A Scholar's Odyssey: Enlightening Escapades Through New Jersey

In the great tradition of Whitman, who once mused upon the city of hurried and sparkling waters, we embark on an erudite journey through that storied state New Jersey. Not merely a rest stop along the bustling I95 corridor, this vibrant and diverse region beckons with its dense metropolitan centers as well as bucolic splendor springing from historical roots and modern prowess alike.

One must begin in Princeton (Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544), home to one of our nations most esteemed institutions. Here you'll find no shortage of opportunities for intellectual discourse among ivyadorned walls. Art aficionados will rejoice at the mention of the famed Princeton University Art Museum (200 Elm Dr., Princeton, NJ 08544), where Warhol coexists peacefully alongside Da Vinci. History buffs shall be regaled by tales dating back centuries mere steps away from classrooms occupied by today's brightest minds.

Yet how could any learned traveler avoid acknowledging dear old Rutgers (Rutgers UniversityNew Brunswick Campus) ensconced within that hubbub known as New Brunswick? Venture forth into a world brimming with workshops and seminars on cuttingedge biomedical research or lauded evening recitals sure to enrapture your senses. And don't dare miss Zimmerli Art Museum (71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick, NJ 08901), showcasing international treasures just waiting to whisper their secrets.

For those desiring inventive engagement beyond hallowed halls, myriad possibilities lurk throughout every corner of this revolutionary landmass. Make haste towards Montclair State University's School for Continuing Education (1 Normal Ave., Montclair,) offering an extensive catalog teeming with expertled courses such as creative writing or ceramicsall designed with adult learners in mind!

But why limit oneself to university campuses when spaces like Newark Print Shop await? Join this bustling collaborative community (54 Halsey St., Newark, NJ 07102) where printmaking and local art thrive through interactive workshops. And if you're smitten by the literary temptations of yesteryear, attend a reading or workshop hosted by none other than The Writers Circle in South Orange's charming Baird Center (5 Mead St., South Orange, NJ 07079).

Journey onward to Hobokenyes! That birthplace of Sinatra himselfand prepare your senses for tutelage at Molo Film School (722 Jefferson St., Hoboken), which proudly teaches aspiring auteurs on the artful creation of cinematic masterpieces from concept to premier.

Craving yet further avantgarde enlightenment? Venture towards Jersey Citythe dynamic metropolis rapidly ascending as an artistic hub in its own rightwhere Mana Contemporary (888 Newark Ave., Jersey City,) stretches outward amidst aweinspiring former tobacco warehouses now teeming with recluses practicing arts both ancient and modern. From dance studios coursing with boundless grace to galleries adorned with enrapturing brushstrokes all reside within these hallowed walls.

As our refined sojourn draws nigh, cast thine eyes upon Grounds for Sculptures verdant splendora meticulously crafted wonderland home to nearly three hundred sculptures dotted amongst fortytwo acres that encompass Hamilton Township (80 Sculptors Way). Let yourself be transported into scenes from famous impressionist paintings and marvel at breathtaking installations while relishing plein air painting sessions in this serene setting.

Thusly do we conclude our scholarly excursion steeped in New Jersey's remarkable tapestryan educational journey melded seamlessly with true embrace of culture both past and present taking root amid winding highways lined by quaint diners rife with early morning banter. Surely dear reader will scarcely deny themselves such sapient indulgence when beckoned forthwith along each milemarker punctuating roads traversable only after a hearty plate of Taylor Ham and egg.

Websites:

Princeton University: www.princeton.edu

Rutgers University: www.rutgers.edu

The Writers Circle: www.writerscircleworkshops.com

Newark Print Shop: newarkprintshop.org

Mana Contemporary: manacontemporary.com

Twitter Handles:

Princeton University: @PrincetonRugters University :@RutgersUThe Writers Circle:@WritersCircleNJNew Funk Shop:@NewFhooksPrintoppMana Contemporary:@ManaContem