New Brunswick, NJ, is best known as the home of Rutgers University, but this cannabis-friendly college town is so much more than ivy-laden lecture halls and D-1 basketball.
In this article:
🎓 What to know before you go
🎓 Recreational cannabis dispensaries
🎓 Where to consume
🎓 What to do in New Brunswick, NJ
🎓 Where to eat in New Brunswick, NJ
🎓 Where to stay in New Brunswick, NJ
🎓 Getting to New Brunswick
🎓 FAQ
We update this page on an ongoing basis. Drop us a tip about dispensary openings, closings, and news, and we’ll check it out ASAP.
We love college towns. They’re brimming with energy, packed with independent thinkers, and draw world-class professionals in fields from medicine to dance. As the home of Rutgers University, New Brunswick delivers on all of these fronts, but this Central Jersey city doesn’t stop there. From charming shops that feel frozen in time to cannabis dispensaries for every type of traveler, New Brunswick is a perfect place for partakers to spend some time.
One major reason we’re such big fans is that New Brunswick is incredibly convenient to both reach and explore. Just hop on a NJ Transit train from New York City or towns all over New Jersey, and you’ll disembark at a beautifully restored rail station in the middle of the small city. From there, New Brunswick’s walkability makes it especially suited for a car-free, cannabis-friendly day trip.
Whether you’re spending a few hours, a few days, or a few semesters in New Brunswick, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time.
🎓 What to Know Before You Go
- Adults 21 and older can legally buy, possess, and consume cannabis in New Jersey. Licensed recreational sales began in April 2022.
- NJ residents and visitors need government-issued photo identification showing that they’re at least 21 to enter a dispensary.
- Cannabis purchased in New Jersey cannot be taken out of New Jersey, even if you’re going to a state where it’s also legal.
- Driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal.
- Adults can possess up to six ounces of cannabis at a time.
- Recreational dispensaries can sell the equivalent of up to one ounce of cannabis in a single transaction, which can be comprised of a combination of flower, concentrates, edibles, vapes, tinctures, and topicals.
- Cannabis consumption is restricted in public. See our dedicated section below for more details.
🎓 Recreational Cannabis Dispensaries in New Brunswick, NJ
New Brunswick has three unique recreational cannabis dispensaries. They’re all relatively close to one another, but each offers its own original experience. If you have time, we recommend stopping into all three, even if you’re just browsing at a couple. You’ll find great products, talk to helpful budtenders, and get a feel for the local vibe.
Earth & Ivy: A Wellness-Focused Approach to Cannabis
📍 355 George Street
🔗 earthandviy.co
If you approach cannabis through a wellness lens or appreciate a little more guidance when you shop, check out Earth & Ivy. The independent dispensary was founded by Rutgers graduates and longtime friends who were drawn to cannabis through personal experiences with its therapeutic benefits.
That perspective carries over into the store’s emphasis on education and helping customers find products suited to their individual needs rather than chasing a THC percentage. That level of customer service can be particularly helpful if you’re newer to cannabis or returning to it after a long break.
Its location is another advantage. The dispensary sits on George Street in downtown New Brunswick, within walking distance of Rutgers, restaurants, entertainment, and the train station.
Puffin: A Great Selection and Fun Times
📍 382 George Street
🔗 puffinstorenj.com
Just down the street from Earth & Ivy, Puffin is a bright, whimsical space that feels welcoming and fun, starting with the fact that it’s themed after the adorable bird (not the act) for which it’s named. The play on words weaves throughout the store, with puffin-inspired dolls and decor intermixed with an impressive selection of brands both local to New Jersey and that you might know and love from other states.
Jester’s Joint: Right by Rutgers
📍 70 Easton Avenue
🔗 jestersdispensary.com
Jester’s Joint is conveniently located on Easton Avenue, right by Rutgers University’s College Avenue campus. Throw in the fact that they offer discounts for both university students and employees, and this is the place to go if you’re associated with the school. Don’t have a Rutgers ID? There are also special offers for first-time shoppers, veterans, seniors, and more.
🎓 Where Can You Consume Cannabis?
Being able to purchase cannabis legally doesn’t mean you can consume it wherever you’d like. Smoking and vaping are subject to smoke-free laws and other restrictions. While New Jersey permits use in private spaces, owners and landlords can choose not to allow it on their properties or restrict it to certain areas.
Before you leave the dispensary, ask your budtender to recommend where to go to smoke or vape—they’ll always know the good spots! And if you’re staying over, check your hotel or vacation rental’s cannabis and smoking policies rather than assuming a balcony, patio, or smoking area is cannabis-friendly.
🎓 What to Do in New Brunswick, NJ
The real appeal of New Brunswick for cannabis travelers is that there’s plenty to do beyond visiting interesting dispensaries.
Explore Rutgers University
Rutgers is a huge part of New Brunswick’s personality, and the College Avenue campus is easy to explore on foot. Walk around, check out The Yard, and stroll along the surrounding streets before making your way toward the shops and restaurants on Easton Avenue and downtown.
Catch a Game
New Brunswick comes alive on game days. On the basketball court, the Scarlet Knights have made it to the NCAA tournament eight times, and the team consistently sends players to the NBA. Over at SHI Stadium, the football team thrills more than 54,000 spectators and fans at a time.
Both teams play in Piscataway, NJ, a short drive or carshare from New Brunswick. Even if you’re not attending in person, the atmosphere all over town is electric when Rutgers athletes play!
Visit the Zimmerli Art Museum
Because who doesn’t want to get lifted and stare at paintings? Located on the Rutgers campus, the Zimmerli Art Museum boasts a collection of more than 75,000 works of art. You’ll find pieces in a variety of mediums and styles ranging from children’s literature to Soviet nonconformist art. Bonus: admission is free.
Wander Through Rutgers Gardens
If you’d love being surrounded by flowers, Rutgers Gardens includes display gardens, natural areas, walking spaces, and a student farm, providing a quieter contrast to downtown. This serene spot is located outside of downtown core, but having a car or using rideshare puts it within easy reach.
Remember: Don’t confuse an outdoor attraction with a legal consumption space. Follow all property rules regarding smoking and cannabis.
See a Show at State Theatre New Jersey
Downtown’s historic State Theatre New Jersey hosts Broadway productions, concerts, comedy, dance, and other performances throughout the year. Its Livingston Avenue location makes it particularly easy to combine with an afternoon spent exploring with a relaxing dinner before the show.
Belly Laugh at Stress Factory
Ask your budtender for something that’ll give you the giggles, and head to a stand-up comedy show at Stress Factory Comedy Club. The downtown venue regularly brings in nationally known comedians and touring acts.
🎓 Where to Eat in New Brunswick, NJ
New Brunswick has a deep restaurant scene ranging from student institutions and casual international spots to restaurants suited for a full night out. Come here hungry, but decide where you’re going to eat before the munchies kick in. Otherwise, you’ll never be able to choose.
For a classic Rutgers experience, Stuff Yer Face is a longtime Easton Avenue institution best known for its bolis. It’s an especially easy pairing with Jester’s Joint and a walk around College Avenue.
Destination Dogs takes a creative, globally inspired approach to hot dogs.
Otherwise, continue walking toward downtown and George Street, where you’ll find Earth & Ivy and Puffin within easy reach of restaurants, shops and entertainment.
🎓 Where to Stay in New Brunswick, NJ
💰💰💰 Hyatt Regency New Brunswick: The luxe downtown property features beautifully appointed guest rooms, an on-site restaurant, a pool, and a game room.
💰💰 The Heldrich: Also set downtown, this upscale hotel bears the name of a prominent Rutgers alum and offers 235 rooms and suites, a pool, on-site dining, and a spa.
💰 Hampton Inn North Brunswick / New Brunswick: A more casual option that’s set slightly outside of downtown, this limited-service hotel offers an indoor pool and free breakfast, among other perks.
Explore more hotels in and near New Brunswick.
🎓 Getting to New Brunswick
NJ Transit’s Northeast Corridor line connects New Brunswick with New York Penn Station, Newark, and destinations throughout New Jersey. Once you’re off the train, Rutgers, Easton Avenue, George Street, restaurants, entertainment, and all three New Brunswick dispensaries are easy to reach on foot.
Be advised: Just because you’re traveling by train rather than driving doesn’t change that it’s illegal to transport cannabis across state lines.
If you’re driving, New Brunswick is right off of the New Jersey Turnpike, Route 18, Route 1, and Route 27. Downtown garages and lots are generally a better bet than relying on street parking.
🎓 New Brunswick Cannabis FAQ
Is recreational cannabis legal in New Brunswick?
Yes. In New Jersey, adults 21 and older can legally purchase adult-use cannabis from licensed dispensaries.
Can tourists buy cannabis in New Jersey?
Yes, as long as you can present acceptable government-issued identification verifying you’re at least 21.
How much cannabis can I buy?
You can purchase up to the equivalent of one ounce of cannabis per transaction, which can be comprised of flower, concentrates, vapes, and ingestible cannabis products.
Can I smoke cannabis in my hotel in New Brunswick?
Only if the property permits it. Hotels and other accommodations can legally decide to prohibit cannabis consumption, so check the hotel’s policy. Even if a property allows cigarette smoking on balconies and in outdoor spaces, different rules might apply to cannabis.
Are there dispensaries near Rutgers?
Yes. Jester’s Joint is on Easton Avenue alongside the College Avenue area, while Earth & Ivy and Puffin are located on George Street downtown.
Are there dispensaries within walking distance of the New Brunswick train station?
Yes. Earth & Ivy, Puffin, and Jester’s Joint can all be incorporated into a car-free trip to New Brunswick.
What are your favorite things to see, do, and eat in New Brunswick, NJ? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
