What to do in South Orange, NJ

Activities, attractions and tours

South Orange Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that South Orange has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to South Orange, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to South Orange with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in South Orange

South Orange is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in South Orange, and make it a breeze to explore South Orange and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in South Orange to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to South Orange, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in South Orange.

South Orange attractions

South Orange has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in South Orange to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of South Orange.

Looking for things to do in South Orange can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of South Orange or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to South Orange attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!

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Recommended things to do in South Orange

Number of things to do
27
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Newark: Unlimited New Jersey Internet with eSIM Mobile Data Plan: £3
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in South Orange

Popular places to visit

Prudential Center showing a city and a skyscraper

Prudential Center

See everything from electrifying hockey games and huge musical concerts to monster truck rallies and children’s shows at The Rock.

Prudential Center
New Jersey Performing Arts Center which includes theatre scenes, interior views and modern architecture

New Jersey Performing Arts Center

Come for a night at the theater and be dazzled by a Grammy Award-winning symphony orchestra, an international ballet company or a famous rock group.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Pleasantdale Chateau

Pleasantdale Chateau

You can learn about the history of West Orange with a stop at Pleasantdale Chateau. Experience the entertainment choices or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Pleasantdale Chateau
Branch Brook Park showing a park

Branch Brook Park

The largest park in the “Garden State” features lakes, waterways, forests, meadows and a spectacular cherry blossom festival in spring.

Branch Brook Park
Montclair Art Museum which includes interior views and art

Montclair Art Museum

Use the audio guide to learn about historic and modern Native American art and sip wine at a live music event.

Montclair Art Museum
South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain Reservation

Explore the great outdoors at South Mountain Reservation, a lovely green space in Newark. Make some time to visit the shops while you're in the area.

South Mountain Reservation
Military Park

Military Park

Inspect the array of military sculptures and see the sword from above in this scenic park in the downtown area.

Military Park

The Mills at Jersey Gardens

You can search for that perfect souvenir at The Mills at Jersey Gardens during your stay in Elizabeth. Experience the entertainment choices and acclaimed theatre scene in this walkable area.

The Mills at Jersey Gardens

Sports Illustrated Stadium

Catch an event at Sports Illustrated Stadium during your trip to Harrison. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.

Sports Illustrated Stadium

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from South Orange

Downtown Newark featuring outdoor art, a square or plaza and a city

Newark

Thomas Edison National Historic Site showing interior views and heritage elements

West Orange

Photo by gavvykins

Maplewood

Frequently asked questions

Is South Orange worth visiting?
South Orange has a unique mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional food, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in South Orange?
Once you've checked off popular attractions like Turtle Back Zoo and Hyatt Hills Golf Course, spend the rest of your day experiencing South Orange's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in South Orange?
The top tourist attraction in South Orange is Turtle Back Zoo, so be sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in South Orange?
You can easily visit popular attractions like Turtle Back Zoo, Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart and Liberty Hall Museum with a three-day escape to South Orange. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a bit longer and check out New York.
Is South Orange a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your type of holiday, South Orange is an ideal destination. Find major sights, including Turtle Back Zoo, within walking distance of downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll through Lower Vailsburg, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 3 kms (2 miles) from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in South Orange with kids?
Deciding what to do in South Orange with kids has never been easier. Whether you're travelling with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in South Orange for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or fan of nature, there are lots of things to do in South Orange for adults including The Manor and Newark City Hall.
Are there free things to do in South Orange?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in South Orange is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.