Princeton, New Jersey: A Visitors Guide
Princeton, home of the prestigious ivy league university, offers much more than the typical “ College Town”. It has a picturesque, vibrant downtown, with upscale shops, restaurants, businesses, theatre, and places of historical interest.
Located midway between Philadelphia and New York, draws visitors from both cities who come to Princeton for its charm, educational facilities, historical interest, and entertainment activities.
Princeton has a rich historical heritage. In 1777, George Washington led the American patriots against General Cornwallis's British forces in the Battle of Princeton. Later in 1783, the Continental Congress met in the university's Nassau Hall, convening here when news came that the peace treaty between Britain and America had been signed.
This same structure later served as a temporary capital for the new nation while DC was being established.
This town is especially attractive in the summer and the autumn months, when its tree-lined streets, many of them over 100 years old, manicured lawns, flowers, walks, and hedges, and mansions are all in harmony with nature.
Palmer Square
located in the heart of the downtown center, this is a charming collection of shops, restaurants, offices, and residences surrounding the Town Green and the historic Nassau Inn.
Built in 1937, Palmer Square was designed with colonial-style buildings of brick, stone, wood, and stucco that complement the architecture of the University.
America 's best minds have been visiting and meeting here for over 200 years, from the first sessions of the Continental Congress, to Albert Einstein, to today's high-tech conventions.
The flourishing region continues to be the choice of people who want to experience American history in a picturesque and charming setting with easy access to high end education and high tech corporate facilities.
For visitors, there are a large variety of good restaurants and more than 5100 guest rooms with amenities that appeal to families, historians, and business travelers.
Things to See and Do
Princeton University
A co-educational private university, chartered in 1746, The campus has a unique charm with many stone, turrets and Gothic arches. They are wide variety of broad lawns with trees and flora. Walk the grounds, or sign up to take a guided tour.
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Drumthwacket
The official residence of the Governor of New Jersey and was built in 1835. Drumthwacket and the surrounding land was sold to the state in 1966 and was made into the governor's mansion in 1982.
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Morven Museum & Garden
Morven's history is America's history. Experience it through the lens of this National Historic Landmark. As home to one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and five New Jersey governors, Morven has played a role in the history of New Jersey and the nation for more than 200 years.
Situated on 5 acres, the beautiful historic gardens surrounding the Morven Museum mansion from the 18th and 19th centuries include a Colonial Revival Garden and their changing Demonstration Garden.
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McCarter heatre
Recognized as one of this country’s leading regional theaters, it is the only organization in this country that is both a professional producing theater and a major presenter of the performing arts.
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Princeton Battlefield Park
In 1777, George Washington and his troops defeated the British at the end of "The Ten Crucial Days" which saw the well-known night crossing of the Delaware River, The house contains period furniture and Revolutionary War exhibits.
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Herrontown Woods Arboretum
Located on 142 acres, it is open to the public every day at no cost. It contains a pine forest, over 30 species of trees, shrubs, and flowers, and walking trails. The arboretum is free and open to the public every day.
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The Bainbridge House
Home of the Historical Society of Princeton. It is a small but informative display of local history where one can find everything from pottery created by the Lenape Indians, to the area's pre-European dwellers. The society sponsors a two-hour walking tour.
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Lake Carnegie
In the northeastern corner of the town, the Delaware and Raritan Canal and its associated tow path are situated along the eastern shore of the lake. The lake is used by the university's rowing team. It's open to the public for ice skating and fishing.
Places to Stay in Princeton
Double Tree
Located outside of town, offers good value. Take the complimentary shuttle to downtown Princeton, Princeton University, and all other attractions within a five-mile radius of the hotel.
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Hampton Inn
Located outside of town, well maintained with good value. Rooms include a 46-inch HDTV and free high-speed internet access.
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Holiday Inn
Located outside of town, good place for business travelers who need to be in the Princeton/Forrestal area
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Hyatt Regency
Located just outside the downtown area, one of the most luxurious hotels in Princeton. They offer a glass-enclosed pool with a lounge on the sun deck, a fitness center, and tennis courts.
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Marriott Courtyard
Located outside of town, an older style hotel with an updated reception area., large work area, heated indoor swimming pool, and a fitness room.
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Nassau Inn
An historic inn with "old school charm"located in the heart of Princeton. There is an on-site fitness center, and a business center. The suites include a sofa bed.
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Sonesta ES Suites
Features a fully equipped kitchens, free daily breakfast, on-site laundry facilities, an outdoor pool , fitness center, and shuttle service within a 5-mile radius of hotel
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The Peacock Inn
Located within walking distance from the University, this Eighteenth century mansion with a storied history of famed guests has an on-site fine dining restaurant
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