Middlesex County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs in Middlesex County, New Jersey, USA.


Introduction to Middlesex County

Middlesex County is a beautiful county located in Gateway, New Jersey, in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America. The county is known for its rich history, beautiful natural attractions, and vibrant culture. In this tour guide, we will take you on a journey through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs of Middlesex County.

List of Places to Visit in Middlesex County

Middlesex County is a thriving hub of exciting and unique attractions to explore. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a solo adventure, or a romantic getaway, Middlesex County has something for everyone. Check out our list of places to visit in Middlesex County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re a history buff, Middlesex County has plenty of museums and historical sites to keep you satisfied. Here are a few must-visit cultural attractions:

  • Edison National Historic Site: This site is dedicated to the famous inventor, Thomas Edison. You can tour his laboratory and hear stories about his life and work.
  • Proprietary House Association: This historical site is a mansion built in the 18th century and served as the home of New Jersey’s last royal governor. The house now hosts tours and events throughout the year.
  • Indian King Tavern Museum: This museum is a state historic site that showcases the history of colonial New Jersey and the American Revolution.

Natural Attractions of Middlesex County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Middlesex County boasts a range of beautiful natural attractions where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. Here are our top picks for nature lovers:

  • Raritan Bay Waterfront Park: This stunning park boasts over 160 acres of natural forest, open fields, and waterfront views that create an idyllic setting.
  • Johnson Park: A highly visited site with plenty of outdoor recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking.
  • Piscatawaytown Burial Ground: This historic burial ground dates back to the 17th century, with several monuments and graves of the region’s first settlers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Middlesex County

Middlesex County offers a variety of scenic trails where you can take a leisurely stroll or pet-friendly hikes with your furry friends. Here are some great options for hiking and biking routes in Middlesex County:

  • Cheesequake State Park: This park offers a variety of self-guided and ranger-led hikes and trails of varying lengths that showcase the park’s diverse habitats.
  • Duke Island Park: This park caters to walkers and joggers, with miles of paved trails that criss-cross throughout. The trails are well-maintained and offer a scenic view of the river and surrounding landscapes.
  • Donaldson Park: This park has a walking/biking trail that is 1.2 miles long. The trail runs through a beautiful forest grove, and it’s perfect for a family outing.

Best Things to Do in Middlesex County: Activities and Tours

Looking for exciting activities to do while in Middlesex County? Look no further! Here are the best things to do while you visit:

  • Rutgers Gardens: This garden is a scenic spot, offering visitors over 80 acres of vibrant colors, hike trails, and botanical gardens.
  • George Street Playhouse: If you’re a fan of theatre, the George Street Playhouse is a must-visit spot with a variety of dramatic performances, from first-time productions to long-running Broadway hits.
  • Stelton Lanes: This is a great place for bowling enthusiasts, with 26 bowling lanes and an on-site restaurant.

Week-Long Itinerary for Middlesex County

If you have a week to explore Middlesex County, here’s an itinerary that will make sure you make the most of your stay:

Day 1: Visit Rutgers Gardens

Day 2: Go for a nature walk at Johnson Park

Day 3: Tour the Edison National Historic Site

Day 4: Take a guided hike at Cheesequake State Park

Day 5: Explore the Proprietary House Association

Day 6: Spend the day shopping in downtown Metuchen.

Day 7: Relax and unwind with a play at the George Street Playhouse!

Food and Drink Scene of Middlesex County

Middlesex County will leave you spoilt for choice when it comes to delicious food and drink options. Here’s a rundown of some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Italian Hot Dog at Jimmy Buff’s: A must-try New Jersey classic!
  • Burgers and Fries at Old Man Rafferty’s: Cozy up with delicious burgers and fries that are made from scratch.
  • Steak Sandwich at Grease Trucks: Grease Trucks is famous for serving students of Rutgers University with their infamous and delicious 10-inch oval sandwiches.

Local Beverages

  • Cocktails at Clydz: The cocktails at Clydz are creative, fun, and they taste amazing.
  • Columbia Brewing Company: This brewery offers a variety of handcrafted beer options.

Where to Stay in Middlesex County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From budget-friendly accommodations to luxurious resorts, Middlesex Country has an array of options to suit all preferences. Below we’ve highlighted some of the best places to stay in Middlesex County:

  • Sheraton Edison Hotel: Conveniently located to many attractions of Middlesex County, the Sheraton Hotel has luxurious rooms and amenities to make your stay comfortable.
  • Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center: Located on the campus of Rutgers University, this hotel is a great option for visitors looking for a budget-friendly stay.
  • Crowne Plaza Princeton–Conference Center: This elegant hotel is in the historic and scenic area of Plainsboro, offering well-furnished rooms with modern amenities and great value for money.

What to Buy in Middlesex County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Middlesex County has many unique and locally crafted items that you can take back home as a souvenir. Here are some recommended items to purchase:

  • Jams and Jellies at Kilmer’s Farm Market: With an assortment of homemade jams and jellies, Kilmer’s Farm Market has a variety of flavors to suit all tastes.
  • Antique Shops in Metuchen: Antique collectors will enjoy browsing through the various antique shops located in the historic downtown Metuchen.
  • Fragrances at Miksaj: Located in Highland Park is a boutique perfumery that offers amazing fragrances and scented candles.

Local Culture and Customs of Middlesex County

Middlesex County has a rich, diverse culture influenced by its history, art, and ethnicities. Visitors will have a great time exploring the county’s culture, customs, and festivals like the Hungarian Festival and the Metuchen Country Fair.

Best Time to Visit Middlesex County

The best time to visit Middlesex County would be during the Fall season or when the weather is cooler. During this time, the temperature is comfortable, and the county looks stunning with the changing leaves and autumn colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Middlesex County

Do:

  • Respect the cultural differences and customs of the locals.
  • Be courteous to fellow visitors and residents of Middlesex County.
  • Campers should follow the camper guidelines at the local outdoor recreation areas.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the natural spaces in Middlesex County.
  • Engage in any illegal activities in the county.
  • Do not drive recklessly on the roads.

Safety and Health

Safety in Middlesex County

Middlesex County is overall a safe place to visit, but visitors should remain vigilant, especially at night. While going out hiking or exploring trails, always be alert of your surroundings and potential risks.

Health in Middlesex County

Middlesex County has excellent hospitals and health care facilities. Visitors are recommended to carry all their essential medications with them.

Getting to Middlesex County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Middlesex County is easy to get to from other parts of the United States. Here are some of the transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Middlesex County

The nearest airport to Middlesex County is the Newark Liberty International Airport, which is about 25 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Middlesex County

Middlesex County has excellent bus services within the county and to other regions in New Jersey and New York.

Other Options

Middlesex County also has a rail network, which connects it to New York City and other parts of New Jersey.

How to Get Around in Middlesex County

Middlesex Country has a well-maintained road network and is easy to navigate through driving. Public transport is also available and offers options like buses, Amtrak, and local train services.

Where to Go Next from Middlesex County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re planning to extend your visit, there are several destinations and excursions close to Middlesex County worth exploring:

  • Jersey Shore: The Jersey Shore offers stunning beaches and a vibrant nightlife, making it a popular summer destination.
  • Hoboken: Hoboken is known for its charming architecture, bustling nightlife, and many food options.
  • New York City: New York City is the perfect destination for a day trip from Middlesex County, offering an endless array of things to see and do.

Conclusion

Middlesex County has a little something for everyone, from history and culture to beautiful natural attractions and exciting outdoor activities. We hope our comprehensive tour guide has given you an excellent overview of what Middlesex County has to offer, and you’re ready to plan your trip!



    Edison
    Highland Park
    New Brunswick
    Old Bridge
    Piscataway