Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park
The Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park offers an incredible look at the site where the legendary inventor created some of his most famous inventions. Located on the site of Edison’s Menlo Park laboratory, this museum showcases a recreation of his original lab plus historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, short films, and more. Walk through the lab where Edison developed landmarks like the phonograph and electric light bulb that changed the world forever. This National Historic Landmark provides fantastic insight into Edison’s innovations that still impact us today. The center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm.
Address: 37 Christie St, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 549-3299.
Roosevelt Park
Roosevelt Park in Edison is a gorgeous 323 acre park perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors. The park features a large freshwater lake as well as trails that wind through dense woods, open meadows, and wetland areas. Walk through tranquil nature scenes far removed from the bustle of everyday life. The park is also home to historic buildings like the recreated Ford Mansion where Henry Ford spent time. Visiting Roosevelt Park is free and it’s open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Address: 1 Pine Dr, Edison, NJ 08820.
Edison Landfill Park
Believe it or not, one of Edison’s most scenic parks is a reclaimed landfill! Edison Landfill Park is a 160 acre recreational area built on top of a former landfill. The park has everything from sports fields to a dog park to an observatory with telescopes. Hiking trails run through open fields and forests with scenic outlooks over the Raritan River. At night, the observatory opens on Wednesdays for free public viewings. Edison Landfill Park on Municipal Boulevard is free to visit and open daily from dawn until dusk.
Address: 65 Municipal Blvd, Edison, NJ 08817.
Mutual UFO Network Headquarters
If you’re fascinated by extraterrestrial life, you can visit the worldwide headquarters of the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) in Edison. MUFON is a leading organization that investigates UFO sightings and evidence of alien encounters. Their museum displays unique artifacts and exhibits on famous incidents like Area 51 and the Roswell incident. You can even research over 100,000 UFO cases yourself in their archives. It’s an absolute must-visit for X-Files fans.
Address: 2722 E Main St, Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (973) 208-2828.
Greenway Park
For a beautiful nature escape right in Edison, head over to Greenway Park. This serene park follows along the banks of the Raritan River, offering walking trails past charming gazebos and gardens. You can also launch your own kayak or canoe into the Raritan River from the boat ramp. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy river views and get close to local wildlife. Greenway Park on Plainfield Road is free to enjoy and open daily from 8:30am to dusk.
Address: 100 Plainfield Rd, Edison, NJ 08820.
Edison Memorial Tower
The Edison Memorial Tower is a unique 110-foot tall tower dedicated to Thomas Edison and his innovations. Located within Edison State Park, the tower was constructed in 1938 to mark the 50th anniversary of Edison’s lightbulb. Climb to the top for panoramic views over the Raritan River and surrounding parklands. Interactive exhibits tell the story of the legendary inventor. The observation deck is especially beautiful at night when the tower is fully illuminated. The Edison Memorial Tower is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
Address: 37 Christie Street, Edison, NJ 08817
Phone: (732) 548-2867.
Middlesex County Fairgrounds
For old-fashioned family fun, visit the Middlesex County Fairgrounds in East Brunswick right next to Edison. The fairgrounds host carnivals, circuses, rodeos, races, and other classic events throughout the year. The annual 4-day Middlesex County Fair also takes place here each August. Kids will love rides like the Ferris wheel and adults can enjoy live music performances.
Address: 655 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick, NJ 08816.
Phone: (732) 257-8858.
Cheesequake State Park
Just across the Raritan River from Edison lies the natural oasis of Cheesequake State Park where you can hike, camp, go fishing, and more. 1,430 acres of forests, saltwater and freshwater marshes, meadows, and trails await your exploration. You may even spot wildlife like bobcats, bald eagles, and over 150 bird species. The park also features a historic village and nature center. It’s a great destination for a day-trip from Edison to experience unspoiled nature. Cheesequake State Park is open daily from dawn until dusk.
Address: 300 Gordon Rd, Matawan, NJ 07747
Phone: (732) 566-3208.
Dismal Swamp
You don’t have to travel far from Edison to find yourself deep in nature at the Dismal Swamp. This preserved wetland area dates back over 200 years and consists of forested wetlands and vernal pools. Eight miles of trails allow you to spot wildlife like foxes, deer, turtles, frogs, and over 150 species of birds. A boardwalk trail goes right through the swamp for an up-close experience. You can also visit the historic Dismal Swamp Canal on the National Register of Historic Places. The Dismal Swamp is open daily for hiking from dawn to dusk.
Address: 1052 Metlars Ln, Edison, NJ 08817.
Funplex
For family-friendly fun, head over to the massive amusement park Funplex in nearby East Brunswick. This entertainment center has everything from go-karts to mini golf to indoor rides and arcade games. Enjoy thrill rides like a looping rollercoaster, spinning teacups, bumper cars, and more. There’s also batting cages, bowling, billiards, and events like cult film screenings in the lecture hall. It’s the perfect rainy day activity near Edison. Funplex is open year-round with varying days and hours. Check their website for the current schedule.
Address: 3405 Route 1 South, East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Phone: (732) 238-2100.
Plan Your Trip With Party Bus Edison
Now that you know about some of Edison’s most amazing hidden gem attractions, start planning your visit! Party Bus Edison can provide comfortable, convenient transportation for your group to all of these unique sites. Avoid the hassle of driving and parking yourself. Our luxury buses will pick you up and drop you off right at each attraction so you can fully focus on the experience. With TVs, WiFi, and plush seats, our party buses make travel between Edison’s hidden gems relaxing and fun. Contact Party Bus Edison today at 862-306-1068 to book high-end group transportation for your perfect Edison getaway!