Newark, Delaware is a friendly, safe college town located 12 miles west of Wilmington. Since it is less than an hour’s drive to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore, it is a popular place for families and other professionals who prefer a quieter spot to call home. Newark is also quite close to New York, Washington, and tons of beaches and ski resorts, giving you endless options for fun day trips. The area truly does have it all: a rich history, thriving businesses, a renowned post-secondary institution, and a small-town feel.
History
The area developed in the late 1600s and was initially built around a Quaker meetinghouse. During the Revolutionary War, Newark was the site of the only major battle fought in the state, the Battle of Cooch’s Bridge. Legend has it that this was the first battle in which the Stars and Stripes were flown into battle.
Education also played a pivotal role in the development of Newark, with the creation of several grammar schools throughout the 1700 and 1800s. The city is also home to the University of Delaware, attended by approximately 23,000 students.
Landmarks
Newark is a historic city, and as such, there are a ton of landmarks you can opt to visit. These include sites of Revolutionary War battles, museums, and sprawling sports complexes. Between the Pond Ice Arena and the Bob Carpenter Center, there is bound to be an event or attraction for every interest. The Pond Ice Arena is open year-round, offering hockey and figure skating programs to people of all skill levels. Those who prefer to watch their sporting entertainment can enjoy tickets to one of many events.
The area is also surrounded by community parks and state parks, including the White Clay Creek State Park, where you can participate in one of many programs or events. Other parks in the area can offer you events like hiking, kayaking, and biking.
Population
There are slightly fewer than 30,000 people who live in the city, giving it a small-town feel despite its size. Most residents are in the middle to upper-middle class, with a nearly 50/50 split between married couples with families and non-family households.
For most of the population, sports serve as a major pastime. Newark is recognized the world over for being a haven for national and international figure skating. There are also over 21 varsity sports teams residents can watch from the University of Delaware. The city is also home to an NBA G League team, the Delaware Blue Coats (formerly the Delaware 87ers).
Newark, Delaware is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for some quiet away from a major city or just a friendly place to visit, Newark has something for you.