Piscataway Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Piscataway, including places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Piscataway

Piscataway is a charming and vibrant town located in Middlesex County, New Jersey. Surrounded by scenic landscapes and natural wonders, this town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Piscataway is also rich in history and culture, with plenty of museums, landmarks, and cultural attractions to explore.

Whether you’re looking to hike through the beautiful outdoors, enjoy some delicious local cuisine, or immerse yourself in the local history and culture, Piscataway has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Piscataway

Piscataway has plenty of places to visit and explore, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Industrial History: Explore the rich history of the industrial revolution in this fascinating museum.
  • Old Barracks Museum: Discover what life was like for soldiers during the Revolutionary War in this historic museum.
  • The Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage: Step back in time and explore these historical landmarks, which played a critical role in the American Revolution.
  • Rutgers University Geology Museum: This museum offers an in-depth look at the rock formations and minerals that make up our earth.

Natural Attractions of Piscataway: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Johnson Park: This expansive park offers hiking trails, a lake, and plenty of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
  • Duke Farms: Enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors at Duke Farms, where you can hike, bike, and explore the beautiful landscapes.
  • Washington Rock State Park: Take in the stunning views of Piscataway and beyond from this beautiful state park.
  • Raritan River Greenway: This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the Raritan River and the surrounding landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Piscataway

Piscataway has many beautiful hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Some of the best routes include:

  • Johnson Park Trail: This four-mile trail takes hikers and bikers through the beautiful Johnson Park, with scenic views of the Raritan River.
  • Duke Farms Trail System: This extensive trail system covers over 18 miles of natural terrain, including forests, meadows, and wetlands.
  • Washington Rock State Park Trail: This moderate one-mile trail offers stunning views of Piscataway and the surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Piscataway: Activities and Tours

Piscataway has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Wine Tasting at Unionville Vineyards: Spend an afternoon enjoying some of the best wines in the area at Unionville Vineyards.
  • Cooking Class at Viking Cooking School: Learn how to cook like a pro at the Viking Cooking School, where you can attend hands-on cooking classes and workshops.
  • Kayaking on the Raritan River: Explore the beauty of the Raritan River on a guided kayak tour.
  • Indoor Skydiving at iFLY: Experience the thrill of skydiving without ever leaving the ground at iFLY.

Week-Long Itinerary for Piscataway

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Piscataway, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Explore the National Museum of Industrial History and enjoy a scenic walk in Johnson Park.
  • Day 2: Visit Duke Farms and go on a guided bike tour of the expansive trail system.
  • Day 3: Take a cooking class at the Viking Cooking School and enjoy some delicious local cuisine.
  • Day 4: Go kayaking on the Raritan River and relax at one of Piscataway’s beautiful parks.
  • Day 5: Visit the Old Barracks Museum and explore the historic landmarks around Piscataway.
  • Day 6: Take an indoor skydiving lesson at iFLY and enjoy dinner at one of Piscataway’s top restaurants.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby destinations like New Brunswick or Princeton.

Food and Drink Scene of Piscataway

Piscataway offers a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to explore. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Taylor Ham and Cheese: This iconic breakfast sandwich features pork roll, egg, and cheese served on a Kaiser roll.
  • Fat Sandwiches: These over-the-top sandwiches are a local favorite, featuring ingredients like chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and French fries.
  • Tomato Pie: This delicious dish is a twist on traditional pizza, featuring a thick, doughy crust and a generous helping of tomato sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer from Cricket Hill Brewery: This local brewery produces some of the best craft beer in the area, with a wide variety of options to choose from.
  • Wine from Unionville Vineyards: Enjoy some delicious local wine at this popular vineyard, which offers wine tastings and vineyard tours.

Where to Stay in Piscataway: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Piscataway has plenty of options when it comes to accommodation. Some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Piscataway Somerset: This spacious hotel offers comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool.
  • Motel 6 Piscataway: This budget-friendly option offers basic accommodations and easy access to some of Piscataway’s best attractions.
  • Steele Hill Farm: This charming guesthouse is located on a beautiful farm and offers cozy accommodations and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Piscataway: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Piscataway offers plenty of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, including:

  • Jersey Shore Souvenirs: Bring home a piece of the Jersey Shore with souvenirs like beach towels, T-shirts, and postcards.
  • Handmade Pottery from Skylands Pottery: This local pottery shop offers beautiful handcrafted pieces, perfect for adding a touch of New Jersey charm to your home.
  • Local Honey from Bees, Birds & Butterflies: This local honey is made from the bees that pollinate the beautiful flowers of New Jersey.

Local Culture and Customs of Piscataway

Piscataway is a diverse town with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, which include:

  • Celebrating Independence Day: Piscataway residents love to celebrate Independence Day with plenty of fireworks and festivities.
  • Eating Local Cuisine: Piscataway is known for its unique food scene, and visitors should make it a point to try some of the local favorites during their stay.
  • Enjoying the Great Outdoors: With plenty of parks, hiking trails, and nature reserves to explore, enjoying the outdoors is an important part of Piscataway’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Piscataway

The best time to visit Piscataway is during the spring or fall, when the temperatures are mild and the foliage is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Piscataway

When visiting Piscataway, it’s important to keep in mind the do’s and don’ts to ensure a pleasant and respectful trip.

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of Piscataway’s beautiful outdoor spaces.
  • Enjoy the unique food and drink scene.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash in public areas.
  • Disrespect the natural environment by damaging trees or plants.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals and other visitors.

Safety and Health

Visitors to Piscataway should take precautions to stay safe and healthy during their stay. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

Safety in Piscataway

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking or hiking alone.
  • Leave valuables in your hotel room or car.
  • Use caution when swimming or boating in natural bodies of water.

Health in Piscataway

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to avoid sunburn.
  • Watch out for ticks and take precautions to avoid Lyme disease.

Getting to Piscataway: Transportation Options and Logistics

Piscataway is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Piscataway

  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) - 23 miles from Piscataway.
  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA) - 46 miles from Piscataway.
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) - 55 miles from Piscataway.

Bus Stations Near Piscataway

  • Greyhound Station - 5 miles from Piscataway.
  • New Brunswick Station - 6 miles from Piscataway.

Other Options

  • Amtrak train service is available from New York City to nearby New Brunswick and Metropark stations.
  • Car rental services are available at Newark Liberty International Airport and other locations throughout the area.

How to Get Around in Piscataway

The best way to get around Piscataway is by car, as many of the attractions are spread out and not easily accessible by public transportation. However, visitors can also take advantage of local bus services, ride-sharing apps, and taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Piscataway: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Piscataway is located in the heart of New Jersey, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Some nearby destinations and excursions to consider include:

  • New York City: Just a short train or bus ride away, New York City offers endless attractions and activities for visitors.
  • Jersey Shore: Relax on the beautiful beaches and boardwalks of the Jersey Shore.
  • Princeton: Visit this historic university town and explore the beautiful campus and charming downtown.

Conclusion

Piscataway is a hidden gem in the heart of New Jersey, with plenty to offer visitors of all interests and backgrounds. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, indulge in delicious local cuisine, or dive into the town’s rich history and culture, Piscataway is sure to exceed your expectations.

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