If you’re looking for wheelchair-accessible things to do in Newark, you might be pleasantly surprised. Though often overlooked in favor of its famous neighbor across the Hudson, this city has quietly built up an impressive array of wheelchair-accessible things to do. From catching a Devils game to enjoying world-class performances, Newark’s accessibility has come a long way in recent years.
We’ve watched Newark transform over time – historic buildings retrofitted with modern accessibility features, new venues designed with everyone in mind, and a transportation network that increasingly accommodates all visitors. The cherry blossoms at Branch Brook Park are reason enough to visit in spring, and they’ve made sure wheelchair users can enjoy the spectacular views too.
Many of our customers initially plan to just pass through Newark on their way to somewhere else. They fly into the airport or book a hotel as a more affordable base for NYC adventures. But they often tell us how surprised they were by what Newark itself has to offer – diverse food scenes, rich cultural attractions, and plenty of accessible experiences worth exploring.
In this guide, we’re sharing the accessible spots our customers love most, along with practical transportation tips we’ve gathered from years of helping visitors navigate the city. Whether you’re in town for a quick business trip or a longer exploration of the region, we’ve got you covered.
Our Favorite Wheelchair-Accessible Activities in Newark
1) New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)
If you love live shows, you can’t miss NJPAC – it’s the heart of Newark’s arts scene. From Broadway touring productions to jazz legends and symphony orchestras, this place brings world-class entertainment right to Newark. And the best part? They’ve thought of everything when it comes to accessibility.
Right when you pull up, you’ll notice the convenient drop-off spots right at the main doors. No long treks across parking lots here. Once inside, you’ll find elevators and ramps that actually work well (we all know that’s not always the case), getting you wherever you need to go in the building without hassle.
What really makes NJPAC special, though, is the staff. They get it. There’s nothing worse than feeling like an inconvenience when you’re just trying to enjoy a show, but here, the team makes accessibility part of the experience, not an afterthought. They’ll help you find the perfect spot with great sightlines, and if you need assistive listening devices or ASL interpretation, they’ve got you covered.
2) Newark Museum of Art
Don’t let the historic facade fool you – the Newark Museum of Art has done an amazing job blending old-world charm with modern accessibility. As New Jersey’s largest museum, it’s packed with everything from American paintings to artifacts from across the globe, and you can actually navigate it all comfortably.
Throughout the galleries, you’ll find wide pathways that let you get up close to the exhibits without awkward maneuvering. The elevators connect all floors smoothly, and they’ve gone beyond just physical access – their tactile exhibits let everyone engage with art in meaningful ways.
Between gallery visits, take a breather in their garden courtyard. It’s this unexpected urban oasis that’s fully accessible and perfect for recharging. When you’re ready for a coffee or looking for souvenirs, both the café and gift shop are set up with accessibility in mind, so you can enjoy the full museum experience without barriers.
3) Branch Brook Park — Home of the Cherry Blossoms
Here’s a local secret many visitors miss: Newark has more cherry blossom trees than Washington DC! Branch Brook Park bursts into stunning pink and white blooms each spring, creating a spectacle you’ve got to see to believe. But unlike some natural attractions that can be tough for wheelchair users, this park gets it right.
Miles of smooth, paved trails wind through the park, letting you roll right alongside the trees and lakes without battling rough terrain. During peak bloom season (usually mid-April), you’ll find yourself under canopies of flowers that make for incredible photos and memories.
The park is huge, but they’ve positioned accessible parking lots close to the main attractions, so you won’t wear yourself out before seeing the good stuff. You’ll also find plenty of accessible restrooms and picnic areas throughout, making it easy to spend a relaxed half-day or more exploring at your own pace.
4) Prudential Center — Sports & Entertainment Hub
The “Rock” (as locals call it) isn’t just home to the NJ Devils hockey team – it hosts everything from major concerts to family shows, and they’ve built accessibility into its DNA. Unlike older arenas where accessibility feels tacked on, this modern venue was designed from day one with everyone in mind.
What you’ll appreciate most are the wheelchair seating areas with actual good views – not just stuck in corners or behind pillars. These spots are scattered throughout every level, so you can choose different perspectives and price points.
Even the small details make a difference here – concession counters with lowered sections so you can order your own food and drinks, staff who are actually trained to help without being awkward about it, and sensory-friendly options for those who need them. The close proximity of wheelchair-friendly parking and drop-off areas means less exhaustion before the event even starts.
5) Military Park — A Historic Green Space in Downtown Newark
When you need a break from urban exploring, Military Park offers a perfect reset in the heart of downtown. This isn’t some afterthought green space – it’s a beautifully renovated six-acre park where accessibility was clearly on the designers’ minds.
The smooth pathways make rolling through the park a breeze, connecting you to everything from public art installations to regular events like outdoor markets and concerts. Chess tables and reading areas invite you to linger, and there’s plenty of shade for those hot summer days.
What makes this park extra convenient is its location – you’re surrounded by accessible restaurants and cafés when hunger strikes, and public transit options are right nearby when you’re ready to head to your next destination. It’s the perfect mid-day breather between visiting Newark’s bigger attractions, with plenty of accessible seating for people-watching or just enjoying a moment of calm.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Accessibility Tips
As one of the nation’s busiest airports and a major international gateway, Newark Liberty International Airport offers comprehensive accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs.
Key Accessibility Features:
- Wheelchair assistance services available from curbside to your gate
- TSA Cares program offering personalized screening assistance
- Accessible restrooms and service animal relief areas in each terminal
- ADA-compliant shuttles connecting all terminals and parking areas
Tip #1: Request Airport Wheelchair Assistance in Advance
Make your arrival and departure through Newark Liberty smooth by contacting your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to request wheelchair assistance. This service includes help navigating check-in, security screening, boarding, and deplaning.
Newark Liberty is a large airport with considerable distances between gates, making advance planning particularly valuable. Alert your airline about any specific needs or equipment you’ll be traveling with to avoid surprises at the airport.
Tip #2: Utilize Accessible Shuttle Services
The AirTrain at Newark Liberty connects all terminals with parking areas and rental car facilities. This automated system is fully accessible, with level boarding, designated spaces for wheelchairs, and clear announcements for stops.
Beyond the airport property, accessible shuttles operate to nearby hotels and transportation hubs. These vehicles come equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with mobility devices, making transfers to your final destination straightforward.
Tip #3: Know Your Rights
The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) provides important protections for travelers with disabilities. Understanding these rights helps you advocate effectively if issues arise during your journey.
These protections include proper handling of mobility equipment, assistance throughout the airport, and accommodations during your flight. If you encounter problems, ask to speak with the airline’s Complaints Resolution Official (CRO), a specially trained employee who must be available at all times to resolve accessibility issues.
Newark Wheelchair-Accessible Transportation Options
Getting around Newark and the surrounding region is manageable with several accessible transportation options tailored to various needs.
New Jersey Transit (NJT) — Buses & Trains
New Jersey Transit provides extensive accessible service throughout Newark and beyond. All NJT buses are equipped with ramps and priority seating areas for wheelchair users. Drivers are trained to assist with ramp deployment and securing mobility devices.
Newark Penn Station, the city’s main transit hub, features elevator access to all platforms, tactile maps for visitors with visual impairments, and clear audio announcements. From here, accessible train services connect to New York City, Philadelphia, and surrounding communities throughout New Jersey.
For those planning to visit NYC, the PATH train from Newark to Manhattan is fully accessible at most stations, offering an affordable alternative to driving into the city.
Rideshare Services
Both Uber and Lyft operate extensively in Newark, with wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) options available through their apps. These services can be convenient for direct trips to specific destinations, particularly those not well-served by public transit.
When requesting a WAV, allow extra time as availability may be limited, especially during peak travel periods or inclement weather. Drivers are trained to assist with ramp deployment and securing your wheelchair, making these services a practical option for many travelers.
Wheelchair Van Rentals
Want to really explore Newark and beyond on your own terms? Renting an accessible van from Wheelers might be your best bet. There’s something liberating about having your own transportation ready whenever you are – no scheduling rideshares or working around transit timetables.
Our accessible vans come equipped with either ramps or lifts based on your preference, with spacious interiors designed to accommodate various mobility devices. This option is particularly valuable if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions across the region or prefer the convenience of direct, door-to-door transportation.
Book a Newark Wheelchair Van Rental
Newark has really come into its own as an accessible destination. It’s got this perfect blend of culture, history, and location that makes it worth exploring – whether you’re here specifically for Newark or using it as your home base for broader adventures.
We love hearing from customers who initially underestimated Newark only to discover its unique charm and surprising accessibility. From cheering at Devils games to being moved by world-class performances at NJPAC, the right transportation makes all these experiences so much more enjoyable.
Ready to explore Newark your way? Getting your accessible van sorted ahead of time gives you one less thing to worry about. You can focus on making memories instead of figuring out logistics – and that’s what travel should really be about.
Book your wheelchair-accessible van rental today and discover Newark’s accessible attractions at your own pace, without the limitations of public transit schedules or rideshare availability.