Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, Rutgers University stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the United States. With its rich history dating back to 1766, the university offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural vibrancy.
Visitors to Rutgers can explore a vast array of attractions, from its historic buildings to its state-of-the-art facilities. The university’s campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden each offer distinct experiences and landscapes.
Whether you’re a prospective student, a sports enthusiast, or a history buff, Rutgers University has something to offer. This travel guide will provide you with essential tips and insights to make the most of your visit.
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Key Facts about Rutgers University
- Address: Rutgers University–New Brunswick, 57 US Highway 1, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
- Date Established: Founded in 1766, making it the eighth oldest university in the United States
- Campus Size: The New Brunswick campus spans 2,723 acres
- Notable Alumni: Includes Nobel Prize-winning economist Milton Friedman, actor James Gandolfini, and author Junot DÃaz
- Mascot: The Scarlet Knight
- Additional Information: Rutgers is a land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant university and is the largest university in New Jersey with over 67,000 students and more than 400 graduate programs
Unique and Interesting Information about Rutgers University Campus
- Historic Roots: Rutgers University, founded in 1766, is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States, originally named Queen’s College.
- Diverse Campuses: Rutgers has three main campuses located in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden, each offering unique academic and cultural experiences.
- Big Ten Athletics: Rutgers is a member of the Big Ten Conference, providing students with opportunities to engage in high-level collegiate sports and a vibrant athletic culture.
- Research Powerhouse: Rutgers is classified as a Research I university, indicating the highest level of research activity, with numerous groundbreaking studies and innovations.
- Global Reach: The university has a strong international presence, with partnerships and programs in over 100 countries, fostering a global learning environment.
- Notable Alumni: Rutgers boasts a distinguished list of alumni, including Nobel Prize winners, astronauts, and influential leaders in various fields.
Points of Interest Near Rutgers University
- Kirkpatrick Chapel – 81 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
This historic chapel, built in 1873, is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and serves as a venue for concerts, weddings, and university events.
- Zimmerli Art Museum – 71 Hamilton St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Home to over 60,000 works of art, this museum offers a diverse collection ranging from ancient to contemporary art, making it a cultural hub for students and visitors alike.
- Rutgers Gardens – 112 Ryders Ln, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
A beautiful botanical garden that provides a serene escape with its diverse plant collections, walking trails, and seasonal events.
- Rutgers Geology Museum – 85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
This museum offers fascinating exhibits on geology, paleontology, and anthropology, including dinosaur fossils and a mastodon skeleton.
- Passion Puddle – Near Lipman Dr, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
A picturesque spot perfect for relaxing walks and picnics, surrounded by a scenic landscape that is especially beautiful in the spring and fall.
- Stress Factory Comedy Club – 90 Church St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
A popular venue that hosts nationally recognized comedians, offering a great night out with plenty of laughs and entertainment.
Popular Ways of Traveling to Rutgers University Campus
- By Air:
- Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – Approximately 30 miles from campus
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) – Approximately 50 miles from campus
- LaGuardia Airport (LGA) – Approximately 45 miles from campus
- By Train:
- Amtrak – New Brunswick Station is the closest station, offering connections from major cities
- NJ Transit – Provides regular service to New Brunswick Station
- By Car:
- From the North – Take the NJ Turnpike South to Exit 9, then follow signs to Rutgers University
- From the South – Take the NJ Turnpike North to Exit 9, then follow signs to Rutgers University
- From the West – Take I-78 East to the NJ Turnpike South to Exit 9
- Public Transportation:
- Bus – NJ Transit buses provide service to New Brunswick from various locations
- Shuttle – Rutgers University offers campus shuttles for easy intra-campus travel
- Other Ways:
- Biking – Rutgers University is bike-friendly with several bike lanes and racks
- Ridesharing – Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the area
What to See
- Zimmerli Art Museum – 71 Hamilton Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Why visit: This museum offers a rich collection of over 60,000 works of art, ranging from ancient to contemporary pieces. It’s a cultural hub for art enthusiasts and a great place to explore diverse artistic expressions. - Rutgers Gardens – 112 Ryders Lane, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Why visit: A beautiful botanical garden that provides a serene escape with its diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and walking trails. It’s perfect for nature lovers looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors. - Rutgers Geology Museum – 85 Somerset Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Why visit: This museum features fascinating exhibits on geology, paleontology, and anthropology, including a dinosaur fossil and a mastodon skeleton. It’s an educational and exciting destination for visitors of all ages. - Kirkpatrick Chapel – 81 Somerset Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Why visit: A historic chapel built in 1873, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It serves as a picturesque venue for events and a place of reflection. - Old Queens – 83 Somerset Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Why visit: The oldest building on campus, dating back to 1809, Old Queens is a symbol of Rutgers’ long history. It’s an iconic landmark and a must-see for those interested in the university’s heritage.
Where to Eat
- Steakhouse 85 – 85 Church St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
A top choice for steak lovers, Steakhouse 85 offers a classic American steakhouse experience with a modern twist. Perfect for a celebratory dinner or a night out. - Old Man Rafferty’s – 106 Albany St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Known for its diverse menu and comfortable atmosphere, Old Man Rafferty’s is a great spot for casual dining with a variety of American dishes to choose from. - Harvest Moon Brewery – 392 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
This local brewery offers a unique selection of craft beers brewed on-site, along with a menu of hearty pub fare. A must-visit for beer enthusiasts. - Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar – 103 Church St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
For seafood lovers, Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar provides a fresh and delicious selection of seafood dishes and a raw bar, making it a standout dining option. - Veganized – 9 Spring St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
Catering to plant-based diets, Veganized offers creative and flavorful vegan dishes that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans alike. A healthy and tasty choice.
Where to Stay Near Rutgers University Campus
- Hyatt Regency New Brunswick
Address: Two Albany Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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Why stay: Centrally located in downtown New Brunswick, this hotel offers easy access to Rutgers University and local attractions. It features modern amenities, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. - Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tower Center New Brunswick
Address: 4 Tower Center Blvd, East Brunswick, NJ 08816
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Why stay: Just a short drive from Rutgers, this hotel offers complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and a business center, making it ideal for both leisure and business travelers. - The Heldrich Hotel
Address: 10 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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Why stay: Located in the heart of New Brunswick’s cultural district, The Heldrich Hotel provides luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and fine dining, perfect for those looking to indulge. - Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center
Address: 178 Ryders Lane, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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Why stay: This on-campus option offers convenient access to university events and facilities, along with comfortable rooms and a quiet, academic atmosphere. - Hampton Inn North Brunswick
Address: 841 Georges Rd, North Brunswick Township, NJ 08902
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Why stay: This hotel provides a complimentary hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and an indoor pool. It’s an excellent choice for families and visitors looking for reliable comfort close to Rutgers.
Conclusion
Visiting Rutgers University offers a unique blend of academic excellence and vibrant campus life, making it a must-see destination for prospective students and their families. The rich history and diverse cultural experiences available in New Brunswick provide an enriching backdrop to your visit.
To make the most of your trip, be sure to explore the dining options and scenic spots highlighted in our guide. For a seamless travel experience, utilize the booking options available through Rutgers Procurement Services to secure your lodging and travel arrangements.
Additional Details About Visiting Rutgers University Campus
- Visitor Parking: Visitors can park at the Busch Visitor Center lot for free. From there, you can take the Purple route bus to College Avenue. For more details, you can visit the Rutgers Parking Portal.
- Visitor Information Center: The Rutgers University-Busch Campus Visitor Information Center is located at 100 Sutphen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854. For more information, you can contact them at 848-445-1000.
- HighPoint.com Stadium: This is the main stadium for Rutgers football games, located on the Busch Campus at 1 Scarlet Knight Way, Piscataway, NJ 08854.
- Parking Permits: Visitors can purchase parking permits online through the Rutgers Parking Portal. Specific parking zones and permit details are available on the Rutgers Parking Permits page.
- Special Event Parking: For special events, parking information and permits are managed by the Institutional Planning and Operations department. Details can be found on the Parking Services page.
Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.
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