New Brunswick Named NJ's Top Destination for 2025!

With its vibrant arts scene, exceptional dining, renowned university, and top-tier healthcare, New Brunswick has earned the title of New Jersey’s “Destination of the Year” for 2025.

New Brunswick City Center Executive Director Pamela Stefanek said the organization was “immensely honored” that the city was recognized as Jersey’s Best Destination of the Year 2025. “I want to express my deepest gratitude knowing the opportunities that are ahead of us and invite everyone to experience New Brunswick, the host of world-class arts and culture, renowned restaurants, hotels, sports and so much more,” Stefanek said.

Lina Llona, President of the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce/Convention & Visitors Bureau, echoed Stefanek’s sentiments, stating that “Visitors to New Brunswick are exposed to great food and a really diverse population,” she said. “You’re safe here. You’re comfortable. There’s so much to see and do. You come once, you always come back.”

A Town That Impresses

Vinnie Brand, owner of the iconic Stress Factory comedy club, has witnessed New Brunswick’s amazing transformation of the past decade firsthand. “New Brunswick has changed in the best way,” Brand says. “It’s a fantastic place to go out, with a wonderful variety of restaurants and entertainment options. You can find any kind of cuisine here, and it’s all done right," Brand said. “From steak to Ethiopian, Mexican, Italian, and seafood—New Brunswick has it all.” Local favorites like Harvest Moon Brewery & Café, The Frog and The Peach, Steakhouse 85, and Salt Seafood & Oyster Bar cater to every taste. And no college town is complete without food trucks offering everything from burgers and tacos to donuts and ice cream—perfect for a quick lunch or a late-night snack.

Big 10 College Vibes

Now that Rutgers University is part of the Big 10 Conference, New Brunswick has had the opportunity to make a lasting impression on all the West Coast schools coming in. For many visitors, this is their introduction to the Garden State and New Brunswick makes a lasting impression. Sports fans come to a game and they want to come back for the arts, culture, and dining experiences.”

A Hub of Culture

For over a century, State Theatre New Jersey (STNJ) has been a cultural landmark, hosting world-class performers like Diana Ross, Tony Bennett, and Harry Connick Jr. Looking ahead to 2025, STNJ will feature a range of exciting shows, including Tony^® Award-winner Sutton Foster in January and the acclaimed musical Dear Evan Hansen in March.

Kelly Blithe, STNJ’s Director of Communications and Community Engagement, is thrilled about New Brunswick’s recognition. “The city offers so much—from incredible theater to fantastic dining and a dynamic university. It truly is the heartbeat of New Jersey.”

For over 50 years, the George Street Playhouse has brought cutting-edge performances to the stage, while Tavern on George offers live jazz and acoustic music. The Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers, with its impressive collection of over 60,000 works, is another cultural gem that’s free to visit.

Gateway to the Garden State

Known as “The Hub City,” New Brunswick is a central point for travel and exploration. “It’s easy to get to and from, whether you’re using the train to go to New York or Philly, or driving with quick access to I-287, Route 1, and the Turnpike,” Llona explained. “It’s incredibly accessible, and there’s ample parking, making it a perfect base for exploring the region.”

Located just 30 minutes from Newark Liberty International Airport, New Brunswick offers a variety of accommodations, including the Hyatt Regency, Doubletree, and Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center.

Leading in Health & Life Sciences

New Brunswick is also at the forefront of healthcare innovation, home to world-class facilities like RWJBarnabas Health and Saint Peter’s University Hospital. The city is poised to enhance its position as a hub for life sciences with the opening of the Health & Life Science Exchange (HELIX NJ) in 2025, a cutting-edge district designed to foster collaboration between industries and universities.

Lina Llona, summed it up perfectly: “It’s like a small town in a city—everyone knows each other and works together. I’m proud to be part of this great community.”

Discover why New Brunswick was named Jersey Best's Destination of the Year for 2025 here.

And you'll definitely want to check out all the can't-miss events happening in New Brunswick this year!