a planetarium show and sculpture garden, fire museum, and the beautifully preserved and restored Ballantine House, the Gilded Age home of the brewery family. Among the permanent galleries are Art in America and Dynamic Earth, which has great natural history exhibits, hands-on activites and an introductory audiovisual narrated by James Earl Jones. The Tibetan gallery is said to be the largest in North America, including an altar dedicated by the Dalai Lama. There is always another interactive science or other topical educational gallery for kids, and updated galleries on African and other ethnic arts. Truly the gem of New Jersey's largest city, with a wealth of activities, special programs, convenient to mass transit and secure parking.

This museum is a gem. The collections are phenomenal and you can easily spend the day just marveling over all its treasures. There is parking adjacent to the museum and a special feature is a preserved schoolhouse and display of antique fire trucks.

Who knew that such a wonderfully curated museum was here . We started with a small but wonderful African exhibit , moved onto the Medieval and then spent several wonderful hours up in the Latin american and American artists in the 19th and 20th century ..Hopper, Innes, Cole, Church, Okeefe are there but so are some lesser /unknown to us artists ., We LOVED this museum .

I am a member of the Newark Museum.It was one of the first museums in the USA to exhibit "modern art". Its collections of Tibetan and American Indian art art top rate. The museum performs other social functions, showing films, presenting musical performances and even giving members the opportunity to travel together. The adjoining Building, the Ballentine House must be seen as well as the Planetarium.

Whether you like fine arts, crafts, decorative arts or 19th century architecture, traditional or modern, domestic or cutting-edge international, this museum has it all. Definitely worth a couple of hours or half a day. Plenty of safe, attended parking (unless you go at a peak time or for a special event). Beautiful hidden outdoor garden space that's excellent for a private party.

We had a day between flights so were able to spend a surprising four hours here. This is a great museum with an eclectic collection which will have areas of interest for most visitors. We were particularly interested in the Ballantine house and the gallery of American art, however other parts of the gallery also took our eye and our interest.
If you have time in Downtown Newark give this a visit.

Like many smaller museums in the metro New York area it suffers by proximity.

The collection is multifaceted and multicultural Covering everything from Ancient Egypt, contemporary fine art and crafts and natural history. Unlike some museums it strives to be inclusive and has offerings and presentations geared to every member of the family.
Excellent loan exhibitions and frequent movement of the permanent collection makes every visit a new experience.

The collection of American Art is a gem, covering all the major American artists and movements from colonial times to the present. Many major master works such as Powers 'Greek Slave' and Stellas 'Brooklyn Bridge Series call Newark home.

The decorative arts collection is extensive with an impressive collection of silver and jewelry much of which was manufactured in Newark for retail giants like Tiffany and Gorham. New galleries have been opened with interesting interactive labeling for the ceramic and silver collections and the jewelry exhibit is regularly changed.

The Ballentine House was the original museum building. The first floor and part of the second has been restored as an over the top high end Victorian home. The walls are thick with paintings and decorative objects, the dining room always set for an elaborate banquet and a never finished chess game in progress in the library. The house is decorated for Christmas (check their website) and has become an annual event for my family.

There is an extensive collection of African art spanning everything from tribal to contemporary. The Classic collection is small but very good and well displayed.

There is an extensive collection of Asian art. Some are master works that have often been lent to important exhibits here and abroad. Part of the exhibition is a recreation of a Tibetan shrine that was visited and blessed by the Dalai Lamma.

The Natural history collection is well displayed. One gallery is a recreation of a cave complete with bats that kids seem to love. There is also an area dedicated to local natural history.

In the museum garden is a Fire museum perfect for children, they can try on fire gear and sit in the cab of a firetruck. Also in the garden is the oldest schoolhouse in the city where Washington is said to have stopped to greet the local citizens.

On weekends there is a small pop up cafe in the main lobby, not great but a good place to sit and have a cuppa. The gift shop is excellent with a special focus on hand mane items.

There is a for pay parking lot next to the building but on Sundays there is usually ample street parking.

The museum is well worth the trip and I highly recommend it.

I loved every minute in this museum. It is small, so it's great for taking the stress out of the workday. I focused on the American artists. They are presented in chronological order, coinciding with important periods in our history. There are some real gems here, including John Singer Sargent, Thomas Cole ,John Sloan and Childe Hassam. Don't miss the Reginald Marsh . I have still not shaken it's image and symbolism from my head.

A beautiful architectural structure. Houses an incredible variety of art, sculptures, tapestries and artifacts. Noted and celebrated as having one of the most definitive Tibetan collections ever. The Dali Lama once visited years ago. The planetarium is also housed under this roof and educational series are available from Pre-K and up. Go visit at Christmas and you will be wowed.

The museum is in the rather hopefully named Historic Newark district, surrounded by various other buildings including bits of Rutgers, so it would be easy to overlook. However, it's worth a visit.

Some reviews say it's free - technically true, but there is a ticket desk and a suggested entry fee ($12 for an adult in December 2014). The planetarium is another $5. There are reductions for seniors and children.

The layout of the museum takes a bit of getting your head around - it's actually three, three story buildings which are linked only at ground level. So it's worth spending a minute or two with the map, and treat it as three mini-visits in one.

The only disappointing area, to my mind, was the science bit at the top, which focused on geoscience. The staff looked slightly startled - I got the feeling that not many visitors find their way up there.

The rest of the museum is excellent, and the presentation of the exhibits is always good and in many cases beautiful. Particular highlights for me included the Korean art and the Painting America gallery, but I enjoyed wandering through all the galleries.

The planetarium is small. My advice would be to choose the program carefully - we were shown a presentation about meteorites which, although competent was basically an information film that could equally well have been shown on a flat screen, or a TV. But it was followed by a live tour of the night sky, tips on sky watching and current things to look out for which was far more interesting - I'd have been quite happy with that, and losing the initial film.

I'd allow 90 minutes for the museum - plus an hour if you take in the planetarium.

The Newark museum is a great place to take the kids, you don't have to go into NYC to go to a good museum. They have frequently changing special exhibits.

Newark museum has programs for everyone. The art work is not to be believed and travel a little further up the elevator to the other floors i.e. The forth floor with Asian art took me 4 hours to look through. They even have a Full Buddhist Temple! I was truly in awe. I have been a member for years and I was never to the fourth floor because they have so many art exhibits that change constantly, I never had time. But one afternoon after a jazz concert, I went exploring and found this magnificent fourth floor ... WOW! Also do not forget the planetarium. Taking my grandson there this December.

Excellent museum with a good variety of exhibits covering a wide appeal for all age ranges and interests. The staff was also outstanding. Every staff member seemed to make genuine attempts at asking if you had seen everything or missed a particular exhibit. The Ballantine house was also quite interesting and well done.

My daughter and I went there for a special exhinition and were delighted. The museum is small, but it is well organized, has good lighting, overall a pleasant place. The captions for the works displayed were not really well written though. They offer different workshops and activities for children and adults. Worth the visit!

This is a wonderful museum with an excellent Planetarium, one of the foremost Tibetan exhibits, a beautiful portrait collection and great exhibits. Don't miss the Ballentine mansion that is annexed to the museum and can be entered through the museum. There's a floor that's great for kids too as well as an extensive educational program. It's one of the best highlights of the city of Newark. Parking for a fee.

Fantastic museum and amazing exhibits, I spent the better part of a day here, and it still wasn't enough. The staff are friendly and helpful, and their courtesy cannot be bested.

A real treat, with lots of different collections, including a nice collection of ancient Native American art and artifacts, and a truly impressive Asian art collection, featuring an authentic Tibetan Buddhist altar, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 1990. Visiting collections are also awesome. If you're a museum person, expect to spend most of an afternoon at this place.

I suppose staff at the Newark Museum must be tired of hearing people breathlessly tell them "I never realized a museum like this existed in Newark." Poor, downtrodden, easy-to-ignore Newark. But this museum is a gem, with an important Tibetan collection. We were there during a Norman Rockwell exhibition, which was a delight. Knowledgeable and friendly docents - Vera showed us around. The ultimate compliment: even if you're staying in New York it's worth a trip.

Unlike many museums, which offer reduced (or free) admission for late arrivals, the Newark museum demands the full admission price, no matter how late you get there. NO EXCEPTIONS! So if you can only physically get there for the last hour, or 30 minutes, they will charge the full price and won't let you come back another day for more time. Oh well, too bad....they lose the revenue, I lose the chance to reasonably see the museum, and the other businesses I would have gone to (dinner, anyone?) lose a customer also. Textbook example of a lose-lose policy.

They have plenty of free events but the selection of art work is somewhat limited especially after you’ve visited The Natural History Museum in NYC but they seem to have good family events that are free to residents of the city

Used to go there as a kid with my Mom. Well worth the effort to visit with children it will be a educational experience they will long remember.
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My family and I enjoyed seeing a wide range of subjects...from the ancients (Egypt, Phoenecia, etc.) to learning about NJ wildlife to the lots of good art. This museum also has the largest collection of Tibetan art in the western hemishpere.

A real jewel in Jersey. This is a fairly large museum with a lot to see. We really enjoyed the varied exhibits, especially the old Ballantine (of beer fame) Victorian Home. It was a real treat.

The Newark Museum is simply the best museum in NJ for art and history.

This museum is good for the whole family - my kids love the generation fit and dynamic earth exhibits. Our last visit was this past weekend, and we took my mother to see the Norman Rockwell special exhibit. She loved it! Their regular exhibits are well kept and interesting. We are members and send our older children to camp here, if you are local this is an excellent opportunity for an affordable mix of art/science camp. From a local - two thumbs up! Go visit if you can.

This is a nice museum for a few hours visit. There are art exhibits, interactive exhibits and the Balentine house which is a lovely victorian.

I really enjoyed the Tibetan exhibit, as well as the attached house.The planetarium was not open when I was there but it looked like it'd be cool.

I was staying at a friend's apartment in downtown Newark for a few days and wanted to get out and walk around downtown. This museum is a great treasure to the city. It has a pretty good collection with a nice contemporary art selection as well as many other notable collections. It is well worth a visit if you have some time in Newark.

the musuem has lots of learning programs. the Tibtl Experiences saves you the time and effort of traveling to Asia. Summer programs include jazz and all the stuff. Easy access and parking nearby. Close to the Ironbound section where you can have a great meal with Sangria

What a sweet museum! There's something for just about everyone, from intricate Native American beaded costumes and woven baskets to American folk art portraits and Hudson River School landscape paintings. The well-curated exhibits are small and of the highest quality. I was fascinated by the African art collection and decorative arts in ceramic and silver. Who knew that Newark was a metalworking capital in the 19th century? And the Ballantine House? Yikes, what a jewel! I can't say enough good things about this place. As other reviewers have noted, the staff is very friendly and helpful. In all, a terrific experience.

The Newark Museum is one of my favorites in that is relaxing and quiet and doesn't have the crazy crowds of the Manhattan museums. It has a great exhibition on 'Modern Heros' going on right now which is interesting, Jazz in the Park is going on for the next two weeks which you should not miss and the planetarium has some great shows and a nice place to just relax. Its a nice time.

Been to this museum several times, and it is the best when you have a tour guide

As an educator, I have been here close to 35 times! Love it each and every time! This time around, the craft was unbelievable- best yet! Planetarium is a great addition as well! Tour guides are very informative and the pieces vary greatly! The Ballentine house is always something special as well, especially around the holidays when it’s decorated to its time period! A must go!

As I look to my right and see the other reviews I agree with all of them and can't wait to go back the area does have a few places to eat.

This small museum has come wonderful American and tibetan art as well as a planetarium and very hardworking docents.

Newark Museum is a bonafide treasure and should be on every NJ citizen's list of things to do. Ditto for the Ballantine House next door.

The Newark Museum has something for everyone. Interested in art? Come view their permanent art collection and well-curated featured exhibitions (Norman Rockwell on display this month--do not miss!). Interested in science? Visit their planetarium and Dicovery Earth exhibit--interactive and great for kids. History? The Ballantine House--a 19th Century well-to-do household--is attached to the Museum and offers an excellent overview of life in Newark during this time period (personal favorite). Design, culture, and crafts? See furniture and artifacts from around the globe. Great gift shop, so-so cafe (eat before or after your visit). Admission for adults is a suggested $15, yet if you are a Bank of America customer, admission during first weekend of the month is free. Parking lot charges small fee but recommend visiting on a Sunday--it is easy to find street parking and no need to feed the meter.

From the moment you enter the doors of this spectacular building, one can view cultures, exhibits, and history from times past.

The Ballantine House is a treat to visit. This is the home of the brewery family that is part of the museum. During the holidays it is specially decorated, and a docent is usually available at certain times for tours during the year.

An outstanding Tibetan collection as well as one from Africa is worth the visit. There is always new exhibits that are interesting as well.

Although we New Jersey residents run to New York for culture, the Newark Museum is right in our own backyard and definitely worth the ride.

We went on 6-19-16, specifically to see the Saturn exhibit and the planetarium show SkyWatch. The cost was $50 for 2 adults and a child. The museum was empty on a sunday afternoon, exhibition halls were sparse. The Saturn "exhibit" was a 15' long narrow hallway at the entrance to the planetarium which contain a rock from space and several color drawings showing the size of Saturn compared to the other planets, that's it. The planetarium is tiny-so small that the seats (just 2 rows) are up against their fancy Zeiss projector and you have to crane your neck back to see the show. SkyWatch in its final credits is from 1996! The Dynamic Earth exhibit which a guide told us she was SO excited about, features a narration by James Earl Jones courtesy of Verizon and is from 2002, she's so excited for the past 14 years? They have a revolving door that you can enter and go around in and think its an exhibit. Restaurant was closed. The ONLY plus is the staff is very very nice. The old firehouse would have been nice had there been someone to explain what the exhibits were, instead it looked like a stockroom of old exhibits, but that's basically what the entire Newark Museum is; a painfully outdated, waste of time. I wish I could get a refund.

The Newark Museum is great place to visit on a Saturday afternoon. The exhibits are well organized and there's something for everybody to enjoy. The Ballatine House is a favorite for all ages. Make sure to explore each room and try on the hats!

The museum is a wonderful way to spend real quality time with your family or friends for a relatively low cost considering everything that you get to see and learn about. I wish I could get here more often. It makes for a great early date also.

I am embarrassed it took me so long to visit Newark's own Historical Museum. I was fortunate to have seen the Vince Lombardi Trophy this year. The original trophy that was produced by Tiffany & Co. in Newark, New Jersey. THAT'S RIGHT...NEWARK, NJ! Aside from this they were exhibiting MING to Modern: Chinese Art. If you are travelling in Newark, stop by 'Newark Museum', you'll never know what great things they will be exhibiting.

The Newark Museum is a lovely place to visit. There are the typical museum exhibits, but then there's a mini zoo and a marvelous planetarium. You can have lunch in the court of the Museum, and there is an outside garden with a one room school house and a fire museum. No visit would be complete without going to the Ballentine House, the former home of one of Newark's beer barons. The home is connected to the museum, so you don't have to go outside. Before you leave visit the gift shop where you are sure to find lots of wonderful items from around the world. There is also a children's gift shop. If you are from outside of the City, no fears. There is ample secure parking. I have been going to the Newark Museum for over six decades, and it still thrills me.

Can't say when I was last there, probably 2010 or 2011, but offers a surprisingly deep collection on Tibet and always has interesting exhibits. On-site parking. A great Sunday afternoon date!

The Newark Museum at 49 Washington St, Newark, NJ is not as well known as other museums in the NY Metropolitan area, but worth a visit. It is famous for its large collection of American Art, The Ballantine House and the Tibetan Collection. The American Art is arranged chronologically and reflects the history of the US. The collection starts in a colonial gallery and continues to the 21st century.
The Ballantine House was built in 1885 by the son of Peter Ballantine, founder of Ballantine Beer. It is fully furnished in the period and has some original furniture.
The Tibetan collection is the largest outside of Tibet. You will have to go there to find out how it ended up in Newark NJ.
There are tours of the collections, free with admission.
The NM is open Wed-Sun, 10-5pm.

Love the exhibits that come through this beautiful building! And the events and spaces are truly awesome. Thanks to The Newark Times for introducing me to this hidden gem of Newark!

the newark museum doesnt get a lot of press, but is a wonderful place.in addition to artifacts, they also have a planetarium and offer classes activities for young kids.

This is an excellent museum full of great art and local history. It is the perfect place to spend some time as it is not overwhelming like the big New York City museums. The gift shop is quite nice too.

Newark Museum is an all in one museum with fine art, science, anthropology, planetarium etc. It has a good collection of antiquities, African and Asian artifacts and is renowned for its Tibetan exhibit. It also connects to and includes the Ballantine Mansion kept in its original state and represents the heyday of the city. While it does not rival all the NYC museums just across the Hudson River, it is however a quality museum that unfortunately often gets overlooked, and is definitely worth a visit.

The view from outside isn't very great and makes you wonder if it's gonna be waste of time but it all changes as soon as you start seeing the galleries. If you've kids, visit to generation fit should be first on your list. kids just love this section. Ballantine house is wonderful and gives an insight into the rich heritage. Some of the paintings in American section of the museum are beautiful. Planetarium is small but for $5 fee not bad. I've seen better Planetariums in US. Overall, nice experience!

People are very nice it was very clean not too fast nice Pace walking through everything love the ceilings in antique house it was worth the money

it was the 7th annual dinosuar day at the museum and they had alot of hands on activities for the kids. the boys had so much fun touching the fossils, arts and crafts, and learning new things.

The Newark Museum is a great place to observe fine art in a small environment.The halls are quiet and the visitors are respectful to other guests.The Ballantine House is exquisite and the Egyptian display was quite interesting.It provides a great learning environment for children as well.

The whole experience was great! Very interesting and great for all ages. They have special events on certain dates so, check out their website.

I have been a member of this very under-rated museum and it is worth the trip into Newark. The parking is expensive $8.00 and I think this is unfair to members. I went in for the annual 'Jazz in the Park' program which should not be missed each summer. The program is getting shorter each year due to budget cuts but try to see the Ballentine House and the Planetarium while you are there. It really is a lot of fun..

The Newark Museum is astounding and so much more representative of people of diverse backgrounds and accessible than many of New York’s finest museums.

Generation Fit a nutrition/exercise exhibit for kids was awesome, timely and relevant. The interactive nature of many of their exhibits makes the Newark Museum so interesting for kids and adults alike. The Hall of Science had interactive exhibits encompassing areas of study like alternative energy, hurricane simulation and cave life and plate tectonics and geological forces.. They also had an exhibit on comets and Saturn. The Newark Museum features paintings, sculpture, Eastern, African, Glass and Metal Art. The Planetarium is an extra cost $5 adults, $$3 seniors. They have a barrier free entrance to accommodate disabilities, physical impairments and special needs. It's a 15 minute walk from Penn Station or you can hop onto a light rail. Drop-in tours are held from Wed-Sun at 1:15, 2:15 and 3 pm. The Ballantine House is a Victorian restored home and garden and can be entered through the museum. General admission discounts are available for AAA card holders, some corporate underwriters, Newark residents, active military and their families, NJN and Channel 13 card holders. Well worth the visit and your kids will love it.

I grew up with the Newark Museum in my backyard and although moving (not far away) I still try to get there as often as I can - renewed my affair when facilitating youth groups (once saw Whitney backing up her Mom Cissy during Black Hx Month). Then bringing my young daughter for workshops, performances and/or just spending a day - free. I try to remember to renew my membership so I can enjoy the vast array of exhibits, events and full life the museum offers.

If you ever visit I promise you will be a forever fan

The Newark Museum in Newark ,New Jersey is a treat to visit. The exhibits are always interesting. The museum is child friendly. After seeing the exhibits one can visit The Ballantine House. This Victorian House is decorated as it was when the family lived in it. It 's very interesting to see. My nine year old granddaughter was most impressed by the library in the house the owner of the house was instrumental in establishing Free Public Libraries. There is a planetarium on the premises as well as events for children. In the summer there are outdoor afternoon concerts.

I thoroughly enjoyed this museum. I only wish we'd had more time, although you can only stand and observe for so long on one day. This museum could take a couple visits, if you really wanted to see and appreciate it all. The actual, historic, Ballantine Mansion is a part of this museum, and that was the highlight for me. It shows the typical upper-class American home at the end of the 19th century. The extensive fine silver collection--much of it made in New Jersey, apparently--was dated from the mid 1800's to early 1900's, and was also incredible. There were several complete table settings that demonstrated different artistic fads in porcelain and silverware. Also, proper etiquette was amusingly explained. There are some great examples of early American art, Native American art and historical objects, and also collections from Tibet, Japan, Thailand and India. And much more...Fabulous and educational!

This is a worthy museum. Because it's near NYC it does not get the respect it deserves. Great fixed exhibits. Always e bring in special exhibits. Also building was ownedf by famous brewer and is exceptional

It was a hot afternoon so we spent 2 hours here. There was a fair bit of exhibits to see. We were not art bluff so it was just good respite from the heat.

There are lots of very interesting artifacts and History at the Museum that even I, as a former resident of Newark and New Jersey, was not aware of.....or remember, at very least. Great for the kids and adults alike.

We were a group of 14 and had a tour of the Ballantine House and Museum. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The house was built by the beer brewing family and contains overwhelming memorabilia, paintings and much more of the Victorian Era. The woodwork alone is amazing. ait is truly a gem. The museum is beautifully laid out and contains some rare pieces. The Buddhist altar is very colorful with much detail. Our docent gave us an excellent tour of both the Ballantine House and the museum.

This is a lovely museum that offers wonderful special exhibits. In the summer, there are Jazz concerts on Thursday in the garden.

Nice museum. Saw the entire museum in an hour. Great to see how the people lived in the old days. A variety to offer to each unique person. Friendly staff. Lots of art and paintings. They have a suggested entrance fee, as well the planetarium is a separate fee. Parking is not free either.

Great Place For School Trips with, Both Younger and Older Kids. Easy To Get To, Walking Places To Eat and Park Near By

The art collection represents several cultures, with visually stunning presentations. The curating separates this museum out as very special. The exhibitions are interactive and hands-on, fun for children but also adults. Throughout the day, there are children's organized craft-making spaces with instructors, a small planetarium with several 3-D films, the historic Ballentine House with original furniture and decortation, meditation workshops, arts days camp for children, cultural festivals, an extensive up-scale cafe, a giftshop with unique items for the whole family. Adult live music on some evenings. Grand atrium to rent for private parties.

--especially the Buddhist alter dedicated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama. I wish the Museum added more commentary to ceremonial and decorative objects used by women; and displayed more photographs from its extensive collection.

Just across the park of our hotel, there’s the Newark Museum, and immediately at the entrance we were made feel very welcome by the very friendly and hospitable personnel. From security to ticket sales, the lady at the coat check, the ladies who provided info on the ongoing performance at the auditorium, and the guards who also take their job seriously concerning the handing out of info to the visitor. This is a museum that makes one feel truly welcome.
Up the stairs into the large halls where contemporary art gives a new color to the architecture, and suited our eyes; we started at the exhibit out Native American Art, predominantly textiles, very well displayed and lit, however hard to get in focus with mirrored light. The exhibition on the American Woman from an artistic perspective was also very interesting. Especially where Newark has its history and in the museum binds the spirits from different backgrounds is both promising and soothing.
Landscapes that shape the land, a beautiful collection of both American and European pastures on linen.
Following we went up to the Asian section, which contains a variety of art and artifacts connected to ceremony, be ‘m religious or manifestations of other spiritual nature, also beautifully displayed with eye for connection between peoples and beliefs.
In any museum one can always stay longer, but we may also decide this impression gave us as good an overview for next visit, if we’re near we will certainly revisit.
And if you’re in the neighborhood, don’t forget the garden and the small firefighter museum at the back of the Newark Museum, it’s small but has a nice collection of local firefighter history, and if course info on how to prevent fire hazards.

We were told to visit the Newark Museum and visit the Ballantine House which was connected to it. The Ballantine House which belonged to Percy Ballantine the owner of Ballantine Beer was the largest house in Newark and is complete with everything that was owned by the family and still there which is truly amazing. This is a tour that will take you back to the era of The Great Gatsby and the Biltmore Estate in Ashville North Carolina.

I took my niece and nephew here (age 5 and 7). They loved the museum, planetarium, firehouse and hour long kids tour and craft session!

Kids favorite part: Fire safely at the firehouse! They were able to play in a firetruck and practice how to escape a fire in a very realistic 'apartment'. They learned a lot and had a lot of fun at the same time.

Bonus: FREE for Newark residents! All you have to do is show driver's licence/ID card.

I had no idea what to expect with this attraction but this museum is a hidden gem in the downtown section of Newark. The 3 floors has some interesting exhibits along with some beautiful art. I found it intriguing, conversational and well put together. Although open from 12-5 on Saturdays, plan to get there early and spend 2-4hrs exploring and enjoying. I definitely recommend visiting this place.

The Newark Museum is a very classy place and really makes a mark in the generally more downtrodden city that sits around it's location. We went for a special exhibit on Quilts - which was excellent, then we stayed for the Victorian Mansion and the Nepalese exhibit. It was a really nice place and I was impressed by the quality of the collection.

I have been a member of the Newark for years and one of the special events we have for members is private tours in the morning. It's nice because it gives us quiet time in the museum before it opens.

This morning we got to tour the Carlos Villa exhibition with a docent who discussed the exhibit in detail with a background history of the artist. The displays were so nicely mounted and described by the curator.

The feather works were most interesting, and it was nice to see the approach that the artist took in his work. Being an artist of the 60's reflected the times and his background. There was a lot of maturity to his later works, and he was not afraid to try new ways to create his art. He went for a more colorful and welcoming look to the pieces. It was a wonderful exhibition, and it was nice to learn about an artist that I never heard of before.

I got to tour the museum and it was quiet on this snowy morning but I had not been in the museum in two years and with new lighting and a paint job, it made the building seem brighter and more welcoming.

Right off I have to say I have not experienced such welcoming and helpful staff as this museum! Everyone went out of their way to ensure we appreciated all this gem has to offer. In the heart of downtown Newark, the museum is well curated and simply lovely. The only reason I didn’t rate a 5 is because some of the exhibits were on the smallish side as I would have liked more depth. Definitely worth a trip!

Attended an outside wedding. Grounds are beautiful. Staff helpful and courteous. Exhibits are interesting.

Our whole family loves going to Newark Museum. They always have children activities and different events going on. Very polite staff, they make the little ones feel very welcomed.

We discover new things Everytime we visit. The Newark Museum is a world class museum. It's a great time. If you have children visit Dynamic Earth on the 3rd floor.
The Ballentine House is a trip back to the past.

The Newark Museum is a gem of which Newark can be proud. Go, go, go... you'll be surprised at the variety and breadth of their collection.

I didn't expect this to be that nice. But I was really pleasantly surprised to find that they have some unique and interesting things there. I'd like to go back to the planitarium

We love to go to this art museum in the heart of downtown Newark. We especially enjoy touring the adjacent Ballantine House, which is furnished in grand 1890's style. Secure parking in the rear. Changing exhibits periodically.

There are three floors of things to see - both a museum and an art education experience. The museum goes on and on, from 8 rooms replicated from a Victorian home to a Buddhist Altar room and everything in between.

Not far from the train and bus station, Newark museum has some great exhibits not to be missed. Even if it is not a Smithsonian in D.C. or a museum in New York City, the Newark Museum is conveniently located in the heart of the city and also is not too far from the very well known Portugese district with some of the greatest Portugese food in the country.

I was very surprised when I walk Thur doors, so clean and. Beautiful museum and it has a Planetarium kids loved it

Wonderful outside garden with an elegant inside sweep of space. The
light lent itself beautifully and the artwork and fixtures are a joy.
It was an elegant wedding reception that pulled all the plugs and truly
showed off the possibilities. Wonderfully catered starting in the garden
and throughout the afternoon. A mixture of old and very young danced,
ate extremely well, and drank well too. Great space.

Located on Washington Park in downtown Newark, this museum has lots to offer patrons. They have an interesting permanent collection of American arts. One wing, the Ballantine House, has beautiful Victorian decorative arts displayed in a beer baron's stately home. Displays in the house include sterling silver items manufactured at Newark's Tiffany plant. Eclectic displays include more than just visual arts - a planetarium, natural science department, sculpture garden with summertime jazz concerts, Newark Fire Museum, and an Asian Collection with a Tibetan altar dedicated by the Dalai Lama.

The Newark Museum is a world class museum that contains a beautiful collection of art.....American, African, contemporary,Tibetian. The docent led tours are wonderful. At Christmas or anytime, the attached historic Ballantine House is worth a visit. Newark once had many breweries including Ballantine. We park on the street for free. There is a planetarium that children will enjoy. We visit with friends and with family and it never disappoints. My favorite painting is by Joseph Stella. Do not miss it! Other nearby attractions: Sacred Heart Cathedral, Olmstead designed Branchbrook Park & Weequahic Park; NJPAC and lots of Spanish/Portugeuse restaurants.

At the center of the historic & once grand Newark downtown the first class museum with striking exhibit space offers insights into both the old & resurgent city. Adjacent to the elegant Ballantine mansion, overflowing with silver & handsome furnishings, the eclectic collection contains masterpieces from the 19th century & Hudson River School, Corning & Steuben glass, jewelry & modern crafts as well. Although we ran out of time, on our next visit - with discounts for seniors - we look forward to exploring the 20th century art.

An extraordinary museum, over 100 years old, founded as museum of art and science.
State of the art planetarium, fabulous interactive and vast permanent exhibit entitled Dina
mic Earth.
Only the beginning...most comprehensive collection of Tibetan art imaginable in this hemisphere (including a Tibetan altar consecrated by His Holiness the Dali Lama).
American art collection of the highest and most diverse nature . African, Korean ,Japanese, Indian treasures and more .
Long layover at Newark airport? Catch a cab, check it out, and discover one of Newark 's special places...by the way, there are many more. Believe it.

The planetarium programs are amazing even thought he presenters can be a bit dry. The new Fit Generation area is very interactive. The Newark Museum has adapted with the times and remained a special educational jewel in the heart of Newark.

I've grown up visiting the museum through class trips and with family members, but it was not until I grew up and began visiting on my own that I came to see the value and history in the museum as one of the City's gems.

The museum was a lot bigger on the inside than it appeared to be from the outside. I loved the cultural diversity displayed in the exhibits. My favorite was their current The Ballantine House exhibit. We only stayed for about an hour, so I plan to go back to explore more.

Newark Museum is a landmark space that provides nurturing activities that educate and entertain visitors. It is accessible by car as well as by bus or light rail. I do not recall about the adequacy of the parking facilities. However this can be confirmed by contacting the museum staff directly.

Every time I go there is a great experience. Great exhibitions. I love the gift shop since there is always something new that is hard to find somewhere else.

We arrived on a day the museum was, strictly speaking, closed for Gala Evening preparations. However, we were invited to see the museum anyway, accompanied by a member of staff. The Ballantine House was amazing, all the moreso as it was the real house and not just a reconstruction. We were given an individualised handout about the origins of the museum when we asked about the buildings. Finally - and we are sorry we did not get the gentleman's name - but we were given a tour of the outside of the BH and shown personally to a diner to get a snack, as the museum cafe was closed. If we knew the name of the diner we would do an ace review on that too.
Many thanks again- and for all you prospective visitors to Newark - do not miss this!

Large museum but easy to get around. Some lovely 30s jewelry in the Art Deco style. They had an interesting show of Korean art, beautiful robes and other objects

Went to see a Bruce Springsteen exhibit , and didn't have time to stay to look thru the rest of the museum. But I was very surprised at the size and scope of this museum. If in the area, it is certainly worth a visit.

If this museum were anywhere but Newark, it would be crowded. You can walk from the train station (totally safe) and it's got all kinds of cool stuff from a Tibetan altar that the Dali Lama visited to a Gilded Age mansion right onsite once owned by the Ballantine beer family to decorative arts and Native American collections. My favorite is the room with a series of panels by Joseph Stella of his NYC abstract paintings like the Brooklyn Bridge.

Lovely museum that gets new and different exhibits throughout the year. Lightfilled and beautiful venue.

What a great collection! It has a wonderful collection of 20th century American art. Ironic that the paintings of New York City are a better collection than any you will actually find in New York! Particularly amazing is the Joseph Stella “New York Interpreted,”a five-paneled work patterned after a religious altarpiece depicting the bridges and skyscrapers of lower Manhattan! The museum also has the largest collection of Tibetan art in North America, wonderful 20th century bronze and glass sculptures and, as part of the collection, the Ballantine House, a restoration of a late 19th century mansion that is now part of the museum complex. They are amassing a large collection of contemporary African art and have imaginative special exhibits.

I would definitely recommend coming here. It's great by yourself, on a date, or with family/children. It is the perfect place to spend a day looking at all sorts of art and learning a little history about what Newark used to be like (when you visit the attached Ballantine House). I came her with my fiance to check out the museum for the first time and assess it as a potential wedding venue. We thought it would be small at first, but it was a few floors, and we didn't even finish seeing all the exhibits. We'll definitely be back. It wasn't crowded at all, so it was very pleasant and you could go at your own pace.

The Newark Museum has special exhibitions and notable collections of Tibetan art & artifacts , as well as African, other Asian and US art and furniture. The jewelry and silver collections reflect Newark's past as a craft and manufacturing center. There are interactive installations for children and a library that is open to curators, researchers and the public. The museum is located in an attractive area with interesting historic buildings, just a few blocks from Rutgers Newark campus.
The staff are friendly and helpful.

I went to the Newark museum on a class trip and loved it! I had to go back. When I did it was with my family and I learned so much! I love the realistic exhibits. There are even interactive ones too. The museum is on the smaller side but it makes up for that with the great exhibits. The first time I went there were even little workshops for us.(on the class trip) It is very "close to home" and that is another reason why it's so great. Also the little gift shop has cute little things.

The Ballantine House/Newark Museum - Was able to go to a few free places in the Newark Museum, and paid $15.00 for Adult Ticket and $8.00 Senior Ticket for the Ballantine House Self Tour. Parked directly outside of museum, for free. Nice area.

THIS IS A GREAT MUSEUM great eastern art a must see when in the area downtown Newark is safe and pedestrian friendly a lot busier that most other cities downtowns and safer

The Newark museum is very nice. I can remember going there as a grammar school student. It is like they are doing a very good job of rehabing the museum.

The museum has different events for all age groups. Whether you have small children or teenagers or just want a place to sit back and listen to music, the Newark Musuem host various activities for all.

No matter how many times I visit, there's always something worth seeing. Exhibits, performances are always educational! I especially love the Ballantine House...

Has many great exibits, we enjoy visiting a few years ago.

lots of fun - and so inexpensive! our docent was very knowledgeable and entertaining.

We make a trip across the river to visit this very intersting museum at least once a year....which is saying something because we live in Manhattan right in the middle of some of the best museums in the world. The Newark museum has a fine permanent collection of American Art,and Tibetan Art, as well as an over-the-top-victorian house belonging to a brewmasters family connected to the main museum. One should always check on line to see what special exhibits are there.for instance,this spring 2012, there is an exhibit of The History of Japanese Modes of Recreation.We will go to that for sure! Once in Newark(we go by public transport to the main train station and walk,but one can take a cab or bus)we also visit the Portuguesse section of town ,a short walk behind the station for lunch. The main street has several places to eat and several pastry shops. I think the one we have enjoyed is called The Iberia....delicious paella...we end up with huge doggie bags to shlep back home!

great museum tucked away in Newark, NJ...3 floors of interesting exhibits, definitely plan for 3-5 hours to see it all. Get there as soon as it opens, hours are 12-5; there is a Planetarium, extra admission $6. tip: AAA members get a discount- buy one admission, get one free ( must show AAA member card ). Regular admission is $15 per person. Parking available for a fee. more info at newarkmuseum.org

We loved the way they decorated for Christmas. We had also enjoyed the Bruce Springsteen exhibit.

I have taken my students on several class trips. Each time the exhibits have been intriguing and informative. My students love it.

They have some classic Hudson River School paintings in their permanent collection. On occasion they also have strong temporary exhibits, such as one on Norman Rockwell that was here for awhile in 2014.

Yes, Newark is the car theft capitol of the world. That's why you use their reasonably priced adjacent parking lot. Yes, the portions at the lunch are small. That's why you bring a sandwich and order a drink and a soup or salad. They collected American Art when no other museum did, and now have one of the best collections in the metropolitan area. Their Tibetan chapel and adjacent museum area was part of the Dali Lama's visit. The Ballantine House is lovely, especially at Christmas. There's so much to offer here, it is hard to describe all of it adequately.

I have not been to this museum in well over 20 years and if nothing else in those years this museum is better then ever.
There is the Ballentine House this was the Mansion of the celebrated Newark beer-brewing family, the house is outfitted in the style of the 1800's and wonderful to visit.
There is also the Newark Firehouse Museum that follows the history of the Newark Fire Department.
And then there the museum itself, who would ever think that you could see Edward Hopper or several Georgia O'Keefe's in Newark, this museum is a gem.

Do not miss this great exhibit! A rare opportunity to see and feel the work of this great American Illustrator. While many may be familiar with him, seeing his original paintings is a real delight! Many will stir your emotions as they touch the core of our very lives. All 383 covers of The Saturday Evening Post are on display...but the real enjoyment is in his paintings which cover decades of our lives. Go before it ends in May 2014.

I stumbled over The Newark Museum in the AAA NJ Tour Book. I've lived in NJ for more than 40 years, attended college in Newark and never knew that Newark has it's own museum. One might think it is just museum about the city but it is more than that. It includes 80 galleries of contemporary, 19th century, African, Asian and ancient art, a science hall and a planetarium. Also the Ballantine house, once occupied by the brewer and his family, is attached to the museum. It contains Victorian period, American furnishings in their original settings. On the day of our visit, a special exhibit focused on contemporary NJ artists.

We spent three hours there on a cool August afternoon and only saw half of it. We had the place virtually to ourselves. Everyone was very friendly and helpful from the docents to the parking lot attendant.

The science hall is intended for all ages but the interactive display will appeal to kids.

The price is a real bargain. The museum has it own ample off street parking lot ($8) so you do not have to worry about finding parking on the street. Admission is $12 for adults, but only $6 for AAA members. Also the gift shop offers a 10% discount for AAA members.

We'll definitely be going again to finish the rest of the museum and take in the planetarium show.

I had not been to this museum in over thirty years and was pleasantly surprised on my recent visit. It is a real bargain, admission and parking. The Ballantine House is worth a visit in itself. The Asian collection is great, especially the consecrated altar.

This was an amazing museum! You could definitely spend a good three hours here. Definitely worth the visit. Easy to get to and parking is easy. Our teenage daughter loves art, and she loved it!

I visited here back in 2016, and I easily spend around four hours, and I still didn't see everything. (I plan to make a return visit soon.) Sadly this museum isn't as well known as it should be because of its close proximity to NYC and its many world-class museums. Nevertheless, this museum would also fit that description because it covers subjects ranging from fine arts to astronomy--and many subjects in the arts and sciences in between. If you ae already in NYC, it's just a short train ride to Newark, NJ. From Newark Penn Station, you can take a light rail train to there or a taxi. .

I've been to the Newark Museum many times and each time I go away (after 3-4 hours) inspired by the art, by the various exhibits - Tibetan, American, and especially the African displays. This is a place for all ages and if you want to know more about the exhibits, sign up for a docent-led tour. The last time I was there I was pleasantly surprised by the outdoor garden area, and was told there are frequent musical events during summer months. It isn't expensive to go in so just wander around and you're sure to find something that will catch your interest.

The museum is first class, the older buildings have a surprising amount of room even if they require a bit of wandering around. The glass collection is particularly extensive.

My experiences with the Newark Museum date back to my childhood, having been brought there by my parents and by participating in an after school young astronomers program. This museum has offered great exhibits through the years. If you are within driving distance, do yourself and your family a favor... visit!

This museum seems small from the outside but is filled with great exhibits. The African art was my favorite collection of all. The range of work was beautiful! I visited that area twice before heading out. Lovely afternoon for a solo plan or couples. No cafe but there are good options to grab a bite or drink nearby.

The exhbiti showed pictures of real life African Royalty. Seeing the beauty of African people was awesome.

A world class museum with wonderful art from all around the Globe. It took me and my family almost 5 hours to see all of the inspiring works of art.

The Newark Museum may not be in NYC, but it offers excellent displays, the planetarium, Ballentine House, workshops, etc. When my children were younger, they attended the summer workshops there and they were excellent. They also have the workshops in Saturdays in the fall. If you have never been to the Newark Museum or know firsthand of what they offer, you are missing out on a great venue that is affordable!

I have visited the museum many times as their exhibits change often and they offer a variety of programs year round and sponsor summer workshops for the children. If you are a first time visitor, a must is a tour of the attached historic Ballantine Mansion. The museum can set up for private functions as well and having attended a few, the service was impeccable.