SPORTS & RECREATION IN NEW BRUNSWICK,
NJ, AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS

Golf

Many golfers find Central Jersey an excellent location for playing since the region provides 10 public and 13 private courses that are easy to access along the East Coast. These diverse golf courses vary in arrangement and difficulty to cater to the different skill levels. Competitive golfers will also appreciate the golf tournaments held in the Central Jersey area, including:

• Mid-Amateur Championship
• Tournament of Club Champions
• Women’s Four-Ball Championship

Rutgers Athletics

Rutgers University played the first intercollegiate football game against Princeton University in 1869 on the Rutgers campus, earning it the distinction of the “Birthplace of College Football”. A member of the Big Ten Conference, the Rutgers football team goes up against many powerhouse programs, including Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, and Penn State.

However, football is not all that Rutgers Athletics has to offer. Fans of the following sports may also visit the university and witness an exciting game of:

• Baseball
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Golf
• Lacrosse
• Soccer
• Track & Field
• Wrestling

County Parks

Whether you want a peaceful area to have a picnic or take in the waterfront, or are searching for a wide open space for a fun group game of Frisbee, Central Jersey has multiple parks and recreation areas to suit your needs. The region also boasts several preserves and conservations for residents and visitors who want to hike or walk through the grandeur of nature. Some of these parks and preserves include:

• Davidson’s Mill Pond Park (North Brunswick Township)
• Donaldson Park (Highland Park)
• Deep Run Preserve (Old Bridge)
• Fords Park (Woodbridge Township)
• Ireland Brook Conservation Area (South Brunswick Townships and East Brunswick)
• Johnson Park (Piscataway)
• Plainsboro Preserve (Cranbury)
• Tamarack Hollow Preserve (East Brunswick)

For more information on parks in Central Jersey, visit the Middlesex County Office of Parks of Recreation webpage. The region delivers a public system of key parks, recreational programs, open spaces, and facilities to preserve these services for many generations. The Park System features 19 developed and active County Parks and facilities that span 2,900 acres.

Family Fun

Central Jersey is the perfect spot for kids, as well. With recreational activities tailored to kids of all ages, families will find various attractions and events in Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer, Somerset, and Union Counties. These activities include outdoor excitement at amusement parks, learning opportunities at museums and planetariums, and sports centers — bowling alleys, ice skating arenas, and indoor jungle gyms — for athletic families.

Cornucopia Cruises

Cornucopia Cruise Line began by providing dining and holiday cruises but now charters ships for a host of private events, such as birthday parties, weddings, and corporate gatherings. Groups can enjoy an unforgettable and exciting evening drifting across New York and New Jersey waters with Cornucopia Cruises.

Professional Baseball

Home to the minor league baseball team, Somerset Patriots, Central Jersey offers residents and guests multiple opportunities to experience America’s favorite pastime. In addition to hosting Somerset Patriots games, TD Bank Ballpark provides accommodations for birthday parties, field trips, and similar group outings. It also has special events throughout the season like beer tasting and fireworks.

Find Recreation and Sports Entertainment in Central Jersey 

At Central Jersey Convention & Visitors Bureau, our primary mission is to help you find lodging, attractions, events, and other amenities in New Brunswick, NJ, and the surrounding areas that meet your needs and interests. Contact us to learn more about Central Jersey sports or plan your stay.