Rutgers University Campus Map

Introduction

Rutgers University is one of the oldest and most prestigious public universities in the United States, founded in 1766. Its main campus is located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, which is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant community. The campus is spread over 2,688 acres and is home to over 50,000 students, faculty, and staff. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Old Queens Campus

Old Queens Campus is the original campus of Rutgers University and is located in the heart of New Brunswick. It is home to the university’s oldest and most historic buildings, including the iconic Voorhees Chapel, which was built in 1899. The campus is also home to the Rutgers Geology Museum, which features a collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks from around the world.

Zimmerli Art Museum

The Zimmerli Art Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive university-based art museums in the country. It features over 60,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and prints from around the world. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions, lectures, and events throughout the year.

Hidden Gems

Rutgers Gardens

Rutgers Gardens is a 180-acre botanical garden located on the Cook Campus of Rutgers University. It features a variety of themed gardens, including a bamboo forest, a herb garden, and a rose garden. The gardens also host a variety of events throughout the year, including plant sales, concerts, and workshops.

Henry Guest House

The Henry Guest House is a historic home located on the Douglass Campus of Rutgers University. It was built in 1760 and is one of the oldest buildings in New Brunswick. The house is open to the public for tours and also serves as a venue for weddings and other events.

Food Scene

Old Man Rafferty’s

Old Man Rafferty’s is a popular restaurant located in the heart of New Brunswick. It is known for its classic American cuisine, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The restaurant also has a full bar, featuring a variety of craft beers and specialty cocktails.

Stuff Yer Face

Stuff Yer Face is a local institution that has been serving up its famous stromboli since 1977. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and calzones. The bar features a wide selection of beers on tap, including many local and regional brews.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Events

Rutgers University hosts a variety of free events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and cultural festivals. Check the university’s website for a schedule of upcoming events.

Campus Tours

Rutgers University offers free campus tours to the public, which are led by knowledgeable and friendly student guides. The tours are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the university, as well as its many academic and recreational opportunities.

Outdoor Adventures

Rutgers Ecological Preserve

The Rutgers Ecological Preserve is a 350-acre nature preserve located on the Livingston Campus of Rutgers University. It features a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and meadows. The preserve is open to the public for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities.

Johnson Park

Johnson Park is a 473-acre park located on the banks of the Raritan River in Piscataway, New Jersey. It features a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, fishing ponds, and picnic areas. The park is also home to the Rutgers Boathouse, which offers canoe and kayak rentals.

Historical Landmarks

Monument Square

Monument Square is a historic district in downtown New Brunswick that is home to a variety of 19th-century buildings, including the Middlesex County Courthouse and the First Reformed Church. The district also features a monument to the soldiers who fought in the American Revolution.

The Buccleuch Mansion

The Buccleuch Mansion is a historic home located on the banks of the Raritan River in New Brunswick. It was built in 1739 and is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The mansion is open to the public for tours and also serves as a venue for weddings and other events.

Family-Friendly Activities

Rutgers Cinema

Rutgers Cinema is a movie theater located on the Livingston Campus of Rutgers University. It features a variety of new and classic films, as well as special events like midnight screenings and film festivals.

Robert Wood Johnson Fitness and Wellness Center

The Robert Wood Johnson Fitness and Wellness Center is a state-of-the-art fitness center located on the Cook Campus of Rutgers University. It offers a variety of classes and programs, including yoga, Pilates, and personal training. The center also has a pool and a climbing wall.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Scarlet Knight Statue

The Scarlet Knight Statue is a bronze statue located on the College Avenue Campus of Rutgers University. It depicts a knight in armor riding a horse and is a popular spot for photos and selfies.

The Rutgers Correctional Education Program

The Rutgers Correctional Education Program is a unique program that offers college courses and degrees to inmates at several New Jersey correctional facilities. The program is designed to help inmates prepare for successful reentry into society and has been praised for its effectiveness and innovation.

Natural Wonders

The Raritan River

The Raritan River is a 90-mile-long river that flows through central New Jersey. It is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. The river is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and river otters.

The Sourland Mountains

The Sourland Mountains are a range of hills located in central New Jersey. They are home to a variety of rare and endangered plant and animal species, as well as scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Court Tavern

The Court Tavern is a legendary music venue that has been hosting live shows since 1981. It has hosted a variety of famous bands and musicians over the years, including Nirvana, the Smashing Pumpkins, and the Misfits. The venue also features a full bar and a pool table.

The Scarlet Pub

The Scarlet Pub is a popular bar located in the heart of New Brunswick. It is known for its lively atmosphere, friendly staff, and affordable drinks. The bar also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including trivia nights and karaoke parties.

Local Markets

The New Brunswick Farmers Market

The New Brunswick Farmers Market is a weekly market that features fresh produce, baked goods, and other locally made products. It is held every Wednesday from May to December in Monument Square.

The Rutgers Student Food Market

The Rutgers Student Food Market is a weekly market that is open to the public and features a variety of affordable and healthy food options. It is held every Friday on the College Avenue Campus of Rutgers University.

Beaches and Mountains

The Jersey Shore

The Jersey Shore is a popular destination for beachgoers and sun worshippers. It is home to a variety of beaches, including Seaside Heights, Point Pleasant Beach, and Wildwood. The shore is also known for its boardwalks, amusement parks, and seafood restaurants.

The Pocono Mountains

The Pocono Mountains are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. They are home to a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The mountains are also known for their ski resorts, water parks, and other family-friendly attractions.

Cultural Immersion

The Rutgers Center for Latino Arts and Culture

The Rutgers Center for Latino Arts and Culture is a multidisciplinary arts center that promotes Latino culture and heritage through a variety of programs, exhibitions, and events. It is located on the College Avenue Campus of Rutgers University and is open to the public.

The Zimmerli Art Museum

The Zimmerli Art Museum is a hub for cultural immersion, featuring a variety of exhibitions and programs that highlight diverse perspectives on art and culture. The museum also hosts a variety of lectures, workshops, and events throughout