Part of Rutgers University, the Zimmerli Art Museum features a permanent collection of over 60,000 pieces of art along with several ever-changing galleries of contemporary and classic art from varied mediums. Included in the permanent collection is an impressive array of Russian and Soviet nonconformist art, French late-nineteenth and early-twentieth century prints and posters, and contemporary American prints. The visiting exhibitions frequently reflect similar themes to the permanent collections, including illustrations from children’s literature, contemporary Soviet photography, work by women artists, and retrospectives on famous photographers. The collections at ZAM are accessible for all, with $6 admission for adults and free admission for Rutgers students and faculty, members, and children under 18. ZAM is open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekends from noon to 5 p.m., and is closed on Mondays, major holidays, and during the month of August.
Zimmerli Art Museum
71 Hamilton Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 932-7237
Tucked away behind a bus strop, Amber Lion Antiques appeals to people willing to search a little bit for a good find. In business for over 23 years, the antique store has had plenty of time to acquire a wide range of one-of-a-kind vintage furniture, interior decorations, clothing, and more. Within the slightly cramped and musty interior, you can wander through gems such as animal hair upholstered furniture, vintage hats, dark wooden spindles, classic books, and old collections of stamps, and preserved butterflies.
The selection may be geared towards an older clientele, with homes to decorate and specific taste, but younger crowds can sift through vintage clothes and rock n’ roll records. Prices vary depending on the item’s age and rarity. Amber Lion is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and offers free, walk-in appraisals.
Amber Lion Antiques
356 George Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 214-9090
If you’re dining out in the Garden State, you’d better believe that you’ll find some good Italian food. New Brunswick locals have been swearing by Catherine Lombardi since the restaurant opened. Offering high-quality southern Italian food in a gorgeous location, Catherine Lombardi has been winning raves from picky eaters for dishes like the succulent chicken scarpariello, which is cooked to absolute perfection. The stuffed pork chop is ridiculously delicious, as is the incredible lasagna. In general, you can’t go wrong with the pasta dishes, as the noodles are made fresh and the sauces are spectacular. One of the real draws of this place is the bar, which rocks an old-school cocktail vibe that has regulars raving—you name it, the bartenders can make it completely fresh. The only complaint that diners level against Catherine Lombardi is that the prices are a bit high, but for a place like this it’s reasonable.
Catherine Lombardi
3 Livingston Avenue
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 296-9463
www.catherinelombardi.com
Where else in Newark can you gaze at the galaxies through a high-tech star projector, behold a Tibetan altar that’s been consecrated by the Dalai Lama and take a leisurely stroll through a sculpture garden? It’s all happening here at the Newark Museum, the largest museum in the state of New Jersey. Early American art, African art, Native American art, modern art and their collection of classical Greek, Etruscan, and Roman art are also part of the permanent exhibits at the museum. Also on the grounds and available for touring are the historic Victorian-era Ballantine mansion, a restored 1784 stone school house, and the Newark Fire Museum. The Newark Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Newark Museum
49 Washington Street
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 596-6550
