Inn The News

5 Reasons to Stay at the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center: The Ideal Destination for Business, Conferences, and Leisure

Whether you’re here for a business trip, an academic conference, or just an overnight getaway, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center offers a rare mix of comfort, convenience, and charm. Nestled on the historic Rutgers campus in New Brunswick, NJ, our Inn feels like a quiet retreat while keeping you close to everything you need.

Here’s why guests choose us again and again:

1. Prime Location: Conveniently Central to New York City and Philadelphia

We’re tucked right in the heart of New Brunswick, NJ—perfectly placed between New York City and Philadelphia. With major highways and public transit nearby, you can spend the day in the city and be back in time for a peaceful evening walk on our wooded grounds. It’s the best of both worlds: easy access to big-city energy, with the calm of a campus setting.

2. Ideal for Business and Academic Travelers

Coming for meetings, lectures, or campus events? You’ll love how easy it is to get around. We’re steps away from Rutgers’ academic spaces and we also offer our own modern meeting rooms with fast Wi-Fi, AV equipment, and seating for up to 104 guests. After a full day, your guest room is ready with plush bedding and plenty of quiet—so you can recharge.

3. Perfect for Corporate Events

From conferences to retreats to banquets, our spaces make planning simple. Surrounded by greenery, with flexible room setups and custom catering, our conference center is designed to make your event feel seamless. And our experienced team is there every step of the way to help.

4. Access to Local Attractions and Entertainment

Beyond campus, New Brunswick has plenty to explore. Catch a show at the State Theatre New Jersey, browse local museums, or grab dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants. Guests also enjoy free parking and access to the Rutgers campus bus system right outside our door. Want to explore further? Princeton, Edison, and Newark Airport are all a short drive away.

5. Modern Comfort and Convenience

Each guest room is set up with what you need to feel at home—high-speed internet, TVs, workspaces, and cozy beds. Business travelers can also take advantage of on-site lounges to stay productive. Whether you’re in town for work or relaxation, we’ve got the balance just right. And yes—we’re the only hotel on the Rutgers campus.

Blog posted on 12/2/2024.

Event Planning Checklist: How Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center Makes Planning Easier

Planning an event can be a daunting task, but with the right venue, it can become a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re organizing a corporate meeting, an academic conference, or a work retreat, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center in New Brunswick, NJ, offers everything you need to make event planning easier and more efficient. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through an essential event planning checklist and show you how the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center supports you every step of the way.

1. Define Your Event Goals and Objectives

Before diving into the logistics, it’s important to define what you want to achieve with your event. Are you looking to host a professional development workshop, a corporate conference, or a special retreat? Understanding the purpose of your event will help guide the rest of your planning process. At the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center, you’ll find a variety of meeting spaces that can be tailored to suit your goals, from large conference rooms for seminars to intimate spaces for private meetings.

How the Inn Helps:
The conference center at the Rutgers University Inn provides flexible event spaces with customizable seating arrangements, advanced AV equipment, and professional event support. Whether you need a formal setup for a business event or a casual layout for a team-building session, their team is there to assist with your New Brunswick conference planning vision.

2. Create a Budget

A solid budget is essential for ensuring your event stays on track financially. Make sure to factor in everything from room fees to catering costs, and overnight guest rooms if required. The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center offers a range of pricing options based on the size and scope of your event, making it easy to find a package that fits your needs and budget.

How the Inn Helps:
The Inn offers transparent pricing for its event spaces and catering services, and our team is happy to work with you to develop a package that suits your budget. Whether you're planning a large conference or a more intimate gathering, you’ll find options that meet your financial goals, at our low-budget and affordable event space.

3. Select the Right Date and Time

Choosing the right date and time for your event is critical, especially if you’re coordinating with guest speakers, vendors, or other key participants. The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is centrally located, making it a convenient option for guests traveling from New York City or Philadelphia. Whether you’re planning a half-day seminar or a multi-day conference, the flexible booking options allow you to select the most suitable dates for your event.

How the Inn Helps:
The Rutgers University Inn offers easy-to-navigate booking systems that let you check availability in real time. Plus, with its location close to major highways and public transit, it ensures that guests can easily attend your event, no matter where they’re coming from.

4. Choose Your Catering and Refreshments

Food and beverages are an essential part of any event and choosing the right catering options can elevate the entire experience. Whether you’re planning a buffet lunch, a formal dinner, or just a coffee break, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center provides a variety of affordable catering options to fit your event type. Their culinary team can create customized menus based on your event’s theme, dietary restrictions, and guest preferences. We are known for having delicious foods to fit specific dietary requirements!

How the Inn Helps:
With a full range of catering services, the Inn offers everything from light refreshments to gourmet meals, served in elegant settings. Their event planning team will work closely with you to choose a menu that meets your needs and ensures that your guests are well taken care of throughout the day.

5. Arrange for AV Equipment and Technology

In today’s world, no event is complete without reliable AV equipment. Whether you’re hosting a presentation, a panel discussion, or a virtual event, having the right technology in place is key. The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is equipped with the latest AV technology, including microphones, projectors, screens, and video conferencing capabilities.

How the Inn helps: 
We have AV equipment and technology equipment available right on-site.

6. Finalize Your Event Details and RSVP

Once you’ve locked in the major components of your event, it’s time to finalize the details. Confirm your guest list, send out RSVPs, and communicate any special instructions to your attendees. The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center makes it easy to organize guest accommodations as well. With comfortable rooms and convenient proximity to the event spaces, your guests will have everything they need to enjoy their stay.

How the Inn Helps:
For multi-day events, the Inn can assist with group booking for attendees and help with logistics such as special room requests. Their guest services team ensures that all your guests are taken care of, leaving you to focus on the event itself.

Blog posted on 12/2/2024.

Get Ready for 2025 – The Holiday Season is Almost Here!

The holiday season is just around the corner, and while you’re preparing to celebrate with family, friends, and colleagues, we at the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center are gearing up to make your stay and upcoming events truly unforgettable. As we move out of 2025 and into 2025, we’re excited to offer a wide range of services that ensure a memorable experience, no matter the occasion.

_{Embrace the Season with Comfort and Convenience}

Whether you’re visiting New Brunswick for a getaway retreat, attending a conference, or planning a meeting, the Rutgers Inn is here to provide a comfortable and inviting space for all your needs. With cozy rooms, convenient amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere, we’re ready to make your time with us relaxing and enjoyable.

Our location offers easy access to all that Rutgers University and the surrounding area have to offer, making it the perfect home base for your 2025 celebrations. From university events to exploring local attractions, we’re just a short distance away from all the excitement.

_{Wide Range of Catering Options for All Dietary Needs}

At Rutgers Inn and Conference Center, we understand that every guest has unique tastes and dietary preferences. That’s why we offer an extensive range of catering options designed to accommodate all dietary needs. Whether you're vegan, gluten-free, or have any other dietary restrictions, our talented catering team will create a delicious and tailored menu for your event or stay.

From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches and elegant dinners, we pride ourselves on offering variety, quality, and flexibility. Let us handle the details so you can focus on enjoying the moment, knowing that every guest will have something tasty and satisfying to enjoy.

_{Plan Ahead in 2025 – We’re Ready to Host You}

As we're beginning the new year, now is the perfect time to start planning your stay with us in 2025. Whether you’re booking accommodations for a conference, a relaxing weekend away, or preparing for a future event, we’re ready to provide the warm hospitality and excellent service you’ve come to expect.

At Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center, we’re always one step ahead in creating a space that’s comfortable, convenient, and flexible for all our guests. As the new year approaches, we look forward to hosting you and ensuring your stay or event is exactly what you envisioned.

_{Book Your Stay or Event Today}

Don’t wait until the last minute—book your stay or event for 2025 today, and take the first step toward a stress-free, enjoyable experience at the Rutgers Inn and Conference Center. We can’t wait to welcome you and help you make your time here special!

Click Here to Book your Event

Posted on 12/18/2024, edited on 2/3/2025.

_{The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is Back Inn-Action for 2025!}

Exciting news for event planners, meeting organizers, and conference enthusiasts! The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is now fully open for all event, meeting, and conference bookings in 2025. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large-scale conference, this affordable venue offers a versatile range of services and facilities to ensure your event is a resounding success.

_{Full-Service Offerings for Every Occasion}

The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is more than just a meeting space; it's a one-stop destination for all your event needs. From comprehensive food and beverage options to adaptable conference spaces that accommodate groups of all sizes, you'll find everything you need under one roof. Plus, with comfortable overnight guest rooms available, you can effortlessly host multi-day events without the hassle of coordinating additional accommodations.

_{A Picturesque Location in the Heart of Rutgers}

Nestled on a stunning 21-acre estate surrounded by nature, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center provides a serene backdrop for any event. Despite its tranquil setting, the venue is conveniently located at 178 Ryders Lane, right in the heart of Rutgers University's New Brunswick campus. Guests will enjoy the best of both worlds—a peaceful retreat just minutes away from the vibrant downtown New Brunswick scene. With its eclectic mix of entertainment, dining, and nightlife options, the area ensures there's always something exciting to do.

_{A Team That Makes the Difference}

One of the hallmarks of the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is its exceptional staff. Known for their friendliness, professionalism, and dedication, the team goes above and beyond to ensure every detail of your event is executed perfectly. Their commitment to service truly embodies the vibrant and welcoming spirit of Rutgers, making every guest’s experience unforgettable.

_{Book Your Rutgers Experience Today}

Whether you're planning a corporate meeting, an academic conference, or a professional retreat, the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is the ideal venue to bring your vision to life. From its full-service amenities to its idyllic location and outstanding staff, this venue offers everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience.

Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the Rutgers spirit while enjoying the convenience and charm of this unique venue. Book your event or overnight stay today and discover why the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is the ultimate choice for 2025.

Click here to book a meeting

Posted on 1/18/2025

Valentine's Day Date Ideas Near the Rutgers Inn

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re in or near New Brunswick, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant area offers plenty of options for couples looking to celebrate love—whether you’re in the mood for a lovely dinner, a fun activity, or a relaxing day together. To make your planning easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best date ideas and special Valentine’s Day menus near the Rutgers Inn.

_{1. Enjoy a Romantic Dinner}

Dining out is a classic Valentine’s Day tradition, and New Brunswick is home to an array of fantastic restaurants. Here are some of our top picks offering special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menus:

• The Frog and The Peach: Known for its contemporary American cuisine, this restaurant is offering a multi-course Valentine’s Day menu. You can enjoy dishes like filet mignon, pan-seared scallops, and rich chocolate desserts. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a wine from their extensive list. 

  Click here to view their Valentine's Menu

• Delta’s Restaurant: For those craving soul food, Delta’s offers a warm and lively atmosphere. Their Valentine’s Day specials include comfort food classics with a gourmet twist. 

  Click here to view their Valentine's Menu

_{2. Take a Stroll Through Rutgers Gardens}

If you’re looking for a daytime activity, consider visiting Rutgers Gardens. Even in February, the gardens offer a peaceful setting for a romantic walk. You could even bring along a thermos of hot cocoa to keep warm!

_{3. Catch a Show at the State Theatre New Jersey}

Treat yourselves to a night of entertainment at the historic State Theatre. February’s lineup includes performances that range from live music to Broadway-style productions. Check their schedule in advance and secure tickets for a special night out.

Click here to view upcoming events

_{4. Spend the Evening Laughing at the Stress Factory Comedy Club}

Laughter is a great way to connect, and the Stress Factory Comedy Club in New Brunswick offers the perfect setting for a fun, and funny, Valentine’s Day date. Enjoy a lineup of comedians while sharing drinks and bites from their menu. 

Click here to learn about the Valentine's Day show

_{5. Explore Downtown New Brunswick’s Art Scene}

For a creative date idea, explore the art galleries and public murals around downtown New Brunswick.  You can even visit the Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers University to enjoy their stunning collections and exhibitions.

_{6. Book a Couples’ Spa Day}

For the ultimate in relaxation, treat yourselves to a spa day by getting a massage right on campus. 

Locations include: Werblin Rec Center (656 Bartholomew Rd., Piscataway NJ) & Cook/Douglass Rec Center (50 Biel Rd., New Brunswick NJ). 

*Appointments are only available for the Rutgers community. 

Click Here to Learn More

_{7. Wrap Up the Evening at the Rutgers Inn}

End your Valentine’s Day with a cozy stay at the Rutgers Inn. With comfortable accommodations and a charming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax after your adventures. Plus, staying here puts you close to all the New Brunswick action while providing a peaceful retreat.

Click here to book your stay

Whether you’re planning a grand evening or a low-key day, New Brunswick has plenty to offer. Book your dinner reservations and activities early, and don’t forget to reserve your stay at the Rutgers Inn for a peaceful ending to your special day.

Posted on 1/28/2025

Our featured restaurant this month is Evelyn's Restaurant! Conveniently located at 45 Easton Ave, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Evelyn's offers a delicious selection of Mediterranean dishes and a vibrant bar scene. As the weather warms up, keep Evelyn's in mind for a fun outdoor dining experience—perfect for visitors exploring Rutgers University or downtown New Brunswick.

We had the pleasure of partnering with Evelyn's to learn about their journey and how they built their thriving restaurant. Keep reading to discover the inspiring story behind this beloved New Brunswick hotspot!

All About Evelyn's -- Owner's Words:

"Evelyn’s began as a vision to bring fresh, flavorful dishes to the heart of New Brunswick. We have been in New Brunswick since the early 80’s.  From our humble beginnings, we’ve focused on creating a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that reflects our passion for great food and community. Over the years, our menu has grown to feature a wide range of options from Mediterranean-inspired plates to classic comfort foods—always emphasizing quality ingredients and vibrant flavors. As our reputation spread, we expanded both our team and our dining space to accommodate the wonderful patrons who have become like family to us.

Our restaurant has always believed in the power of coming together to support one another. We regularly host events that bring the Rutgers community and local residents together, whether it’s a fundraiser, a meet-and-greet, or a special cultural celebration. We also offer discounts for Rutgers students and faculty to show our appreciation for their support. Through these events, we aim not only to serve great food but also to foster meaningful connections and encourage a spirit of collaboration in the neighborhood.

We’re proud to partner with various student clubs and organizations at Rutgers, as well as local nonprofits and community groups throughout New Brunswick. Whether we’re donating meals for a charity drive, hosting student-led fundraisers, or participating/sponsoring community events, from the Salvation Army, Colab Arts, New Brunswick tomorrow, and various youth programs, we believe these collaborations are at the heart of what makes our city thrive. By working side by side with these groups, we’re able to help create a positive impact, build lasting relationships, and strengthen the sense of unity within our diverse community.

New Brunswick’s food scene is special because of its remarkable diversity. You can walk down the street and encounter a world of cuisines, each representing different cultural backgrounds and culinary traditions. The city’s energy—fueled by a vibrant student population, a thriving arts scene, and a passionate local community—encourages restaurants to innovate and collaborate. This mix of tradition and creativity is what sets New Brunswick apart and continues to inspire us to serve up new flavors and experiences.

We love being part of a city that values community, culture, and education. Being right next to Rutgers allows us to welcome students, faculty, and visiting families from all over the world. Their enthusiasm and diverse perspectives bring so much life to our dining room, but also to our lives, we have made great friends from across the world. It’s incredibly rewarding to be a place where people can share a meal, celebrate milestones, and form lasting memories. Our favorite part of being a New Brunswick restaurant is knowing that we play a meaningful role in bringing people together, fostering connections, and contributing to the vibrant community spirit that makes this city so special every single day!!"

View Menu

Thank you, Gus, for sharing this incredible story! What a beautiful progression Evelyn's has made throughout its time in New Brunswick. It's great to see how Evelyn's has become such a cherished part in the New Brunswick and Rutgers community.

Posted on 2/24/2025

_{^{🌸 5 Picture-Perfect Spring Spots on Rutgers Campus (All Walking Distance!)}}

Spring is here, and Rutgers is blooming! If you're staying at the Rutgers Inn and Conference Center, you're in luck—some of the prettiest spots on campus are just a short walk away.

Whether you’re visiting for a conference, checking out the campus, or just enjoying a weekend getaway, here are five great spots to explore this season. Oh—and they're all perfect for photos, too!

_{^{📍1. Passion Puddle}}

This quiet little pond is a Rutgers favorite. In spring, it's surrounded by blooming trees and green grass—perfect for a peaceful walk or a cute picnic photo. It’s especially pretty in the morning when the light hits just right.

_{^{📍2. Rutgers Gardens}}

Just a short walk from the Inn, this place is full of colorful flowers, trees, and even a bamboo grove. It's like stepping into a little nature getaway. If you're into plant photos or just love a good garden stroll, this is the spot.

_{^{📍3. Cook Campus Farm}}

Want to meet some baby animals? The Cook Farm has goats, cows, and other friendly farm animals—and in spring, you might catch some newborns. It’s sweet, peaceful, and a fun photo stop (especially if you're an animal lover!).

_{^{📍4. Voorhees Mall}}

This classic part of the College Avenue campus is full of old buildings, trees, and wide walkways. In spring, it’s lined with blooming flowers and shady spots to relax. Great for people-watching, reading on a bench, or snapping a campus shot.

_{^{📍5. The Floriculture Greenhouse}}

This hidden gem is full of tropical plants, succulents, and seasonal flowers. It’s a great place to visit if the weather’s not great—or if you just love plants. Bonus: the lighting is perfect for cool indoor photos.

So go out and enjoy the sunshine, the flowers, and the fresh air! These spots are all close by, easy to explore, and full of that spring magic. Don't forget to bring your phone—you’ll want to remember this.🌷

Posted on 4/22/2025

Rutgers Commencement Weekend Itinerary

Thanks for letting us be part of your big weekend—here’s to celebrating everything you’ve accomplished at Rutgers.

May 16–18, 2025
Comfort. Connection. Spirit.

_{^{Friday, May 16th: Welcome Back!}}

 Check-In at the Rutgers University Inn

• After a long week of finals, we welcome you or your family back to campus to enjoy the last memories of the incredible college experience you are closing the chapter of. 

• Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your room surrounded by 21 acres of peaceful, wooded campus grounds.

• Take a deep breath—this is your weekend to celebrate all of your hard work over the last 4 years.

Dinner at Evelyn’s Restaurant

• Head to Evelyn’s in downtown New Brunswick for Mediterranean food on an outdoor patio perfect for this warmer spring evening.

Evening Stroll Down College Ave

• Walk off dinner and take a nostalgia-filled stroll past the Rutgers Student Center, Old Queens, and the Voorhees Mall.

• Take all the pictures this weekend! You'll want them to look back on in the future!

_{^{Saturday, May 17th: Celebrate & Explore}}

Morning Coffee + Relax at the Inn

• Enjoy a calm morning with coffee on the Inn’s patio or enjoy a walk on the Arbor Trail nature path.

• Don’t forget to pick up your commencement outfit and regalia if you haven’t yet!

 Explore New Brunswick

• Browse the shops downtown. Be sure to check out Spina Records record shop and Thomas Sweet for some goodies to take home.

Lunch at Fritz's

• A local favorite offering breakfast and lunch, perfect for a casual bite in the heart of Easton Ave.

Afternoon Photoshoot on Campus

• Take any last-minute iconic grad photos at:

  • The Rutgers “R” on College Ave

  • Passion Puddle on Cook/Douglass Campus

  • The Rutgers R outside of the Business School/Jersey Mike's Arena

Dinner with Family or Friends

• Make a reservation at The Frog and the Peach for a more upscale dinner—or keep it simple with group-friendly dining at Stuff Yer Face (hello, stromboli!).

Sweet Dreams at the Inn

• Return to your cozy room and get ready for tomorrow -- it’s almost Commencement Day!

_{^{Sunday, May 18th: Commencement Day}}

Rutgers University Commencement Ceremony

• The festivities begin at SHI Stadium at 10am—make sure to arrive early for good seating and parking.

• Pack water, sunglasses, your proudest smile, and maybe some tissues—for the tears, the laughs, and maybe that goodbye hug you didn’t think would hit so hard.

Farewell Lunch or Dinner

• Celebrate with one last meal in New Brunswick—visit our Scarlet Shop in our lobby for or grab-and-go snacks before your exit.

Check-Out and Goodbye

• Depart the Inn with a heart full of memories and a camera full of photos.

• Rutgers will always be home—and you’re always welcome back!

Posted on 5/2/2025

_{^{Discovering the Hidden Gem: Rutgers’ Historic Arbor Trail}}

Just behind the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center, the Arbor Trail offers a quiet escape into nature and history. Created in 1911 as part of the Carpender Estate, this charming path has grown into a space for learning, exploring, and enjoying the outdoors.

_{^{A Walk-Through Time & Nature}}

The trail starts by the Inn’s patio, marked by a wooden sign. Stone steps lead past the upper pond, winding through paths to a historic apple orchard, a spring creek, and the lower pond, where you can sit on a bench and study, read, or relax. 

Wildlife is everywhere—frogs, squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, foxes, deer, and groundhogs make the trail their home. Along the way, you’ll see trees and plants like Japanese maples, ginkgo, azaleas, mountain laurel, and rare shrubs like the Yodogawa azalea.

_{^{Heritage of the Carpender Estate}}

The trail was designed by the Carpender's in 1911 to mimic the rolling meadows of England. Originally part of a private estate, it was used for studying non-native trees and even helped cool the home using pond water. Rutgers acquired the property in 1965, though the trail unfortunately fell into neglect over the following decades.

_{^{Rediscovery & Revival}}

In 2013, student Eliot Nagele rediscovered the overgrown trail and teamed up with Inn director Deana Pagnozzi to restore it. Students cleared debris, removed invasive plants, and mapped historic plantings. By 2015, the trail reopened, complete with a plaque honoring their efforts.

_{^{A Living Classroom}}

Today, the Arbor Trail is more than just a walk in the woods. Students use it for ecological and design projects, including rain gardens, augmented-reality trail journals, and study areas for tree ecology.

_{^{A Community Effort}}

Funding and maintenance continue thanks to partnerships—the Naturalist Club, Alpha Zeta fraternity, Landscape & Environmental Design Club, and Rutgers Gardens—working alongside university staff to keep the trail alive.

_{^{Why Visit?}}

The Arbor Trail blends history, nature, and learning. It’s a peaceful spot for a break, a hub for student research, and a reminder of the campus’s century-old legacy.

_{^{Plan Your Visit}}

Step off the Inn patio, take a stroll along the trail, and let the trees and wildlife tell their story. It’s a quiet escape right in the heart of New Brunswick.

Posted on 5/31/2025

Stay, Meet, and Celebrate at the Heart of Rutgers

Looking for Rutgers University accommodation that blends comfort, convenience, and charm? The Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center is your go-to campus hotel near Rutgers, nestled on 21 wooded acres in the heart of New Brunswick.

Whether you're planning a professional gathering, attending a graduation, or visiting a student, our university guest rooms and group lodging on the Rutgers campus offer a quiet, retreat-like setting—just minutes from the action in lively Downtown New Brunswick.

As a premier conference center in New Brunswick, we’re proud to host academic conference facilities, corporate retreats, and business meetings with flexible meeting spaces in New Jersey. Our academic event space rentals and full-service support make us a top choice for event planning at Rutgers University.

From short-term stays near Rutgers to university conference hosting, we provide everything you need for a seamless experience. Whether you're a visiting parent, guest lecturer, or planning an event, trust the University Inn in New Brunswick for your next visit.

Book your Rutgers parent accommodation or explore our event venues near Rutgers today—we’re ready to welcome you!

Posted on 6/24/2025

We understand—video calls are convenient. You can wear pajama pants, mute your mic, and still get your point across. But when it comes to building team trust, solving complex problems, or sparking new ideas, there's so many reasons to meet in-person.

In-person meetings encourage real conversation. Such as eye contact, body language, and that organic flow you can’t replicate through a screen. Whether it’s a team huddle, a client strategy session, or an annual planning day, meeting face-to-face often leads to better outcomes—and faster resolutions.

Plus, there’s the energy. Being in a shared space helps people feel more connected and engaged. It reminds everyone they’re part of something bigger than just their laptop. 

That’s why even fully remote companies are bringing back off-site meetings in New Jersey and booking dedicated conference spaces near Rutgers and beyond. This change of scenery does wonders for staff engagement. It breaks routine, boosts creativity, causes deeper conversation, and gives teams a space to focus without distractions.

So, while remote work may be here to stay, in-person moments still matter—and your next team gathering might just need a real table, not a virtual one.

Posted on 7/15/2025

 

Let’s be honest—meeting in the same old conference room with that flickering fluorescent light doesn’t exactly inspire greatness. Sometimes, the best thing you can do for your team is just get out of the office and have a team workshop or retreat.

There’s real value in off-site corporate meetings, changing up the environment helps people think differently and bounce ideas off of one another.

Ever notice how your best ideas come when you're away from your desk? That’s what off-site meetings can do. They create space for brainstorming, collaboration, and problem-solving that typically doesn't happen when the pressure is on to perform. 

Giving your team a break from the usual can be a great way to show appreciation. Planning a retreat is a great way to escape from the cubicles and show your staff that you're appreciative of them outside of their corporate schedule. 

Companies across the region are taking advantage of meeting spaces in Central New Jersey for just this reason. Spaces that are easy to get to, offer on-site lodging and catering, and let teams focus without distraction? That’s a win all around.

So next time your calendar fills up with back-to-back virtual calls, consider mixing it up. An off-site might be the refresh your team didn’t know they needed.

Posted on 7/21/2025.

_{^{Rooted: Sustainability at the Rutgers Inn}}

When you arrive at the Rutgers University Inn and Conference Center, the first thing you’ll notice isn’t the historic building—it’s the peace and quiet that surrounds you. Tucked away on 21 wooded acres, the Inn feels like a hidden jem of calm just minutes from downtown New Brunswick. Our trees offer cool shade to lounge outside, fresh air year-round, and a home for the wildlife.

While the Inn is best known for its warm hospitality and versatile meeting spaces, we’re also proud of the ways our property supports sustainability simply by design:

• Green Acres in the City: Our wooded location acts as a natural carbon filter, providing a healthier environment for guests and wildlife alike.

• Walkable Location: Steps away from Rutgers dining halls, cafés, and public transit, guests can enjoy their stay without relying on cars.

• Right-Sized Gatherings: By hosting intimate meetings, retreats, and conferences, we help groups minimize the environmental footprint of their events.

Of course, sustainability doesn’t stop at our doorstep. As part of the Rutgers community, we share in the university’s ongoing commitment to reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting greener practices across campus. Guests who choose to stay with us become part of that movement—whether they’re walking the Historic Arbor Trail, dining at a local cafe, or simply enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds the Inn.

Our roots run deep in Rutgers—and in sustainability!

Posted on 8/28/2025