Weequahic Newark, NJ

Weequahic Lake originally took its name from the Lenni Lenape word for "head of the cove." In 1901, the Olmsted Brothers turned the bog-like area surrounding Weequahic Lake into a recreational land reserve known as Weequahic Park, transforming the area into a city-wide hot spot for residents.

Historically the area surrounding the park was a part of the expansive farmland that once surrounded the Newark city center. Housing development began in the late nineteenth century, which aimed to construct a strictly residential suburban area. New homes and styles of architecture have constantly added to the community.

Whether you're looking for quick eats or a night out with friends in Weequahic, several popular venues lie within walking distance. Guiseppe's Island Pizza, located on Maple Avenue, features a number of pizza specialities. Try the penne vodka or Philly steak pizza. Don't forget to order a side of garlic bread and a cannoli.

Just north of Interstate 78, the famous Bragman's Delicatessen & Restaurant has loyally served the Newark area since 1951 with its classic all-kosher sandwiches and catering services. While the locals swear by sandwiches such as the Hannah Special, Bragman's also serves a number of different sides, salads, and desserts. In the deli section, residents stock up on fresh meats and cheeses by the pound.

For a fun, local night out, stop in with your friends at 78 Lounge and Restaurant, located off Interstate 78 south of Weequahic. Quite popular with professionals, this lounge covers all the necessities for a fun night with its full bar, food menu, and dance floor. The atmosphere stays fashionable and contemporary while remaining subtle and accessible to all. Its nightly events include dance party night, open mic night, and throwback music night.

Interstate 78 runs along the west and north ends of Weequahic, while Route 22 runs through Weequahic Park. Visitors can find several affordable options for parking in the area such as the Weequahic Parking Garage located in the southeast corner of the neighborhood on Elizabeth Avenue. New Jersey Transit maintains many bus routes throughout the Newark area; bus lines run along Lyons Avenue and Elizabeth Avenue through Weequahic.

The community does not maintain bike-friendly roads or paths. However, pedestrians walk easily around Weequahic on well-maintained walkways. Uber remains a viable option for reliable transportation in and around the Newark area, while the local Union Taxi car service can be reached at any time via phone.

As the central location for recreation and park life in Weequahic, the Weequahic Park maintains over 311 acres of green space and public facilities, along with the 80 acres covered by Weequahic Lake. Free for public use, this massive family-friendly space provides playgrounds, basketball courts, ball fields, a well-kept garden space, and many grassy areas for general use. While a half-mile horse track once saw business in the park, today residents utilize the track for walking and running. Residents also enjoy the fully-equipped golf course in the park's southern half, one of the very few local golf courses.

Many regular and annual events take place year-round in Weequahic Park that draw residents from all over Newark and the surrounding communities. The Annual Weequahic Park House Music Unity Festival kicks off every June and brings a broad range of musical sounds to the area, such as soul, jazz, and hip hop. This day-long event welcomes all ages, and remains a free cultural event.

The African American Heritage Festival kicks off each May in Weequahic Park, where a friendly community atmosphere and a great amount of free family entertainment can be found.

Renters in Weequahic on average pay $967 for an apartment, while in the general Newark area they pay $954. The cost of living in the neighborhood stands 2.1 percent lower than the Newark average and 18.2 percent lower than the national average.

Gas prices in the Newark area fall around 19 percent lower than the national average. A one-way ticket from Weequahic to the Newark downtown district costs $1.50 and $0.70 for transfers. At a local pub, customers expect to pay around $5 for a beer.

Several grocery stores serve Weequahic residents, such as the Hillside ShopRite and the nearby H Mart. Residents can also benefit from several options for fresh and local food shopping, such as Elmora's Farmer's Market in Elizabeth. This market offers fresh meats, produce, baked goods, and more. While keeping the store-like ambiance of a larger super market, Elmora's keeps food fresh and local. The market remains open all day, year-round.

Many of those near Weequahic head to the Hillside Shopping Center for their general shopping needs. Located a short drive south of Weequahic in Hillside, this center provides a number of stores, banks, and eateries. Remaining one of the area's only centers of business, the parking lot stays busy at most hours.

Other local boutiques that operate in the area keep things diverse and unique. At Clockwork Comics & Cards, both casual and devoted comic fans can find a haven for shopping and conversation. At Clockwork, customers can buy or sell their comics and trading cards at fair prices. With walls lined with books, toys, t-shirts and miniatures, this spot truly fits the image of the local comic book store.