It’s easy to get to Central New Jersey by car, bus, or plane. But there’s no substitute for the beauty of train travel, whether you’re visiting from another part of NJ or further afield. At Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau, we have the most up-to-date information on area transportation, attractions, and more. Learn more about Central Jersey train travel.
Getting to and From Middlesex County, NJ
Here in Central NJ, we’re lucky to have several options for mass transit. There are two Amtrak stations in Middlesex County:
- Metropark (MET): Used by many business commuters, this station is next to the Garden State Parkway and is close to many office parks.
- New Brunswick (NBK): Located at the intersection of French and Albany Streets in downtown New Brunswick, NJ, this station has a staffed ticket sales office, waiting room, elevator, and accessible restrooms.
For those who want to park and ride, same-day and overnight parking are available at both stations. The two stations are also served by NJ TRANSIT, which has many stops in Middlesex County and the surrounding area. Be sure to check timetables before you go, as some routes have varying schedules on weekdays and weekends.
Dining, Lodging, and Area Attractions in Middlesex County, NJ
When you exit the New Brunswick station, you’ll be in the heart of the city – close to noteworthy restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. You’re also steps away from Rutgers University’s flagship campus. By taking the train, you’re just a short walk or cab ride for a wide number of attractions, such as:
Museums
Middlesex County in NJ has plenty of great cultural institutions, including Rutgers Geology Museum, Museum of the American – Hungarian Foundation, and The Children’s Museum of Somerset County. And don’t miss Rutgers Gardens, the university’s 180-acre botanical garden, which you can visit free of charge.
Lodging
Staying overnight in Middlesex County, or planning a conference or event? The Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center and Hyatt Regency New Brunswick are both within walking distance of New Brunswick Station. With dozens of area hotels, the Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau can recommend lodging that fits your budget.
Shopping and Dining
From local boutiques to outlets and multiple shopping malls, Central NJ has it all. And after a shopping trip, you’ll want a bite to eat – and Middlesex County has endless choices. You’ll find a wide range of cuisines, from Indian and Thai to French and Italian. With everything from fast-casual to fine dining, you can find the right restaurant for any occasion.
What Are the Benefits of Train Travel?
While you can certainly drive to many Middlesex County, NJ, attractions, taking the train is fun and efficient. The advantages of train travel include:
Relaxation
Instead of navigating busy roads and highways, taking the train is an opportunity to sit back and relax. You can enjoy the scenery, read a book, or listen to music while you and your family are transported to your destination.
Convenience
From Middlesex County, you can easily travel by train to larger cities like Philadelphia and New York City. That means you can enjoy all that these cultural centers have to offer, without worrying about heavy city traffic or expensive parking rates.
Safety
Trains are one of the safest forms of travel, according to data collected by National Safety Council.
Middlesex County’s Amtrak stations, Metropark and New Brunswick, are both close to major highways, making them well-suited for travelers who want to park and ride.
Learn More about Middlesex County Transportation
Whether you’re hosting an event in Middlesex County, NJ, or just visiting for a weekend of fun, turn to Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau. We’re a one-stop shop for all the information you need on lodging, dining, and transportation in New Brunswick and the surrounding area. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have about local and regional train travel. To find out more, contact us today.