Middlesex County New Jersey Map

Located in the heart of New Jersey, Middlesex County is a popular destination for travelers looking for a mix of urban and rural experiences. With its diverse range of attractions, events, and activities, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant region. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or culture vulture, Middlesex County has plenty to offer.

Top Attractions in Middlesex County

When it comes to top attractions, Middlesex County has plenty to choose from. One of the most popular is the Rutgers Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden that covers over 180 acres. Visitors can explore a variety of themed gardens, including a bamboo forest, rhododendron garden, and a fragrance and sensory garden.

Another must-visit attraction is the Zimmerli Art Museum, located on the Rutgers University campus. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 60,000 objects, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings. Be sure to check out the museum’s rotating exhibitions, which showcase a diverse range of artists and styles.

Hidden Gems

While Middlesex County has plenty of well-known attractions, there are also some hidden gems that are worth seeking out. One such gem is the Cheese Cave, a specialty cheese shop in downtown New Brunswick. The shop offers a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, as well as gourmet foods, wine, and beer.

Another hidden gem is the Sayreville War Memorial High School Museum, which is run by the Sayreville Historical Society. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to the history of Sayreville, including antique fire trucks, vintage photographs, and a replica of a 1930s classroom.

Food Scene

Middlesex County is home to some of the best eats in the state. For classic Italian fare, head to Catherine Lombardi in New Brunswick. This upscale restaurant serves up delicious pasta dishes, seafood, and homemade desserts in a sophisticated atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for some comfort food, check out Destination Dogs in New Brunswick. This quirky eatery specializes in hot dogs from around the world, with options like the Tokyo dog (topped with wasabi mayo and seaweed) and the Jamaican dog (topped with jerk chicken and mango salsa).

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Middlesex County has plenty of affordable options. For a cheap day out, head to Roosevelt Park in Edison. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking trails, tennis courts, and a playground. Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day enjoying the great outdoors.

Another budget-friendly option is the Edison Farmers Market, which is open year-round on Saturdays. Here, you’ll find a wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods at affordable prices.

Outdoor Adventures

Whether you’re a hiker, biker, or kayaker, Middlesex County has plenty of outdoor adventures to offer. For a challenging hike, head to Cheesequake State Park in Matawan. The park boasts over 1,600 acres of woodlands, marshes, and streams, as well as several hiking trails of varying difficulty.

If you’re a fan of water sports, check out Raritan Bay Waterfront Park in South Amboy. Here, you can rent kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, or simply relax on the beach and take in the views of the Raritan Bay.

Historical Landmarks

Middlesex County is steeped in history, with a variety of landmarks and sites that showcase the region’s rich past. One such landmark is the Cornelius Low House Museum in Piscataway. The museum is housed in a restored 18th-century farmhouse and features exhibits and artifacts related to colonial life in New Jersey.

Another historical site worth visiting is the East Jersey Olde Towne Village in Piscataway. This living history museum consists of several restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings, including a tavern, a blacksmith shop, and a schoolhouse.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities in Middlesex County. For a day of fun and learning, head to the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City. The center features interactive exhibits on a variety of scientific topics, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theater.

Another great option for families is the Zimmerli Art Museum’s Family Days, which are held on select Saturdays throughout the year. These free events feature hands-on art activities, live music, and tours of the museum’s exhibitions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little different, Middlesex County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. One such experience is the Middlesex County Fair, which is held every August in East Brunswick. The fair features carnival rides, live music, and a variety of food vendors.

Another unique experience is the Edison Escape Room, located in Edison. This interactive game challenges players to solve puzzles and riddles in order to escape from a locked room.

Natural Wonders

For nature lovers, Middlesex County has plenty of natural wonders to explore. One such wonder is the Great Falls of Paterson, located in nearby Paterson. The waterfall is 77 feet tall and is surrounded by a beautiful park, making it a great spot for a picnic or a hike.

Another natural wonder worth visiting is the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park, which stretches over 70 miles through several New Jersey counties. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

Vibrant Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Middlesex County comes alive with a variety of nightlife options. For live music, head to the State Theatre in New Brunswick. The theater hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year, ranging from classical music to rock and roll.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, check out Harvest Moon Brewery and Cafe in New Brunswick. This popular spot serves up a variety of craft beers and delicious pub fare in a cozy atmosphere.

Local Markets

For a taste of local flavor, be sure to check out Middlesex County’s farmers markets. One of the most popular is the Highland Park Farmers Market, which is held on Fridays from June through November. Here, you’ll find a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods.

Another great option is the New Brunswick Community Farmers Market, which is held on Wednesdays from June through October. In addition to fresh produce, the market also features live music and a variety of food vendors.

Beaches and Mountains

While Middlesex County may not have its own beaches or mountains, there are plenty of nearby destinations that are worth a visit. For a day at the beach, head to Sandy Hook, which is located just across the Raritan Bay. Here, you’ll find a beautiful beach, as well as hiking trails, bike paths, and a lighthouse.

If you’re looking for some mountain scenery, head to the nearby Watchung Mountains. The mountains offer a variety of hiking trails, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Cultural Immersion

Middlesex County is a melting pot of cultures, with a variety of festivals, events, and attractions that celebrate the region’s diversity. One such event is the Edison Multicultural Festival, which is held every September in Edison. The festival features live music, dance performances, and food vendors from around the world.

Another great option for cultural immersion is the Hungarian American Athletic Club in Woodbridge. The club hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including traditional Hungarian dances, concerts, and festivals.

Art and Music Scene

For art and music lovers, Middlesex County has plenty to offer. In addition to the Zimmerli Art Museum, there are also several other galleries and performance spaces in the region. One such space is the George Street Playhouse in New Brunswick, which hosts a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

Another great option for art lovers is the Alfa Art Gallery in New Brunswick. The gallery features works by both local and international artists, as well as workshops and classes for aspiring artists.

Walking Tours

If you’re looking to explore Middlesex County on foot, there are several walking tours available. One popular option is the New Brunswick Historical Society’s walking tour, which explores the city’s rich history and architecture. The tour covers several historic buildings, including the Kirkpatrick Chapel and the Old Queens Building.

Another great option is the Highland Park Heritage Trail, which is a self-guided tour that highlights the town’s history and landmarks.

Architectural Marvels

Middlesex County is home to several architectural marvels, including the famous Thomas Edison Memorial Tower and Museum in Edison. The tower stands 131 feet tall and houses several exhibits related to Edison’s life and work.

Another architectural marvel worth visiting is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. The church is one of the largest