Branch Brook Park — Attraction in Newark

Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey, is renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms, boasting the largest collection of Japanese flowering cherry trees in the United States, with over 5,000 trees across 18 varieties. The park’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this vibrant display each spring. 

Popular spot for cherry blossoms in New Jersey and photo shoots

Visitor Experiences:

We describe the cherry blossoms as breathtaking. One time, we noted that the park is especially beautiful in April when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, recommending weekday visits for a less crowded experience. Another visit highlighted that the park was busy but not overly crowded during the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival, emphasizing the beauty of the blossoms.  

Best Time to Visit:

The peak bloom period typically occurs in the second and third weeks of April. However, the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. For the most current updates, it’s advisable to check the Branch Brook Park Alliance’s social media pages.  

Visitor Tips: • Timing: Weekday visits are recommended to avoid weekend crowds. The park is open daily from sunrise to 10:00 PM.  • Parking: There are several parking lots within the park, as well as street parking options. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak bloom periods.  • Amenities: While there are no restaurants or food vendors inside the park, Tony’s Specialized Hot Dogs is located near the Park Avenue bridge at Lake Street and sometimes we seen ice cream trucks in the park.

In summary, Branch Brook Park offers a remarkable cherry blossom experience that rivals other notable locations. Planning your visit during the peak bloom period and considering weekdays can enhance your...

NEWARK: Branch Brook Park is a true gem, renowned for its breathtaking springtime cherry blossoms and celebrated as the nation’s first county park open to the public. Spanning over 360 acres, its winding paths are perfect for a scenic stroll with your leashed pup.

We were lucky to visit during their vibrant Diwali festival, a joyful celebration of Indian culture filled with color and community. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of events, so keep an eye out for seasonal happenings. Beyond the blossoms, you will find a dog park, playgrounds, sports courts, public art installations, and plenty of open space to explore.

Fun fact: Branch Brook Park boasts the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in any U.S. Park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you are walking through history as well as beauty. For extended adventures, the 36-mile Lenape Trail connects Branch Brook to other parks across neighboring towns.

With multiple entrances and parking areas, it is easy to find your way in. We recommend starting at the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, it is a great launch point...

I grew up playing, picnicking & hiking/walking in this park (and yes, drinking/smoking with my friends as teenagers, lol) My youth was spent in this gorgeous park. Even during the height off Covid (when the police wouldn't let you out of the car) I still drove thru to see the cherry blossoms. I'm 57 & grew up in Newark, on Slyvan Ave, 1 block over from Mill St which runs thru the park. I'm old enough to have rented row boats by the huge lion statues, went horseback riding on the horse trail (where the dog park is now) got intoxicated by the smell of chocolate from the factory near the rail tracks & coffee roasting from the factory near Mill St.... anyone else have those memories? I've eaten hotdogs from JJ's (right out of the park on Bloomfield Ave) in the park at least every couple of weeks since i can remember & still do to this very day. Best damn hotdogs! The cherry blossoms, in the spring, are still the best on the east coast & I keep seeing a bald eagle (maybe 2 diff ones) in the park which just amazes me. I've lived in Nutley for 30yrs, we have great parks, but my favorite park will always be...