Location: Middletown
Top Things to do in Middletown
What to do and see in Middletown, United States: The Best Places and Tips
Middletown Township is a township in Monmouth County, New Jersey, United States. As of the 2010 United States Census, the township had a total population of 66,522, making it the state's 16th largest municipality, having seen an increase of 195 residents (0.3%) from its population of 66,327 in the 2000 Census, when it was the state's 17th most populous municipality, which had in turn declined by 1,856 (−2.7%) from the 68,183 counted in the 1990 Census. Middletown is one of the oldest sites of European settlement in New Jersey.
Restaurants in Middletown
1. Gateway National Recreation Area
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 394 reviews
Site of the oldest lighthouse in America.
Reviewed By Catriona H
Lovely area, nice fishing beaches, historical defenses, great for walking, biking and all sorts of water sports. Just lolly gadding on the beach, exploring the area. This is a great place to be and enjoy with families. Gunnison beach is best. Only problem with it being a carry in carry out area is that there are slutty people who leave their trash behind, piled up in what are otherwise good restrooms and shower areas, of left on the beach. Enjoy all the same.
2. Keansburg Amusement Park
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 178 reviews
NJ's full-sized family water park with rides and attractions for all ages. Over 19 slides of varying heights and speeds and a huge kids' lagoon area w/interactive water play and mini slides. Relax in the many chairs w/optional sun umbrella and enjoy full menu at Toucon Grill. Keansburg Amusement Park is located across the street so combine both parks for a full day of fun.
Reviewed By JWhyJ - Columbus, Ohio
To sum up this review in a sentence, this place is a dump, operations are poor, operators are rude and there are better parks within a few hours. Although signage clearly states that most adult rides open at 11 with all rides open at noon, that was not the case. We were told their adult coaster would be ready at 12:30 but when we hadn't seen any employees even in the ride's vacinity we found a female wearing a blue Polo and appearing to be running operations for the day to ask. She rudely asked us, "Has that been all you've been waiting on? We will get to it soon." After a little more waiting near the ride, the employee came over with another operator and told us "We're going to open the ride for you now." My wife and I were both off put by that considering they were not opening it for us, people began flocking to the coaster once they saw operators there. Not only that but technically the ride was supposed to be already open over a half hour ago!
We had also bought enough tickets to ride their kiddie coaster but were told we exceeded the height limit without a child. Nowhere is a maximum height posted on any of their signage. When asked about that, I was directed to a post in the station with red electrical tape showing their max height. I've been to other parks with this rule and understand in most situations but here, not being communicated and indicating with a jank piece of tape was very fitting for the status of the park and it's less than helpful staff.
In the end we were frustrated we wasted some time here in the morning waiting for an outdated coaster to open late for no apparent reason. In retrospect, we would have been happier skipping it and spending more time at Casino Pier. Yes this park is cheaper but you get what you pay for in this case.
3. Twin Lights Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 157 reviews
Reviewed By gostartraveler - Forked River, New Jersey
Heading toward Sandy Hook the turnoff for Lighthouse Road isn't marked, so be careful. Lighthouse Road is also a narrow road, too. But well worth the effort getting here - even without binoculars could see the Verrazano Narrows Bridge. North Tower has a tight spiral staircase but well worth the climb and view. Lighthouse "passport stamp" available here but they no longer offer the sticker for NJ's Passport to Adventure. Clean bathrooms, but did not see changing table in men's room. Great exhibit hall as well - when I went, they were showcasing different US flags.
4. Count Basie Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 379 reviews
Reviewed By philmP451YB
Recently took advantage of an Academy award movie series they were offering. I was really impressed with how the theatre has been transformed. There didn't seem to be a bad seat in the house - décor was really well done, I look forward to going back.
5. Carton Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 64 reviews
Brewery Tours on Wed & Thur 5-8PM, Fri 4-8PM, Sat 12-8PM, & Sun 12-5pm. The entrance to the brewery is 6. E. Washington Ave. However, please park in the lot located at 120 First Ave, Atlantic Highlands, NJ.
Reviewed By Patty M - Boca Raton, Florida
My twenty three year old twins and I have been enjoying craft breweries this summer. Took a day trip here and we were not disappointed. (Only a 45 minute drive from Maplewood,NJ.)
A brief, three minute tour for first timers is required and was informative. Then, you can go upstairs to the tasting room. For $5, you get a sample of Boat and five poker chips to use on your choice of drafts. All 4oz pours. As it was Saturday, seating was limited and space is small. However, beer is delicious and bartenders were very knowledgeable and friendly. My favorites were: B.D.G.,Nitro Milk, and The Wit Whale. Loved the Wit Whale! Loved the variety of choices and honestly, thought each had character and unique flavor.
6. Delicious Orchards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 245 reviews
Reviewed By Ricardo S S - Newark, New Jersey
Set my oldest cheese record with their 8 year old Canadian cheddar. This place has all things eatable from produce to fully cooked or baked items. Reasonable priced local produce and excellent assortment of coffees, cheese, candy, syrups, honey, etc. They even have a smoothie bar, ice cream bar, desert bar and snack bar. I had a panini with ham, Brie, Granny Smith apple slice & apple butter- it was fantastic.
7. Holmdel Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 109 reviews
Reviewed By Robert S - Holmdel
Don’t come....it’s too nice and special and crowds will ruin it! The 1890s Longstreet Farm anchors one end with a great chance to see an authentic working farm from a century ago. Fit trails, picnic areas, meadows and playgrounds throughout. Beautiful settings everywhere. Really well maintained and always serene.
8. Deep Cut Gardens
Overall Ratings
5 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By TheExplorerFamily - Somerset, New Jersey
This is an incredible garden to visit during any season – except, probably winter. There are 55 acres of gardens, large green expanses of grass, huge trees and ponds to explore. Plus, there is a Greenhouse full of several varieties of Cactus plants in pots, and lovely Bonsai trees inside as well as outside.
The renovated and beautifully manicured Parterre/Rose Garden features more than 170 rose bushes with 55 different varieties – some with very cute names identified by labels. Most of the Roses were freshly cut, and done with their first blooms when we visited, but will obviously bloom again. We would like to be back to view those. The Gazebo/Pergola at the end of the garden is simply stunning, and provided an awesome backdrop for some people taking wedding and graduation pictures.
There is a long walking trail that circumvents the entire area. There is a natural pond with frogs at the very back, and a soothing Lily Pond with Koi near the entrance, just outside the Horticulture Center Building. We also saw a Library with lots of books and creative displays about gardening.
We truly enjoyed our two-hour visit to this hidden gem. It was a very relaxing, quiet and serene place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. There are lots and lots of benches all around to sit, chat, read and contemplate about the beauty of these natural surroundings.
Just a word of caution to those with mobility issues. There are many steep steps to go down to the Rose Garden. But there are cleared walking pathways and grassy areas to get there. Make sure you get a map from the Horticulture Center.
Old Gardens always have some historical stories attached to them. These grounds were once owned by Vito Genovese from Naples, who re-fashioned the gardens in an Italian design in 1935. He came to be known as the most powerful gangster in the history of America. The character of Don Corleone in “The Godfather” movie was apparently modeled after Genovese.
Worth a visit.
9. Thompson Park
Overall Ratings
5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By Wayne-Librarian
Impressive array of spaces, activities, resources in a beautiful setting. Something for every age and interest. Very well maintained. Great little zoo (if containing mostly local or domesticated species doesn't offend you on moral grounds). Deer ducks, chickens, goats, pot belly pigs, a huge Tom Turkey and pea cock and hen, etc. All open to the public and free, though I did see a sign on a pavilion that said 'by reservation.' A great park in a beautiful spot. Didn't see anywhere to swim.
10. McDonaghs Pub Keyport, NJ
Overall Ratings
4 based on 29 reviews
Located In The Heart Of Historic Downtown Keyport In The Turn Of The Century Brick Building Near The Bay, McDonagh's Pub Combines Old-World Charm With Modern, Hip Cuisine. We Offer An Amazing Menu Of Irish Fare, Bistro-Style Salads, Homemade Soups, Signature Sandwiches, Wraps, Sautes, Thin Crust Pizza, Fabulous Fish & Chips. In Addition We Offer Daily Specials And Over 80 Beers And Lagers From Around The World.
Reviewed By JeffS52 - Little Silver, New Jersey
3 couples for cocktails and dinner. Bar service and wait service couldn't have been better - and beat expectations for a Saturday night without reservations. Vast outdoor patio with fireplace and comfortable seating - though is was a little cold so we stayed inside. Great alternative to Red Bank and Long Branch.
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