By: Novia Brooks

America’s Got Talent. Batman. Eminem. A random list, maybe. But they all have one thing in common – Downtown Newark.

Eminem came to New Jersey’s historic city two years ago to shoot his video for his single “Not Afraid.” Then last fall, the crew from “The Dark Night Rises” used the streets to film their summer blockbuster. And America’s Got Talent made NJPAC its summer home for the show’s live performances.

Why is everyone coming to Downtown Newark?

Downtown Newark is a place of growth and history. But according to Newark historian, Clement Price, New Jersey residents often forget about their greatest city.

"I also learned (over the years) that Newark's history is at the center of Essex County," Price recalled. "Although a lot of people who live in Essex County don't have as high regards for Newark."

Those who know Newark see the change. Those who don't, could very well be stuck back in the city's deep history. "I feel like it’s mostly the residents because they don’t take the time to realize that there’s a change being made in Newark," said Robin Scipio, English Department Chair at Newark's Central High School. "Residents fail to realize that the city is growing."

Newark suffered loss in its businesses and population after the 1967 riots and it took decades for it to recover. Price lived in Newark throughout this transformation and witnessed what he called, “a loss of hope in the city.” “They packed. Left. And didn't turn back,” he added.

Except they did turn back -- it just took some time. According to Price the proof is in the growing college campuses, the entertainment venues and the historical landmarks.

Scipio credits Newark's landmarks with helping to bring about that change.

"Different locations such as the Newark Museum, Bear's Stadium, Prudential Center, Lincoln and Military parks have been attracting many tourists," she said. "It's a matter of time before more (tourists) start to migrate over here." Price agrees.

"So here in Newark you have all these urban aspects: a major museum , a major performing arts center, and yet the people have not spent much time in Newark,” he said. “They don’t know how wonderful and potentially more wonderful their leading city could be.”