Home of one of the nation’s acclaimed Ivy-League universities, this small colonial town offers history, performing arts and numerous festivals.
Princeton’s culture revolves around Princeton University, the highly revered school brought to the community in 1756. Walk the campus to see several colonial buildings. Visit the college’s cultural attractions as well as historical sites from pre-Revolutionary War times.
Tour Princeton University’s campus to find art and architectural delights. Step through the wrought iron FitzRandolph Gateway to encounter Nassau Hall, a giant stone building which withstood Revolutionary War occupation. The University Chapel features stained glass created by American artists.
At the free Princeton University Art Museum, inspect some of the 92,000 rotating works in collections from around the world, ranging from ancient to contemporary. Self-guided activities engage all members of the family in learning about resident artworks. Enjoy exciting special exhibits that change throughout the year.
Catch one of the more than 200 annual music, dance and theater performances that the McCarter Theatre Center produces annually. Developmental works frequently go on to Broadway success.
Canoe, bike or jog for miles at the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park. Use the massive indoor and outdoor facilities at Mercer County Park for year-round recreational activities.
Tracing the town’s roots to 1675 and the first arrival of Quaker missionaries, Princeton residents love to celebrate their history. Princeton Battlefield State Park commemorates a crucial Revolutionary War victory under George Washington’s command. Nearby are the 18th-century Bainbridge House, Washington’s headquarters at Rockingham House and the governor’s Greek revival mansion of Drumthwacket.
The city hosts many festivals. Celebrate Albert Einstein’s birthday on March 14, “Pi Day” (for pi, 3.14…) with pie and Einstein-related fun. The great physicist lived and taught in Princeton after moving to the United States in 1933. Enjoy performing arts at April’s Communiversity and June’s month-long Princeton Festival. Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, participate in Patriots’ Week festivities with reenactments and other activities telling the story of the Battles of Trenton and other pre-Revolutionary events.
Just over an hour’s drive from New York or Philadelphia, Princeton is an inspirational community well worth a visit.