Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart Tour, Organ Demonstration, Lunch Don Pepe's and Branchbrook Park, Newark

Tuesday April 21, 2026

The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a remarkable example of French Gothic Revival style, is the fifth largest cathedral in North America. Breaking ground in January 1898, the Cathedral was completed 95 years later. Located on Newark’s highest peak adjacent to Branch Brook Park. Occupying a 45,000-square-foot area, it is comparable in size to Westminster Abbey. The three rose windows are considered among the world’s finest, second only to Chartres Cathedral in France. It also has the largest rose window of its kind in a Catholic Church in  the Western Hemisphere.  You will also enjoy a bus ride through Branchbrook Park with its may Cherry Blossoms.  Lunch included in Newark at Don Pepe's.  

Bus departs Celia Cruz Rest Area,  Forked River 9:15 am, TARGET, 570 Rt 70, Brick 9:30 AM   GSP exit 98 Park and Ride 10:00 am  approx 8 PM return  $135

Bus departures  

VERY IMPORTANT TO CHECK ITINERARY FOR TIME CHANGES. Provided 1 week prior.

9:15 AM  Celia Cruz Service Center (formerly Forked River Rest Area) 

9:30 AM Target, RT 70, Brick  

9:45 AM GSP Park and Ride Exit 98 (GPS use Exit 98 Park and Ride, Wall)

10:15 AM Jon Bon Jovi Rest Area

6:30 PM  Approximate return