Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Edison, NJ

The town of Edison in Middlesex County, New Jersey, is part of the broader New York City Metropolitan Area, making it an ideal location for visitors to explore beyond the city limits.

Originally named Raritan Township, Edison was renamed to honor the inventor Thomas Edison, whose renowned laboratory was situated in Menlo Park.

The town takes pride in its most notable resident, featuring numerous tributes, including a museum, park, and memorial tower dedicated to Edison.

However, there are numerous other engaging activities and attractions that do not solely focus on the light bulb invention, ensuring that all visitors, whether science enthusiasts or not, will find something of interest in Edison.

Here are the top attractions in Edison:

1. AMC Dine-In Theatres Menlo Park

For those who wish to enjoy both a meal and a film, AMC Dine-In Theatres Menlo Park, located within Menlo Park Mall, provides an ideal solution.

The theatre features spacious, comfortable seating, along with a comprehensive lunch and dinner menu for patrons to choose from.

Revisiting a bygone era when dining and movies went hand in hand, this cinema showcases the latest film releases, making it a perfect venue for a romantic evening out in the Menlo Park vicinity.

2. Thomas Edison Museum

Despite its small size, the Thomas Edison Museum is often overlooked by locals, rendering it a hidden gem in Edison.

Located in Menlo Park, this museum is dedicated to honoring the life and contributions of the ingenious inventor Thomas Edison, providing comprehensive insights into the history of the light bulb.

Visitors may join a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents. Admission is complimentary, although donations are appreciated. For science enthusiasts, this museum is a must-visit destination.

3. Triple C Ranch

Triple C Ranch is an operational farm featuring animal enclosures alongside five distinct themed gardens.

Ideal for families, the animals can be interacted with, while the gardens offer a tranquil setting for leisurely walks and educational insights into local flora and fauna.

Nature trails weave throughout the ranch, accompanied by local volunteers who share details about its history and the animals and plants present.

Additionally, attractions such as fish ponds and orchards offer a refreshing escape from urban life, perfect for a day spent in nature.

Be sure to look for the ranch’s beloved mascot, Edison the pig.

4. Roosevelt Park

Located to the west of Menlo Park, Roosevelt Park offers an array of recreational activities for a pleasant afternoon getaway.

The park features numerous grassy fields, basketball and tennis courts, and in the summer months, a roller skating rink, which converts into an ice skating rink during winter.

At the center of the park lies an artificial lake, surrounded by a paved walkway, complemented by various trails for visitors to walk, jog, or run leisurely.

For those seeking refreshments, charming picnic areas and fire pits are available for a barbecue experience.

5. Rebounderz Edison

For those seeking extensive indoor recreational space, Rebounderz Edison is a 41,000 square foot trampoline park that encourages visitors to engage in acrobatic fun.

This facility comprises trampoline floors designed for free bouncing, complemented by foam pits for safety.

In addition to trampoline floors, there are also rebounding walls for more skilled jumpers, emphasizing fitness and enjoyment for all skill levels.

This facility stands as the first of its kind in Edison, promising visitors a distinctive and entertaining experience.

An available trampoline basketball court adds an action-packed dimension to the fun.

6. Cypress Brewing Co

For those interested in local brews, Cypress Brewing Co is a nano brewery situated in Edison, renowned for its exceptional craft beers.

With almost a decade of operation, the brewery’s expertise in the craft is evident, and guests can enjoy a comprehensive tour that highlights the beer-making process.

Knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the entire brewing journey, from hop harvesting to the final product.

After the tour, guests can sample an array of Cypress Brewing Co’s beers, which regularly rotate with new and exciting flavors.

7. Rutgers Ecological Preserve

Just outside Edison lies the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, a tranquil area of forestland graced with scenic hiking trails.

Most trails are well-maintained and suitable for all skill levels, though some sections are more challenging; thus, it’s advisable to consult a map prior to your visit.

Although it does not offer lengthy trails for extensive hikes, this picturesque preserve provides an excellent location for a relaxed afternoon of hiking and picnicking while observing diverse plant and wildlife.

8. Farrington Lake

For those looking to venture beyond Edison, Farrington Lake in Middlesex County is a splendid destination.

The lake, formed by a remarkable dam, is nourished by the Lawrence Brook River, a tributary of the Raritan River.

Boating and fishing abound here, with various fish species, including rainbow trout and catfish, populating the waters.

An impressive feature of the lake is the dam, which creates a stunning fountain effect as water cascades down the stone steps into the lake.

9. Light Dispelling Darkness Sculpture

For an intriguing and unexpected attraction in Edison, visit Roosevelt Park to view this federally commissioned artwork.

The unique sculpture, designed by renowned artist Waylande Gregory in 1937, is situated at the center of a fountain.

Crafted from terracotta, this piece pays homage to Thomas Edison, with its title referencing Edison’s iconic invention of the light bulb.

Moreover, its title signifies the theme of good conquering evil, featuring motifs of education, technology, and industry, as well as a unifying globe at its core.

Constructed in an art deco style, the sculpture is entirely hand-glazed.

This artwork is undoubtedly worth a visit for those seeking something distinctive within the art scene of Edison.

10. Menlo Park Mall

For those wishing to indulge in shopping, Menlo Park Mall stands as the premier destination in Edison, stretching across two levels and offering an extensive selection of stores.

In addition to popular clothing retailers, the mall features an eclectic array of food options, ranging from Japanese sushi to classic American burgers.

A spacious food court invites patrons to explore diverse culinary offerings, enhancing the overall shopping experience.

The mall also accommodates various entertainment establishments, including a cinema.

11. Thomas Alva Edison Memorial Tower

As a memorial to Thomas Alva Edison, this tower was constructed in the 1930s and serves as a prominent tribute to the celebrated inventor.

Situated at the site of Edison’s original laboratory from the 1800s where many of his inventions came to fruition, this landmark holds significant historical importance.

The tower’s summit is crafted from Pyrex and shaped like a light bulb, honoring Edison’s legacy, standing at an impressive height of nearly 15 feet.

Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places in New Jersey, this site is a fundamental piece of scientific heritage that should not be overlooked.

12. Oak Tree Road

Oak Tree Road delineates the boundary between Edison and Iselin in Woodbridge, providing access to a vibrant Indian cultural scene known as Little India in New Jersey.

This area is characterized by a thriving Indian and Pakistani community, evident through a rich concentration of authentic Indian shops and restaurants, offering exquisite textiles and various culinary delights of Indian cuisine, as well as traditional services such as massage parlors.

13. Dismal Swamp

Dismal Swamp is a notable marshy area adjacent to Edison, encompassing approximately 650 acres.

This swamp is recognized for its diverse wildlife, including endangered species such as the loggerhead shrike, as well as a variety of plants, including a vineyard.

Additionally, evidence of previous human habitation has been discovered, including historical artifacts such as axes, spears, and ancient arrows.

Various access points throughout the swamp are available for public use, with the Triple C Ranch serving as a convenient starting point for exploration and hiking adventures.

14. Edison State Park

Spanning an expansive 37 acres, Edison State Park is notable for housing the Thomas Edison Memorial Tower and Museum.

Aside from these attractions, the park itself is a delightful destination, featuring forested areas interwoven with hiking trails.

Moreover, the park contains a tranquil fishpond and a colorful meadow that bursts to life during the spring, making it a must-see when visiting the museum.

15. West Nine

For golf enthusiasts, West Nine offers a remarkable course that is accessible to both members and the general public, making it an ideal venue for improving one’s golf skills or simply enjoying a relaxing day on the greens.

The lush, expansive greens and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring golfers of all skill levels—regardless of age—can enjoy the experience, making it an excellent option for an outing with family.