The Best Places to See When Driving From Belleville, New Jersey to West Orange, New Jersey

One of the joys of living in the Garden State is the ability to take a scenic drive to see beautiful sights. A popular route for residents of Belleville is the trip to West Orange, which is filled with plenty of great places to visit. In this blog post, we’ll show you the top places to see when driving from Belleville to West Orange.

Whether you’re a local looking to mix up your daily routine or simply passing through, these destinations promise to inspire you. So, slow down, hit the road, and brace yourself for a fun-filled ride!

1. Branch Brook Park

Starting our journey from Belleville, our first stop is the largest park in Newark, the Branch Brook Park. Designed by the famous Frederick Law Olmsted, who also designed Central Park in New York City, Branch Brook Park boasts of over 3600 cherry blossom trees. It is home to the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the nation, making it one of the best places to be during the spring season.

Apart from the cherry blossom festival, the park also offers great hiking and running trails, scenic lakes, and endless greenery. As you drive through the park, take your time to admire the beauty of nature that surrounds you.

2. Thomas Edison National Historical Park

Our second stop on this journey is the Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange. This National Park offers a glimpse into the life of the great inventor Thomas Edison. The park includes Edison's laboratory and his home as well, providing visitors with an excellent opportunity to learn about his life and work.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the laboratory where Edison conducted his experiments and where many of his inventions were developed. One can also stroll around the grounds and explore the various exhibits to get a sense of Edison's contributions to modern-day technology and innovation.

3. Eagle Rock Reservation

Our third stop is the Eagle Rock Reservation, situated on the border of West Orange and Montclair. This County Park offers one of the best views of the New York City skyline and is a popular destination among the locals.

The park has plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas to enjoy, but the best part of the park is the Eagle Rock itself. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city that you won’t forget anytime soon.

4. Turtle Back Zoo

Our fourth stop is the Turtle Back Zoo, located in West Orange. This is a great destination for families with kids or couples looking for a fun date idea.

The zoo has over 200 species of animals, including giraffes, bears, and sea turtles, and the facility is well maintained. Visitors can also enjoy a mini-golf course and a train ride. The zoo is open seven days a week, making it a great destination any day of the week.

5. South Mountain Reservation

Our final stop is the South Mountain Reservation. This park is spread across 2000 acres and offers an array of activities and recreational opportunities. Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, mountain biking, or birdwatching, South Mountain Reservation has something for everyone.

One of the highlights of South Mountain Reservation is the Hemlock Falls, a 25-foot waterfall that makes for an excellent photo opportunity. The waterfall is just a short hike from the parking lot, making it a perfect end to our scenic journey.

In Conclusion

Driving from Belleville, New Jersey, to West Orange, New Jersey, provides a great opportunity to explore some of the best destinations in the state. From the beauty of nature at the Branch Brook Park and South Mountain Reservation to the historical significance of Thomas Edison National Park, each stop offers something unique and exciting.

So next time you're looking for a weekend adventure or a fun day trip, consider packing up your car and heading out to explore all that West Orange has to offer. You won't be disappointed!