What are the must-see historical sites in NJ, just outside of NYC? We've done most of NYC and nearby Conn., but want to see anything we might have missed in NJ, or other burbs of NYC without going into the city.

Thank you.

http://www.hsu.edu/faculty/worthf/states/newjerse.html

The Thomas Edison historical site and museum in West Orange - his original research and production labs are there and it's operated by the national parks Service - worth a visit.

I thought the Menlo Park complex was moved to Greenfield Village?

Keith

Menlo Park is a different edison complex. His early commercial development lab and production facilities were in West orange and are still there - very interesting site. I think the Menlo Park lab was more like the advanced R&D facility that he ultimately spent more time in later on.

Recommended reading: "Thomas Edison: Chemist". It's a biography that focuses on his work as a chemist. For those of us who think of him mostly in the context ofo electricity it's quite enlightening and impressive. Among other things, he developed the first alkaline batteries.

Washington's Crossing would be nice but it's a couple hours from NYC... not sure if that is close enough. But it's right near Lambertville and New Hope which would be a nice stop.

IN any case, here is a good resource:
http://www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandf...ric/index.html

If you go to The Edison National Historic Monument in West Orange, NJ make sure you get the pass to tour the Edison home in Llewellyn Park.He and his wife are entombed there under the glow of a gas street light.

Thank you very much for your replies!

The Thomas Edison facility would be perfect (we'll be in Morristown) but is closed for renovations until 2005. Also, there are many other interesting areas that closed Labor Day.

Any other ideas, anyone? Thank you!

Since you will be staying in Morristown, do you know about JOCKEY HOLLOW?
It's a national park on the edge of Morristown where George Washington spent one winter. Nice park with soldiers huts. THe park has great trails for hiking or biking.

If you are interested in taking a drive Washington Crossing is great. ALso, Sandy Hook is loaded with history if you drive all the way out to the tip to see the old Fort Hancock.

Hi Screen Name, love it Yes, we've visited Jockey Hollow and Washington's HQ and home there. VERY nice. Love the costumed ranger-guides! Reminded me of Williamsburg.

Approx. how long is the drive to Sandy Hook? Any other ideas? Anybody? Thanks, all!

to to the top please - anyone?

You could go to Allaire State Park... It's a small restored village (blacksmith shop, general store, caretaker's cottages, etc)... Exit 98 off the G.S. Parkway - between Allenwood and Farmingdale. It's a short ride to the beach at Manasquan, Sea Girt, or Spring Lake...

The drive from Morristown to Sandy Hook could be an hour, maybe an hour and a half depending on traffic.

There's Smithville, in southern NJ, near Atlantic City. Or Cape May, with its beautiful Victorian architecture and Physick House. You could visit Lucy the Elephant in Margate.

Topping ~ any new ideas anyone?
Thanks in advance!

How about Twin Lights historic lighthouses in Highlands? I haven't been there in many years, but I suspect it's still there. Two very old lighthouses and other buildings perched upon a steep hill overlooking Sandy Hook. Great views to Manhatten on a clear day, and some relaxing greenspace for a picnic.

Just over the Tappan Zee Bridge in Tarrytown there's Sunnyside, Washington Irving's home; and a bit further is Kykuit, a Rockefeller estate. Also Philipsburg Manor, a working farm.

There is a park in Weehawken right on the water with a gorgeous view of the city. The park is the historical site where Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton fought their famous duel. There are statues commemorating same. Also, Weehawken and Hoboken have beautiful old brownstones (especially Hoboken) that make the neighborhoods look alot like Soho.

Wow, this is wonderful. Thank you all very much for your ideas.

Also, can anyone suggest places to eat (mostly Lunches) in any of these areas that are *fun*, with a unique, interesting atmosphere?

Again, thank you very much for your help.