Are you searching for the best and most fun things to do in New Brunswick, NJ?
New Brunswick is a city in New Jersey. The town is home to Rutgers University, the state university of New Jersey, which currently ranks as one of the oldest institutions in the country and the largest in the state.
New Brunswick is a vibrant town with lots of activities and attractions. The city burst with culture, history, and adventures, leaving visitors glued to the spot.
New Brunswick, famously called Hub City due to its numerous events and attractions, currently serves as the county seat of Middlesex County.
The city has a rich history that dates back to Pre-Revolutionary times, with numerous preserved buildings from the mid-1700s.
New Brunswick features many campuses, making it a bustling college town with many youths.
Interested in all New Brunswick has to offer? Here’s a list of the best and most fun things to do in New Brunswick, NJ.
Things to Do in New Brunswick, NJ
1. Explore Different Collections of Human Creativity at Zimmerli Art Museum
Credit: ZimmerliArtMuseumRutgersUniversity / Facebook
New Brunswick, NJ is home to the famous Rutgers University; the university features many facilities scattered across the city; Zimmerli Art Museum is one of these prestigious facilities.
Although the name Zimmerli Art Museum is popular among the locals and students in New Brunswick, its full name is Jane Voorhees Zimmerli Art Museum.
Zimmerli Art Museum is an expansive facility with a vast collection of works scattered across its halls and rooms, adding up to 70,000 square feet of space.
It also contains intriguing sculptures, ancient paintings, lovely photographs, and illustrations for children’s books.
If you need something more interactive, you can register to join the workshop programs for adults and kids.
Location: 71 Hamilton St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
2. Meal Treat at Catherine Lombardi
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Do you always get bothered thinking and tired when considering the stress of preparing meals?
With Catherine Lombardi, you don’t have to go through the stress of cracking your head on what to eat as they serve various mouthwatering dishes at an affordable price in New Brunswick.
Catherine Lombardi is a fantastic Italian eatery that serves delicious dishes in a comfortable and cozy environment.
The eatery features two fireplaces alongside a bustling bar to relax and take chilled wine and beer.
Since the early 1980s, Catherine Lombardi’s extended family converged every Sunday and during holidays after moving to Book with her family from Naples.
Catherine Lombardi aims to create a friendly and comfortable environment for locals and tourists worldwide.
Catherine Lombardi has covered you if you desire a classy cocktail, an appetizer, or a chilled drink at the bar.
Location: 3 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
3. Have a Glimpse of Nature at Rutgers Gardens
Credit: RutgersGardens / Facebook
Are you a lover of nature?
Would you love a place where you can sit and enjoy natural views in a serene environment? If so, look no further than Rutgers Gardens.
Rutgers Gardens is a blend of fun and nature. Rutgers Gardens is part of the facility of Rutgers University.
Rutgers Gardens is the official botanical garden of Rutgers University and spans 180 acres next to the Raritan River.
The garden features various plant species cared for by biologists, ecologists, and horticulturists under the university’s employ.
Notable sights in the area include flower beds bursting with color, Bamboo groves, and showy bushes near the streams.
Rutgers Gardens also hosts several educational and engaging events where guests can interact with plants.
Location: 112 Ryders Lane, North Brunswick, NJ, United States
4. Relax at Frog and the Peach Garden Space
Credit: FrogandThePeach / Facebook
If you’re looking for a place to relax and be alone with your thoughts, you’ll appreciate a visit to Frog and the Peach.
Founded in 1983 by Jim Black and Betsy Alger, Frog and the Peach is an award-winning gourmet restaurant in New Brunswick.
They offer delicious wine from around the globe and outstanding farm-to-fork seasonal cuisine in a calm and cozy atmosphere.
Frog and the Peach lies in an ancient industrial edifice on Dennis Street that served as the home of giant printing machines for the popular newspaper, The Home News.
Their staff is welcoming and always ready to listen to customers’ demands and ensure guests are comfortable at the restaurant.
Frog and the Peach is a breathtaking garden space with lush greenery perfect for romantic meetings and other events.
Frog and the Peach prepare their meals with locally sourced ingredients which gives them a unique taste. In addition, they feature a fantastic menu that includes traditional cocktails, world-class vintage, and premium spirits.
Location: 29 Dennis St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
5. Watch Art Performances at Crossroads Theatre Company
Credit: CrossroadsTheatreCompany / Facebook
If you’re a lover of art looking for a place to have fun in New Brunswick, you’ll appreciate visiting Crossroads Theatre Company.
New Brunswick is home to art and culture, and one of its main hubs for performing art is Crossroads Theatre Company.
Crossroads Theatre Company is an award-winning facility famous for eye-opening and stunning performances in New Brunswick.
They host shows focusing on African American life and culture m, featuring famous actors and playwrights.
Aside from theater plays, Crossroads Theatre Company features other activities like Princeton Ballet School and the American Repertory Ballet.
If you’re lucky, you can catch a sophisticated dance recital of talented ballerinas. Check their website for dates of upcoming shows to enable you to plan accordingly.
Location: 11 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
6. See Fossils at Rutgers Geology Museum
Credit: RutgersGeologyMuseum / Facebook
As mentioned, Rutgers University has several exceptional facilities, and Rutgers Geology Museum is one of the many facilities in the university.
Located just a block from Zimmerli Art Museum, Rutgers Geology Museum contains collections showcasing the history of New Brunswick and other regions in the city.
It features exhibits from fields like anthropology, geology, and paleontology. The museum’s primary attraction is its fossilized mastodon, which was quickly spotted at the site.
Other attractions at the museum include human skulls, dinosaur bones and tracks, an Egyptian mummy, and different rocks and minerals, reflecting a colorful view under fluorescent light.
Location: Geology Hall, 85 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
7. Catch a Stunning Performance at State Theatre New Jersey
Credit: StateTheatreNewJersey / Facebook
State Theatre New Jersey is one of the best and most fun places to visit in New Brunswick.
Founded in the early 19th century, State Theatre New Jersey is an ancient institution in New Brunswick and throughout the state.
It contains seating that can accommodate over 1800 persons at a time.
State Theatre New Jersey ownership has constantly changed in previous years, and the structure underwent renovations. It was closed at some point after being rendered obsolete by other theaters.
Although it overcame several hurdles, State Theatre New Jersey elevated itself as a New Brunswick institution, serving as the center for high-rated performances.
State Theatre New Jersey hosts theater plays, live concerts, dance recitals, Broadway musicals, and orchestra performances.
Famous personalities and artists have also performed here, including Bruce Springsteen, Jay Leno, and Ringo Starr.
Visit their website to learn more about the theater and check out days and times for upcoming events.
Location: 15 Livingston Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
8. Visit Christ Church Episcopal
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Christ Church Episcopal is one place every Christian planning to visit New Brunswick must prioritize on their checklist.
The Church is an ancient Episcopal church and a welcoming congregation of the Diocese of New Jersey’s Oasis Ministry.
Christ Church Episcopal hosts special services for Easter, Christmas, and other festivals like jazz Vespers.
Their prayer ministry offers nursery care for toddlers and infants during a sermon, so you’re free to come with your kids.
Other activities to benefit from at Christ Church Episcopal include Adult Formation, Christian education, and Chamber Choir music programs.
Location: 5 Paterson St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
9. Explore the Waters of the Raritan River
Credit: SustainableRaritanRiverInitiatives / Facebook
If you need a place to relax and escape the stress of work life, you should prioritize a visit to the Raritan River on your bucket list.
New Jersey boasts many rivers and water bodies, and the Raritan River is one of the major rivers in the city.
A portion of it creates the border that divides New Brunswick from other territories like Headland Park and Edison. The river also serves an essential economic purpose in the area.
Lovers of water activities will enjoy spending time here as the Raritan River is perfect for water-related fun activities.
Visitors can partake in fun activities ranging from kayaking, boating, and canoeing along beautiful river areas.
One famous site is the area next to Rutgers Gardens, which consists of tree-lined banks on both sides and a serene ambiance.
Regardless of its consistent uses, Raritan River still maintains a healthy population of freshwater fish, so if fishing is your thing, you can try catching largemouth and smallmouth bass catfish and pikes.
Location: New Brunswick, NJ, United States
10. Visit Farrington Lake Via Bicentennial Park
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New Brunswick is a city with numerous fun activities, and one exciting place to visit is the famous Bicentennial Park.
Bicentennial Park is a fantastic destination with nature trails and lush greenery. It serves as the number one access point to Farrington Lake.
Farrington Lake, named after a New Brunswick mayor, is a reservoir that serves as a primary water source for neighboring cities.
You can explore the famous Farrington with just a boat ride from Bicentennial Park.
The perfect time to visit the area is usually during fall when the mirror-like surface reflects the changing colors of the foliage.
Location: 176 Hardenburg Ln, East Brunswick, NJ 08816, United States
11. Family Time Out at Boyd Park
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There’s no shortage of things to do in New Brunswick, but Boyd Park should be top of your list when you need a place that offers fun activities for the entire family.
Boyd Park is an award-winning, family-friendly recreational park in New Brunswick. The park spans across 20-acre and is perfect for family fun as there are many beautiful and scenic areas to explore.
Boyd Park offers a breathtaking view of the New Brunswick Skyline and the Raritan River, all at the same time.
For around a decade, the park also contains several historical structures, such as canals, swing bridges, and towpaths.
Each item on display has a signpost that gives detailed information on its history so do well to read the signpost at the park.
Besides its historic structures and scenic environment, Boyd Park has a vast picnic area with benches, a theater for live events, plenty of green spaces, and well-paved trails.
Location: New Brunswick, NJ 08904, United States
12. Visit the Sights of Buccleuch Park
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If you’re not a fan of crowded areas and need something fun but less tasking, you’ll appreciate spending time at Buccleuch Park.
Buccleuch Park is an outdoor recreational park next to the Raritan River. The park spans 78 acres of land mass and is perfect for unwinding and spending time with family and friends.
The park has scenic trails, wooded areas with shady spots, and verdant and spacious grounds.
Buccleuch Park also features a playground, picnic pavilion, and a rock and flower garden scattered across the park.
Sports lovers will enjoy spending time here as the park has several sporting facilities such as soccer fields, basketball courts, and baseball diamonds.
The Buccleuch Mansion is a notable edifice at the park, a historic structure considered one of New Jersey’s oldest landmarks.
The magnificent structure now serves as a museum; guests can go on guided tours to check out dining ware, colonial furniture, and other artifacts at the mansion.
Location: 321 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
13. Experience a Night of Laughter at Stress Factory Comedy Club
Credit: StressFactoryComedyClub / Facebook
If you need a place to get comic relief, you mustn’t leave New Brunswick without visiting Stress Factory Comedy Club.
Although the name Stress Factory Comedy Club can be misleading as many people would think that it’s a factory for stress production, Stress Factory Comedy Club is a place where you forget your problems and anxiety.
The club is a popular location in New Jersey, as they stand out as one of the best comedy club in the city. Stress Factory Comedy Club has a reputation for hosting professional and up-and-coming comedians.
The club is a famous location in the whole state, as it has a reputation for hosting veteran comedians and up-and-coming performers who eventually make their name in the industry.
Chuckle, giggle, and chortle as they act out skits, try improvs and do stand-up performances that will surely get you rolling on the floor.
If you also feel famished, endeavor to order their delicious selection of American staples.
It’s always blissful and fun-filled at Stress Factory Comedy Club, so make sure you don’t miss a visit here on your itinerary.
Location: 90 Church St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
14. Visit Rutgers University
Credit: RutgersUniversity / Facebook
The famous Rutgers University is one of the best and most fun places to visit in New Brunswick.
Rutgers University is the state university of New Jersey and consists of three regional campuses in New Brunswick, Newark, and Camden.
The university campus in New Brunswick is the oldest campus among all three and comprises other smaller campuses such as Cook, College Avenue, Livingston, Douglass, and Busch.
The university features 19 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools, including the School of Art and Sciences, School of Engineering, Mason Gross School of the Arts, the School of Nursing, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers Business School, and many others.
Location: New Brunswick, NJ, United States
15. Watch Theater Shows at Mason Gross Performing Arts Center
Credit: MasonGrossSchooloftheArts / Facebook
If you’re a lover of art and theater play, you’ll appreciate visiting Mason Gross Performing Arts Center.
Unlike other performance centers in New Brunswick, Mason Gross Performing Arts Center focuses on creating sophisticated content for locals and tourists in New Brunswick.
The art theater is in the Rutgers University system and serves as a learning facility in addition to being a fantastic tourist destination.
If you want to see the art display at its peak, you shouldn’t miss out on visiting Mason Gross Performing Arts Center; they practice the art of all forms, including visual art, theater, dance, and music.
If you are lucky enough, you can attend one of the performances showing off the skill and talent honed in the city.
You can also treat yourself to theater plays, art exhibitions, dance recitals, and jazz concerts by professionals and students.
Location: 85 George St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
16. Go Hiking at Rutgers University Ecological Preserve
Credit: RutgersUniversityEcologicalPreserve / Facebook
Are you a lover of hiking? If so, Rutgers University Ecological Preserve is the perfect fit for you.
Rutgers University Ecological Preserve is a vast natural attraction sitting on the bank of the Raritan River opposite New Brunswick.
The preserve spans across 370-acres and has diverse habitat and land features that make it a crucial ecological hotspot in the region.
The area is a popular hiking and biking spot for locals and students due to its complex terrain. While exploring the site, you’ll also encounter woodland creatures like colorful insects, birds, and small mammals.
Location: 83 Rockafeller Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854, United States
17. Fun Time at Donaldson Park
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If you’re wondering why Donaldson Park makes our list of the best and most fun things to do in New Brunswick, here’s why.
Donaldson Park is an outdoor recreational attraction in Highland Park, just next to the Raritan River.
The park is a famous family-friendly park with lots of fun activities for the entire family.
The park attracts Rutgers University students and other tourists to its spot with its gorgeous scenery and modern facilities.
Donaldson Park features a staple picnic ground with tables and benches, lush sports fields, and ball courts.
Its proximity to the river attracted visitors and tourists, who flood the area to enjoy the fantastic views and relax at the river banks.
Location: 526 S 2nd Ave, Highland Park, NJ 08904, United States
18. Visit the Kirkpatrick Chapel
Credit: KirkpatrickChapel / kirkpatrickchapel.rutgers.edu
If you require something less touristy, you’ll appreciate visiting Kirkpatrick Chapel.
Though the official name is Sophia Astley Kirkpatrick Memorial chapel, this ancient structure features part of the Rutgers University system.
Kirkpatrick Chapel’s primary purpose is as a place of worship. But aside from being a place of worship, this historic location now acts as a library, a gathering place, and a spot for educational lectures.
The exteriors of the chapel reflect the Gothic architecture, and the interior features breathtaking views with a majestic column, red motif all across the walls, and remarkable stained glass windows.
The best quality of Kirkpatrick Chapel is that it’s home to all faiths, which reflects Rutgers University as a nonsectarian institution.
Location: 81 Somerset St, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
19. Body Treat at Heldrich Spa
Credit: TheSpaAtTheHeldrich / Facebook
The last thing you want to happen to you is to get worn out or feel sick during vacations.
If you wish to tackle stress and ease daytime tension, you must prioritize a visit to Heldrich Spa, the number spa center in New Brunswick.
Heldrich Spa offers Therapeutic and other professional massage services in New Brunswick, NJ.
They use Add-on oils and creams that help improve the massage process and give you a soothing feeling.
Aside from body massage services, they also offer nail treatment services and other body treatments.
Their technicals are highly skilled and take their time to give you value for your money. Heldrich Spa is also a popular spot for facial treatments, free from cross-contamination and personalized to fit your skin type.
Location: 10 Livingston Ave 3rd Floor, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States
20. Watch Theatre Plays at George Street Playhouse
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One of the best and most fun things to do in New Brunswick is to watch theater plays at George Street Playhouse.
George Street Playhouse is the first producing theater in New Brunswick. It served as the foundation for the city’s rebirth of its cultural and artistic scene.
George Street Playhouse commands a fierce presence in on- and off-Broadway shows.
George Street Playhouse prides itself on creating ground-breaking plays, famous Broadway plays, and musicals that touch the mind and soul.
George Street Playhouse is a playhouse that appreciates and reflects diversity, history, and individuality.
Thanks to its 45-year long-lasting legacy as an internationally acclaimed theater, George Street Playhouse maintains a strong presence in theatre and arts education in New Jersey and other metropolitan areas.
Location: 9 Livingston Avenue at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, United States