Things to do in Princeton, New Jersey
- Princeton served as the temporary capital of the United States for several months in 1783.
- The town is situated along the Delaware and Raritan Canal, which once served as a primary transportation artery for regional commerce.
- It is home to the Institute for Advanced Study, the institution where Albert Einstein spent the final years of his life.
- Despite its small size, the municipal boundaries were historically split between Princeton Borough and Princeton Township before consolidating into a single municipality in 2013.
- The town was the site of the Battle of Princeton in 1777, a turning point in the Revolutionary War.
About Princeton, New Jersey
Princeton is a historically significant town defined by the presence of one of the world's most prestigious Ivy League institutions. Beyond the campus, visitors can explore the Princeton Battle Monument, a testament to the town's pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War. Nature enthusiasts frequent Herrontown Woods for its tranquil trails, while culture seekers often visit The Princeton Garden Theatre for independent and classic film screenings. The area maintains a unique blend of academic heritage and colonial history that shapes its character.
Highlights of Princeton, New Jersey
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
This museum holds an extensive collection ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary photography.
Historical places
This site commemorates the crucial 1777 battle that bolstered American morale during the war.
Venues
This local venue offers a curated selection of independent, foreign, and classic cinema in a historic setting.
Parks
These woods feature diverse hiking trails and serve as a preserved ecological area for local wildlife.
Historical places
This preserved residence provides a glimpse into the headquarters used by George Washington during the conflict.
Historical places
The structure offers insight into the operational life of the Delaware and Raritan Canal during the 19th century.
Venues
The stadium serves as a major venue for collegiate football matches and regional sporting events.
Parks
This arboretum contains a diverse variety of specimen trees and provides a quiet space for botanical study.
Top things to do in Princeton, New Jersey
The 44 highest-rated places in Princeton, New Jersey, ranked by travellers.
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Temples
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey, is one of the largest Hindu temples outside of India. The camp...
2
Parks
Mercer County Park is a 2,500-acre regional park featuring a 365-acre lake used for competitive rowing and recreational...
3
Museums
The Princeton University Art Museum houses a collection exceeding 100,000 objects, ranging from ancient artifacts to con...
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Museums
Northlandz is a 16-acre indoor attraction located in Flemington, New Jersey, primarily housing one of the world's larges...
5
Parks
Sourland Mountain Preserve is a 4,000-acre wilderness area characterized by a dense forest canopy and a landscape domina...
6
Temples
The Muslim Center of Greater Princeton (MCGP) serves as a primary hub for the Muslim community in West Windsor, New Jers...
7
Parks
Etra Lake Park is a 57-acre municipal recreational facility centered around a man-made lake in East Windsor, New Jersey....
8
Venues
The Princeton Garden Theatre is a historic non-profit cinema located on Nassau Street that specializes in independent, f...
9
Historical places
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Venues
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Parks
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Zoos
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Historical places
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Temples
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Natural attractions
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Venues
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Parks
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Princeton, New Jersey on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Princeton, New Jersey
Late spring and early autumn, when the moderate weather is ideal for walking the historic campus and local parks.
2-3 days to explore the university landmarks, historical sites, and the surrounding nature preserves.
The downtown area is highly walkable, though a car is beneficial for reaching outlying parks and historical sites.
Stay in the downtown area near Nassau Street to be within walking distance of the university and local restaurants.
Expensive, as the town maintains high real estate values and premium dining and lodging options.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 44 curated attractions in and around Princeton, New Jersey, ranked by traveller ratings.
BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham USA is the highest-rated place to visit in Princeton, New Jersey right now.
The largest category is parks, with 18 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Bayonne, New Jersey, Downtown Los Angeles, Washington, D.C..
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