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Princeton

Princeton, New Jersey, United States

Princeton, located in the picturesque state of New Jersey, is a charming town known for its rich history, prestigious university, and vibrant cultural scene. Founded in 1666, Princeton exudes a blend of old-world charm a…

#Ivy League#Higher Education#Historic#College Town#Cultural Hub

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Princeton.

Top Hotels in Princeton

Top Flights to Princeton

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Princeton.

Tours

Princeton University Campus Tour

Explore the historic and beautiful Princeton University campus, home to stunning architecture and rich history.

Shopping

Princeton Shopping Centre

Find a range of shops offering local crafts, books, and specialty items.

Outdoor

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park

Enjoy hiking, biking, and canoeing along this historic canal.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Princeton.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Princeton, New Jersey, is around 31,000.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Princeton

Jan

3°-6°

Feb

5°-5°

Mar

10°-1°

Apr

16°4°

May

22°10°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

30°19°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

25°14°

Oct

18°8°

Nov

12°2°

Dec

6°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Princeton.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to Princeton, New Jersey, particularly to visit the town of Princeton where Princeton University is located:

Historic Charm: Princeton is a picturesque town with a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Princeton Battlefield State Park, where a significant battle of the American Revolution took place.
Princeton University: One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the United States, Princeton University is a major attraction for visitors. The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Nassau Hall, and offers opportunities to attend lectures, events, and performances.
Cultural Attractions: Princeton is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing a range of artistic expressions. The Princeton University Art Museum, McCarter Theatre Center, and Princeton Garden Theatre are just a few of the cultural attractions worth exploring.
Natural Beauty: The town of Princeton is surrounded by scenic parks and natural areas, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. Nearby destinations like the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park offer even more options for nature lovers.
Shopping and Dining: Princeton boasts a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, offering a diverse selection of goods and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy shopping along Nassau Street, dining at cozy cafes, or trying out upscale restaurants for a taste of local flavors.

Overall, traveling to Princeton, New Jersey, offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and entertainment, making it a compelling destination for tourists and travelers.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Princeton, New Jersey, may include:

Expensive Cost of Living: Princeton is known to have a relatively high cost of living compared to other areas in New Jersey. This can make accommodations, dining, and other expenses more costly for travelers.
Limited Public Transportation: While Princeton has some public transportation options, they may be limited compared to larger cities. Renting a car or relying on rideshare services may be necessary for getting around.
Weather Variability: New Jersey's weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers. Travelers should be prepared for potential weather changes depending on the season of their visit.
Crowded During Academic Events: Princeton University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, attracts many visitors for academic events, conferences, and graduations. During these times, accommodations and local attractions may be crowded.
Traffic Congestion: Like many suburban areas, traffic congestion can be an issue in and around Princeton, especially during rush hours. Planning travel times accordingly can help mitigate this issue.
Limited Nightlife: While Princeton offers a charming small-town feel, the nightlife options may be more limited compared to larger cities. Travelers seeking vibrant nightlife scenes may find the options in Princeton to be relatively quiet.

Remember that these cons can vary depending on personal preferences and circumstances. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Princeton, New Jersey, has a rich historical tapestry, woven from its founding days in the colonial era to its modern status as a center of education and culture. The town is located in Mercer County and has a prominent place in American history.

Early History and Founding

Princeton's history dates back to the late 17th century. Initially, the area was inhabited by the Lenni Lenape Native Americans before European settlers arrived. The town was founded in the 1680s, and by 1724 it was named "Princeton" after William III of England, who was also known as the Prince of Orange.

The American Revolution

Princeton played a crucial role in the American Revolutionary War. The Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, was a pivotal victory for General George Washington's forces over the British, which helped turn the tide in favor of the Americans. This battle is commemorated at the Princeton Battlefield State Park, a significant landmark.

Princeton University

The College of New Jersey, now known as Princeton University, was established in 1746 in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and moved to Princeton in 1756. Nassau Hall, one of its oldest buildings, served as the temporary capital of the United States in the summer of 1783, when the Continental Congress convened there. The university has been a bastion of higher learning and has produced numerous influential figures, including two U.S. presidents, James Madison and Woodrow Wilson.

Significant Figures

Albert Einstein: The renowned physicist lived in Princeton from 1933 until his death in 1955 and was associated with the Institute for Advanced Study, a separate institution from the university but located in the town.
Woodrow Wilson: Before becoming the 28th president of the United States, Wilson was the president of Princeton University from 1902 to 1910. He lived in what is now known as the Woodrow Wilson House.

19th and 20th Centuries

During the 19th century, Princeton evolved from a quaint college town into a more prosperous and populous community. The establishment of the Princeton Theological Seminary in 1812 contributed to the town's reputation as an academic hub.

In the 20th century, Princeton continued to grow, both in population and in cultural significance. The university and the town became centers of intellectual and scientific advancement, attracting scholars and scientists from around the world.

Important Landmarks

Princeton University: Besides Nassau Hall, the campus includes other historic buildings such as the Princeton University Chapel, Blair Hall, and the Art Museum.
Princeton Battlefield State Park: This park preserves the site of the Battle of Princeton and includes the Clarke House Museum, which served as a field hospital during the battle.
Drumthwacket: The official residence of the governor of New Jersey, this historic mansion is located just outside the town.
Morven Museum & Garden: Once the official residence of the New Jersey governor, Morven is now a museum showcasing the state's cultural heritage.
Albert Einstein House: Though not open to the public, the house where Einstein lived is a site of interest.

Princeton today is known not only for its historical significance but also for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse community, and its ongoing contributions to education and research.