Princeton University

Princeton University featuring a park and heritage elements
Princeton University
Princeton University
Princeton University which includes heritage elements and a square or plaza as well as a couple
Princeton University showing wild flowers


Explore the famous Ivy League university that educated numerous prestigious graduates, including Woodrow Wilson, Michelle Obama, John Nash and more.

Princeton University is one of the prestigious Ivy League universities. As you walk around the campus, you will quickly discover that it is literally covered in ivy. Behind these leaves, discover centuries of history. Princeton University was established in 1746, before the United States had even gained its independence. Its graduates have included U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize recipients, Supreme Court justices and Pulitzer Prize winners. Clearly there is something remarkable about this Ivy League school.

Stroll around campus on a self-guided tour or join a student-led tour, which originates at the Office of Admissions. Stop at FitzRandolph Gate, which serves as the elaborate entrance to Princeton’s campus from Nassau Street. The wrought iron structure was erected in 1905 and restored for its centennial in 2005.

Near the northeastern side of campus, find Nassau Hall and Maclean House. The buildings, which were completed in 1756, are the oldest and only remaining original buildings on campus. Each has a place in early American history. George Washington stayed in Maclean House in 1777 during the Battle of Princeton and again in 1783 while Congress convened in Nassau Hall.

See a performance in Alexander Hall. The Richardsonian Romanesque architecture of the hall is as impressive as the acoustics within. A short walk away, see events encompassing theatre, music, dance and more in the McCarter Theatre Centre.

In the Princeton University Art Museum, see highlights from the university’s global collections. Browse through more than a dozen exhibits or attend a public lecture. Stop at Prospect House and Garden. The Italianate home was the residence of the Princeton University president for 90 years, including Woodrow Wilson during his tenure.

Admire the imposing Gothic architecture of Cleveland Tower, which was built in 1913 in honour of university trustee and U.S. President Grover Cleveland. See a bust of the former president inside the tower.

It’s no surprise that Princeton University, with nearly three centuries of history, has a lot to see and do. Give yourself plenty of time to explore its historic buildings, see a performance, watch an athletic game or just enjoy the beautiful campus.

Plan a trip to see Princeton University

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Hyatt Regency Princeton

Hyatt Regency Princeton

4 out of 5
102 Carnegie Ctr, Princeton, NJ
Hyatt Regency Princeton
The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village

4 out of 5
201 Village Blvd, Princeton, NJ
The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village
Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton

Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton

3 out of 5
3819 U.S. 1 South, Princeton, NJ
Homewood Suites by Hilton Princeton
Hampton Inn Princeton

Hampton Inn Princeton

2.5 out of 5
4385 Us Highway 1, Princeton, NJ
Hampton Inn Princeton
MHO Inn & Suites

MHO Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
4191 Us Highway 1, Monmouth Junction, NJ
MHO Inn & Suites
Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG

Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG

3 out of 5
100 Independence Way, Princeton, NJ
Holiday Inn Princeton by IHG
Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG

Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG

2.5 out of 5
3000 Brunswick Pike, Lawrenceville, NJ
Candlewood Suites Lawrenceville Princeton by IHG
Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG

Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG

3 out of 5
1272 South River Rd, Cranbury, NJ
Staybridge Suites Cranbury by IHG
La Mirage Motor Inn

La Mirage Motor Inn

2.5 out of 5
3775 US Highway 1, Kendall Park, NJ
La Mirage Motor Inn
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Things to do near Princeton University

Princeton University offers a range of engaging activities for visitors, including attending football games and exploring various sports facilities. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy local courses, while the picturesque campus invites leisurely strolls and exploration of its historic architecture. With a vibrant atmosphere and a blend of academic and recreational pursuits, there's something for everyone at this esteemed institution.

Shopping

In Princeton, visit Palmer Square, a charming shopping area only 311m away, offering a mix of boutiques and eateries. University Square Shopping Center, 1.2km away, features various shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, Blue Moon Acres is a delightful market 4.3km from the university.

Recreation

At Princeton University Stadium, immerse yourself in vibrant sports energy just 124m away. A short 0.3-mile stroll leads you to Palmer Stadium, where you can soak up the atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, the outdoor sports vibes at Princeton Country Club, located 1.9km away, await you.

Adventure

The Delaware River Heritage Trail at Lake Carnegie Trailhead offers an invigorating hiking experience with beautiful scenery, located 621m from Princeton University. For tennis enthusiasts, the Lenz Tennis Center, 249m away, provides adventurous play. Additionally, the Rocky Hill Trailhead on the Delaware River Heritage Trail, 2.5km away, invites outdoor exploration.

Nightlife

Experience an enchanting evening at McCarter Theatre, only 249m from Princeton University, offering vibrant cultural performances. Alternatively, catch a film at the nearby AMC MarketFair 10, located 1.2km away, or enjoy a classic movie at Princeton Garden Theatre, just 186m away, perfect for a romantic outing.

Find the best attractions near Princeton University

Princeton University and its surroundings offer a delightful mix of historic civic buildings, charming houses, and inviting urban parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying family-friendly outdoor experiences. Must-see attractions include the university's own historic sites and the vibrant town of Princeton, which is brimming with cultural activities and scenic spots to explore.

  • Rider University: Located approximately 3.7km from Princeton University, Rider University boasts a vibrant, modern campus infused with city vibes. Visitors can appreciate its contemporary architecture and lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee break.
  • The Boathouse at Mercer Lake: Situated around 3.7km from Princeton University, The Boathouse offers a unique setting for events and conferences. With its picturesque views of Mercer Lake, it exudes a professional yet serene ambiance, perfect for networking or enjoying a peaceful meal by the water.
  • Herrontown Woods Arboretum: Just 1.2km from Princeton University, Herrontown Woods Arboretum is an enchanting outdoor haven. Ideal for families, it features lush trails and diverse plant life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy a day of exploration and relaxation.

Best time to go to Princeton University

The best time to visit Princeton University can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Princeton University falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Princeton University falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February33.8°F (1.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March41.2°F (5.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.9°F (16.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August74.8°F (23.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.4°F (20.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November45.5°F (7.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Princeton University

To save money on your trip to Princeton University, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices drop. Stay on a Monday for the best rates, avoiding the pricier Saturdays. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels by comparing rates and filtering for eco-certified options. Additionally, consider bundling your flight, hotel, and activities for extra savings. For transport, take advantage of affordable public transit or explore the university's picturesque campus on foot, which is a great way to enjoy the area's charm without any cost.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Princeton University are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Princeton University is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Princeton University is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to easily find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the “Eco-certified” filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay near Princeton University with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.