You've probably seen it from the window of a PATH train. That sleek, modern building with the funky window patterns right next to the Harrison station. It’s the Element Harrison-Newark, and honestly, if you’re trying to navigate the mess that is North Jersey travel without losing your mind, this place is basically a cheat code.
Most people get confused by the name. Is it in Newark? Is it in Harrison? It sits in Harrison, technically, but it’s so close to the Newark border that you can practically smell the coffee in the Ironbound district from the rooftop terrace.
The Identity Crisis That Works in Your Favor
Harrison used to be an industrial graveyard. We’re talking old factories and empty lots. Now? It’s a "transit-oriented" hub. The Element by Westin was one of the first big bets on this area back in 2014, and it just finished a massive multi-million-dollar renovation in early 2025 to keep up with all the luxury apartments popping up around it.
Living or staying here isn't like staying in a cramped Manhattan hotel. The rooms are huge. Like, "actually has a kitchen with a full-sized fridge" huge.
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The hotel is the anchor of what locals call the SOHA district (Southern Harrison). It’s a bit of a manufactured neighborhood, sure, but it’s clean, safe, and literally steps from the train. You’ve got Red Bull Arena right there too. If you're a soccer fan, you can walk from your room to the stands in about five minutes. No Uber needed. No parking nightmares.
Why the Location Is Kinda Genius
Let’s talk logistics. If you stay in downtown Newark, you’re dealing with city noise and higher prices. If you stay in Manhattan, you’re paying for a shoebox.
- The PATH Train: It’s right outside. You’re in World Trade Center in 20 minutes.
- Newark Liberty (EWR): There’s a free shuttle. It takes about 15 minutes unless the Pulaski Skyway is having a bad day.
- The Food: You’re a 10-minute walk from the Ironbound in Newark, which has some of the best Portuguese and Spanish food in the country. Go to Mambo Cuban or find a spot for Rodizio. You won't regret it.
The hotel itself feels more like an apartment complex than a transient lodging spot. They have this "Rise" breakfast that isn't just soggy cereal—it's actually decent. And on select weeknights, they do a "Relax" reception with drinks and snacks. It’s a vibe that caters to the "working from anywhere" crowd that has taken over Jersey since 2020.
Dealing With the "New Harrison" Growing Pains
It hasn't all been sunshine and luxury vinyl plank flooring. The rapid redevelopment of the Harrison waterfront has brought some friction. For a long time, the area behind the hotel was supposed to be a "Green Area" for a park and community center.
Lately, there's been a lot of local drama involving the EPA and a proposed facility nearby that has residents and the hotel owners, Ironstate Development and The Pegasus Group, a bit on edge. It’s a classic urban struggle: the clash between industrial heritage and the new "luxury" identity.
Despite the politics, the area is booming. By the end of 2026, even more residential phases are expected to be "substantially complete." This isn't a sleepy suburb anymore. It's a high-density, fast-paced extension of the city.
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What You Should Actually Do
If you're planning a trip or thinking about moving to the Newark-Harrison area, don't just look at the flashy brochures.
- Check the PATH schedule. It runs 24/7, but late-night headways can be a drag if you miss your train by thirty seconds.
- Use the bikes. The Element has complimentary bikes. Harrison is flat. It’s the easiest way to explore the riverfront without dealing with the one-way street maze.
- Parking is the catch. Like most things in Jersey, parking isn't free. The attached deck is convenient, but it’ll run you about $21 a night. Factor that into your budget.
Honestly, the Element Harrison-Newark is for the person who wants the NYC experience without the NYC price tag or the NYC claustrophobia. It’s the middle ground that actually makes sense. You get the rainfall showers, the Westin Heavenly beds, and enough space to actually breathe.
If you're coming for a game at Red Bull Arena or a concert at the Prudential Center (which is just one stop away on the PATH), this is the smartest home base you can pick. Just make sure you grab a pastel de nata in the Ironbound before you head back to the airport.
Your Next Move: Check the local event calendar for Red Bull Arena before you book. Prices at the Element and nearby rentals spike significantly on match days, so if you aren't there for the soccer, try to time your visit for a Tuesday or Wednesday to snag the best rates.