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In-person and virtual events.

Throughout the year, admission officers from Princeton host a series of virtual and in-person informational sessions around the world for prospective students and their families. Click the links below to view additional details for the program that works best for you.

• In-person Events in the United States
• Virtual Events in the United States
• Events Outside of the United States

Why Princeton? Fall 2023 Virtual Open House

Why Princeton?  virtual program highlights the academic, co-curricular and community offerings and resources at Princeton. The program is open to all students and may be of particular interest to first-generation students, students from lower-income backgrounds, students of color and students with intersecting identities. Why Princeton? includes an undergraduate student panel, discussions around affordability and conversations with residential college administrators and staff. 

Thursday, Oct. 26 from 7-8:30 p.m. ET

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Why Princeton? Fall 2023 On-Campus Open House

Why Princeton?  is an on-campus program that highlights the academic, co-curricular and community offerings and resources at Princeton. The program is open to all students, and may be of particular interest to first-generation students, students from lower-income backgrounds, students of color and students with intersecting identities. Why Princeton? includes an undergraduate student panel, discussions around affordability, and conversations with residential college administrators and staff. Lunch will be provided for all registered guests.

Friday, Sept. 29

Transfer Tuesdays Fall 2023 Open Houses

The Transfer Tuesday program is offered on the first Tuesday of each month during fall 2023 and will consist of an Admission Information Session and a Campus Tour led by one of our Transfer Student Ambassadors. The full program will be approximately two hours. The program is open to all students, but will be of particular interest to students from low-income and/or military backgrounds, and community colleges.

Tuesday, Nov. 7

Tuesday, Dec. 5

Invite Us to a College Fair

If you would like to invite a Princeton admission representative to a college fair, panel, workshop or other event, please email the invitation to [email protected] .

Whether in-person or virtual, explore our programming to uncover life at Princeton.

Tiger Talks

Dig deeper in conversations with current Princeton students to unpack the many facets of life on campus.

Campus Tour

Register for a tour to uncover how and why Princeton has a close-knit campus community.

Tiger Walks

Take the campus tour experience home as Orange Key tour guides lead you on a virtual walk around the heart of Princeton's 600+ acre campus!

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Princeton: A Visitor’s Guide

Have a spare afternoon and wish to explore scenic, historical, or cultural Princeton? Indoors or out or virtually, we have something for everyone, whether you have an hour or plan to spend the day.

Walking Tours

Download the Historical Society of Princeton ’s app and take a walk through the Witherspoon-Jackson Historic District on “The Albert E. Hinds Memorial Walking Tour: African American Life in Princeton,” narrated by Shirley Satterfield, a longtime Princetonian and local historian. The tour is also available on the  web . Or try this new offering from HSP and explore Hamilton’s Princeton as a virtual tour.

Take the Witherspoon Jackson Historical and Cultural Society’s Heritage Plaque tour of the same historic district.

There are a number of University walking tours available through GuidiGo , online or through the app. Topics include stories of women, traditions, African American life, “Firsts,” and Asian American life.

Visit the many sites that are part of the Arts Council of Princeton’s Tour of the Public Art Around Town .

Paul Robeson

Robeson grew up in the Witherspoon-Jackson neighborhood and his childhood home, at 110 Witherspoon Street, is the future site of a museum honoring his legacy.  His statue sits in front of the Arts Council of Princeton at the intersection of Witherspoon Street and Paul Robeson Place. The library also has a bust of Robeson in the Princeton Room, sculpted by his friend, Antonio Salemme.

Princeton Cemetery

Explore this historic cemetery of the Nassau Presbyterian Church, established in 1757. Use the map, available online to locate the final resting places of Princetonians such as Aaron Burr and Grover Cleveland.  Located across the street from the library, the entrance is on Greenview Avenue.

Princeton Art Museum

A world class art museum , right in the heart of the University’s campus, free and open to the public. The physical museum is closed at present while a new building is in progress but the virtual museum is always available. The museum has a permanent collection as well as special exhibitions, free virtual programs, and in person Campus Collections outdoor walking tours , March-November on selected times and dates.  Art@Bainbridge is a recent gallery project of PU Art Museum, located in the historic Bainbridge House on Nassau Street, also free. Take a Campus Art tour to learn more about its outdoor art collection.

Morven Museum & Garden

Library cardholders can reserve a free pass to visit Morven Museum and Garden , through our Museum Pass Program . Built by one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, Richard Stockton, this was his family home as well as the home of five New Jersey Governors. Visit the permanent exhibits, tour the gardens, or see the current exhibitions. There is a modest entrance fee.

Revolutionary War Princeton

Learn about Princeton’s role in and contributions to the Revolutionary War. Visit Princeton Battlefield State Park , Princeton Battle Monument , Nassau Hall and the statue of John Witherspoon on the University campus, and the Morven Museum & Garden .

Get Outdoors

Take a walk along the Delaware-Raritan Canal towpath , stroll around Carnegie Lake , explore the trails in the Institute Woods , Herrontown Woods Arboretum , or in the Mountain Lakes Open Space Area .  While it is possible to walk to these places from the library, you might want to drive closer to each location. Parking is available.

Albert Einstein

Einstein’s residence at 112 Mercer Street, where he lived from 1935-1955, is currently a private home and can be viewed from the street.  There is no burial site for him, in Princeton or anywhere else. A bust of Einstein can be found at the Princeton Battle Monument Park located at 55 Stockton Street.

Gargoyles & Tigers

And now for something completely different: hunting for gargoyles and tigers on the University campus. Hunt for gargoyles on the outsides of buildings and watch out for tigers , they’re everywhere!

Just for Kids

Have little ones with you who need to blow off some steam? Within walking distance of the library, are Maggie’s Park on Spruce Street and the playground at the Princeton YM/YWCA on Paul Robeson Place. Just a bit longer of a walk (though you might want to drive) will take you to Marquand Park with its open fields and large sandbox. A more comprehensive list of Princeton parks can be found here .

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Visit Princeton University

We are excited to welcome you to the beautiful Princeton University campus! Monday through Friday we will offer a program that consists of an Admission Information Session and a Campus Tour. The full program will be about 2 hours long and you will receive additional information upon registration. On weekends, we will offer our student-led Campus Tour. The Campus Tour will last approximately one hour. If you would like to attend an Admission Information Session, we recommend taking advantage of our  Virtual Information Sessions  which are offered live once a week. Please note: due to limited seating in our presentation space, we will be limiting the number of attendees per program.

Please select a date from the calendar below to sign up for a visit to campus. Dates that appear gray have reached their registration limit and are no longer available. If the date you were hoping to visit campus is full or unavailable, you can take advantage of our Self Guided Tour  by texting "Princeton" to 58052. Visitors are welcome to visit and explore the Princeton campus without registering for a program, however, visitors cannot enter any buildings at this time.  We do not track demonstrated interest.

Summer campus tours will be offered from June 10 through August 2.  Information sessions without tours will be offered on select dates in August.

Please note, programming may be limited or unavailable on the following dates:

• May 6 through June 9
• Every other Saturday/Sunday

Fall 2024 Programming will be published by early August. Please check back then.

Virtual Information Session

Thank you for your interest in Princeton University! We invite you to learn more about campus through our Virtual Information Session. 

The session will be in the form of a 30-minute presentation followed by 15 minutes at the end for Q&A.

The session includes: 

• An overview of the University.
• Our admission process.
• Our generous Financial Aid Program. 
• The student experience.

All sessions will be available with English closed captioning. At this time, we do not provide live captioning in foreign languages. If you have any additional questions about accessibility, please indicate them in the registration form or email [email protected] .

Registration Information

Please note: We will not be conducting attendance at these webinars, and we do not track demonstrated interest for the purpose of evaluating an applicant. 

Upon registering, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to your webinar. We will also send a reminder email a few hours before the event with the same link. If multiple people in your household wish to attend this webinar, you do not need to register every attendee.  

Register for a session

Things to Do in Princeton, NJ - Princeton Attractions

Things to do in princeton, explore popular experiences, tours in and around princeton.

5 Star Shameless Name Dropping Walking Tour of Campus & Einstein's Neighborhood

Princeton Scavenger Hunt: Princeton Flourish

Murder Mystery Detective Experience Princeton, NJ

8-day Tour to Visit Nine Top Schools in the East Coast from NYC

New York Helicopter Tour: City Skyline Experience

Philadelphia Old City Historic Walking Tour with 10+ Top Sites

Indoor Admission Ticket | NORTHLANDZ

New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour

Revolution and the Founders: History Tour of Philadelphia

Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Princeton

Other Top Attractions around Princeton

What travelers are saying

• Princeton University
• Princeton University Art Museum
• Princeton University Chapel
• Princeton Public Library
• Morven Museum and Garden
• Carnegie Lake
• Marquand Park
• Cotsen Children’s Library
• Greenway Meadows Park
• Herrontown Woods
• Princeton Tour Company

CLASS OF 2028

Princeton preview, tuesday, april 9, 2024 or tuesday, april 16, 2024.

All admitted students are invited to attend Princeton Preview, a one-day, on-campus program in April designed as an in-depth introduction to the many dimensions of academic and extracurricular life at Princeton.

During this event, admitted students and family member will have the opportunity to attend programs and discussions about studying at Princeton, meet current students and faculty members, and learn about our close-knit residential community. Continental breakfast and lunch will be provided for admitted students and guest.

View Recorded Sessions

Student Resources

Below are just some of the many resource centers available to support you on your Princeton journey. We encourage you to connect with a department representative with any questions you may have.

Get Some Gear!

Wear your Orange and Black with pride!

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We hope you can join us for one of our two Preview programs in April. Please use these resources to plan your travels or to simply gain a better sense of Princeton. 

Our curriculum encourages students to explore many disciplines and to develop a deep understanding in one area of concentration.

New and Noteworthy

Blog: “finding community and confidence on bridge year”.

Oscar Platt '24 on the doubts that filled his mind before his departure to Indonesia and the growth he experienced during his nine-month stay.

PODCAST: “'Matched' With Princeton: A Conversation With Two QuestBridge Scholars”

Allen Nieva ’26 and Sukaina Shivji ’26 talk about their experiences being admitted to Princeton through the QuestBridge National College Match.

BLOG: “Deep in the Thesis Trenches"

"Though everyone has a different process, I have found that the best way to approach my thesis is to work on a little bit of it every day ..." Hadley Kim '24 on the final push to complete her senior thesis.

PODCAST: “Leadership, Service, Compassion and Empathy” With Christian Potter '22

What does it take to be a leader? Christian Potter ’22 thought about this a fair amount during the last few years. It wasn't until he stepped into the role of president of Undergraduate Student Government during a pandemic that he truly understood the qualities needed to get the job done. Tune in to learn about Christian’s year of leading, listening and learning.

BLOG: “Traversing the Orange Bubble”

Amélie Lemay '24 shares her experience navigating around campus and also shares some helpful tips for traversing the Orange Bubble.

BLOG: “Getting Oriented on Campus”

Community Action (CA) left quite the impression on Jodie De Jesus '25 as a first-year student that she returned the following year to become a leader. Find out how First-Year Orientation and Community Action are just one of the many ways Princeton helps foster community amongst the incoming class.

BLOG: “The Irreplaceable International Identity at Princeton”

Blogger Hadley Kim reflects on the strong international community on Princeton's campus and explains the many resources available through the Davis International Center.

BLOG: “To Find a Home”

Gil Joseph '25 reflects on his identity coming into Princeton and how he has been able to be a part of multiple communities.

Princeton Class of 2023 Celebrates Commencement

At Princeton’s 276th Commencement on Tuesday, May 30, President Christopher L. Eisgruber encouraged graduating students to “let your voices rise” to protect two important values: free speech and equality.

BLOG: “Why I Chose East Asian Studies”

Hadley Kim '24 thought she would major in English but a few courses in Korean history led her to discover the East Asian Studies department. Uncover her journey on how she declared East Asian Studies as her major.

Office of the Dean of the College

The Office of the Dean of the College oversees all aspects of the undergraduate academic experience at Princeton.

Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are central to Princeton's educational mission and its desire to serve society.

Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students

The Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students supports our students by providing guidance on how to make the most of the University's resources in pursuit of their educational goals.

The Residential Colleges

Princeton’s seven Residential Colleges are at the center of undergraduate life and offer close-knit, comfortable communities where you will live, eat, study, and socialize.

Campus Dining

Campus Dining’s earth-forward food philosophy supports serving up a variety through wholesome nourishing meals.

Public Safety

The Department of Public Safety’s mission is to enhance the living, learning and working experience at Princeton University.

Coming out of high school, I had a lot of interest in going abroad. And honestly, I thought when else in my lifetime am I going to have this opportunity to spend a year fully funded in another country. Not even studying, but getting to really know the culture.

- Leila Owens, Novogratz Bridge Year participant

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Application Dates & Deadlines

To apply, you will need to submit the Coalition Application or the Common Application and the Princeton-specific Questions.  You can apply to Princeton as a first-year student through single-choice early action or regular decision. Transfer applicants must apply through the transfer process. Before you begin preparing your application, we encourage you to review our  standardized testing policy  and review our helpful tips .

For those applying through the QuestBridge application, please visit our QuestBridge National College Match page for more information.  

Single-Choice Early Action

Regular decision.

Princeton University’s single-choice early action program is a nonbinding process. If admitted, you have until May 1 to notify us about your decision to matriculate. If you apply single-choice early action on Nov. 1, you may not apply to an early program at any other private college or university within the United States.

As with students who are admitted through single-choice early action, students admitted through regular decision have until May 1 to notify us about their decision to matriculate.

Application Available:

Coalition Application or  Common Application , with  Princeton-Specific Questions

Application with Princeton-specific Questions  Due

Graded Written Paper Due

School Report, School Counselor Letter and Transcript

Teacher Evaluation Form 1

Teacher Evaluation Form 2

TOEFL , IELTS Academic or PTE Academic  Test Completed (if applicable)

Optional Arts Supplement  Due

Princeton Financial Aid Application  Due

Mid-December

Decision Notification

Optional Arts Supplement Due

Candidate's Reply Date

Princeton University’s single-choice early action program is a nonbinding process. You may not apply to an early program at any other private college or university. However, please note the following:

• You may apply early to any public institution or service academy, as long as the decision is nonbinding.
• You may apply early to any international institution, as long as the decision is nonbinding.
• You may apply early to any college or university with a nonbinding rolling admission process.

If you apply early action , there are three possible outcomes for your admission decision. We will either:

• Offer admission.
• Deny admission.
• Or, defer a final decision on the application and review it again in the regular decision process.

If you apply regular decision , there are three possible outcomes for your admission decision. We will either:

• Or, offer you a spot on the wait list.

If you are admitted and have completed the Princeton Financial Aid Application , you will be notified of any financial aid award at the time you are offered admission, enabling you to compare your admission and financial aid offers with those from other institutions to which you’ve been admitted.

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You can get a good feel for all that Princeton has to offer in person through an Orange Key tour or online through a virtual information session.

14 Best Things to Do in Princeton, NJ

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Princeton may be best known for its Ivy League university, but this charming New Jersey town has a lot more to offer than a great education and stellar architecture. It's home to a slew of noteworthy attractions and things to do. Tourists can enjoy everything from art exhibits to theater productions to kayaking.

With a convenient location between New York City and Philadelphia, Princeton is an ideal place to visit for a weekend getaway in New Jersey .

Here, history buffs will learn about its most famous event: the 1777 Battle of Princeton. Walk around Princeton Battlefield State Park to get an idea of what the battle would have looked like, visit the Princeton Battle Monument to see a 50-foot sculpture dedicated to George Washington's victory, and then head to the McCarter Theatre Center for some excellent entertainment.

Looking for some retail therapy? You're in luck! The adorable Palmer Square boasts an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, which line multiple streets jutting out from its downtown borders.

With so many options, it can be tough to decide what to do first. Plan your trip with our list of the best attractions and things to do in Princeton, NJ.

1. Enjoy an Ice Cream in Palmer Square

2. watch a show at the mccarter theatre center, 3. get outside at marquand park, 4. step back in time at princeton battlefield state park, 5. take a hike at delaware and raritan canal state park, 6. visit morven museum & garden, 7. ogle the architecture at nassau hall, 8. get inspired at art @bainbridge, 9. find a book at princeton public library, 10. find peace and quiet on lake carnegie, 11. take time to reflect at the princeton battle monument, 12. princeton university art museum, 13. take a tour of drumthwacket, 14. catch a flick at princeton garden theatre, where to stay for sightseeing in princeton, princeton, nj - climate chart.

Palmer Square sits in the heart of Princeton's downtown, anchored by the historic Nassau Inn . A hub of activity year-round, the square's innate charm lies in its collection of two- and three-story Colonial Revival-style buildings dating to the late 1930s.

The dreamchild of Edgar Palmer, this attractive town square serves as a hub for everything from shopping to dining to entertainment. The boutique stores and restaurants entice visitors to spend time window shopping, food sampling, or people-watching from well-shaded benches and picnic tables.

On warm, sunny days, you'll find customers lining up for tasty treats, especially those of the frozen kind. The small batch, artisanal ice creams from The Bent Spoon are worthy of a second scoop. Insider's tip: Bring a blanket to enjoy your sweets on the Green.

Speaking of the Green, this is where you'll find all the action , including, art exhibits, concerts, and movie nights, especially during summer.

Address: Palmer Square, between Hulfish Street and Nassau Street, Princeton, New Jersey

Read More: Best Things to Do in New Jersey

Visitors to the McCarter Theatre Center are in for a treat, no matter what type of entertainment they enjoy. Transport yourself to a new world while watching a musical; bob along to the funky tunes of a concert; or get inspired by a dance performance. With over 200 shows and events annually, you'll never be at a loss for something to see.

Set in a historic stone building on the Princeton University Campus, this Tony-award-winning theater is one of the top attractions in Princeton for good reason. A proponent for fostering new works, the theater's play development program helped spark and encourage the idea for the award-winning play, which premiered here.

The theater originated in the 1930s as a playhouse for the Princeton Triangle Club, which still performs on its stages. Since then, the theater has evolved into what it is today: a large performance house featuring the Matthews Theatre, which boasts 1,100 seats; the Berlind Theatre, which seats 360; and the spacious Richardson Auditorium.

Across the street, you'll find the Dinky Bar & Kitchen, a gem that has served theater-going folk tasty, locally sourced food in what was once the station house (in 1918) for the Dinky train line.

Address: 91 University Place, Princeton, New Jersey

There are 17 acres of a historic nature and forest preserve to explore at Marquand Park . A popular arboretum also calls this area home, offering guests a chance to get nose to leaf with some of the region's most gorgeous species, like Autumn Purple white ash and Mockernut hickory.

Marquand Park is a wonderful place to visit for a family-friendly day out. A playground, large sand box, and children's arboretum will keep little ones occupied, and they'll love the handmade free library. Pack a picnic, so you can spend even longer enjoying the fresh air at this beauty.

Also on-site are a baseball diamond, multiple walking paths, and plenty of picnic tables. The warm, summer months bring a well appreciated addition of port-o-potties.

Address: 48 Lovers Lane, Princeton, New Jersey

A famous battle took place on this field; hence, the name of Princeton Battlefield State Park , one of the top tourist attractions in New Jersey . It happened on January 3, 1777 and marked the first field battle won by George Washington over British troops.

Visitors will also find the quaint, white home once belonging to Quaker, Thomas Clarke here. Not surprisingly, it is known today as Thomas Clarke House . Inside, visitors can peek into life during the Revolution.

It was upon the fields belonging to Clarke and his brother, William, that the fierce Battle of Princeton was fought and won. A large oak stump lies in the field, reminding visitors of the ancient Mercer Oak, which stood stoically during the battle. It lies next to a younger tree grown from its acorn in 1981.

Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike the paths that cover the park's perimeter. There is also a vast trail system that leads to the Delaware and Raritan Canal.

Address: 500 Mercer Road, Princeton, New Jersey

Known locally as the D&R Canal State Park , this expansive natural space is the place to be if you're a fan of the outdoors. Spanning 70 miles, this is one of the state's most popular attractions for activity seekers. In addition to ancient locks, wooden bridges, and, of course, a sparkling canal, there are a slew of things to do in this beautiful New Jersey State Park.

From fishing to canoeing to kayaking to hiking to jogging to horseback riding, you'll never be at a loss for fun activities in this spectacular spot. And you'll want to be sure to pack comfy gear, a change of clothes, and plenty of snacks and water because it's hard to tear yourself away once you've experienced this oasis.

History lovers will enjoy the bridge tender houses dating to the 19 th century, as well as the adorable villages that are dotted along the water. Blackwell Mills is a must-see, as is the Bulls Island Natural Area , which can be reached easily by a bridge. Port Mercer also boasts a bridge tender's house that's worthy of a visit.

Insider's tip: If you're here in spring or summer, sign up for a guided Wednesday Evening Walk. Also, pack binoculars, as you're sure to spot some impressive wildlife, especially birds.

Address: 14 Mapleton Road, Princeton, New Jersey

Morven Museum & Garden is beautiful no matter when you visit, but the end of spring will bring blooms so lovely, your camera will go into overdrive. A historic home dating to the 1750s, it has been deemed a National Historic Landmark.

Five acres greet visitors to this pretty place, which once served as the state's Governor's Mansion, housing five New Jersey governors after its founder and first tenant, Richard Stockton, a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

In 1999, the mansion was restored and the gardens remarkably improved, making this an ideal place to learn about the area's history. The second floor hosts an exhibit space that features new shows every few months.

For a more modern take on things, head next door, to the museum's larger and more contemporary space, the Stockton Education Center . This is where you'll find most of the museum's exciting events.

Morven Museum & Garden is open from 10am to 4pm Wednesday through Sunday.

Address: 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, New Jersey

It's impossible to miss Nassau Hall. Fronted by a lush Green and massive iron gates, this architectural masterpiece is home to Princeton University's administrative offices. Historically, this gem has hosted everything from a library to dormitories to classrooms to barracks for British and American soldiers. It has survived a tumultuous past, rocked by battles of the American Revolution and two fires.

Inside, you'll find the Memorial Atrium, which is imprinted with the names of Princetonians who died in various wars. The Faculty Room is also impressive. Today, it serves as the meeting place for the university's Board of Trustees and faculty, but this two-story beauty once served as a prayer hall and portrait gallery, as well as a museum of natural history.

The building was erected in 1756 as home of the former College of New Jersey and named for King William III of England.

Address: Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey

Art @ Bainbridge is a worthy spot to visit, especially if you love to feel inspired. A gallery project of the Princeton University Art Museum, this downtown venue is held in the historic Bainbridge House on Nassau Street.

While visitors won't be able to admire the over 112,000 works held by the Princeton University Art Museum (these are under wrap as the museum undergoes a massive renovation and modernization project due to reopen in 2024), they will find rotating exhibits featuring works of all kinds.

The Bainbridge House, itself, is a work to be admired. Build in 1766, it's one of the few well preserved structures of this time period still standing in downtown Princeton. The unique installations are held on the ground floor and curated by the Art Museum, so you know you're in for a visual treat.

The works highlight emerging artists in the contemporary field, and they change frequently, so check with the organization to ensure it's open when you're planning to visit.

Address: 158 Nassau Street, Princeton, New Jersey

While visiting a library may not top your list of things to do on vacation, you'd be amiss if you skipped a trip to the Princeton Public Library .

Located a short walk from Palmer Square, in the heart of downtown, this interesting spot is filled with everything you'd expect from a Princeton library: highbrow educational materials, tech classes, and film and book festivals. The library offers access to over 145,000 books, so if you're a resident, it could take a century to check them all out.

Outside lies a courtyard and streets lined with shops and eateries, including restaurants that sell tasty treats like bubble tea and cupcakes. Grab a bite and enjoy a book—is there a better way to enjoy an afternoon?

The Sands Library Building was built in 2004, serving as the library's most modern venture.

Address: 65 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, New Jersey

Did you know it was possible to gift a lake? It is—as long as you're a steel magnate living in the early 20th century, that is.

In the early 1900s, Andrew Carnegie heard about the poor rowing conditions on the Delaware and Raritan Canal—it was much too narrow for ideal rowing, apparently. Carnegie was bothered by this and determined to create positive change.

He bought land over the next couple of years and paid for crews to build bridges and dams, thus creating Lake Carnegie, which opened in late 1906.

While created primarily as a course for competitive rowing by Princeton students, locals and visitors alike are free to use this lovely lake at their own risk. It's easily accessed by the public via a boat launch just south of Kingston.

Today, the nine-foot-deep lake (well, technically it's a reservoir) attracts not only Princeton rowers, kayakers, and anglers, but also flora and fauna of all types. In winter, visitors can skate and play hockey on its frozen surface.

A caveat: no swimming or gas-powered boats are allowed on the lake.

Read More: Beautiful Lakes in New Jersey

It's impossible to miss the massive Princeton Battle Monument. Located downtown, this 50-foot-tall masterpiece features a giant limestone carving of George Washington and his troops during their first victory at the Battle of Princeton. It also shows the death of Washington's friend and fellow soldier, General Hugh Mercer.

Don't be surprised if this impressive monument looks familiar; it was inspired by Paris's Arc de Triomphe. Be sure to get up close to admire the intricate details.

Take a moment of reflection while seated on one of the many benches lining the monument, or wander around to admire the surrounding plaques and smaller monuments. They commemorate Colonel John Haslet, the continental marines, Captain Daniel Neil, and the "New Jersey Patriots who served on land and sea during the American Revolution."

The museum, which lies at the heart of the Princeton University campus is in the midst of a major upgrade and is currently inaccessible . Construction began on a new building in 2021, and the museum is set to reopen in late 2024 .

In the meantime, visitors can see works on display at Art@Bainbridge, which lies downtown in the historic Bainbridge House, an easy walk from the construction site that serves as the current Princeton University Art Museum .

Location: Princeton University campus

It's not easy to get into Drumthwacket , home to the Governor of New Jersey. That said, it's worth peeking through the gate at this spectacular building that lies on the National Register of Historic Places. Or, if you're really dying to get in, visit on a Wednesday, when tours are offered at 1pm. Insider's tip: always check before you go, as certain Wednesdays don't offer the tours.

Once on this Drumthwacket Foundation property, you'll learn about the home's impressive former residents, the history of the Battle of Princeton, and the historic art and furnishings that lie inside. You'll likely also be told the meaning behind the building's interesting name, a Scottish Gaelic word that translates to "wooded hill."

Don't miss a tour of the gardens, especially if you're visiting in late spring or summer.

Address: 354 Stockton Street, Princeton, New Jersey

The Princeton Garden Theatre lies across the street from the main university campus, just steps from Nassau Hall and beside Bainbridge House. A charming landmark, this small venue shows films with a bit of a brainier edge than your classic Blockbuster. This is Princeton, after all!

Don't worry, current films are on offer, as well as foreign flicks and indie movies. The theater also boasts events like Saturday matinees for kids, Hollywood summer nights, deep focus seminars, and an outdoor cinema series. This golden age theater prides itself on showing "first-run films of high artistic quality."

Although the building is leased from Princeton University, the theater operates on a non-profit basis and is run by Renew Theaters. It has graced this downtown location since 1920.

Address: 160 Nassau Street, Princeton, New Jersey

Downtown Princeton has only a handful of hotels. However, there are more than a dozen choices within a five-mile drive of town.

Luxury Hotels:

• One of only three hotels in downtown Princeton, the boutique Peacock Inn is a 4-star property with stylish ambience. Rooms and suites are elegant and comfortable. King suites have jetted tubs for two in bathrooms. The hotel is most famous for its restaurant, which is considered one of the best in New Jersey.
• In Princeton's Carnegie Center, the Hyatt Regency Princeton is a 4-star property just a few minutes from downtown. This hotel has a restaurant, pool, workout room, and sometimes evening entertainment. Kids stay free.
• The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village is less than three miles from downtown. It is convenient to the shops and restaurants at Palmer Square. This 4-star property is pet-friendly.
• In a bucolic country setting just outside Princeton, the Inn at Glencairn Princeton is in a meticulously restored 1736 Georgian Mansion. The rooms and suites have featherbed toppers, quality linens, and down duvets. Breakfast is complimentary.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• If location matters, check out Nassau Inn . It is one of the only hotels in Princeton's downtown. It combines historic and contemporary elements in its rooms, suites, and public spaces. It is pet-friendly and has a popular on-site restaurant.
• The Princeton Marriott at Forrestal is a solid mid-range choice just a few miles from downtown. This modern hotel has stylish rooms and suites. Amenities include a heated indoor swimming pool, restaurant, game room, and spa.
• Just three miles from downtown, the Hampton Inn Princeton has a convenient location on US Highway 1 South. Rooms are clean and comfortable. Breakfast is complimentary. The hotel is pet-friendly.

Budget Hotels:

• Red Roof Inn Princeton – Ewing is in Lawrenceville, less than five miles from downtown Princeton. This is a top budget sleep with relatively clean and comfortable rooms. Kids stay free and dogs are allowed. There is an on-site fitness facility and coin-operated laundry.
• One of the cheapest places to sleep near Princeton is the Extended Stay America – Princeton – South Brunswick . It offers a free breakfast, is pet-friendly, and welcomes kids for free.

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27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Princeton (New Jersey)

By: Author Travel Around

Posted on Last updated: March 11, 2023

If you’re planning an upcoming trip to New Jersey , consider all the wonderful things to do in Princeton.

Princeton is a beautiful city and the regional commercial hub for Central New Jersey and a commuter town that’s filled with lots of best and fun things.

This city is magnificent for its natural settings that set the stage for plenty of outdoor recreation.

Ranging from shopping malls to quaint performing art theaters to historic museums and several parks, Princeton has tons of amazing things for all ages.

From cheap things to do to luxury attractions aplenty, Princeton wound surely surpass every visitor’s expectations.

Whether you’re looking for daytime attractions, entertaining spots, weekend cruises, cultural displays, or the best restaurants, Princeton has it all.

Take a look at some of the many amazing things you could explore during your trip to Princeton.

Things To Do In Princeton

1. princeton university art museum.

University Art Museum

Princeton University Art Museum has exclusive outdoor activities for all visitors and tourists.

This amazing attraction that was established in 1882 is essentially an art gallery.

It has a collection of over 113,000 works of art that range from antiquity and several other contemporary creative works.

The Princeton University Art Museum enhances the research, teaching, and service in the fields of arts and culture.

To facilitate this, this art museum’s collection has a special concentration on Europe, the Mediterranean region, the United States, Asia, and Latin America.

This is considerably great and would surely give you an awesome experience during your trip to Princeton.

With its over 200,000 annual visitors, you’d appreciate adding this attraction to your itinerary!

Different from that, part of other fun things that’d keep every visitor in sight in this impressive location include ceramics, bronzes, marbles, and Roman mosaics.

The collection of Western European paintings and the early Renaissance arts are not equally left out.

If perhaps you love to explore more about Chinese calligraphy or painting, the Chinese carvings here as well as porcelain selections wouldn’t do less to create beautiful memories for you.

In addition to its awesome collections, this museum also offers exhibitions, and admission is absolutely free.

Address: Elm Dr, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States

2. Museumsorven Museum And Garden

The Museumsorven Museum And Garden

The absence of knowledge of the past makes everyone totally blind as to what the future holds!

Therefore, having knowledge of the past is so important.

So, during your trip to Princeton, will you love to learn about the historical antecedents of this city?

If your answer would be ‘yes’, Morven Museum and Garden have enough artifacts that are highly informative.

Morven is a historic 18th-century attraction that’s situated on Stockton Street in downtown Princeton.

Moreover, this 5-acre attraction is a very short walk from the campus of Princeton University, which is absolutely great.

With its impressive Georgian architectural style, this educative spot that was built in 1730 is a must-visit for all outdoor enthusiasts.

Although, it is important to state that, before its subsequent conversion to a museum, the Morven Museum and Garden served as the governor’s seat for almost 40 years.

If you’d be in this amazing place, there are equally lot of pre-American independence documentation.

Besides, they also provide changing exhibit spaces for tourists to observe the true American culture.

It’s overall a wonderful location in Princeton that’d give you enough reasons to appreciate your stay in this city of New Jersey.

Though the entrance fee here isn’t free, the admission fee is quite affordable.

Even with that, there are lots of parking spaces and no extra fee is required for visitors to park their cars.

If you’d be here during your voyage to Princeton, note that they are open all days between 9 am to 8 pm.

Address: 55 Stockton St, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

3. Nassau Hall

Mbell1975 / Flickr

The Nassau Hall is another entertaining place on the list of our best and fun things you’d enjoy in Princeton.

This amazing attraction is one of the oldest halls in New Jersey, which also served as the Capitol building in the United States for four months in 1783.

It’s a great destination that provides unique opportunities to engage with the history and past occurrences of this awesome city.

Besides, this building with Renaissance Architectural style is also a place to visit if you’d love to take pictures and walk around.

An explanation of the Ivy plaques around the building itself would be appreciated by every tourist.

Little wonder it was recognized as one of the most historic centers in the state of New Jersey and remarkably referred to as Old Nassau by Princetonians.

Moreover, this site also once served as the British regulars and the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War.

This Hall definitely is an attraction that will in no small measure create impressive moments for all categories of visitors planning a trip to Princeton.

Interestingly, there are restaurants on sight that offer Spanish and European cuisine.

The atmosphere here is great and there are also stylish drinks that are available for reasonable prices.

If you’d be around downtown Princeton, be sure to check out this great attraction that’s so addictive. You’d obviously leave happier!

Address: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

4. Princeton Battlefield State Park

Christopher Muflam / Wikimedia Commons

Princeton Battlefield State Park is 681 acres of State park that has quite impressive entertaining things for the young and old.

The Princeton Battlefield is an ancient place that once served as the location where the American and British armies fought on 3rd January 1777.

If you’d love to have fun yet learn about the American Revolutionary War, you’ve come to the right place by visiting Battlefield State Park!

Aside from its huge historic relevance, this great spot has trails, a playground, a garden, and a field.

Battlefield State Park obviously has something entertaining for all ages, irrespective of their interest!

The availability of actors in costume, the presence of fake explosive, and historians’ voices all over makes them one of the unique parks in Princeton.

Do you plan to travel to this city of New Jersey soonest? If you do, Battlefield State Park is simply a great place to stop by!

Of note, there isn’t any pavement to walk up to the house, therefore, ensure you wear sneakers.

It’s such a beautiful park that’s filled with green open space with traces of the Revolutionary period still visible.

Possibly you might love to come with your pets, it’s also allowed here and there are tables for picnics with zero admittance fee.

Checking out Battlefield State Park when next you visit Princeton will be worthwhile!

Address: 500 Mercer Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

5. Westminster Choir College

Jack Chance / Wikimedia Commons

If you’d be interested in checking out a culturally vibrant and historically rich attraction while you’re in Princeton, don’t hesitate to check out Westminster Choir College!

Westminster Choir College creates an enabling environment for visitors to dance and learn how to sing and they also display several entertaining shows.

They currently operate on the campus of Rider University in Lawrenceville in Princeton.

Reportedly established in 1926, Westminster Choir College has a series of sessions for kids, adults, and even the aged visitors.

The instructor is knowledgeable, friendly, and absolutely diligent and no visitor would have any complaints about their general conduct.

Regardless of the series of concerts you might have attended during your previous trips to other cities, this amazing initiative will create one of the most enjoyable concerts you’d ever attend.

The ticket fee is inexpensive and there are food trucks available on sight, which makes it so great even if you’d stay for a longer period.

If you can create a few hours of your travel plan while in Princeton, Westminster Choir College is a place worth checking out!

It has a charming and warm atmosphere coupled with the best choral music and beautiful performances.

You’re all in for a lifetime of enjoyment in this awesome spot!

Address: Scheide Student Center, 101 Walnut Ln, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

 6. Princeton Public Library

John Phelan / Wikimedia Commons

Also, on our list of things and places worth exploring during your trip to this tourist city is Princeton Public Library .

Thinking of how possible a library could be fun? Definitely, this library is an exception! Besides housing one of the most historic and informative books, it also has amazing things you’d love.

There are high-quality engaging videos for the kids to learn through all they’ve been reading in literature and it’s always so interesting.

Even the adults, there are tutors on sight who teach design and coding and provide information on technology.

In fact, there’s also a segment that displays over 1000 cultures and various important historic happenings of Princeton.

Princeton Public Library is evidently more than a house stored with books!

With over 860,000 annual visitors coming, this public library is the most visited municipal library in New Jersey and would make sense if you can plan to visit too.

Little wonder since its establishment in 1909, it hasn’t lost its uniqueness.

Anytime you’re in Princeton, come on board to enjoy this world-class collection, expert staff, and over 1000 engaging programs.

There isn’t any drawback at all because it requires zero dollars to gain entrance.

Address: 65 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

7. Princeton Battle Monument

Christina Keddie / Wikimedia Commons

Princeton Battle Monument is located adjacent to Morven’s and Princeton’s borough hall.

This Monument basically commemorates the 3rd January 1777 Battle of Princeton.

Besides, it’s an awesome place that’d bring back to life how the legacies of how General George Washington led his troops to victory which later resulted in the death of General Hugh Mercer.

This historic building stands 50 feet tall, and the construction is reported to have been inspired by the carvings of Triomphe, who was of Paris origin.

Of truth, this monument alongside its park is the great legacy of the Princeton Beautiful movement, you’d not find it less interesting if you visit!

The tour guides are knowledgeable and even without their explanations, the inscription on the monument is sufficient, and you’d understand the history as if you were there when it happened.

Parking isn’t free during the day but there’s free weekend parking and there are quite some benches to sit on if you’d love to observe activities here.

Note, if you’d be visiting this spot, ensure you visit early to avoid crowds during the evening.

And perhaps you might be planning to visit with your kids, that’s absolutely a good decision, they’d also love to play in their playground and it would overall be fun for all!

8. The Marquand Park

Marquand Park

Marquand Park is a park on 69,000 m2 of land in Princeton.

It’s a park with an arboretum and has tons of recreational activities that are sure to spice up your experience during your visit to Princeton.

Amongst fun things in this great location include a baseball field, walking paths, recreational activities for children, and a play structure.

It was founded by Allan Marquand in the year 1846. Ever since then, it has recorded substantial amounts of visitors to this city.

Aside from the series of recreational activities that are available in this spot, it has some well-known trees. This includes a dawn redwood and a critically endangered species that was initially thought to have gone into extinction.

Threadleaf Maple, amongst other notable trees, is also discoverable in this location.

Impressively, for easy identification, these trees are with labeling.

Marquand Park is simply a hidden gem in Princeton! With its exotic trees and lovely recreational activities.

Sit on a bank and read; picnic with your family or friends, and party with your children or grandchildren! The list of fun things you’d enjoy here is just so endless.

In fact, the paths are paved, and it is friendly for stroller and wheelchair folks.

You would definitely return with positive reviews after your next trip here!

Address: Marquand Park, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

9. Cotsen Children’s Library

Joe Shlabotnik / Flickr

Do you care to give your kids the best things upon your coming to Princeton in New Jersey?

Definitely, you would! Therefore, bring them to Cotsen Children’s Library !

Unlike other libraries in this city, this library is exceptional for the kids and it has all things every kid will admire.

The Cotsen has great collections of children’s books, manuscripts, original artwork, prints, and educational toys from the 15th century to date.

Being a specialist within the Department of Rare Books and Special Collections at Princeton University, this place would greatly create beautiful memories for your kids.

The staff is also friendly to the kids, and they do a lot to encourage every kid. The mantra here is “creating an enabling learning environment for the kids” and it’s so reflective in their dealings!

So, why’d you deprived your kids of the huge benefits of enjoying their moments while in this city of New Jersey?

Irrespective of the reason, that’d not be too good enough! After all, it’s not for profit, and the admittance fee is free!

Let your kids have the best moments, do bring them to Cotsen Children’s Library anytime you’re journeying through Princeton!

Address: Cotsen Children’s Library, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States

Check out the best restaurants in Princeton New Jersey!

10. Princeton Summer Theater

Summer Theatre

Princeton Summer Theater is a performing arts theater in Princeton, New Jersey.

The Summer Theater provides a relaxing environment for tourists and inhabitants to enjoy amazing shows and interesting performances.

If you’d love to explore a relaxing place after your daily activities while in Princeton, this theatre studio is a dream come through for you!

In fact, if you have an interest, there’s also an opportunity for every visitor to become part of a unique artistic community.

The McCarter Theatre isn’t only a fun area for amazing performances, it’s equally one of the most active cultural centers in this city.

They offer over two hundred performances in a year and no visitor has regretted ever checking out this amazing place.

More so, the theater is both intimate and the seats are so comfortable to sit on.

Anytime you’re in this downtown Princeton, you’d not wish more if you ever check out this attraction

Do ensure you plan to spend your evenings here while in this lovely city of New Jersey.

Address: Hamilton Murray Theatre, Princeton, NJ 08544, United States

11. Princeton Tour Company

The Princeton Tour

Princeton has several tourist attractions that are so wonderful.

In navigating these amazing attractions, it is necessary to have a perfect tour guild and tour agency.

Upon your arrival in this city of New Jersey, head straight to Princeton Tour Company!

It’s a delightful location that offers guided and self-guided public tours, trolley tours, and private tours.

You’ll learn the fascinating history of Princeton while on a tour with them. You’d get to explore the best of its restaurants, take time to enjoy moments in lakes, and more.

They are surely going to help you to actualize all the lovely places you included in your itinerary.

Beyond all these things, this spot also offers scavenger hunts and pub crawls for corporations.

They boast of being the most reliable tourist agency, not only in Princeton but in the entire New Jersey.

Except you aren’t a foreigner in this city; it behooves you to begin your exploration at this point.

Incredibly, the admission fee isn’t pricey. Further note that the admission fee covers the food that you’d eat.

Address: 116 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

12. Griggstown Canoe & Kayak Rental

Ozone / Griggstown Canoe & Kayak Rental

Griggstown Canoe and Kayak Rental are simply for the outdoor enthusiasts who wouldn’t mind spending time enjoying themselves on the river.

It’s an award-winning Canoe & kayak rental service provider in Princeton.

Located in Somerset County of New Jersey, they have paddled canoes and kayaks for a day or hour tour.

With as low as $50, you’d have an awesome affordable day trip on the river!

In addition, there is plenty of wildlife to see and it’s always advisable to bring some snacks, as there are no snacks shops in sight.

A waterproof box is also available for free to all visitors to store their valuables whilst on the water, which is so great!

Cleanest of water, professional and knowledgeable guide, security all around, and free parking space are a few of the attributes of Griggstown Canoe and Kayak Rental that make them top-notch in Princeton.

Prices chargeable in this attraction of Princeton are also decent, unlike other similar attractions in New Jersey.

Do you plan to have a voyage to this downtown Princeton during the coming summer?

If you do, never exclude this site from your bucket list!

Address: 1076 Canal Rd, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

13. The Savory Spice Shop

Patty Wetli / The Savory Spice Shop

Savory Spice Shop is known for spices in New Jersey!

Savory Spice Shop is basically a spice specialist with a variety of blends as well as extracts, sauces, & specialty foods.

If you’re a foodie type, you’d never find Princeton boring with this Spice Shop!

They’re known for their great interior, cozy space, friendly and helpful staff, and an astounding array of smell- and taste-able spices! What an exceptional place!

The freshly milled spices help every tourist’s dishes come alive.

Not just that alone, they make up for every one of their offerings by having high-quality products.

Many spices and a few other offerings, such as honey, jams/jellies, and chai mixes, can also be gotten in this wonderful spot.

Address: 15 Spring St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

14. Stumpy’s Hatchet House of Princeton

The Stumpy’s Hatchet House of Princeton

Stumpy’s Hatchet House of Princeton is a recreation center in West Windsor, Princeton.

Interesting things to do here aren’t limited! From ax throwing to cultural displays to night shows, it goes on and on!

This spot suits those who love adventure and don’t mind giving out whatever it takes to achieve that.

Stumpy’s Hatchet House also specializes in team-building events, birthdays, and bachelorette parties.

Perhaps you might wish to celebrate your little ones or spouse’s birthday party. This location is equally suitable for that!

The facility is well maintained, with plenty and they also have a photo booth where everyone can take pictures.

In addition, they sell snacks and non-alcoholic drinks with larger food items.

There is plentiful free parking that’s available right in the front and you don’t need to pay extra cost.

If your itinerary to Princeton can accommodate some additional cool places, include Stumpy’s Hatchet House!

You’d never go wrong because the fun things that are available here are enough to create the most beautiful travel experiences you’d stand to remember in years to come!

Address: 745 Alexander Rd Suite 1-3, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

Looking for more thrilling cities in New Jersey? Check out our list of the best and most fun things you could do in Wildwood , Atlantic City , and Paterson ! 

15. Catch A Rising Star

Catch A Rising Star

Ever thought of visiting an attraction where you’d laugh at your worries?

If you would be in Princeton, Catch A Rising Star is such an attraction that provides amazing entertaining shows that’d make you laugh out all your worries.

This comedy clubhouse of New Jersey was established in 1972 by Rick Newman and has since been top-notch in producing emerging comics.

Although, they have other locations throughout the United States (they are in Princeton, Jersey City, Reno, Las Vegas, Twin River Casino, and Rhode Island). Notwithstanding, this particular one in Princeton is the second best after the one in Jersey City.

There are comfortable seatings, good food and drinks and the staff are on top of their services by bringing food and drinks quickly and cheerfully.

Besides, the comedians are so talented and don’t operate through local comedians like others.

If you’re looking for exciting things to do in Princeton, you’d find this place interesting.

Like every other comedy club, services at Catch A Rising Star is at fair prices and they also host night parties.

We recommend it to anyone planning a visit To Princeton!

Address: 102 Carnegie Center Dr, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

16. A Little Taste Of Cuba

Little Taste Of Cuba

If you like to have some tobacco to yourself during your travel to Princeton, you’d be right biding Little Taste of Cuba !

It has loads of amazing tobacco for visitors, and it’s always inexpensive.

A Little Taste of Cuba was founded in New Jersey in 1995 with a vision to provide the ultimate smoking experiences to inhabitants and visitors alike.

For cigar lovers, this impressive initiative will provide a perfect accompaniment to leisurely smoke.

The experience at A Little Taste of Cuba is like a journey to Princeton without ever leaving home!

Incredibly, in this addictive spot, they provide smoking connoisseurs with the best atmosphere you’d enjoy. Definitely, lovers of tobacco would love to be here.

This is a great place to go and finish your evening after dining in one of the many offerings around it.

Although their selections may appear small, it is always excellent.

Two things make this shop unique and worth visiting. One is the owner. She is friendly, hospitable, and she knows her stuff. Another thing that makes this place unique is that it feels like a community hub!

Not just that, there’re members’ lounge available to every smoker.

In short, this shop is the kind of place you’d always want to come back to, not just because of the cigars, but because you will always feel welcomed.

Address: 70 Witherspoon St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

17. Ivy Inn

The Ivy Inn

Ivy Inn provides that tasty Beer in New Jersey that’d give every visitor a reason to always visit Princeton.

It has an enduring laid-back watering hole featuring amazing great beers, live music & karaoke, pub grub & a patio.

Ivy Inn is an appropriate, fun location to head to if you’d love to spend your afternoon in a worthwhile manner.

You can likewise order burgers, pizza, sandwiches staples, or whatever you’d love from their menu to your table, and it’s always served almost immediately after it is ordered.

Note that only cash is acceptable here as no credit card is allowed.

Meanwhile, it’s nevertheless going to create interesting experiences, and you’d feel totally satisfied checking out this amazing attraction while you’re in Princeton.

Little wonder visitors from neighboring cities are always checking out this local historic pub with over 50 years of existence.

Of note, the recent conversion of the front parking into a nice outdoor space with picnic tables makes it a better hangout option in summer.

It’s overall a pleasant place to be for some drinks with friends or alone!

Address: Ivy Inn, 248 Nassau St, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

Will you love to explore other amazing cities in New Jersey? If you would, you can check the best places you could visit in Woodbridge and the Top attractions in Lakewood !

18. Pennsylvania Dutch Farmers Market

The Pennsylvania Dutch Farmers Market

Pennsylvania Dutch is an indoor Amish Farmer’s Market that features vendors from cities across New Jersey and other neighboring cities in the United States.

It’s a large market that has been serving the state of New Jersey since 1992.

Pennsylvania Dutch operates from Thursday – Saturday and each week brings the best of Amish goods and favorites which every visitor would surely love.

If you are in this beautiful place, you’ll find several fresh homemade goods such as baked goods, salads, hot foods, fresh produce, bulk foods, poultry, cheese, meats, donuts, and confections.

From homemade bread to Apple Butter to smoothies and gourmet popcorn, every tourist will surely satisfy his or her taste in this awesome location.

The quality of the vendor’s offering is so amazing and the prices are great as well.

The only downside is that they are open just three days a week. But then, visiting them within these three days would be so great.

If at all you’d not get anything else here, be sure to get the chicken, beef, or their sausages because they’re exceptionally top-notch when it comes to that.

Address: 4437 NJ-27, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

19. Princeton Country Club

Princeton Country Club

Are you a golf lover desiring to take some golf course during your voyage to Princeton?

Country club in West Princeton has the most challenging golf course that you’d find interesting.

Essentially, this country club provides an 18-hole championship golf facility with an affordable admittance fee.

The greens are reasonable, and it’s always full and smooth.

Besides, there are too many holes which make it not only interesting but always fun.

Aside from being a golf course spot, visitors can as well enjoy some of the nice outdoor concerts here.

Note that there are also food trucks on sight and they are always offering amazing American and Canadian dishes.

For every adventurous planning an exploration of this downtown Princeton, plan to spend a couple of your time at Princeton Country Club!

You’d enjoy these most tempting spots if you’re a golfer!

Address: 1 Wheeler Way, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

20. Woodfield Reservation

The Woodfield Reservation

Woodfield Reservation is 100 acres of natural forest in Princeton that features trails & a variety of birds with other wildlife animals.

Unlike in other parks, at Woodfield Reservation, you would have access to engage in fun activities yet have access to see so many beautiful creatures.

This is an initiative by Princeton Borough, and it’s situated along the slope of Princeton Ridge in the north part of the town.

The entire area has sloping land, and it equally has two streams and several interesting geologic features.

If you’d be available on this stunning site, you’d enjoy the hiking trail.

Although there are lots of roots, so wear some good shoes.

This reservation has the best nice quiet trail with options for 30, 60, or 120 minutes of hiking.

However, it’s important to note that the trails can get overgrown in late spring/early summer, so be ready for nettles and prickers. But other than that, it’s always entertaining!

You can walk for hours, although the trails do get a bit confusing; if you keep walking, you’ll eventually find your way and it’d be so enjoyable.

The admission fee, it’s though free; nonetheless, visitors can make donations.

Woodfield Reservation is overall an amazing location in the heart of Princeton which every tourist will surely find so enjoyable!

Address: Woodfield Reservation, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

21. Lindt Chocolate Shop

Lindt Chocolate Shop

No other place could look so interesting to chocolate lovers other than finding a quaint chocolate shop that’d satisfy their needs.

For all travelers planning a trip to this downtown Princeton in New Jersey, if you take delight in having some nice chocolate to yourself, don’t worry!

It’s certainly sure that, with Lindt Chocolate Shop , you’d feel totally at home and have some nice chocolates for yourself far beyond your expectations!

Lindt Chocolate Shop is known as the best swiss chocolate, truffles & confectionery shop since 1845.

Although it’s old, nonetheless, it’s a place that every lover of chocolate wouldn’t find so amazing!

The store is really nice, and it’s always smelling wonderful.

With an array of delicious Lindt chocolate that definitely wouldn’t be gotten elsewhere, Lindt Chocolate Shop is set to change your perception about your expectations in a foreign land!

In fact, their extraordinary assortment of over 20 Lindor Truffle makes Lindt Chocolate Shop top-notch and their chocolate prices are fair enough.

In case you might wish to include Lindt Chocolate Shop in your itinerary, note that they open on Sunday between 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

However, on Monday – Wednesday, they open at 10:00 AM and close at 7:00 PM, while on Thursday till Saturday they open at 10:00 AM and close at 9:00 PM.

When you can have the best in this awesome location, why then would you look for delicious chocolate elsewhere?

Lindt is obviously a dream come through to all admirers of sweet chocolates!

Address: 68 Palmer Square W, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

22. Seasons 52

Alessia / Seasons 52

Seasons 52 is an American restaurant with a rotating menu of seasonal American dishes.

Perhaps your major concern might be how to get nice American dishes without having the feeling that you are away from your home city.

Seasons 52 offers delicious American dishes that are inexpensive and with the right quantity that’d meet up to the prices.

Not just that, this award-winning restaurant has the best international wines that are available in an upscale setting.

Ever since the establishment of this American fresh grill and wine bar in 2003, it has always been receiving over 50,000 visitors annually.

Their mantra is to deliver a casually seasonal menu with fresh ingredients that are naturally rich, and it’s always evident in what they offer.

If you could spare less than an hour or more to check out this restaurant, you’d not wish to leave quickly because of its uniqueness.

Little wonder this location rates top 10 among their 52 different locations in the United States.

The staff conduct is also satisfactorily as they’re of the habit of treating visitors with respect.

Everything in this New Jersey restaurant is just top-notch! Of note, even if you’d not get anything else, ensure you get the buffalo calamari, you’d love it! It’s always sweet, although every choice is what you’ll feel good about!

In addition, children are more than welcome to dine at this restaurant too and if they’d not be willing to eat, they’d be entertained with some nice movies.

Seasons 52 is without any doubt going to spice up your experiences during your voyage to this city!

Address: 3535 US-1 Suite 100B, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

23. Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail

Will you be in Princeton with your kids and spouse in the coming months?

If you’re planning a trip with your kids and spouse and would love everyone to enjoy their stay, be meticulous to add Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail to your itinerary.

Although it’s relatively unpopular, nonetheless, beyond its less popular state, there are plenty of exciting things for all ages here!

This recreational trail in New Jersey is a 124 Km trail that’s made up of three segments that transverse three counties.

The three combined trails, however, form the largest completed trail in the State of New Jersey.

Suitable for hiking, cycling, trailing, or strolling!

In fact, its stone dust surface makes all these activities enjoyable for all visitors and tourists on sight! Obviously, you’d not be an exception to those who enjoy themselves here!

This 70-mile Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is also one of the most popular recreational spots in New Jersey that’s also suitable for canoeing, jogging, and hiking.

When visiting the Princeton area in the United States, the canal pathway is a great place you’d appreciate if you include it on your bucket list!

With many of its 19th-century structures that are still standing, these multi-use trails are so great for all ages, including those with physical disabilities.

Importantly, they open all days of the week, excluding Sundays.

Their opening hours are from 9 am to 6 pm and the admission fee is less than $20!

Address: 1539 Canal Rd Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

Do you care about visiting other lovely cities in New Jersey? If you would check our list of interesting things in Hoboken , Jersey City , and Cape May !

24. AMC MarketFair

AMC MarketFair

Situated in the West Windsor Township of Princeton, AMC MarketFair is a movie theater with interesting shows.

This spot is a basic theater with stadium-style seating & snack bar, showing new releases & discounted matinee.

30 minutes prior to showtime, visitors are received and lots of snacks are served to everyone at no extra cost. In fact, this alone could make every visitor so relaxed before the show!

More so, the seats are amazingly comfortable. Even with that, theatres are always very well maintained and cleaned.

If you’d be visiting with your kids below 12, they’d equally enjoy basic popcorn to the pizza and pretzels, which is always tasting so great.

AMC MarketFair is invariably an entertaining spot that wouldn’t do less to make everyone happy, irrespective of their age!

The fact that the seating is up-to-date, which allows everyone to recline while watching the movie, is one of the greatest attributes that make them stand out.

Interestingly, the cost of movie tickets is so fair. And once you get your tickets, you’re free to select your sitting position.

Although the sound system makes it cool to view movies from any position.

Nevertheless, the fact that visitors can choose any season and seat is so great.

AMC MarketFair is highly recommended for everyone looking for a relaxing place to go in the noon while in Princeton!

Come on board to spend your time where every minute spend brings good memories!

Address: 3521 US-1, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

25. Amazing Escape Room Princeton

Amazing Escape Room Princeton

With its ever-challenging puzzles, Amazing Escape Room Princeton is a done deal for lovers of escape rooms.

Situated along the West Windsor Township, just 5 minutes away from Princeton, this escape room house is great for adults and children of all ages.

Bring your friends, bring your associates, bring your kids, definitely, no one wouldn’t find an Amazing escape room interesting.

Each participant is permitted to choose from these escape games which include ‘The Great Train Heist, ‘The Notorious Speake.’, or any other one depending on the participants’ choices.

Whichever one your choice would be, it’d be so fun and memorable!

Besides, all the room is themed with firm construction, and puzzles are all tied together, which makes it very nice.

Take note that it might appear quite difficult because some of the clues are very conceptual. Nevertheless, it’d always end on a happy note!

Little wonder this attraction is attributed as one of the trickiest but best escape rooms in New Jersey.

Additionally, the master is so enthusiastic and will get all participants pumped to solve some puzzles.

Even though you may not be too good enough to beat the puzzles, the clues and hints will always appear so impressive to prompt you to try over and over again until you eventually get it done!

If you’d be in this city of New Jersey, a stop at Amazing Escape Room Princeton will be overall rewarding!

Address: 3490 US-1 #15A, West Windsor Township, NJ 08540, United States

26. Nassau Club

The Nassau Club

Nassau Club is for the socialites and the party type!

So, are you a socialite or a party type willing to explore Princeton?

That would be so good of you, there are lots of beautiful things you’d enjoy in this city!

One of the beautiful things is rightly available at Nassau Club!

Nassau Club is a social club in Princeton that was initially established in 1889.

It has thus been a favorite spot for all fun enthusiasts since over a century since its establishment.

Nassau Club isn’t only a clubhouse, it has a lot of cultural displays.

Woodrow Wilson laid a very good legacy by establishing this clubhouse because it’s always ever great!

Besides, this place is an elegant venue where you’d enjoy piano music by a talented pianist.

Clearly posh yet understated venue, there are so many fun things to do here!

Welcoming atmosphere, good sound system, remarkable hospitality from the staff, and lots more, what an impressive initiative!

Not surprisingly, this dining center has been a top priority on every visitor’s itinerary!

Incredibly, despite its versed cozy area with bar, food, and fireplace, offerings are so reasonably priced.

A visit to Nassau Club in Princeton, New Jersey, will certainly be worthwhile!

Address: 6 Mercer St, Princeton, NJ 08540, United States

27. Palmer Square

JoeSeldner / Palmer Square

Palmer Square is a shopping mall in the heart of Princeton, New Jersey.

It’s along Nassau Street and was constructed between 1936 to 1939 but was eventually opened to the public in 1939.

Beautiful architectural designs adorn this ancient building.

Here, they offer beautiful chocolates, candy, cakes, bread, cheese, and lots more.

It’s a typical attraction that’d make your kids happy if you’re on a holiday trip to this downtown Princeton.

Incredibly, there’s also a large grassy area that kids could get on to play.

While they’d be doing that, parents can get a bench and watch them burning off some fats.

What a beautiful place that’s more than a shopping mall! Obviously, amazing things to do in Palmer Square aren’t limited to getting items.

Invariably, Palmer Square combines modern elegance with quaint charm.

Further note that goods are inexpensive, and there is ample parking without any extra charge.

There are lots of cool shops, good food, parking is plentiful and kids could play as they like.

If you could plan to spend an hour or more here, you’d wish to visit again!

Address: 3 Palmer Square, Princeton, NJ 08542, United States

Final Remarks

Things to do in Princeton, New Jersey are so numerous. From historic landmarks to museums to parks and beautiful restaurants, the list goes on and on.

To assist you in your choices, we carefully come up with amazing options to choose from.

Therefore, ensure you narrow down your itinerary with the aid of our recommendations above.

Safe Travels!

15 Things to do in Princeton, New Jersey [With Suggested 3 Day Itinerary]

Princeton, a town in New Jersey is popularly known for its Princeton University. This university itself is already an attraction that would give you an idea about the town’s rich history. Boasting with historic buildings and beautiful surroundings, Princeton should be a part of your travel bucket list. Especially if you’re in New Jersey.

To help you have more ideas of what to expect in this city, we listed the things that you can do or visit during your stay in Princeton. We hope that this will help you plan your trip here in case you decided to visit this town in New Jersey. 

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Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Princeton, New Jersey

1. princeton university.

Considered as the fourth-oldest institution in the United States. It is also a private Ivy League campus that’s ideal for a stroll. Inside, you’ll see a lot of Gothic style buildings that you can visit. Walking along this campus feels like you’re back in time. 

Suggested Tour: Princeton – Center for Science and Education

2. Princeton University Art Museum

Princeton University Art Museum features over 92,000 works of art that focus on the 5,000 years of world history. These collections of arts range from ancient times to the contemporary period.

Suggested Tour: Princeton Scavenger Hunt: Let’s Roam Princeton Flourish!

3. Princeton University Chapel

Grab the opportunity to visit this amazingly beautiful and historical church. This is a place full of historic facts and beauty. The stunning stained-glass windows, the wonderful details, and the magnificent architecture, this chapel is indeed gorgeous inside and out. 

Suggested Tour: Princeton and Sculpture Park

4. Princeton Public Library

Whatever you feel like doing, reading, studying, or want to have some quiet time, Princeton Public Library is for you. The library is spacious and you can have a relaxing time while reading your favorite book.

5. Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park

Experience a memorable walk in Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. The walking trail is easy to navigate and everyone would really have a leisurely walk along the canal. But if you prefer biking, then no problem as you can also do that here. Either way, they are both offering a nice experience.

6. Carnegie Lake

This man-made lake offers a pristine atmosphere. The water is calm and peaceful. If you’re exhausted from your trip, this is the ideal place to just hang and chill.

7. Terhune Orchards & Winery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Terhune Orchards (@terhuneorchards) on Mar 23, 2020 at 1:47pm PDT

Have a unique experience here at the Terhune Orchards and Winery. You can pick fruits here such as apples or berries. And on Sundays, they have live music in the afternoon. This lovely farm has beautiful flowers with a great atmosphere. 

8. Morven Museum and Garden

This historic 18th-century house served as the governor’s mansion for almost four decades. It is a small museum with a beautiful garden outside. If you want to learn about the history of the mansion, just go here. 

9. Princeton Battlefield State Park

A paradise for history lovers. Enjoy seeing all the relics of times past and learn more about the history of the battle here. So if you are a history buff when it comes to the American Revolutionary War, then you shouldn’t miss this one out.

10. Princeton Cemetery

There is a lot to learn here at the Princeton Cemetery. A lot of notable people are buried here. There is a map provided that will help you find those interesting gravestones of famous people. The cemetery itself is huge and beautiful, you would definitely have a unique experience here.

11. Nassau Hall

This is a very historic building near the Princeton battlefield. Considered as the iconic and oldest building of Princeton University. It once served as the US Capitol. Grab the opportunity to visit this historic building.

12. St. Paul’s Catholic Church

This is an old church that can only require a short visit. You can have a peaceful prayer here or just admire the beauty of this church.

13. Marquand Park

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Anna Miner (@strangelows) on Nov 15, 2014 at 9:22am PST

A park for all ages. Marquand Park is a botanical and recreational area located in Princeton. It features walking paths and a baseball field. And if you’re traveling with kids, it’s not a problem. This park offers fun attractions for children such as a sandbox and a play structure. 

14. Trinity Church

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sean Dalton (@daltonise) on Mar 16, 2020 at 4:34pm PDT

Another beautiful church in Princeton, New Jersey. The atmosphere is extremely welcoming. The beautiful Gothic style of the church is very picturesque. Beautiful stained glass windows, stone arches and pillars, carvings and more, Trinity Church is one of the must-visit churches in the city.

15. Princeton Battle Monument

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by אוליבר (@gallant_oliver) on Mar 13, 2020 at 3:19pm PDT

The Princeton Battle Monument pays tribute to the Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777. This iconic monument deserves a quick stop by to have a look and get some pics too.

Things to do with 3 days in Princeton, New Jersey

Day 1 in Princeton, New Jersey

Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park – Start your trip with a peaceful one in this State Park. You can either walk or ride a bike. 

Day 2 in Princeton, New Jersey

Princeton University – No trip to Princeton would be complete if you will not go to Princeton University. As you go inside, you can visit a lot of historic buildings such as the Princeton Public Library , Princeton University Chapel , and Princeton University Art Museum . All of them offer different exciting experiences. You could spend your whole day here at the university as there are so many things to see and do. 

Day 3 in Princeton, New Jersey

Princeton Cemetery – On your last day, don’t forget to visit the Princeton Cemetery. A lot of famous people are buried here. Plus, the cemetery is huge and beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions about Princeton, New Jersey

1. Is it safe to travel to Princeton, New Jersey?

Princeton is considered safer than other cities in New Jersey. Traveling here won’t be of any danger for tourists. Of course, it is still advisable to be alert all the time. 

2. When is the best time to visit Princeton, New Jersey?

To fully enjoy your Princeton getaway, it is recommended to visit between the months of May and October. During these months, the weather is warmer and rainfall is not common. 

3. How to get to Princeton, New Jersey?

The main airport in Princeton is Princeton Airport. However, if you choose to fly here, you will have a hard time finding a direct flight. For your convenience, it is recommended to fly a direct flight from your city to Newark New Jersey. Newark airport is the nearest airport in Princeton which is 56km from the said city. To check flights available, just visit Skyscanner .

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Hi there! I’m Fatima . My first major travel was in 2016 in the beautiful city of Cebu. After that, I got interested in traveling. Now I enjoy learning languages and other country’s cultures. My goal is to visit at least one country each year and to share my experiences with other people through writing or blogging. Witness my journey by following me on Instagram .

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One thought on “ 15 Things to do in Princeton, New Jersey [With Suggested 3 Day Itinerary] ”

Make sure you take a nice walk down to Princeton’s very own Pompeii, namely the remnant of what was once one of the world’s finest music schools, Westminster Choir College. Now a luxurious parking lot, the school was first taken in protection with exploitation of the world-renowned name to help a mediocre school be called a university. The promises were all in the direction of preserving great art, a special institution, an education unique. The true motivation was greed. At the time, I told the faculty, this is like bequeathing an Iguana to a restaurant entrepreneur who believes in serving exotic foods. Wait! It was just plain greed. In good American fashion, money was the only notes these people wanted to hear and particularly see. Patriots all, the school was to be sold to the ChineseCommunist Party for 50 million notes. That fell through. The great choir is another—and not to be dismissed—a college chorus. There could be a great future for Westminster if 1) we would flush the notion that a college is a corporation and its leader is a CEO. That idea ruined the Choir College in the first place. 2) The Choir College could be the American equivalent of Boulez’s Institute for Advanced Musical Study that he established in Paris—like the Institute ommn the other side of town. 3) As usual, the big wigs will wait too long to realize what they are losing, monetarily, artistically, spiritually. If you have deep pockets, do yourself a favor. Save our Pennsylvania Station before it’s too late. Contribute to the soul of America.

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DISCLOSURE: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. The cost to you remains the same, sometimes even cheaper if we have negotiated a special deal for our readers.We use all of the companies we have listed here and that’s why they are in this list, but of course we need to keep Two Monkeys Travel Group running as well as it can, which is exactly what you’re helping with if you do decide to buy or book something through an affiliate link! If you have any more questions about the companies we use or any other companies you’re looking at, just email us and we’ll be happy to help. Please see our full disclaimer page for more information.

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Princeton University Art Museum Gets Six Site-Specific New Works

As the museum’s new building nears completion, shadowed by controversy, artists respond with new commissions.

By Hilarie M. Sheets

Reporting from Princeton, N.J.

Princeton University has a long history of commissioning public art by the likes of Henry Moore, Louise Nevelson, Alexander Calder and Pablo Picasso, dating back to the 1960s. And when the Princeton University Art Museum opens to the public next year, at almost double the size of its original building, six new large-scale works by women and artists of color will have pride of place — visible beacons near the building’s perimeter, both indoors and out at this central crossroads on campus.

The artworks include four site-specific commissions by Diana Al-Hadid , Nick Cave , Jane Irish and Tuan Andrew Nguyen and two acquisitions by Jun Kaneko and Rose B. Simpson .

“From every access point toward the museum, there will be works of public art so that people can almost use them as visual markers of arrival,” James Steward, its director, said.

“I was thinking about how to bring voices that maybe were not yet adequately represented on our campus,” Steward said. The new artworks help “break down the distinctions between indoors and outdoors,” he added, as part of the goal to enhance accessibility and engagement with the museum’s encyclopedic collection, some 115,000 objects. (The institution is renowned for its Chinese paintings, photography and pre-Columbian holdings.)

The 1966 building was demolished in 2021 to make way for the new one. The museum has an annual operating budget of $29 million (60 percent of which comes from endowment income) and has 120 employees, expected to grow to 180 by the opening in 2025.

The 146,000-square-foot building, which is divided into nine interlocking pavilions for each area of its holdings, will place all of its collection galleries on the second floor, giving them parity. Nearly ignored in Steward’s tour was mention of the new building’s designer, the Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye , acclaimed for the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. Last year, Adjaye was accused of sexual misconduct by three former employees and has stepped back from day to day oversight on several projects.

As was reported at the time, Adjaye denied the accusations. “I absolutely reject any claims of sexual misconduct, abuse or criminal wrongdoing,” he said in 2023 in a statement.

Steward said in an interview, “We were 50 percent through construction” at the time of the allegations. “We were obviously not going to tear the building down and start over again.”

It is credited as an Adjaye Associates project, but Steward said the architect is no longer personally involved and the remaining work is in the hands of the collaborating architects Cooper Robertson . (Similarly, the Studio Museum in Harlem ’s new building is nearing completion with Adjaye Associates and Cooper Robertson.) The Shelburne Museum in Vermont , on the other hand, which had hired Adjaye to build its new center for Native American art, had barely begun the design process last year and chose to cut all ties with his firm.

Princeton’s building was fully funded — two-thirds by private donors, one-third by the university — before its groundbreaking in 2021. “We have to reclaim our own values that have shaped the project,” the director said.

He suggested those values are embedded in the four new artist commissions, which each respond directly to the architecture and the collections.

Cave is scaling up one of his vibrant “Soundsuit” figures to 40 feet tall — it will bow toward arriving visitors as part of a mosaic combining glass, wood and metal that wraps around two walls of the entrance court. The fantastical form will be adorned in a costume of flowers with a halo of spinning tops and globes.

“I see this figure as the master of ceremonies that will welcome you,” said Cave, a Chicago-based artist, who titled his piece “Let me introduce myself. They call me MC, Prince Brighton.” A cloudscape with eight Adinkra symbols from West Africa, including ones for unity, peace, truth and courage, surrounds the figure.

Al-Hadid, a Syrian-born, New York-based sculptor, will create a ghostly ziggurat in aluminum rising 15 feet on the East terrace.

“I am interested in the suggestion that this ancient structure might lay stored — in some ways buried — within a very contemporary new building,” she said, explaining that she was inspired by objects in the museum’s collection from near her birthplace in Aleppo and from Turkey.

For a narrow double-height gallery above another entrance, Nguyen has made a 20-foot-high kinetic mobile nodding to Calder. It will dangle over ancient mosaics embedded in the floor from the late 2nd-century A.D., which were discovered during excavations of Antioch in modern Turkey during the 1930s by a Princeton-led team. The polished discs of the mobile are modeled on unexploded ordnance from the Vietnam War that has killed many farmers in the decades since, part of ongoing research by Nguyen, a Vietnam-based visual artist .

“It’s the reincarnation of this bomb material left over from the detritus of war,” said Nguyen, who has designed his sculpture with bells and mallets that will chime in the breeze. “It kind of looks like this rising dragon, responding to the old mosaic of a Medusa on the ground.”

For a small viewing room cantilevered from one of the second-floor pavilions, Irish, who is based in Philadelphia, created “Cosmos Beyond Atrocity,” a Renaissance-style ceiling painting. Inside its architectural coffers, she painted vignettes of violence drawn from the museum’s art collection, including Medea slaying her children, the martyrdom of Saint Sebastian, and Judith beheading Holofernes (so much of the Western canon of art is premised on such images). But her ceiling offers a different vision of the cosmos in the center, based on images of pacifism. The trompe l’oeil composition appears to rip open in the middle, revealing an atmospheric sky, populated with figures from the Vietnam antiwar movement in the United States.

Steward thinks that people walking down the sidewalk “will see this gloriously colored ceiling and want to discover what it is.”

He said he hoped the day would come eventually when the role that Adjaye played in the design of the building could be discussed without tainting the project.

“As a culture, we’re going to have to grapple more successfully with how we deal with the maker versus the work,” Steward said.

“If we were to apply the standards of today to the art of the past, our galleries would probably be decimated.”

An earlier version of this article omitted information about accusations against David Adjaye. He has denied all accusations of sexual misconduct, abuse or criminal wrongdoing.

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After 24 hours, Princeton sit-in for Gaza persists

First night of the McCosh Courtyard sit-in.

Calvin grover / the daily princetonian.

The sit-in in solidarity with Gaza on Princeton’s McCosh Courtyard has entered its second day. Student demonstrators remained on the courtyard undisturbed through Thursday night into Friday morning.

Princeton students began the sit-in early Thursday morning, after planning documents leaked on Wednesday indicated that students were preparing for an encampment. No student organization is officially sponsoring the sit-in. 

As the sun rose over McCosh Hall on Thursday, protesters began to set up tents, in line with the tent encampments set up at Columbia and other universities across the country. The tents were taken down within just six minutes following a warning from PSAFE and the arrest of two graduate students, all within the first ten minutes of activity.

The action followed a Wednesday email from Vice President for Campus Life W. Rochelle Calhoun cautioning that “[a]ny individual involved in an encampment, occupation, or other unlawful disruptive conduct who refuses to stop after a warning will be arrested and immediately barred from campus.”

The two students arrested on Thursday morning have been barred from campus but not from their University-owned housing, according to a statement sent to the ‘Prince’ by University Spokesperson Michael Hotchkiss.

To maintain compliance with University policy, organizers have shifted away from the encampment style maintained at other universities to a strategy of taking shifts to stay awake. The Office of the Dean of Undergraduate Students (ODUS) forbids sleeping “in outdoor space of any kind.” 

“Morale is good. We’ve had a large number of campers at every single point in the night.” Aditi Rao GS, an organizer for the sit-in, told the ‘Prince’ in the early hours of Friday morning.

During daylight hours, Thursday, McCosh Courtyard transformed into the “Popular University for Gaza” referring to a movement organized by the national wing of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), which aims to “counter the bias of the educational system while building the movement for Palestinian liberation.” 

A number of speakers, including students, faculty, and alumni, addressed the crowd throughout the day, and two professors held class on the courtyard. Demonstrators encouraged passersby to join chanting, “this is where class is today.”

Protestors remained in the courtyard as night fell and temperatures dropped to temperatures hovering around freezing, sitting on blankets and lawn chairs. Just after 2 a.m., a Public Safety (PSafe) officer pulled an organizer aside about a portion of Princeton’s “Forms of Expression” policy that reads “Sleeping in outdoor space of any kind is prohibited,” prompting the organizer to wake up a small number of protesters who appeared to be sleeping. 

“That did not lessen anybody’s spirits,” Rao added. “We’re going strong here this morning and we're almost at 24 hours.”

Approximately 60 people remained in the courtyard deep into the night. Around 3:15 a.m., around 15 more people arrived in small groups, while others left to take their sleep shift.

About a dozen Muslim students began a night prayer, Tahajjud, at around 4:15 a.m. as dawn broke over Dickinson Hall.

Rao said that organizers had not received any communication from the University beyond interactions with PSafe officers, and said there was a bargaining team in place “trying to negotiate our way to divestment.”

Facilities workers began scrubbing chalk reading “Divest Now” on the side of Dickinson Hall around 6:30 a.m.

Friday is the last day of classes for the spring semester.

Correction: The article has been updated to reflect the correct name of the prayer observed by Muslim students at 4:15 a.m.

Miriam Waldvogel is an associate News editor and the investigations editor for the ‘Prince.’ She is from Stockton, Calif. and often covers campus activism and University accountability.

Victoria Davies is an assistant News editor for the ‘Prince,’ who covers University operations.

Meghana Veldhuis is an assistant News editor for the ‘Prince.’ She is from Bergen County, N.J. and typically covers faculty and graduate students. 

This story is breaking and will be updated as further information becomes available.

Please send any corrections to corrections[at]dailyprincetonian.com.

Lisa Lonie, the musician behind ‘the largest sound on campus that nobody knows about’

Since 2012, Lisa Lonie has played the campus carillon, a keyboard-based percussion instrument composed of twenty tons of bronze bells. Her music can be heard every Sunday from Forbes and the Graduate College.

Ask the Sexpert: PDA PSA

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Students claim meeting with Eisgruber was unproductive, hunger strike will continue

On May 6, a small group of protesters met with University President Christopher Eisgruber ’83, Dean of the Graduate School Rodney Priestley, and Dean of the School of Public and International Affairs Amaney Jamal to discuss the demands of the ongoing sit-in on Cannon Green. According to protesters, the meeting was unproductive, and the hunger strike will continue.

On May 6, a small group of protesters met with University President Christopher Eisgruber ’83, Dean of the Graduate School Rodney Priestley, and Dean of the School of Public and International Affairs Amaney Jamal to discuss the demands of the ongoing sit-in on Cannon Green. According to protesters, the meeting was unproductive, and the hunger strike will continue.

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Breaking news, ‘princeton princess’ whines that she’s ‘starving,’ blames university after choosing to go on anti-israel hunger strike.

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An anti-Israel protester at Princeton University sounded off about how she was “starving” during a self-imposed hunger strike and accused the prestigious university of purposefully “physically weakening” students.

Video shows the protester and other demonstrators railing into a megaphone about the New Jersey Ivy League school’s refusal to divest from Israel following Hamas’ unprovoked attack on the Jewish state on Oct. 7.

“This is absolutely unfair. My peers and I, we are starving. We are physically exhausted. I am quite literally shaking right now as you can see,” the protester says into the megaphone in a widely shared video on X .

A student-led hunger strike began Friday, with protesters demanding the school meet with them to discuss divestment and drop the criminal and disciplinary charges against two students who were arrested for erecting tents and 13 other peers who were arrested for trespassing an academic hall last month, Princeton’s student newspaper, the Daily Princetonian, reported Monday.

After meeting with administrators on Monday, students indicated that they have no intention of halting their protest, which has left them “immunocompromised,” according to the female protester whose rally cry has gone viral online.

“We are both hot and cold at the same time. We are all immunocompromised and based on the university’s meeting yesterday with some of our bargaining team, they would love to continue physically weakening us because they can’t stand to say no to unjust murder,” the protester said to cheers and banging of drums.

Despite the complaints, the protester in the video concedes that going on a hunger strike was their choice.

“I will say I truly do not feel like I am doing anything special. This is my choice, and I would not spend my birthday doing anything other than being here,” the protester said.

“No matter how physically weak we may be, united we have never been stronger,” they added as the crowd began to chant, “The people united will never be defeated!”

According to the student newspaper, at least 15 students were taking part in the hunger strike Sunday night.

It was not immediately clear how that number may have changed throughout the week.

School president Christopher Eisgruber, graduate school dean Rodney Priestley and Amaney Jamal, dean of the School of Public and International Affairs, told students in an email Tuesday that administrators were working with the protesters.

“My colleagues and I are now in direct conversation with the protestors,” he wrote. “I have told them that we can consider their concerns through appropriate processes that respect the interests of multiple parties and viewpoints, but we cannot allow any group to circumvent those processes or exert special leverage.”

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UPDATE: Two Found dead in Princeton House Explosion

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PRINCETON ( WJON News ) -- The Mille Lacs County Sheriff's Office and the state fire marshal are investigating a fatal house explosion in Princeton Tuesday morning.

Chief Deputy Sheriff Aaron Evenson says they received multiple 911 calls just before 4:00 a.m. of a possible explosion in the 8200 block of 85th Avenue.

Sheriff's deputies arrived on the scene to find a single-family home that appeared to have exploded with a large debris field that was partially on fire.

A search of the debris field turned up two victims, 60-year-old Royce Kreger Jr. and his wife, 61-year-old Katherine Kreger . Both were pronounced dead at the scene. The sheriff's office says a family dog was also found dead in the debris.

The state fire marshal is on the scene investigating to determine the cause of the explosion.

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