Military Park

A Walk Through History

Tucked into the heart of downtown Newark, Military Park stretches across 6 triangular acres between Broad Street, Park Place, and Rector Street. This urban green space has been part of Newark's story for over 350 years. Back in 1667, when Newark was just finding its footing, this land served as a training ground for soldiers, setting the stage for its centuries-long military connection.

The park has witnessed America's journey through nearly every major conflict. During the French and Indian War, soldiers drilled here, preparing for battle. Perhaps most notably, George Washington's troops camped on these grounds during the Revolutionary War. Fast forward to the Civil War era, and this same soil became a recruitment center for Union soldiers. When World War I arrived, the park again answered the call, hosting recruiting efforts alongside Red Cross and Liberty Loans campaigns.

The surrounding area carries formal historic recognition as well. The Military Park Commons Historic District, a roughly 10-acre district bounded by Washington Place, McCarter Highway, E. Park Street, and Raymond Boulevard, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004, recognized for its significance in architecture and community planning. Several landmarks within it were already individually listed, including the Wars of America monument, the Griffith Building, Hahne and Company, and Trinity & St. Philip's Cathedral.

The Wars of America sculpture by Gutzon Borglum set against red flower beds

Photo: alberth2 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Monumental Art

You can't miss the park's centerpiece - the impressive Wars of America monument created by Gutzon Borglum, the artist behind Mount Rushmore. The scale of the sculpture is easy to underestimate at street level: the concrete sword that forms its base runs roughly eighty yards from the statue's end to its tip, with a blade more than ten feet wide at its base. Standing in the park, the whole structure reads more like an oversized dry fountain than a sword - it's only when viewed from above that the full shape becomes clear.

Take some time to discover the park's other noteworthy monuments. There's a bust of John F. Kennedy created by sculptor Jacques Lipchitz and erected in 1965, alongside dignified statues of Frederick Frelinghuysen and Philip Kearny, and a charming old drinking fountain inscribed with "My cup runneth over." History buffs will appreciate the cannon captured from Morro Castle during the Spanish-American War and two Civil War-era howitzers that stand as silent testimonies to America's military past.

In spring, the monuments gain beautiful backdrops as surrounding gardens burst into bloom. And from several spots in the park, you can pause to take in views of Newark's historic architecture framing the urban landscape.

A front view of the Wars of America sculpture rising from its granite base

Photo: xiquinhosilva (CC BY 2.0)

Today's Park Experience

Following a major renovation in 2014, Military Park now balances its historic character with modern amenities. You'll find free WiFi throughout the park, chess and table tennis tables, and exercise equipment stationed around the grounds. Comfortable seating is abundant, with tables, chairs, and benches scattered across the space, and dog owners will find waste bags available to help keep things tidy.

If you're hungry, The Yard restaurant within the park offers food with outdoor seating options, and there are drinking fountains and public restrooms available during park hours. What's less obvious from ground level is what lies beneath: a three-level underground parking garage sits below the grounds, and the Military Park Newark Light Rail station occupies the southwest end, underneath the intersection of Raymond Boulevard and Park Place - making this one of the more convenient transit access points in downtown Newark.

A shaded path leads through the open green lawns of the park

Photo: alberth2 (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Seasonal Rhythms and Events

Military Park is active year-round. On Wednesdays, house music fills the air, creating a midweek escape for music lovers. Summer activities include concerts, farmers markets, and outdoor movies. The park hosts meaningful events like cancer awareness walks, vibrant cultural celebrations including the popular Afrobeats Festival, and various holiday gatherings.

Winter transforms the space with twinkling holiday lights and a towering Christmas tree that becomes a focal point for seasonal celebrations. During warmer months, food trucks line the perimeter, offering a tasty tour of diverse cuisines.