Thomas Edison National Historical Park, New Jersey

Gain an appreciation for modern conveniences by visiting Thomas Edison's famous home and lab. This is where he envisioned and built some of his greatest inventions. The 19-building site includes Edison's work area, a complex with a metallurgical laboratory, chemistry laboratory, and main laboratory. Here Edison conducted tons of experiments with light and sound. The Black Maria, a building in the complex, is the world's first film studio. There are also artifacts and inventions available for viewing in Building 5.

The other half of the historical park, Edison's house, is Glenmont Estate at Llewellyn Park. It covers 13 acres of grassy lawns, sculpted gardens, and full-grown trees. It's a great place to wander around and enjoy nature in the middle of suburban West Orange, New Jersey. Wander through the 29-room Victorian mansion and view the original furnishings.

There are several routes to the park: take exit 145 from the Garden State Parkway, or opt for the New Jersey Turnpike. Either way, take Main Street to the Edisonia Terrace for the main entrance. Camp at Fort Wadsworth to the southeast or Hackettstown to the west, the latter of which offers a more rural experience.