Today, we're traveling to New Jersey's Branch Brook Park. The park is open throughout the year, but it doesn't host events throughout the year. Still, it's always fun to plan your visit so you're ready. If you're like me, you've got a long list of spots to visit here in New Jersey when the time is right. I can almost guarantee that this park will be high on your list. One of the most ideal times to visit the park is when cherry blossoms in New Jersey are in full bloom in April. But, not everyone can visit in person. Some of you are not local to the park, others know that parking isn't easy and some prefer to take things in from the comfort of their own home. If that's you, fear not! You can still take it all in with our mini virtual tour.

Once an army training ground, the park was officially established in 1895. Branch Brook was the nation's first county park. Today, it spans 360 beautiful acres.

It offers a lake, pond, fountain, skating rink, walking paths, athletic fields, dog park, playgrounds, and more.

One point of interest is the adjoining Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Construction began in 1899 and ended in 1954. It is the 5th-largest cathedral in North America.

It is also home to several historically significant bridges, most of which are designed in the beaux-arts style The Subway Bridges, also known as the East and West Arch date back over a century.

Of course spring in New Jersey is incredible, owing in large part to cherry blossom season. The cherry blossoms became a park staple in 1927. They were a gift from Caroline Bamberger Fuld, the sister of department store magnate Louis Bamberger.

Cherry blossom trees have been replaced and added over the years. According to The Essex County Parks website, there are over 5,000 trees today.

You might be familiar with the cherry trees in Washington, D.C. but the New Jersey cherry trees are also something to enjoy.

Branch Brook Park in Newark can be visited 365 days a year. But, we particularly like visiting during special events like Cherry Blossom season. In 2024, the cherry blossoms can be enjoyed in April. The Cherry Blossom Festival takes place from April 6th, 2024 through April 14th, 2024. You can plan your visit by checking out the Branch Brook Park section of the Essex County Parks website. Or, you can learn about the Branch Brook Park Alliance on Facebook. You can reach the Essex County Park System on 973-268-3500.

If you love the outdoors be sure to check out the New Jersey cherry blossoms. After that, you'll definitely want to plan a visit to one of New Jersey's other fantastic parks using this ultimate guide to state parks throughout the Garden State. Not local to the state? Make it a road trip! But don't even think about heading out on the road without our guide to the best road trip snacks!