Thomas Edison National Historical Park: A Visitor’s Guide

The Thomas Edison National Historical Park, located in West Orange, New Jersey, is not too far from New York City. The park preserves the home and laboratory of one of America’s greatest inventors and is a wonderful stop for history buffs, science enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a fascinating glimpse into the world of innovation that shaped modern life.

We visited on a beautiful early spring afternoon. The parking lot across the street from the Laboratory section was about halfway full.

Discovering Edison’s Laboratory

At the heart of the historic site is Edison’s West Orange Laboratory Complex. The laboratory is incredibly well-preserved, filled with original equipment, tools, and buildings that provide insight into the inventive process of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

As we passed through the lab we saw many different revolutionary inventions. We saw an extensive display of early versions of lightbulbs, which of course Edison is most famous for.

Some other highlights include The Chemistry Lab. There were signs explaining how Edison experimented with different materials and substances in the lab for his inventions.

The Machine Shop is still filled with vintage tools and machines used to build prototypes.

The Recording Studio was a space where some of the earliest sound recordings were made. We saw the first phonograph that was developed in 1877. Using the machine, it was the first time anyone ever recorded sound and played it back. Edison used it to record “Mary Had a Little Lamb.” It recorded sound waves as indentations on a sheet of tinfoil.

The Library contains Edison’s personal collection of reference books. Also in the library we saw Edison’s roll top desk, which is exactly as it was when Edison died, with personal items like papers, pens, and even his cigars still resting on it.

There is a great audio tour available as you make your way through the lab. It goes into details about the different areas of the lab and gives great perspective on Edison and his life.

Touring Glenmont: Edison’s Home

After we were done checking out Edison’s laboratory, we decided to head over to Glenmont, Edison’s incredible 29-room Victorian mansion. The estate is located in the nearby Llewellyn Park neighborhood, which is a short drive from the lab.

This grand home, which he shared with his wife Mina Miller Edison and their children, offers an intimate look at his personal life.

Tours of the home are offered frequently, reservations are recommended. Heads up, photography and videography are not permitted inside the home. You can take pictures outside. If you tour the inside you see Edison’s bedroom, where he passed away on October 18, 1931. The estate is furnished with period pieces and original belongings. Along the way you see and learn about exhibits showcasing Edison’s family life.

On our visit, we did not tour the house. It was not offered that day. We did enjoy visiting the grounds. We saw Mina Edison’s gardens. The beautifully maintained gardens where she spent much of her time.

Thomas and Mina Edison Graves

We also took a few moments to visit their graves. Both Thomas Edison and his wife Mina are buried on the property.

Why Visit the Edison National Historic Site?

Visiting Thomas Edison National Historical Park is an opportunity to step back in time and witness the environment where one of history’s greatest inventors turned his ideas into reality.

Tips for Visiting

Plan ahead – Check the official National Park Service website for hours and tour availability.

Take a guided tour – Park rangers offer in-depth tours of both the laboratory and Glenmont.

Allow at least 2-3 hours – There is plenty to see, so give yourself enough time to explore.

Visit the gift shop – Take home unique Edison-related souvenirs. We bought a magnet and and Edison biography.

A trip to the Edison National Historic Site in New Jersey is both educational and inspiring. It serves as a tribute to the genius of Thomas Edison, showcasing how his relentless curiosity and determination shaped the modern world. I know my wife and certainly enjoyed it. The historic site is a fascinating destination that celebrates the spirit of invention.