Looking for a place that has it all—events, sports, and delicious food? Yes, please. You’ll find that and lots of family fun at The Prudential Center in Newark, home to incredible sporting events with NJ’s only pro sports team, family-friendly shows, and top-notch concerts. What’s more, the 18,000-seat area and entertainment complex is in Newark’s central business district and is easy to get to by train or car, no matter where you live in the Garden State. Keep reading for more information on what to expect at the Prudential Center, and make sure you mark your calendars for all the events coming up (Go Devils!). (featured photo credit: Prudential Center)
Cheer on the action on the ice or the courts
Ready to root for New Jersey’s hometown teams? The Prudential Center’s main draw is on the ice where the NJ Devils play—the only major professional sports team in New Jersey that solely bears the state’s name. The regular season starts in mid-October and runs through early April, and there are tons of games to see, mostly on weekends and weeknights. The best part? The kids can take part in lots of fun activities while you are there for the game. If it’s your family’s first game, stop by Guest Services to pick up a First Game certificate. Make sure to get it signed during the period breaks to participate in cool raffles, games, and swag. Prudential Center is also home to the NY Sirens, part of the Professional Women’s Hockey League, and you can catch a game throughout the season of this exciting and newer league. And if your family is a hoops fan, Seton Hall University’s Men’s Basketball plays home games at the Prudential Center, where you can catch an exciting game of B-ball on this side of the Hudson.
Enjoy concerts and events throughout the year
Sporting events aren’t the only fan-favorite attractions at the Prudential Center—check out the roster of A-list entertainers and musicians all year, including Justin Timberlake, Cardi B, The Jonas Brothers, and Blake Shelton. Also, be on the lookout for family events, like Monster Jam and Disney on Ice, to make core memories for your kids. Other fun events include comedians and unique sporting events. They update the calendar throughout the year, so be sure to check out what is happening.
Grab a bite to eat
If you are trying to figure out what to eat before the big game or fun show starts, rest assured, there are delicious options inside the Prudential Center. From burgers to Mexican to vegetarian to boardwalk faves, there are concession stands all around the arena, so no matter where your seats are located, there is something to chow down on.
Host your next event
If you’re thinking about throwing a birthday bash or celebrating a milestone, consider the Prudential Center for a one-of-a-kind experience. With varied spaces like the Prudential Lounge, RWJBarnabas Health Hockey House, the Main Concourse, and The Lofts, each has its own unique vibe that can make your party stand out. Plus, you don’t have to lift a finger when you host a party, with event specialists available to provide party planning and gourmet catering.
What to know before you go
You can access Prudential Center by New Jersey Transit Trains to Newark Penn Station, two blocks from the arena. For parking, lots offering over 3,500 spaces are within a two-block radius of the arena, along with other public parking facilities. You can reserve your parking spot ahead of time for every event, ensuring a guaranteed spot is waiting for you. Backpacks and bags larger than 12″x14″ are permitted in the arena. Keep in mind that Prudential Center is a cashless facility.
Check out their website, Facebook, and Instagram
Want the inside scoop? Sign up for the NJMOM bi-weekly newsletter to get the lowdown on everything for your family in NJ (think of it as the ultimate cheat sheet for NJ Moms). And don’t forget to tag your photos #NJMOM and @njmom for a chance to be featured.