When it comes to college towns in New Jersey, the Garden State boasts a bountiful harvest.
From the ivy-covered halls of Princeton University to the bustling city streets of Newark, each of the college towns featured below provides a unique blend of culture, history and educational excellence. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best college towns in New Jersey and the attributes that set them apart from the rest. Pick your favorite spot and find your new apartment community in a New Jersey college town.
You can’t have a conversation about college towns in New Jersey without talking about Princeton. This picturesque town, home to the prestigious Princeton University, is the epitome of collegiate charm. Nestled in the heart of New Jersey, this historic town is steeped in tradition and teeming with intellectual energy.
From the moment you set foot in Princeton, you’ll be surrounded by a palpable sense of history and knowledge. The storied campus of Princeton University, with its Gothic architecture and sprawling greens, is a sight to behold in and of itself. However, the town has much more to offer than just its prestigious school. Princeton’s bustling downtown is lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes and a variety of eateries, perfect for students and longtime locals alike.
For those interested in the arts, Princeton’s McCarter Theatre Center and the Princeton University Art Museum are must-visits. Overall, Princeton is a charming and inspiring college town that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for higher education and American history.
Home to Rutgers University, Piscataway is another one of the many vibrant college towns in New Jersey. This town is brimming with energy and enthusiasm, thanks to its diverse population and the university’s dedication to research and innovation.
Located near the Raritan River, Piscataway offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Students can unwind by taking a walk along the scenic riverfront, or visit one of the town’s many parks for a day of picnicking and relaxation. The Rutgers Gardens, a sprawling 180-acre botanical garden, is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of campus life and soak up some natural beauty.
Foodies will appreciate the diverse dining options in Piscataway, ranging from mouthwatering international cuisine to comfort food at local diners. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with the Zimmerli Art Museum and the Rutgers Geology Museum offering unique and engaging exhibits. Overall, Piscataway provides a dynamic and enriching environment for students and visitors alike.
Newark is home to several colleges and universities, including Rutgers University-Newark, the New Jersey Institute of Technology and Seton Hall University. With such an eclectic mix of educational institutions, it’s no surprise that this bustling metropolis is a hub of intellectual activity.
In Newark, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene, anchored by the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Newark Museum of Art. The city also boasts an impressive selection of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, where you can savor the flavors of cuisines from around the world. Don’t forget to stop by the historic Ironbound District, known for its rich Portuguese and Brazilian heritage, and sample some of the delicious fare at the area’s many restaurants and cafes.
Newark is not just a center for the arts and gastronomy; it’s also a great place for sports enthusiasts. The Prudential Center, home to the NHL’s New Jersey Devils and various concerts and events, is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. For those who prefer the outdoors, the beautiful Branch Brook Park offers a stunning display of cherry blossoms in the spring, as well as plenty of space for jogging, biking and so much more.
Situated on the banks of the Delaware River, Camden is home to Rutgers University-Camden and the Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. Despite its reputation as a city facing various challenges, Camden is a college town on the rise with a rich history and a promising future.
One of the city’s most significant attractions is the Adventure Aquarium, where visitors can get up close and personal with aquatic life. The nearby Camden Waterfront, with its stunning views of the Philadelphia skyline, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. Another notable destination is the Battleship New Jersey Museum and Memorial, a fascinating exhibit that pays homage to the state’s proud naval history.
Camden is also home to a burgeoning arts scene, as shown by the city’s many colorful murals and the thriving Rutgers-Camden Center for the Arts. With its combination of history, culture and scenic beauty, Camden is an underrated and unconventional college town in New Jersey.
Madison is a picturesque town that houses Drew University and the College of Saint Elizabeth. This charming, tree-lined town is known for its historic architecture, quaint downtown and strong sense of community.
Downtown Madison is filled with unique shops, cafes and restaurants, providing a welcoming atmosphere for students and locals alike. The town’s commitment to the arts is evident in the Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey, located on the Drew University campus, which offers engaging productions for theater lovers of all ages.
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the nearby Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge or the close proximity to picnicking in one of the town’s many parks. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene and beautiful surroundings, Madison is a hidden gem among college towns in New Jersey.
Located just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, Hoboken is home to Stevens Institute of Technology, a prestigious engineering school. This lively city offers a unique blend of urban excitement and small-town charm, making it one of the most distinctive college towns in New Jersey.
Hoboken’s waterfront boasts stunning views of the New York City skyline, as well as numerous parks that pepper the waterfront area. The city’s vibrant downtown is packed with trendy boutiques, delectable restaurants and lively bars, making it a popular destination for students and young professionals.
As the birthplace of Frank Sinatra, Hoboken has a strong musical heritage that is still evident today. The city hosts various live music events throughout the year, and local bars and clubs often feature up-and-coming musicians. With its close proximity to New York City and its own unique charm, Hoboken is an undeniably exciting and dynamic college town.
Nestled at the foot of the Watchung Mountains, Montclair is home to Montclair State University, one of New Jersey’s largest public universities. This picturesque town is known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse dining options and beautiful natural surroundings.
Art lovers will appreciate the Montclair Art Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of American and Native American art. The town is also home to numerous art galleries and performance spaces, including the Wellmont Theater and the Studio Playhouse, which host a variety of concerts, plays and other live events.
Montclair’s downtown is filled with eclectic shops, cafes and restaurants, offering a taste of cuisines from around the globe. For the outdoorsy types, the town’s many parks and nature reserves provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking and taking in the stunning vistas in peace.
There’s a new apartment in a New Jersey college town just for you
From the charming streets of Princeton to the lively waterfront of Hoboken, the best college towns in New Jersey perfectly cater to students, residents and visitors alike. Each of the towns mentioned above boasts its own unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty, making them perfect destinations for those seeking both intellectual stimulation and a taste of the quintessential college-town atmosphere.
Whether you’re a prospective student, a curious visitor or a lifelong resident, we encourage you to explore these enchanting college towns in New Jersey and discover the boundless opportunities for growth, inspiration and fun that they each have to offer.
Source: rent.com