Highland Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, dine, and stay in Highland Park. Learn about the town's cultural and natural attractions, activities, and tours, and read important travel information before your next adventure.


Introduction to Highland Park

Highland Park in Middlesex County, Gateway, New Jersey, is a small yet vibrant town nestled in the heart of the state. The town is known for its diverse community, upscale restaurants, and vibrant outdoor spaces.

This guide will help you plan your trip to Highland Park by providing information on where to visit, eat, and stay, along with a week-long itinerary, transportation options, safety tips, and more. Let’s get exploring!

List of Places to Visit in Highland Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Raritan Landing Golf Course

The Raritan Landing Golf Course is a public golf course with a long and rich history. Some of the most notable golfers in history have played on this course, making it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts. The course has a range of holes that will challenge players of all abilities, with stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere.

Highland Park Outdoor Sculpture collection

If you’re interested in contemporary art, don’t miss the Highland Park Outdoor Sculpture collection, a trail of outdoor sculptures throughout the city. The collection consists of works by both local and international artists, adding a unique twist to the town’s cultural scene. The sculptures are located at various locations, including parks, intersections, and pedestrian areas, making it a perfect addition to your leisurely walk around town.

Edison Tower

Another must-see attraction is the Edison Tower. The tower is a monument in honor of Thomas Edison, who called Highland Park his “first home of choice” in 1887. The tower is located within a 36-acre park that offers diverse recreational opportunities such as picnic tables, walking trails, and a playground.

Natural Attractions of Highland Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Donaldson Park

Donaldson Park is a popular spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and strolling. This 91-acre riverfront park is an oasis of serenity in the city, with stunning views of the Raritan River. The park also has a boat launch, making it an ideal location for a quiet paddle on the river.

Johnson’s Park

Johnson’s Park is a hidden gem in Highland Park. This park is a perfect place for jogging, strolling, or a picnic with the family. Unlike other parks in town, Johnson’s park is a wooded area with trails and ornamental gardens. The park provides a safe and peaceful atmosphere in a beautiful natural setting.

Rutgers Gardens

If you’re looking for a place to decompress and rejuvenate, don’t miss the Rutgers Gardens. The gardens boast over 180 acres of stunning scenery, featuring highly specialized plant collections, ornamental displays, outdoor art installations, and relaxing walking paths. The gardens are the perfect spot for a peaceful retreat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Highland Park

Highland Park has numerous hiking and biking routes that offer scenic views and opportunities to explore the town’s outdoor spaces. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Raritan River Greenway
  • Middlesex Greenway
  • Rutgers Ecological Preserve
  • Johnson’s Park Trail
  • Donaldson Park Trail

Each route varies in length and terrain, so you can pick one that matches your desired level of difficulty.

Best Things to Do in Highland Park: Activities and Tours

Highland Park’s Food Tour

If you’re a foodie, we recommend taking the Highland Park’s Food Tour, a guided tour that takes you through the town’s culinary delights. You’ll visit various restaurants and eateries, trying different cuisines while also learning about the town’s history and culture.

Cycling Tour

Another fantastic tour to take is the Cycling Tour, which takes you through scenic locations and natural attractions. The tour includes a rental bicycle, helmet, and a guide, allowing you to explore the town’s beautiful outdoors safely.

Week-Long Itinerary for Highland Park

Day 1: Explore the Raritan River Greenway and take a picnic at Donaldson Park Day 2: Visit the Edison Tower and then hike in the Rutgers Ecological Preserve Day 3: Take a Food Tour around town and visit Highland Park’s outdoor sculpture collection Day 4: Try out the Johnson’s Park Trail and then visit Rutgers Gardens in the afternoon Day 5: Take a Cycling Tour and finish off with dinner at one of Highlands Park’s upscale restaurants Day 6: Visit the Middlesex Greenway and then have a relaxing picnic at Johnson’s Park Day 7: Go boating in Donaldson Park in the morning, and then visit the town’s antique shops and boutiques in the afternoon.

Food and Drink Scene of Highland Park

Must-Try Dishes

Peruvian Chicken at Jacalito Grill

Jacalito Grill is a casual eatery in Highland Park with an outdoor seating area. The restaurant is known for its Peruvian-style rotisserie chicken, along with rice, beans, and salad.

Szechuan Noodle Bowl at Szechuan Spice

Szechuan Spice is a classic Chinese restaurant that serves up fiery Szechuan cuisine. One of their famous dishes is the Szechuan noodle bowl, a dish that’s perfect for chilly days.

New Orleans-Style Gumbo at Noodle Chu

Noodle Chu, located in the heart of town, serves up delicious Pan Asian and American cuisine. Their signature dish is New Orleans-style gumbo, a recipe passed down for generations that features house-made andouille sausage, smoked chicken, shrimp, and crawfish.

Local Beverages

JJ Bitting Brewing Company

Highland Park has its brewery, the JJ Bitting Brewing Company. The brewery, located on Main Street, makes a range of beers in-house, from pale ales and IPAs to stouts and lagers. The brewery also serves up tasty pub food, and live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Hidden Grounds Coffee

Hidden Grounds Coffee is a coffee lover’s dream destination, located in downtown Highland Park. The café serves up artisanal coffee and tea, from classic lattes to exotic iced teas.

Retro Tea

For something more unique, check out Retro Tea, a specialty tea shop located on Raritan Avenue. The shop serves up innovative bubble teas that use unique ingredients such as lavender honey and kumquat as well as more traditional favorites.

Where to Stay in Highland Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center

The Heldrich Hotel and Conference Center is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of downtown New Brunswick, offering all modern amenities. The hotel features a heated indoor pool, a fitness room, and a business center.

The Old Barracks Tavern Guesthouse

Old Barracks Tavern Guesthouse is a cost-effective option with an unbeatable location, right in the heart of Highland Park. The guesthouse also has a rooftop terrace that provides stunning views of the city.

What to Buy in Highland Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Highland Park Greenmarket

When in Highland Park, don’t forget to visit the Highland Park Greenmarket, which offers locally-grown produce, organic food, and handmade crafts and gifts. The market takes place on Fridays from June to October and is a great place to purchase souvenirs.

Zero Waste Highland Park

Zero Waste Highland Park is another local business that offers sustainable products, including eco-friendly cleaning and personal care items, kitchenware, and reusable steel straws. You can also shop at their online store, making it easy to purchase items to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Highland Park

Highland Park embraces diversity and celebrates various cultures. Residents and visitors should make an effort to learn about different customs and traditions, including the town’s Jewish, South Asian, Hispanic, and African-American communities.

Best Time to Visit Highland Park

The best time to visit Highland Park is during late spring or early fall when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Highland Park

Do:

  • Be respectful of different cultures and their customs.
  • Enjoy the local scenery and parks.
  • Try local restaurants and food.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural environment.
  • Disrespect community members or their beliefs.
  • Ignore safety precautions and guidelines.

Safety and Health

Safety in Highland Park

Highland Park is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take common-sense precautions, such as not leaving valuables in plain sight in cars, locking doors at night, and avoiding dark or secluded areas.

Health in Highland Park

Travelers should wear sunscreen and appropriate outdoor clothes when exploring Highland Park’s outdoor spaces and bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitos. Visitors should also take steps to prevent Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, by wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Highland Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Highland Park

The closest airport to Highland Park is Newark Liberty International Airport, which is approximately a 35-minute drive away. Taxi services and rental cars are available at the airport.

Bus Stations Near Highland Park

New Jersey Transit offers bus services to and from Highland Park to other areas in New Jersey, including New York City.

Other Options

If you’re driving, Highland Park is conveniently situated near several major highways, including Route 1, the New Jersey Turnpike, and the Garden State Parkway.

How to Get Around in Highland Park

Highland Park is a walkable town, and visitors can easily explore on foot, bike, or even kayak down the Raritan River. Car rentals are available for visitors who prefer to drive, and taxis and ride-sharing options are also available.

Where to Go Next from Highland Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Princeton

Located 10 miles west of Highland Park, Princeton is a popular destination known for its prestigious university and beautiful gardens.

New York City

New York City is the ultimate destination from Highland Park and can be reached in under an hour from the town. Visitors can see iconic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for natural attractions, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, Highland Park has something for everyone. With its beautiful parks, vibrant downtown area, and proximity to nearby destinations, it’s no wonder why this town is a year-round hot spot. Plan your next adventure to Highland Park today!

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