Top Attractions for First-Timers
With limited time in Edison, you’ll want to experience the best of the best. Here are some don’t-miss destinations for your inaugural trip:
Family Fun at Menlo Park Mall
Menlo Park Mall is the premier shopping destination in Edison and the surrounding region. Spanning over 1 million square feet, it houses 180+ stores and restaurants to satisfy every interest. Shop til you drop at department stores like Macy’s and Nordstrom, or browse specialty boutiques for trendy fashions and unique gifts. When you need a break, refuel at the food court offering a wide array of cuisines. With so much to see and do, you can easily spend a whole afternoon – or more! – at this lively mall.
Culture & Cuisine in Little India
Edison’s Little India neighborhood radiates Old World charm. Stroll along oak tree-lined Oak Tree Road to find aromatic restaurants, colorful sari shops, spice markets, and sweet shops. For the ultimate Indian food experience, grab a table at Ruchi Restaurant known for their delectable samosas and curries. The Hindu Temple also offers visitor tours if you’d like to immerse yourself in the culture. Little India is the perfect place to get a taste of South Asia without leaving town.
Family Science Fun at the New Jersey Children’s Museum
The New Jersey Children’s Museum delivers hands-on science experiences perfect for curious young minds. Kids can race boats down a mini river, cook up concoctions in a pretend diner, or build towers with oversized blocks. Exhibits change regularly so there’s always something new to discover. After working up a science appetite, refuel at the on-site Burger lament Cafe. With fun for all ages, it’s easy to spend a whole day at this engaging museum.
Chat with Thomas Edison at Menlo Park
Thomas Edison National Historic Park preserves the site where the legendary inventor established his Menlo Park laboratory in 1876. Tour his laboratory workshop and see early prototypes of his inventions like the phonograph and lightbulb. In the summer months, living history actors portraying Edison and his associates bring the site to life. It’s a step back in time to where Edison first pioneered the wonders of electricity.
Nature Walks at Roosevelt Park
Roosevelt Park gives visitors a refreshing dose of nature within Edison. Its well-maintained trails weave through 109 acres of woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. Spot local wildlife as you stroll along the waterfront or pause to picnic in a grassy clearing. Additional park amenities include sports fields, playgrounds, and an outdoor pool for summertime swims. It’s the perfect place to unwind surrounded by natural beauty.
Historic Home Tour in the Stelton Village Historic District
For a trip through history, take a guided walking tour of Stelton Village. This National Historic District transports you back to a 19th century planned utopian community. Marvel at homes designed in the Prairie Style of architecture as your guide shares stories of the village’s fascinating past. Tours run Saturdays from April through November and provide a scenic walk through yesteryear.
Live Music & Comedy at the Edison Ale House
For fantastic live entertainment, head to the Edison Ale House. This local favorite books top bands on weekends playing everything from classic rock to current chart hits. Past acts have included tributes to Journey, Bon Jovi, and Bruno Mars. Throughout the week, you can catch stand-up comedy shows featuring rising stars on the circuit. With a lively bar scene and menu of pub grub, it’s a great place to grab dinner and drinks while enjoying Edison’s vibrant entertainment scene.
Edison Towne Square Shopping Center
Edison Towne Square is an open-air shopping plaza perfect for an afternoon stroll.Brands like Barnes & Noble, Old Navy, Pier 1 Imports, and DSW offer mainstream shopping and home goods. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweetberry Bowls & Bottles with their creative fruit bowls and soft serve. The plaza also frequently hosts community events like holiday celebrations and outdoor concerts. It’s a quintessential suburban shopping experience.
Family Fun at Funplex Indoor Amusement Park
Funplex indoor amusement park packs high-thrill rides, arcade games, go karts, and laser tag all under one roof. Kids can tackle the Wacky World kiddie area while teens brave extreme rides like the sky-high Skyscraper. Batting cages, mini golf, bumper cars, and an explosion-filled 5D theater provide hours of entertainment. With so much to do, it’s easy to spend an entire day immersed in the Funplex excitement.
Aquatic Critters at Maritime Aquarium
The Maritime Aquarium introduces visitors to the wonders of marine life. Get up close with sharks, jellyfish, seahorses and other aquatic creatures native to the waters around New York and New Jersey. Interactive exhibits like the touch pool allows hands-on encounters with sea stars and hermit crabs. Shows and feedings throughout the day provide more aquatic action. After exploring the aquarium, enjoy waterfront dining at the on-site Bistro restaurant.
Artistic Expression at Zimmerli Art Museum
The Zimmerli Art Museum on the campus of Rutgers University houses a world-class collection of international art. View masterpieces spanning millennia from ancient to contemporary works. Standouts include 19th century French prints, Soviet Nonconformist Art, and pre-Columbian artifacts. Rotating exhibits highlight underrepresented voices in the art world. With free admission, it’s an edifying destination for art lovers in northern New Jersey.
How to Get Around Edison
Now that you know where to go, let’s discuss the best ways to get around:
Public Transportation
Edison is serviced by NJ Transit buses and trains. The Raritan Valley Line stops at Edison Station in the center of town. From there, you can walk or transfer to a local bus. Use NJ Transit’s online trip planner to map routes. Purchase tickets and passes at the station.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares like Uber/Lyft offer point-to-point transportation in Edison. Edison Taxi is the main local company, just call for prompt pick-up. During peak times, expect some delay with rideshares. Download apps ahead of time to request service.
Charter Buses
For group travel, charter buses provide a comfortable and convenient option. Our modern fleet of buses features plush seats, TVs, WiFi, and restrooms. Professional team navigate Edison’s roads directly to your destinations. Contact us to rent a private coach bus for your wedding, corporate event, or family reunion.
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this guide gets you excited to explore Edison for the first time! With family fun, cultural experiences, and historic sites, it’s truly a hidden New Jersey gem. Getting around is a breeze with our charter bus rentals. Contact us today at 862-306-1068 to request a custom quote. Let the adventure begin!