New Brunswick, New Jersey

New Brunswick is perhaps New Jersey’s most prolific commuter hub. Home to Rutgers University’s College Avenue campus — the central campus of NJ’s state university — as well as a couple leading medical centers, several pharmaceutical facilities (including Johnson & Johnson world headquarters) and the Middlesex Country Seat, it’s no wonder this Central Jersey city comes alive on weekdays. The influx of people paired with an ethically diverse population has created an interesting cultural scene, complete with a small but lively theater district, several excellent restaurants, and the country’s fourth largest university museum housing the ...

New Brunswick is perhaps New Jersey’s most prolific commuter hub. Home to Rutgers University’s College Avenue campus — the central campus of NJ’s state university — as well as a couple leading medical centers, several pharmaceutical facilities (including Johnson & Johnson world headquarters) and the Middlesex Country Seat, it’s no wonder this Central Jersey city comes alive on weekdays. The influx of people paired with an ethically diverse population has created an interesting cultural scene, complete with a small but lively theater district, several excellent restaurants, and the country’s fourth largest university museum housing the largest collection of nonconformist former Soviet artwork outside Russia. A stroll down George Street will turn up several pubs and eateries before reaching Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick’s own theater row. The city’s Raritan riverbank location also makes it a popular spot for outdoor recreation, including kayaking. If visiting during June or July, don’t miss the New Jersey International Film Festival.

About the Expert

Laura Kiniry is the author of Moon Handbooks New Jersey.