Newark

Forest Hill, Newark Neighborhood

Forest Hill offers excellent access to multiple public transportation options, including three nearby light rail stations and around ten bus lines, making commuting convenient. Its compact layout allows for easily completing errands at numerous nearby shops, restaurants, and cafes, particularly along Bloomfield Avenue. The neighborhood features a diverse selection of housing sizes, from lofts to larger residences, fitting various preferences. Education options are within close proximity, with accessible primary and secondary schools. Residents benefit from calm surroundings and several well-distributed green spaces like Branch Brook Park, providing a peaceful environment. Cycling infrastructure adds to alternative transit possibilities in this community.

People who prefer a slower-paced atmosphere will enjoy Forest Hill. Greenery is not prominent in this neighborhood; however, there are a few green spaces nearby for residents to explore, like Branch Brook Park, and they are very well-located, making them very easy to access. This area is also very good for those who enjoy a quiet atmosphere, as the streets are generally very tranquil.

Highlights of Forest Hill

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🏛️ Forest Hill Historic District

Celebrated for its stunning early 20th-century homes and scenic streets like Ballantine Parkway, the Forest Hill Historic District offers a unique glimpse into Newark's gilded-age past, drawing in architecture enthusiasts and history buffs with its grandeur and preservation efforts.

🌳 Branch Brook Park North

Stretching along the eastern edge of Forest Hill, Branch Brook Park North features iconic cherry blossom trees, expansive walking paths, and picturesque lakes, making it a beloved green space for neighborhood residents and visitors throughout the year.

🏫 First Avenue School

Located within Forest Hill, First Avenue School is known for serving a diverse student body and being a longstanding educational anchor in the community, fostering neighborhood cohesion and pride with its highly involved families.

🛕 Sacred Heart Cathedral Basilica

Standing majestically at 89 Ridge Street, this iconic French Gothic cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and architectural landmark admired for its vibrant stained glass and regular concerts open to the public.

🍝 Deluca's Italian Restaurant

Situated right at the northern border of Forest Hill on Bloomfield Avenue, Deluca's is a longtime neighborhood favorite, well-known for its classic Italian comfort food and welcoming atmosphere perfect for family outings or casual gatherings.

Forest Hill

This May in Forest Hill

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

Sunday, April 5, 2026

Alive Again! Community Easter Celebration

1016 Broad St, Newark, NJ • 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

This free Easter celebration is happening right in Newark near Forest Hill, offering all-ages activities and community connection—perfect for families looking to celebrate spring locally.

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April 4–19, 2026

50th Annual Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival

Branch Brook Park, Newark, NJ

Residents in Forest Hill can walk to nearby Branch Brook Park to enjoy the vibrant cherry blossoms, races, family activities, and cultural events celebrating the 50th festival.

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Saturday, April 4, 2026

Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race

Branch Brook Park Oval, Northern Division, Newark, NJ • 7:00 AM–1:00 PM

A festive bike race through the cherry blossoms—great for active locals to enjoy a community sporting tradition within walking distance of Forest Hill.

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Sunday, April 12, 2026

Cherry Blossom 10K Run

Branch Brook Park, Cherry Blossom Welcome Center, Newark, NJ • Registration: 8:00 AM; Race: 10:00 AM

This beautiful 10K through blooming cherry trees is ideal for runners in Forest Hill seeking a scenic spring race that also supports the Special Olympics.

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Saturday, April 18, 2026

1‑Mile Fun Run and Walk

Branch Brook Park, Southern Division, Prudential Concert Grove, Newark, NJ • Registration: 9:00 AM; Run/Walk: 10:00 AM

A free, family-friendly fun run in the heart of the cherry blossom festival—perfect for residents near Forest Hill to join in spring fitness and community fun.

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Sunday, April 19, 2026

Bloomfest (Family Day)

Branch Brook Park, Newark, NJ • 11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Closing day of the festival with music, children’s activities, cultural demos, crafts, and a marketplace—an ideal local outing for Forest Hill families to celebrate spring together.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Forest Hill

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Forest Hill

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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