From relaxing seaside retreats to beautiful country inns, New Jersey offers many romantic places to stay. Plan a summer weekend trip to relax and rejuvenate at one of these unique properties which offer comfortable accommodations, attentive service and easy access to fun attractions in the area.
1. Wooden Duck Inn
The Wooden Duck Inn is a sprawling bed and breakfast in rural Sussex County. The Estate House has seven beautifully furnished rooms, while the Carriage House contains three luxurious guest suites. Private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat screen TVs are found in each room. Guests can unwind in the common area of the Estate House, which is outfitted with a large romantic fireplace and plush couches.
The Den room has a big screen TV with plenty of games and movies for visitors to enjoy. For entertainment outside of the inn, guests can head into town; antique shops, areas for horseback riding, ski resorts, and golf courses are just a short drive away from the Wooden Duck Inn.
140 Goodale Road, Newtown, NJ 07860, 973-300-0395
2. The Gables
At the Gables, guests are treated to luxurious accommodations as well as delicious food. The Victorian-era home that houses the inn was recently restored to its former glory, and the rooms contain ornate furniture and beautiful artwork. Each of the rooms has a spacious marble bathroom, a large flat screen TV, and access to high-speed Wi-Fi.
Guests receive a hearty breakfast prepared in the restaurant at the Gables, an upscale venue with meals that consistently rank among the best-tasting dishes in New Jersey.
212 Centre Street, Beach Haven, NJ 08008, 609-492-3553
3. The Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast
Close to the beaches of the Atlantic shore as well as fine dining and boutique shopping, the Sand Castle is a well-appointed and ideally located bed and breakfast. The bay-front inn offers guests the choice of six uniquely designed and appointed rooms or two luxury suites.
Each accommodation includes access to a charming rooftop patio as well as a sun porch, an outdoor swimming pool, and a whirlpool. Also included are complimentary bicycles, beach gear, and a game room. Breakfast is served in the dining room and includes fresh fruits, baked goods, and hot, individually prepared entrees. Several specialty packages are offered for special occasions.
710 Bayview Ave, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006, 609-494-6555
4. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The Island Guest House
Housed in a restored turn-of-the-century building, the Island Guest House has space for individual travelers as well as large families. Its prime location offers guests convenient access to a water park, an amusement park, a golf course, nightlife, restaurants, and the beach.
The guest house has a relaxing common area with comfortable furniture and free Wi-Fi. Visitors can host special events in the garden courtyard, and fresh-cooked breakfasts are served daily at the onsite cafe. The Island Guest House is also available to rent for weddings and parties. More Places to Visit in New Jersey
207 Third Street, Beach Haven, NJ 08008, 609-709-5791
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5. Widow McCrea House
Widow McCrea House is an elegant Victorian bed and breakfast in Frenchtown's historic downtown district, originally constructed in 1878. The newly-renovated inn is home to spacious rooms and suites, which feature en suite bathrooms, cable televisions, free wireless internet access, and a complimentary welcome bottle of wine. For larger groups or extended romantic stays, a private onsite family cottage can be rented, featuring amenities like a cozy fireplace and whirlpool tub. All guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast served in the inn's Victorian dining room or relax on its beautiful communal outdoor patio. Nearby, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail provides opportunities for strolling and biking, while the city's downtown district offers fine art galleries, boutiques, and dining destinations.
53 Kingwood Ave, Frenchtown, NJ 08825, Phone: 908-996-4999
6. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Alpine Haus B&B
Located in Vernon, New Jersey, the Alpine Haus is a quaint bed and breakfast situated in two Victorian-style homes. One of the homes contains eight guest rooms, while the other home, known as the Carriage House, contains two suites. All of the rooms come with a private bathroom, high-speed Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
The suites have special extras including a whirlpool tub and space for a couple's massage. Guests have endless options for staying entertained during their stay. Skydiving, skiing, fruit-picking, horseback riding, and hiking are just a few of the activities in the area that visitors enjoy most.
217 State Route 94, Vernon, NJ 07462, 973-209-7080
7. ICONA Cape May
One of the newest boutique hotels to open in Cape May, ICONA provides guests with a modern yet comfortable stay. The hotel’s newly-renovated rooms and suites perfectly match their coastal location, decorated with bright white and blue furnishings alongside luxurious modern amenities. Guests may choose from three room categories ranging from a Premium King to an Oceanfront Suite. All rooms offer plush linens, Carrera marble bathrooms, and organic bath products. Located on the popular Beach Avenue, ICONA is located just steps away from the beach and is only minutes away from an endless selection of dining options. Be sure to check out their website as the hotel regularly shares several promotions for guests.
1101 Beach Avenue, Cape May, New Jersey 08204; Phone: 609-551-0100
8. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Carisbrooke Inn
Carisbrooke Inn is located just steps away from the beach and the world-famous boardwalk in Atlantic City. It is a popular accommodation choice among honeymooners, business travelers, and solo travelers alike. The inn has 17 large rooms that are split between two beachside cottages.
The rooms are decorated with elements of French and English architecture, and guests can choose between a king-size bed, a queen-size bed, or two twin beds. Amenities include a private bathroom, onsite parking, a homemade breakfast, and evening wine and refreshments. Guests can entertain themselves by relaxing on the beach or visiting the casinos in Atlantic City.
105 S. Little Rock Avenue, Ventnor City, NJ 08406, 609-822-6392
More ideas: 14 Best Things to Do in Atlantic City.
9. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Beauclaire's Bed & Breakfast
Beauclaire's is a Victorian-era B&B that is just moments away from Cape May's pristine beaches. Located in the city's historic center, Beauclaire's boasts spacious guestrooms with ocean views, built-in fireplaces, and large ensuite bathrooms.
Amenities at the B&B include free Wi-Fi, daily homemade breakfast, onsite parking, and a wraparound porch that faces the Atlantic Ocean. For entertainment, visitors should keep an eye out for Cape May's unique events. Sherlock Holmes Weekend, the Cape May Craft Beer and Crab Festival, and Victorian Weekend are just a few of the town's special celebrations.
23 Ocean Street, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-898-1222
More ideas: 25 Best Things to Do in Cape May, New Jersey.
10. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Molly Pitcher Inn
Located in the vibrant town of Red Bank, the stately Molly Pitcher Inn has a lot to offer its guests. Enjoy a comfortable stay in one of their spacious rooms—all decorated with lush contemporary furnishings. The inn offers eight different room categories ranging from their Standard Room, which features a queen-sized bed covered in 400 thread count Egyptian cotton linens, to their Master Suite, which comes with a king-sized bed, a spacious lounge area, and magnificent views of the Navesink River. Couples can enjoy a romantic dinner accompanied by panoramic riverfront views at The Dining Room, then top off the night with a cocktail at the International Bar. If visiting over a weekend, be sure to attend their award-winning seasonal Sunday brunches.
88 Riverside Avenue, Red Bank, New Jersey 07701; Phone: 732-747-2500
11. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Sea Scape Manor
Situated high on a bluff, the Sea Scape Manor provides unobstructed views of the vast Atlantic Ocean. The manor has four guest bedrooms, and each has its own unique features. A 15-foot wall of windows, handmade Amish furniture, a walk-in closet, and a spacious balcony are a sampling of the details in some of the Manor's guestrooms.
Although the location of the Sea Scape Manor lends itself to solitude, the bright lights of Broadway, the Yankees stadium, and the Statue of Liberty are just a 35-minute-long ferry ride away. For visitors who want to remain in town, it's easy to stay entertained with the area's restaurants, beaches, and hiking trails.
3 Grand Tour, Highlands, NJ 07732, 732-291-8467
12. Northwood Inn
For more than 25 years this Victorian-style inn has been one of Ocean City's most popular accommodation options. The inn has seven rooms as well as a common area, a billiards room, and a dining room.
Each guestroom has air conditioning, cable TV, and a private bathroom. The inn provides guests with free daily bike rentals so that guests are able to get around town. At the end of a full day of sightseeing, visitors can relax on the Northwood Inn's spacious rooftop deck. Northwood Inn is open for guests year-round.
401 Wesley Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226, 609-399-6071
13. The Spring Lake Inn
The first thing guests notice about the Spring Lake Inn is the front porch. This 16-room European style inn boasts a beautiful 80-foot front porch where guests can idle away the hours. The inn is located one block from the ocean and two blocks from the boardwalk, and its location is a prime draw of this comfortable, quiet, and convenient inn.
All rooms are spacious and include a private, luxurious bathroom. A hot, freshly-prepared breakfast is included in the rate and is served in the formal dining room. The innkeepers also provide afternoon tea. Extra touches include complimentary beach chairs, towels, and outdoor showers.
104 Salem Ave., Spring Lake, NJ 07762, 732-449-2010
14. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The RoseMary Inn
Located on 17 acres of rolling hills, the RoseMary Inn is a recently renovated bed & breakfast in Northern New Jersey. All of the inn's five bedrooms come with spacious private bathrooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a flat screen television. A fresh three-course breakfast is served every morning along with complimentary refreshments in the afternoon.
There are plenty of options for staying busy since the Appalachian Trail, the Lakota Wolf Preserve, and the Delaware River National Recreation Area are all nearby. Hiking, biking, canoeing, and bird-watching are the most common hobbies enjoyed by RoseMary Inn guests.
88 Hainesburg River Road, Columbia, NJ 07832, 908-496-8855
15. Carroll Villa Hotel
This 20-room villa has been catering to guests for 120 years. The Carroll Villa Hotel is located within walking distance of the gorgeous sandy beach and the quaint downtown of Cape May. It is the perfect place for families who enjoy walking and exploring. Room choices include king, queen, or full rooms as well as suites.
The hotel also houses the Mad Batter and the Blue Batter Bar, an award winning restaurant and bar that specialize in Atlantic coast seafood. Breakfast at the restaurant is included in the room rate, and a 30% discount is offered on dinner. Free parking and Wi-Fi are also available.
19 Jackson Street, Cape May, NJ 08204, 609-884-9619
16. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Chateau Inn & Suites
Book a stay at the historic Chateau Inn & Suites for a unique getaway in the quaint waterside town of Spring Lake. This elegant boutique hotel offers 36 guest rooms and one-bedroom suites, equipped with special amenities such as luxurious marble bathrooms, whirlpool tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, balconies, high-speed internet, and cable television. Their rooms are perfect for couples, but the different room categories can fit up to as many as five guests. Nestled in the heart of Spring Lake Beach along the Jersey Shore, guests are walking distance from the picturesque beach along with other town attractions such as the two-mile boardwalk, award-winning restaurants, and shops.
500 Warren Ave, Spring Lake, New Jersey 07762; Phone 877-974-2000
17. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Inn at Glencairn
The Inn at Glencairn is an enchanting historic structure situated in a bucolic environment. Built in the 1700’s, the inn is replete with charm and elegance, as well as a great deal of romantic history. Guests are able to choose from one of six large and luxurious rooms.
The Hearth Room is available as a common sitting room where guests are welcome make use of the library or the variety of board games. Breakfast is included, and the innkeepers also provide extra goodies such as seasoned pretzels, homemade cookies, and wine. Downtown Princeton shopping and restaurants are easily accessible from the inn.
3301 Lawrenceville Road, Princeton, NJ 08540, 609-497-1737 (website)
18. The Whistling Swan Inn Bed & Breakfast
This charming B & B is tucked away in the quiet hills of Sussex County in the quaint town of Stanhope. The large, old house has been meticulously maintained and is now beautifully furnished in a comfortable combination of vintage and contemporary styles. Guests may choose from five rooms and four suites, all with king or queen sized beds and private baths.
Amenities for the inn include a complimentary hot, buffet style breakfast, hot and cold beverages available at any time, homemade cookies in the afternoon, and bicycles available for exploring the surrounding grounds and village.
110 Main Street, Stanhope, NJ 07874, 973-347-6369
19. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The Summit DeBary Inn
Step back in time with a stay at this lovely property just thirty-five miles away from New York City. This beautiful bed and breakfast is a restored 1800’s Inn located strategically one block from Summit's downtown. The DeBary is within walking distance of independently owned shops and chef-owned restaurants.
Equally convenient is the train station, which allows patrons to take a short trip into or out of the city. All fifteen rooms come stocked with old world charm and modern amenities, including private baths and fireplaces. Complimentary breakfast, cookies, coffee, and wine are part of the exquisite service for which the DeBary is known.
265 Springfield Ave., Summit, NJ 07901, 908-277-0005 (website)
20. Romantic Getaways for Couples: The Tower Cottage
This bed and breakfast makes for a unique romantic getaway thanks to its historic charm, elegant European design, and intimate atmosphere. Voted as the best bed and breakfast by readers of NJ Monthly, The Tower Cottage not only provides luxurious accommodations but also offers multiple amenities paired with outstanding service to make your stay all the more enjoyable. In their rooms, guests will be pampered with soft bedding, luxurious European linens, and plush bamboo bath towels. Complimentary gourmet breakfasts are also provided every morning, while freshly-baked refreshments are served in the afternoons. Couples will love relaxing by the romantic fireplaces, sipping a glass of wine on the wrap-around porch, and taking a walk along the quiet beach located just two blocks away.
203 Forman Avenue, Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey 08742; Phone: 877-766-2693
21. Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Hewitt Wellington
The Hewitt Wellington boasts of romantic lakeside views of Spring Lake while only being three blocks away from the New Jersey shore. The three-story boutique hotel recently underwent major renovations to provide guests with modern amenities while managing to maintain its historic architectural design, finding the perfect balance of historic charm and modern luxuries. Their elegant rooms and suites are designed with modern and rustic elements, while the hotel’s common amenities include an outdoor heated pool, multiple balconies, and scenic wrap-around porches. The hotel also offers two beach batches for every room along with free internet in all areas. Be sure to stop by the hotel’s restaurant, Whispers, which is one of New Jersey’s highly-rated restaurants.
200 Monmouth Avenue, Spring Lake, New Jersey 07762; Phone: 732-974-1212
22. Romantic Getaways Near Me: The Scarborough Inn
Located two blocks from the famous Ocean City beach and boardwalk, the Scarborough Inn is a bright, lovely, and quiet place where you can take advantage of everything Ocean City has to offer. Since opening its doors in 1895, this inn has been family owned and operated. Currently it offers more than twenty rooms and suites for guests to choose from.
The included breakfast is served restaurant style and may feature entrees such as Basil Breakfast Strata or Cinnamon French Toast Bake. The innkeepers also provide an afternoon snack in the cozy Sojourn room where guests will find a variety of board games, music, and a library.
720 Ocean Avenue, Ocean City, NJ 08226, 609-399-1558
What are the 25 Best Romantic Getaways in New Jersey?
The 25 Best Romantic Getaways in New Jersey according to local experts are:
- Wooden Duck Inn
- The Gables
- The Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The Island Guest House
- Widow McCrea House
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Alpine Haus B&B
- ICONA Cape May
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Carisbrooke Inn
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Beauclaire's Bed & Breakfast
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Molly Pitcher Inn
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Sea Scape Manor
- Northwood Inn
- The Spring Lake Inn
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The RoseMary Inn
- Carroll Villa Hotel
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Chateau Inn & Suites
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Inn at Glencairn
- The Whistling Swan Inn Bed & Breakfast
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: The Summit DeBary Inn
- Romantic Getaways for Couples: The Tower Cottage
- Romantic Getaways in New Jersey: Hewitt Wellington
- Romantic Getaways Near Me: The Scarborough Inn
More Ideas in NJ: Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant in Cape May
The Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant is a charming seaside getaway that offers beautifully appointed accommodations and gourmet dining. Built in 1907 in the Georgian Revival style, the elegant mansion is set on Cape May’s Beach Avenue just a few steps from the beach and boasts breathtaking sea views from all the guest rooms and the sunny front porch.
Regarded as one of the finest examples of Georgian Revival architecture in the country, the Peter Shields Inn features nine comfortable oceanfront guest rooms with fireplaces, private bathrooms and a wealth of amenities to pamper and indulge. Complimentary gourmet breakfasts are served each morning and wine and cheese in the afternoons on the ocean front porch against a backdrop of sweeping views. Guest amenities range from the complimentary use of beach chairs, towels and umbrellas for a day in the sun, to bicycles and helmets for exploring the region.
The Peter Shields Innfeatures nine comfortable oceanfront guest rooms with fireplaces, private bathrooms and a wealth of amenities. Every room features comfortable king or queen size beds with luxurious linens and down pillows, and private bathrooms with walk-in showers, soaking bathtubs, thick towels andGilchrist & Soames bath products.
Spacious sitting areas have comfortable seating and modern amenities, including LED/LCD televisions, Bose radios, individual climate control with heating and cooling functions, and complimentary wireless Internet. Additional guest services include a nightly turndown service, fresh flowers in each room, complimentary breakfast, afternoon cheese and wine and a 24-hour hospitality room with free snacks and soft drinks. A concierge service and free parking are also available for guests.
The Peter Shields Inn Restaurant serves a creative menu of traditional and contemporary cuisine in one of five dining rooms or on the front porch against a backdrop of stunning sea views. Executive ChefCarl Messickprepares dishes from locally sourced ingredients in inventive and exciting ways and presents them with finesse and flair. The superb cuisine is accompanied by aselection of wines from the Cape May Winery &Vineyard, or guests are welcome to bring their own.
The Peter Shields Inn is the perfect venue for a romantic wedding with stunning viewsover Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, luxurious accommodations, award-winning dining and modern amenities. Couples can choose between holding their wedding in the iconic Georgian Revival mansion, thePeter Shields Inn Restaurant, or on the beach in front of the inn. The elegant restaurant offers several different private dining rooms for more intimate events,or the entire venue can be hired for larger parties of up to 100 guests. Each private dining room is stylishly decorated with gorgeous chandeliers, ornate ceiling moldings, and a cool, neutral color scheme.
Nine beautifully appointed guest rooms to allow the wedding party to soak up the beauty of Cape May’s stunning scenery, followed by award-winning cuisine atThe Peter Shields Inn Restaurant. Special wedding services include an onsite wedding coordinator, an executive chef and professional staff to take care of every detail. The Inn is also one of Cape May's premier private event venues and caters for a range of special events and functions, such as private dinners, birthday parties, anniversaries, and other celebrations.
In addition to luxurious accommodations and modern amenities, The Peter Shields Innand Restaurant offers guests the use of complimentary use of beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas for a day in the sun, to bicycles and helmets for exploring the region.
Cape May offers a wealth of attractions, activities and interesting things to see and do. Enjoy a day of shopping at the Washington Street Mall, take the hotel’s trolley or enjoy guided walking and historical tours of the small seaside town, or explore the local wildlife at the Cape May Bird Observatory. Cape May is surrounded by pristine beaches that are dotted with lighthouses and offer lovely long walks, rock pools to discover and beachcombing to enjoy. Other attractions in the Cape May area include the Cape May Marina, the South Jersey Marina, the Corinthian Yacht Club, the Canyon Club Resort Marina, the Miss Chris Marina, and Fishing Center and the Harbor View Marina.
Next read: Weekend Getaways in New Jersey, Things to Do in Cape May
1301 Beach Ave., Cape May, New Jersey, Phone: 609-884-9090
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More Ideas: Howell Living History Farm
The Howell Living History Farm, also known as the Joseph Phillips Farm, is an open-air museum and living history farm in Hopewell Township. Set on 130 acres of beautiful landscapes near Titusville in Mercer County, New Jersey, the Howell Farm stands as a museum in its rural setting that showcases farm life and how farming was practiced in New Jersey from 1890 to 1910. The Howell Farm features the remnants of over 250 years of agricultural practice and life in the region and offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Established in 1732 by Joseph Phillips, the Howell Living History Farm began as a 125-acre property which later grew to more than 250 acres with the help of his son, Henry Phillips. The farm catered for all types of farming from crop to dairy and changed family hands several times over the decades. The property was donated to Mercer County in 1974 as a public museum and educational facility and is listed on the National Historic Register of Places. Today, the Howell Living History Farm operated by the Mercer County Park Commission and is a member of the Association for Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM).
The Howell Living History Farm offers a range of educational programs for visitors of all ages, including public programs, class trips, farmhands, internships, and summer camps. Public programs for students and adults range from sheep-shearing, corn-planting, and hay-riding to tours of the Pleasant Valley House and hog slopping and weighing.
‘Farmhands’ introduces children between the ages of six and 12 years old to a variety of farm activities and operations, such as chores, crafts, games, and seasonal activities. Activities are led by seasoned farm staff and may include feeding and watering animals, collecting eggs, mixing animal feeds, bottle feeding lambs, planting potatoes, bottle, and digging the garden, among others.
Farm Camps offer unique experiences where campers can enjoy all the farm activities over a week, such as hands-on animal care, planting, cultivating and harvesting seasonal vegetables, helping with chores, gathering eggs, mixing feed and more. Campers also head out into nature search for animal tracks, collect natural treasures, and explore different habitats, as well as enjoy arts and crafts, stories, games and a hayride.
Back to: Things to Do in New Jersey
70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville, NJ 08530, Phone: 609-737-3299
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More Ideas in NJ: Thomas Edison National Historical Park
Thomas Edison’s New Jersey home, Glenmont Estate, and the adjacent laboratory complex comprise the Thomas Edison National Park in West Orange, New Jersey. The Laboratory Complex Visitor Center is the gateway to the park. Visitors begin here to pay their fees and watch a short movie on the history of Thomas Edison and his inventions.
Additional films include Edison’s black and white “Great Train Robbery,” a 1903 Western considered a filmmaking milestone. The Laboratory Complex itself, however, is perhaps Edison’s most important invention. At the laboratory, which is preserved today by the National Park, Edison received over 1,000 patents for inventions including the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph, black and white motion pictures and alkaline batteries. The complex consists of the visitor center, which is located in the physics laboratory, a chemistry laboratory and metallurgical laboratory, a machine shop, library, and Edison’s office. Additional buildings include Black Maria, used as a film studio, and vaults 8, 12 and 33. The complex also served as a factory where components of phonographs, projectors and cameras were made. Money earned through these businesses helped support future inventions. Over 400,000 artifacts make up the collection at the laboratory complex. Included among these are close to 50,000 sound recordings, over 10,000 rare books in Edison’s library, and 60,000 photographs, and upwards of 5 million documents.
The Glenmont Estate is a 29-room Queen Anne style home in Llewellyn Park, New Jersey. The 13.5 acre property consists of a greenhouse and potting shed, stables, and barn. A poured concrete garage on site is the result of Edison’s experiments in pouring concrete buildings. Edison moved into the home in 1886, shortly after marrying Mina Miller. The couple raised three children in the home. The home was built in 1880 by the architect Henry Hudson Holly, who also designed the laboratory complex. Hudson was instrumental in bringing the Queen Anne style of architecture to the United States and the Glenmont Estate is considered the crowning jewel of his career. The asymmetrical façade features a wrap-around porch and rooftop balcony on the steeply gabled roof. A glass conservatory is featured at one end of the home. Interior elements include painted ceilings, hand-stenciled walls, stained glass windows and elaborate chandeliers, woodwork and wainscoting. The home’s décor offers a rare look at the design of Pottier & Stymus, a New York firm, which lost all its historical records in a fire in the late 1800’s. The home is outfitted with modern Gothic style furniture and Victorian era decorative arts. Over 40,000 artifacts in the home include Tiffany and Company clocks, paintings by Hudson River School artists, Persian rugs and French porcelain. Edison family memorabilia, photographs and documents are on display, along with his inventions.
History: Thomas Edison (1847-1931) is known as ‘America’s greatest inventor.’ Among his most well-known inventions are the incandescent light bulb, the phonograph and the motion-picture camera. His most enduring legacy, however, is perhaps his invention of the research and development laboratory itself. Over 100 employees worked at the laboratory complex at the turn of the century, with Edison overseeing small teams on different projects. The Laboratory complex closed shortly after Edison’s death in 1931. Mina, who owned the Glenmont Estate outright to prevent it from being taken by Edison’s creditors, remarried and lived in the home until her death in 1947. In 1948, the site opened as a museum. In 1955, the home was established as a National Historic Site, while the laboratory was established as a National Historic Monument in 1956. By 1962, the Edison National Historic Site was established to encompass both sites, and became the Thomas Edison National Park in 2009.
Ongoing Programs and Education: Educational programming at the National Park includes guided ranger tours of both the home and laboratory complex. Cell phone audio tours are available for those who prefer a self-guided pace. The laboratory welcomes school groups, scout groups and others. Children can earn the Junior Ranger badge at either of the sites. The park is one of the stops on the Washington Rock and Roll Tour, a cycling tour sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Transportation.
Events include Holidays at Glenmont, when the estate is decked out in Victorian holiday décor. Harry’s Magical Invention Bag is a monthly program in which Harry Roman, who established the NJ Inventors Hall of Fame, discusses Edison’s role in history, and New Jersey’s ongoing role in the national invention scene.
211 Main Street, West Orange, NJ 07052, Phone: 973-736-0550
