Old Bridge Travel Guide

Learn everything you need to know about Old Bridge, NJ, from natural attractions to the best places to stay and eat. Plan your trip with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Old Bridge

Old Bridge is a charming township in Middlesex County, New Jersey, situated in the heart of Gateway. With a rich history and abundant natural beauty, this vibrant town offers endless possibilities for travelers looking for a unique and immersive experience.

List of Places to Visit in Old Bridge

There are plenty of exciting places to see in Old Bridge, and it can be tough to know where to start. Here are just a few of the best places to experience in Old Bridge:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Old Bridge is full of rich history that is still visible today. Here are some of the museums and historical sites that are must-see:

  • William E. Schenck House - Also known as “The Three Bears,” this historic home and museum is an exquisite example of architecture from the late 18th century.

  • Thomas Warne Historical Museum - Dedicated to preserving the town’s history, this museum is full of artifacts and documents that tell the stories of Old Bridge’s past.

Natural Attractions of Old Bridge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will adore Old Bridge for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures:

  • Cheesequake State Park - With over 1,200 acres of forests, swamps, and fields, Cheesequake State Park is perfect for hiking, bird-watching, and nature photography.

  • Raritan Bay Waterfront Park - With stunning views of Staten Island, this park offers a peaceful escape for those looking for leisurely strolls, bike rides, or fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Old Bridge

Hiking and biking are perfect ways to experience the great outdoors in Old Bridge. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Cheesequake Trail - This 3.5-mile trail takes hikers through the heart of the forest in Cheesequake State Park, with plenty of opportunities to spot New Jersey wildlife.

  • Raritan Bay Waterfront Trail - This 4.5-mile-long trail takes bikers, joggers, and walkers along the picturesque Raritan Bay waterfront, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Old Bridge: Activities and Tours

From water parks to tour guides, Old Bridge has a ton of activities to choose from:

  • Raritan Bay Waterfront Park Paddle Boat Rentals - Perfect for families and enthusiasts, this rental service allows visitors to experience the park’s lagoon at their own pace.

  • Thomas Warne Historical Museum Guided Tours - This 45-minute tour will take you through Old Bridge’s rich and exciting history as you encounter treasures from the past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Old Bridge

If you happen to have a whole week to spend, here is an itinerary that will keep you busy:

Day Itinerary
1 Visit William E. Schenck House and Three Bears Acres
2 Watch a movie at the Regal Cinemas Commerce Center 18
3 Visit Scott’s Florist & Greenhouses
4 Explore Raritan Bay Waterfront Park and try the paddle boat rental
5 Visit the TM Ward Coffee Co.
6 Travel through Cheesequake State Park and hike the trails
7 Enjoy a day at Cannonball Amusement Park

Food and Drink Scene of Old Bridge

No trip is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Old Bridge:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pizza Time - This little pizzeria is a town favorite and serves up some of the best pies in town.

  • Grana Cafe Italiano - This cozy cafe is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or festive gathering, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine.

Local Beverages

  • Spirito’s Italian Diner - Come for the food, stay for the drinks! Spirito’s is known for its plentiful and well-crafted cocktails.

  • Confectionately Yours Tea Room - For those who prefer tea, this cozy and quaint tea room is the perfect spot to relax with friends or family.

Where to Stay in Old Bridge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Old Bridge:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites - For those who value quality, comfort, and convenience, this hotel is perfect.

  • Residence Inn by Marriott - This homey hotel is perfect for longer stays, offering plush bedding and plenty of space for both work and relaxation.

What to Buy in Old Bridge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Old Bridge without picking up these souvenirs:

  • Fare’s Farm Market - Known for their delectable produce, Fare’s is also the go-to spot for homemade honey, jams, and other local goods.

  • Scott’s Florist & Greenhouse - Take home a beautiful arrangement from this charming local flower shop to remember your trip by.

Local Culture and Customs of Old Bridge

Old Bridge is home to diverse cultures, and it’s essential to respect them during your visit:

  • Bear Awareness - With a name like Three Bears Acres, it should come as no surprise that you might encounter some of these creatures while exploring. Just remember to keep your distance.

  • Respectful Dialogue - With so many cultural backgrounds represented in Old Bridge, it’s essential to communicate and listen with respect and openness.

Best Time to Visit Old Bridge

The best time to visit Old Bridge is during the late spring or early fall when the weather is mild.

Do’s and Don’ts of Old Bridge

Here are some things to remember while visiting Old Bridge:

Do:

  • Experience Nature - With so many parks and nature reserves, take advantage of the stunning natural beauty that Old Bridge has to offer.

  • Stroll Downtown - Downtown Old Bridge has plenty of shops and restaurants, so take a leisurely walk and see what catches your eye.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the Community - Old Bridge is a tight-knit community, so please respect their customs and traditions while you are visiting.

  • Litter - Keep Old Bridge clean and green by disposing of litter appropriately.

Safety and Health

Here are some important safety and health tips to keep in mind while visiting Old Bridge:

Safety in Old Bridge

  • Be Mindful - As with any place you visit, be aware of your surroundings and stay safe and alert at all times.

  • Protect Against Ticks - With plenty of forested areas, Old Bridge is home to ticks that may carry Lyme disease. Be sure to use bug spray and check yourself when returning.

Health in Old Bridge

  • Stay Hydrated - During the hotter months, it’s essential to stay hydrated.

  • Wear Sunscreen- No matter the season, be sure to put on sunscreen while you’re out and about.

Getting to Old Bridge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options for getting to Old Bridge:

Airports Near Old Bridge

  • Newark Liberty International Airport - 24 miles away

  • John F. Kennedy International Airport - 49 miles away

Bus Stations Near Old Bridge

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - Located in Newark, 21.8 miles away

Other Options

  • Taxi Services - Uber and Lyft

  • Driving - Old Bridge is easily accessible via the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway.

How to Get Around in Old Bridge

A car is the best way to get around Old Bridge. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Old Bridge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that are worth a visit:

  • Princeton - Located just an hour away, this charming city is full of incredible restaurants, quaint shops, and intricately designed architecture.

  • New York City - Just a short drive or train ride away, the Big Apple is the perfect destination for those looking for a big-city adventure.

Conclusion

Old Bridge is a hidden gem and the perfect spot for travelers looking to experience natural beauty, tour museums and historical sites, and indulge in fantastic local cuisine. We hope that this travel guide has provided you with all of the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Old Bridge!