Things to Do at Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart stands as Newark's most impressive architectural achievement and one of the largest cathedrals in the United States. Built between 1898 and 1954, this French Gothic Revival masterpiece actually took over half a century to complete, which explains why the craftsmanship feels so deliberate and refined. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark, but you don't need to be religious to appreciate the sheer ambition of what they built here. What strikes most visitors is the scale - this isn't just big for Newark, it's genuinely massive by any standard. The interior stretches 365 feet long with soaring vaulted ceilings that create an almost otherworldly sense of space. The stonework throughout shows the kind of attention to detail that's increasingly rare in modern construction, and the stained glass windows cast light in ways that change dramatically throughout the day.

The cathedral's twin spires are visible from blocks away. Located in Newark's Forest Hill neighborhood about 2 miles north of downtown, this Gothic Revival masterpiece dominates the skyline in ways you won't expect. Street parking is limited. The area feels safe during daylight. Public transportation works well-NJ Transit buses and Newark Light Rail stop nearby, though expect a short walk to reach the entrance. From New York, plan on a 20-minute train ride to Newark Penn Station, then grab a bus or taxi. You can't miss it. Once you're in Forest Hill, those towering spires guide you straight to one of America's largest cathedrals. The building commands attention in a neighborhood that doesn't get enough credit.