Tailgating at Rutgers
If you have never attended a Rutgers tailgate before, you are missing out. Aside from boasting one of the nation's fastest rising football programs, the state university of New Jersey also boasts one of the nation's top tailgating scenes.
Whether you are new to Rutgers tailgating, or just stopping in for the latest tailgating news and links, you have found the right place. Stop back often as this page grows....and if you have any suggestions, don't hesitate to drop us an email.
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The lay of the land:
There are several lots where you can set up your gear, though a season ticket and parking pass are required for the prime ones. For college students and recent graduates, we recommend the BLUE lot. If you don't quite qualify for the "young alumni" student ticket discount, consider the YELLOW and SCARLET lots. The PURPLE lot may be a bit further away, but it is still home to some great tailgates.
Not a season ticket holder? Consider buying. Ticket prices start at $75 - for the whole season! The price is nominal compared to other sports and activities, and it gives you a prime spot for weekend tailgating. But if aren't quite ready to purchase a season ticket, all is not lost. The General Parking lot is located across Route 18 at the Louis Brown Athletic Center (RAC). The atmosphere may not be the same, and you have to catch a shuttle over to the stadium, but that won't stop you from having a great tailgate. See the official Rutgers parking policy page for details.
Getting there:
Just a hop, skip and a jump from New York City and Philadelphia, Rutgers is one of the most accessible universities in the country. Click here for driving directions.
Where to stay:
For many of us that live close to the New Brunswick/Piscataway campus hotel options are generally an oversight. In many cases, hotels are not a necessity. For alumnus traveling back to New Jersey for a visit, it is a primary focus of the trip. There are several different lodging options to consider when planning a trip to a Rutgers sporting event.
Downtown New Brunswick
Somerset/Piscataway Area
East Brunswick/North Brunswick Area
Edison Area
In downtown New Brunswick, the hotel options are limited. Hyatt Regency New Brunswick, for all essential purposes, is THE hotel to consider. Some of its advantages are its proximity to the University and New Brunswick restaurants and bars, including the Draft Picks sports bar located on the premises, and the ability to make a trip without the need of a car. Finding availability - and finding availability at an affordable price - can sometimes be challenging. There are times, though, that this hotel can be booked at a very reasonable price ($99.00/night).
For those that are looking to stay at a hotel that is further away from the action, or can’t seem to get a reservation at the Hyatt, there are excellent options. Route 287 is lined with a variety of hotels for every budget from Piscataway to Somerset. A few options include:
There are many other hotels that can be found in the Somerset/Piscataway area. For most travelers, a car will be necessary. Game day travel from this area is convenient as it is a short 10-15 minute drive to the campus or downtown New Brunswick. Availability in this area is generally reliable, and these hotel options offer quiet areas a bit further from the hustle of the college town.
Lodging can also be found along and near Route 1 in both the Edison and East Brunswick/North Brunswick areas. Some options in Edison are:
And further south in North and East Brunswick:
Travel along Route 18 has improved, but can still be a problem during high traffic times. This location does provide a direct route along a major highway to both downtown New Brunswick and the Stadium/RAC. During non-peak travel times these hotels are among the closest and easiest commutes to downtown New Brunswick.
The Edison area hotels are further away than the other hotel options and may appeal to visitors more familiar with the geography and back routes to the stadium.
Where to eat:
If you are looking for the Rutgers specialty that was voted the #1 sandwich in America by Maxim Magazine, then look no further than the "grease trucks". That is where you will find America's favorite treat, the Fat Darrell. You will also find a number of other "fat" sandwiches. Just head to the main campus and travel along College Avenue until you see a hoard of college kids gathered around a grease truck. Bring your own antacids!
Another Rutgers specialty is the "boli", made famous by the folks at Stuff Yer Face. The restaurant is located a short stroll away from College Avenue, along Easton Avenue.
If you are looking for something a bit more refined, try:
- Old Man Rafferty's (good food, affordable prices)
- The Frog and Peach (upscale)
- Harvest Moon Brewery (good food, great beer)
If you are looking to grab a beer in a college atmosphere, make your way over to the main campus and take a stroll along Easton Avenue. This is where you will find the Knight Club, Old Queen's, The Scarlet Pub, and several other local hangouts. For those staying at the Hyatt, the hotel has its own sports bar, Draft Picks.
Get your gear:
Looking for some gear to make your tailgate extra special? We recommend two places, RU Knights Gear and Scarlet Fever!
Have something to add to this page? Email us and let us know!
