10 Fun Things To Do Near Perth Amboy, New Jersey (Middlesex County)
If you’re looking for a laid‑back waterfront escape with easy access to big‑city fun,
Perth Amboy, New Jersey is a great place to start. This historic port city in
Middlesex County sits right on the Raritan Bay, with views of Staten Island and quick connections to New York City.
Whether you’re local or just planning a weekend visit, here are
10 things to do in and around Perth Amboy that mix history, food, nature, and family‑friendly fun.
1. Stroll the Perth Amboy Waterfront & Marina
Perth Amboy’s
waterfront is the heart of the city and one of the best free things to do in the area.
You can:
- Walk or jog along the Harborside waterfront walkway
- Sit on a bench and watch boats glide across the bay
- Snap photos of the Outerbridge Crossing and Staten Island views
- Let kids run around the small parks and open spaces
On a summer evening, the breeze off the bay feels amazing. I once grabbed a coffee from a nearby café and just sat by the water for nearly an hour, watching the sky turn pink over the bay—simple, but honestly the highlight of the day.
If you enjoy easy walks and peaceful views, put the Perth Amboy waterfront at the top of your list.
2. Visit the Historic Proprietary House
Did you know Perth Amboy is home to the
last remaining royal governor’s mansion still standing in the United States?
The
Proprietary House was the official residence of William Franklin, son of Benjamin Franklin and the last Royal Governor of New Jersey. Today, it’s a museum and historic site.
What you can do there:
- Take a guided tour (usually on select days)
- Learn about New Jersey’s colonial and Revolutionary War history
- Walk through restored period rooms
- Check out special events and seasonal programs
If you’re a history fan, or you have kids learning about the American Revolution, this is one of the most interesting
things to do in Perth Amboy.
3. Explore the Perth Amboy Ferry Slip Museum
Tucked right along the water, the
Perth Amboy Ferry Slip Museum tells the story of the city’s days as a busy transportation hub.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, this area was a major ferry stop connecting New Jersey and New York. The museum is small, but it’s full of old photos, artifacts, and local stories.
Why it’s worth a stop:
- It’s an easy add‑on to a waterfront walk
- You get a sense of how important Perth Amboy once was for travel and trade
- There are sometimes live music or cultural events at the slip in warmer months
If you like quiet, “hidden gem” style museums rather than big crowded ones, this spot near the water is perfect.
4. Enjoy the Parks: Sadowski Parkway & Bayview Park
Perth Amboy may be compact, but it has several pleasant parks right by the water.
Sadowski Parkway Waterfront Park runs along the bay and offers:
- Open grassy areas for picnics
- Playgrounds for kids
- Bike and walking paths
- Great sunrise and sunset views
Nearby,
Bayview Park is a smaller green space but has nice shade, benches, and water views. It’s an easy place to sit with a book, enjoy takeout from a local restaurant, or just relax between activities.
If you’re traveling with family, these parks are a nice break without spending extra money.
5. Sample the Food Scene Along Smith Street
Hungry? Head toward
Smith Street, one of Perth Amboy’s main commercial stretches. The city is known for its mix of cultures, and you can taste that in the local food.
Depending on where you stop, you might find:
- Authentic Latin American food—especially Puerto Rican and Dominican dishes
- Fresh seafood, thanks to the city’s waterfront roots
- Bakeries with fresh bread and pastries
- Casual diners and pizza spots for a quick bite
If you like to explore food as much as attractions, walking Smith Street and trying a new spot is one of the best
things to do in Perth Amboy, NJ. It’s also a good way to support small local businesses.
6. Discover Raritan Bay Waterfront Park (South Amboy)
Just across the Raritan River in nearby
South Amboy, you’ll find
Raritan Bay Waterfront Park, only a short drive from Perth Amboy.
This park is bigger and feels a bit more open, with:
- Long walking paths along the bay
- Ball fields and open lawns
- Fishing spots
- Clear views of the New York City skyline on a clear day
If you’re the type who likes to rack up steps on your fitness tracker or you enjoy fishing with friends, this is a great nearby option. Bring a light jacket—the wind off the water can be strong, even in spring and fall.
7. Shop and Dine at Menlo Park Mall (Edison)
If the weather turns bad, or you just want some shopping and indoor fun, head about 15–20 minutes northwest to
Menlo Park Mall in Edison.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Major national stores for clothes, shoes, and tech
- A variety of sit‑down restaurants and quick‑serve spots
- Seasonal events and kids’ activities
You can combine a morning in Perth Amboy with an afternoon at the mall. It’s an easy way to round out your day—walk the waterfront early, then shop and grab dinner at Menlo Park Mall later on.
8. Visit the Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park
While you’re in Edison, make time for something a bit more educational: the
Thomas Edison Center at Menlo Park.
This small museum and memorial marks the site where Thomas Edison had his famous research lab. Many important inventions, including improvements to the light bulb, came from this area.
At the center, you can:
- See exhibits about Edison’s life and work
- Check out historic artifacts and displays
- Walk the grounds and view the Edison Memorial Tower
If you like science, inventions, or American history, this makes a great half‑day trip from Perth Amboy and is one of the more unique
things to do in Middlesex County.
9. Spend a Day at Roosevelt Park & the Ice Skating Rink (Woodbridge/Edison)
Not far from Perth Amboy, between
Woodbridge and
Edison, you’ll find
Roosevelt Park, a large county park with tons of space and activities.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Walk or bike the park’s paths
- Relax by the lake
- Play tennis or other sports
- Visit the Roosevelt Park Family Ice Skating Rink in the colder months
Families, couples, and solo travelers can all enjoy a few hours here. It’s also a nice way to balance indoor attractions like malls with some fresh air and greenery.
10. Take a Quick Trip to Staten Island or the Jersey Shore
One bonus of staying in or near Perth Amboy is how centrally located it is.
Depending on your schedule, you can:
- Drive over the Outerbridge Crossing to Staten Island for parks, beaches, and shopping
- Head south on the Garden State Parkway toward Jersey Shore towns like Sandy Hook or Long Branch
- Catch a train toward New York City if you want a big‑city day trip
This makes Perth Amboy a smart, budget‑friendly base. You get quieter evenings by the water but easy access to bigger destinations.
Tips for Visiting Perth Amboy, New Jersey
To make your trip smoother, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Getting around: A car makes it easier to reach other parts of Middlesex County, though there are bus and train options.
- Best seasons: Late spring through early fall are ideal for the waterfront and parks.
- Costs: Many of the best things to do in Perth Amboy are free or low‑cost—great for families and budget travelers.
- Food: Don’t be afraid to step into smaller, family‑run places. Some of the best meals are in unassuming spots.
Final Thoughts: Why Perth Amboy Is Worth a Stop
Perth Amboy isn’t a flashy tourist hotspot, and that’s exactly what makes it enjoyable. You get:
- Relaxing waterfront views
- Real New Jersey history
- Local food with lots of personality
- Easy day trips around Middlesex County and beyond
If you’re driving through central New Jersey or looking for a quieter base between New York City and the Jersey Shore, consider spending a day (or a weekend) exploring these
10 things to do near Perth Amboy, NJ.
Share Your Perth Amboy Experience
Have you been to Perth Amboy or anywhere else in Middlesex County?
- What was your favorite waterfront spot?
- Did you find a great local restaurant on Smith Street?
- Which nearby park or attraction would you recommend?
Drop your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear your experience and suggestions. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who’s planning a New Jersey getaway!
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