1. The Bamboo Forest in Rutgers Gardens
Rutgers Gardens is open year round with no admission fee and free parking. The park is closed on Mondays. Throughout the park you will encounter different kinds of gardens, a meteorology station, and a bamboo forest. When I brought Max to Rutgers Gardens it was almost 90 degrees outside, so the shade of the bamboo forest was much welcomed. There is also a small stream running alongside the forest that Max was able to drink from and cool off in. Though the bamboo forest is Rutgers Gardens’ claim to fame, the whole park is worth a look. We saw beautiful trees and flowers and ample space to have a picnic.
2. Friend’s Café
After working up an appetite walking through Rutgers Gardens, the best place to stop for lunch with your dog is Friend’s Café. This dog friendly café has both indoor and outdoor seating. I was so relieved because it was such a hot day and Max was able to sit inside in the air conditioning with me. Inside, you will find a Furry Friends wall with pictures of all the dogs that come into the shop. This coffee shop and bakery also offers a dog menu. I ordered a “doggy fruit pop” for Max, as well as “Zuko’s Steak Bowl.” His meal even came with a squeaky toy and some milk bones for dessert!
