The town of Edison, a part of the greater New York City Metro Area, offers a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, just a short distance away. Once known as the Raritan Township, the town changed its name to honor Thomas Edison, the famous inventor whose laboratory was located in the town’s Menlo Park. Several other tributes to the inventor throughout Edison as well, such as the museum. There are a number of other things to do in town, however, that aren’t associated with Thomas Edison.
Roosevelt Park
Roosevelt Park lies just west of Edison’s Menlo Park and offers a fun place to spend an afternoon on a sunny day. There are several grassy fields for people to play, along with tennis courts and basketball courts. During the summer months visitors can have fun at the roller skating rink, which transforms during the winter season in an ice skating rink. In the middle of Roosevelt Park is a lake encircled by a walkway. Trails also cross the park providing opportunities for a run or leisurely stroll, and there are fire pits and picnic areas as well.
Roosevelt Park, 151 Parsonage Rd, Edison, NJ 08837, Phone: 732-745-3900
Thomas Edison Museum
The Thomas Edison Museum in Edison, New Jersey is a well-appointed museum where visitors can see original artifacts related to the famed inventor. Dedicated to Edison’s life and works, guests can take a walk through the over 30-acre state park, learn about the numerous wonders that happened at the historic Menlo Park, listen to the more than 100-year-old Edison phonographs, and much more. Guided tours led by friendly and knowledgeable docents are also available as well.
The gift shop at the Thomas Edison Museum offers a variety of items associated with Thomas Edison, such as unique Invention Projects, books, replicas, T-shirts, and much more.
37 Christie St, Edison, NJ 08820, Phone: 732-549-3299, Map
Light Dispelling Darkness
The Light Dispelling Darkness statue is an unexpected and quirky thing to see in the town of Edison. Located in Roosevelt Park, the federally-commissioned piece of eccentric artwork was designed back in 1937 by Waylande Gregory and is set in the middle of a fountain. The statue was constructed from terracotta and is meant to be a nod to inventor Thomas Edison.
The name “Thomas Edison Museum ” is also meant to be both an ode to the light bulb, considered to be Edison’s greatest invention and a representation of “good triumphing over evil.” Other motifs include industry, technology, and education.
Pine Drive, Edison, NJ 08837
Havana Central at Menlo Park Mall
Havana Central at Menlo Park Mall serves classic Cuban cuisine with “entertainment, excitement, and energy of old Havana.” The restaurant aims to be a celebration of the music, food, and culture of Cuba, providing a dining experience that embraces the entire family and transports them to the island.
There’s 1950’s decor, Latin music playing, and flavorful specialty drinks and Cuban dishes being served. Havana Central is open Sunday through Thursday from noon until 8:30pm, as well as Fridays and Saturdays from noon until 9:00pm. Happy Hour is offered from 4:00pm until 7:00pm, Monday through Friday.
Havana Central Menlo Park Mall, 55 Parsonage Rd, Edison, NJ 08837, Phone: 732-906-5708
Akbar Restaurant
The history of the Akbar Restaurant in Edison, New Jersey started with A.N. Malhotra who modeled the restaurant after Emperor King Akbar, the powerful Mogul emperor and a hospitable host. Throughout the years, the restaurant and owner have garnered a rather enviable reputation worldwide. Open seven days a week for dinner, guests can dine one indulgent and refined cooking inspired by North India’s Royal Kitchens, with a variety of desserts available that have been carefully curated to complement the menu. The menu features a broad array of Indian dishes, including both non-vegetarian and vegetarian appetizers and soups.
Akbar Restaurant, 21 Cortlandt St, Edison, NJ 08837, Phone: 732-632-8822
